#264 The Late Cord - My Most Meaningful Relationships Are With Dead People

Ah Sunday mornings, don't you just love them. No other time provides such an unhurried feel, with a full 12 hours stretched out ahead of you with little to do but wonder how great life is. Could really do with something interesting to listen to though. Something meditative, something thoughtful and something that can be rerun in 7 days time. The Late Cord could be the answer to this particular quandary. Consisting of singer Micah P Hinson and John Mark Lapham (The Earlies) they are about to release the 'Lights From The Wheelhouse' EP. 'My Most Meaningful Relationships Are With Dead People' is one piece of this fragile masterpiece. Characterised by its sparseness, there is nonetheless an overwhelming warmth in the experience. The thumb piano takes centre stage (depicting a Sigur Rosian atmosphere) while Hanson corrals his words with a unique touching soul. The organ drones flit in and out adding to the plush squalor. Makes sense when you find out that the piece was recorded in a dusty basement in a forgotten town in Texas. Never has despair sounded so appealing, by the last chord you'll feel like taking on the world. KD

The Late Cord - My Most Meaningful Relationships Are With Dead People

More Info: The Late Chord
Buy Album: The Late Cord
Year: 2006

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#263 annemarie - Apple

annemarie come from Java in Indonesia. Now put that in your coffee and drink it. Following in the grand old tradition of a host of tweepop songsters annemarie nicely fill the gap between Camera Obscura records with uninhibited wonders such as 'Apple'. The band are signed to the Swedish musicismygirlfriend label who seem to be on their way to assembling a roster of artists to match the legendary Sarah records. 'Apple' twins the boy and girl vocals with decidedly shiny riffs and the result is 3 and half minutes of warm cutesy sound. Throwaway it might be but forgettable it is not, in fact it's hard to shake the sound of 'Apple' once it appends itself to your innermost. If you can listen to this at least once a day it could do wonders for your medical expenses. KD

annemarie - Apple

More Info: annemarie
Buy annemarie's: The Living Model EP
Year: 2005

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#262 Plan B - Sick 2 Def

Apart from the odd foray into noveltyism these narrow taste buds means that most of what appears on this blog is telegraphed. 'Sick 2 Def' shouldn't be too much of a surprise then because it is entirely guitar based. While the Arctic Monkey's are happy to paint the picture of youthful vigour, 22-year-old rapper Ben Drew gravitates towards life's underbelly. The chord changes are simplistic but it's the gritty message that is hard to forget. In Drew's world no topic is taboo, this is a soundtrack that truly belongs after the watershed. 'Sick 2 Def' (sick to death, cockney you see) is a startling piece of work, anyone who saw his explosive performance at the NME awards can testify to this fact. Drew could easily coattail on the Streets audience yet the strength of 'Sick 2 Def' suggests that both could soon become indispensable. Drew also has a vocal resemblance with Zach De La Rocha which could endear him to angry youths the world over. You may need some Sugababes after this one. KD

Plan B - Sick 2 Def

More Info: Plan B
Buy Plan B's: Sick 2 Def [7" VINYL] with Prodigy references
Year: 2005

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#261 Smudge - Superhero

If you think you can hear something familiar in this song then you’d be right because 'Superhero' is a joint Smudge/Evan Dando collaboration. Dando was merely returning a favour, however, as Smudge's Tom Morgan had lent a big hand on the song writing duties for the Lemonheads classic 'It's A Shame About Ray'. Smudge’s drummer Alison Galloway also got in on the act by being the subject of 'Alison's Starting To Happen' from the same album. 'Superhero' is the title track from one of a number of EP's released by the Sydney band in the early 1990's. It takes on a frantic Dinosaur Jr bent from the off revealing a sound that bristles with energy and scatters its post-punk attitude with a solid chorus. The production has a distinct hands off quality giving the piece a natural feel as if it was recorded in one blissed out take. KD

Smudge - Superhero

More Info: Smudge
Buy Smudge's Debut: [UK] Manilow [US] Manilow
Year: 1993

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#260 Alfie - Bookends

In October of last year a little known band from Manchester named Alfie broke up. The event hardly registered. Back in 2001 it seemed the world was about to fall in love with Lee Gorton's low ebbed tales about manor house farm and a dream James had. Gorton’s uncanny vocal resemblance to Ian Brown (and Tim Burgess for that matter) and his rather chimp like chiselled features also meant that he was offered the role to play Brown in '24 Hour Party People'. He turned it down. Alfie's debut is their coup de grace, a collection of 3 early EP's that nonetheless play like a seamless collection of tunes. 'Bookends' is the opener and reveals itself to be a polished exhibition of eye opening acoustics. Matt McGeever's forlorn cello plays so gently one hardly notice the tinkle of the xylophone in close proximity. Gorton delivers his lines in drawn out melodic sequences, fighting to be heard above a heavy quota of lo-fied instrumentation. This is as delicate as a gosling, as graceful as a swan and the only thing required to have you seek out Alfie's accomplished back catalogue. KD

Alfie - Bookends

More Info: Alfie
Buy Album: [UK] If You Happy With You Need Do Nothing [US] If You Happy With, You Need Do Nothing
Year: 2001

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#259 The Immediate - A Ghost In The House

With Thom Yorke's closely guarded secrets on their way some time this year the rumours abound about a return to the song. I for one can't wait for it but in the interim there are bands like the Immediate who take what Radiohead gave to the world and turn it into priceless entity in its own right. 'A Ghost In The House' wouldn't have sounded out of place on 'The Bends' recording yet it fashions enough intrigue to suggest the Immediate have some fine avenues to explore themselves. David Hedderman twists his vocals in intriguing ways, sounding affecting whichever way they turn. The music is also noteworthy, providing an instantly memorable spindly riff as well as oodles of percussive drama. Following as it does the path of most resistance also means it offers a lot of rewards for repeated listening. The Immediate's debut album is on the way, could well turn out to be the season of the song. KD

The Immediate - A Ghost In The House

Watch The Video To Don't You Ever

More Info: The Immediate
Buy the Immediate's: Make Our Devils FLOW EP
Year: 2006

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#258 Pugwash - It's Nice To Be Nice

It's too easy to be tough on bands that are derivative. After all, have you ever heard of an acclaimed cover band? Nope they don't exist, the beauty is in the creation not in the facsimile. Pugwash are so overwhelming indebted to the Beach Boys/Beatles template that you'd half expect for Brian Wilson to have a direct debit from Thomas Walsh's account. But for all that, Pugwash are well capable of turning heads themselves by turning the derivative into the delirious. 'It's Nice To Be Nice' stands imperious alongside 'Apples' and much of the bands new album 'Jollity' as a reason to embrace the past in order to illuminate the present. Early doors it’s pet sounds but as soon as Walsh's lush vocals kick in you'll be caught up in a slipstream of lavish harmonies that are uniquely Pugwashian. Don't say you haven't already been consumed by its sunshine spirit, let Pugwash be the captain of the soundtrack to your summer. KD

Pugwash - It's Nice To Be Nice

More Info: Pugwash
Buy Album: Jollity
Year: 2005

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#257 Luna - California (All The Way)

New Zealander Dean Wareham has had an eventful time in the music industry. Since the break up of his first band Galaxie 500 he has worked with a diverse set that included Mercury Rev (he played on 'Car Wash Hair'), Sterling Morrison (the Velvet Underground), Laetitia Sadier (Stereolab) and the drummer from the Feelies. If that wasn't enough his second project Luna went on to record a near masterpiece in 1994 called 'Bewitched'. The album not only swaggered under the weight of its own adventures but also proved to be among the best drivetime companions ever. Top of the pops was 'California (All The Way)', a song that featured all the essential Luna elements. Guitars straddle the narrow line between pop and country and Wareham sings as if he is about to break out into conversation. His voice is unique, warmly following a steady course that ensures that the words are all the more distinctive. Luna officially broke up in March of last year but a greatest hits and a documentary of their final tour should keep them in the minds eye. KD

Luna - California (All The Way)

More Info: Luna
Buy Album: [UK] Bewitched [US] Bewitched
Year: 1994

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#256 Pagoda - Tear Down The Tents

Here's a nice one to send you to sleep tonight. The band are Pagado and they come from Washington DC. Following a direct lineage of Big Star/Apples In Stereo/Yo La Tenga means that 'Tear Down The Tents' could be nothing else but a set of goose down pillows for your ears. Ben Licciardi sings like he's just found the perfect beach and his mates conjure superlative toying riffs that whisk you to his newly found heaven. You can tell the music was put together with love and attention and unless its Christmas Eve and you are a miserly Charles Dickens type character you will return the compliment with interest. Think 'Anecdote' by Ambulance LTD with more jangle. The lads are working their way towards having a second LP to show off to the world and you can follow their progress here. KD

Pagoda - Tear Down The Tents

More Info: Pagada
Buy Pagoda's: Seven Nights EP
Year: 2005

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#255 66e - One Cast One Catch

All told 2005 was a pretty good year for post-rock in Dublin when two genuine forces emerged triumphant. God Is An Astronaut are already on the cusp of international acclaim and if 66e's debut is anything to go by they will soon be following them. 66e do spot their elegant musical frolics with vocals but it's only when they let their instruments do the talking that they truly illuminate. 'I Died In A Movie' and 'One Cast One Catch' are superbly crafted instrumentals with buoyant characters that continually shift at obtuse angles. That's not to say that the music is inaccessible, however, because the bands guitars have their sights clearly set to grand central melody. 'One Cast One Catch' is a truly effervescent piece of music, it laps so delicately at your feet that you're unlikely to see the lethal great white noise about to pounce. 66e are indeed electric. KD

66e - One Cast One Catch

More Info: 66e
Buy 66e's: Fall Down 7 Times... Stand Up 8
Year: 2005

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#254 Silent Partner - Stop To Think

Shall we take a trip down memory lane? Four famous lads from Manchester who have decided that the time has come to roll back the years and give it another go (well 2 of them anyway). No, not Take That, but the 'Take Five' lads Northside who are very much back in the groove again under the moniker Silent Partners. Warren Dermody (Dermo) is again at the controls and his recent foray into the clubs as a DJ will ensure that the rhythms of old are very much to the fore. So far the lads have recorded a demo, which has made waves on Manchester's Revolution radio station. It's easy to see why when you take a listen to the shimmering effort that is 'Stop To Think'. This is so acutely sweet it could charm the birds from the trees. Danny Yates has shined his riffs to perfection and Dermo sounds as if he is singing into a playpen such is his velvet soft delivery. In the background a female voice sighs and the atmosphere brews gently under a shuffling beat that recalls a baggier time. This is gorgeous stuff and you get the feeling that in this case practise does make perfect. KD

Silent Partner - Stop To Think

More Info: Official & Myspace
Album: On the way...

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#253 Bentley Rhythm Ace - Bentley's Gonna Sort You Out

Formed out of the ashes of the quirky Pop Will Eat Itself (who came from the same town that produced Ned's Atomic Dustbin) Bentley Rhythm Ace (or BRA if you are into tired adolescent tittles) were quickly snapped up by the emerging Skint label in the mid nineties (home to Fatboy Slim and Lo-Fidelity All-stars). Bentley Rhythm Ace were adept at throwing in knowing samples and infiltrating the noises of the universe into their shape shifting sound. Their concerts were madcap adventures that involved the duo standing behind a vintage car that had been fashioned to include several banks of electronics. 'Bentley's Gonna Sort You Out' encapsulates the duo's intentions with circular alien emissions creating a distinctively eclectic listen. You could for all intensive purposes be standing in the room in Wonka's chocolate factory that makes the everlasting gobstopper such is the loopy audio on show. Somehow the song gathers itself at intervals to deliver a distinctive bolt of melody. KD

Bentley Rhythm Ace - Bentley's Gonna Sort You Out

More Info: Bentley Rhythm Ace
Buy Album: [UK] Bentley Rhythm Ace [US] Bentley Rhythm Ace
Year: 1997

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#252 The Invisible Clock Factory - The Quantum Particles Song

I work in an icehouse that makes tongue cleaners from seal bones. I am a 2 year old polar bear and my days spent on the assembly line are not that difficult but can be boring. I have to ensure that the tiny spikes on the combs are sharp enough to be effective (polar breath is rampant this winter). My supervisor is a kindly old soul and is prone to handing out small pieces of sardine whenever one of us gets a bit stroppy. Things changed completely the other day when the owner brought in this tiny man made device (it looks like a small square snow block) that can play endless pieces of strange noise. Nobody had ever heard anything like it before (but it made us happy). Neither could we understand how when one of the noisemakers the Invisible Clock Factory came on how our feet shuffled in a way that resembled us as babies on the ice pack. They're my favourite noisemakers, certainly beats the sound of those damn whales that keep us awake every night. KD

The Invisible Clock Factory - The Quantum Particles Song

More Info: The Invisible Clock Factory
Hear Their Album: Charlie Takes A Holiday
Year: 2005

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#251 The Ultra Montanes - Stains

Things went a bit quiet for the Ultra Montanes at the early part of the century. Despite spades of critical acclaim for their EP's things just didn't fall into place the way they should have. But now they're back and ready to conquer the world. They have just released a new EP called 'Dirty Blood Saved Our Town' and thankfully their un-sterilised sound remains intact. 'Stains' is a song from their debut EP 'Cells'. Rory O’Keeffe's Molko like vocals are the the most immediate thing that hits you but 'Stains' also features chord placements that recall Whipping Boy's first LP 'Submarine', churning and devilish they spit vitriol in a rainbow of colours. With these influences seeping through you'd imagine they're be nothing left for the Ultra Montanes to offer yet 'Cells' is such a sweeping statement of intent it signifies a brooding talent about to take on the world. With a bit of luck TUM's that are releasing songs in 2006 will finally ascend to their rightful place on the indiepop throne. Supporting Babyshambles could be a nice leg up, at least when Doherty decides to turn up. KD

The Ultra Montanes - Stains

More Info: The Ultra Montanes
Buy their eponymous LP: [UK] The Ultra Montanes [US] The Ultra Montanes
Year: 1998

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#250 Marching Band - Letters

Today's Swedish band are called Marching Band. They are from the very net savvy town of Linköping and consist of Eric Sunbring and Jacob Lind. Marching Band sound like they are having a lot of fun recording their music and when they try to buy exotic instruments on ebay. And it comes across brilliantly on 'Letters', which bursts out all over with dishy ideas designed to turn a bad day into a good one. The songs structure is all over the place ranging from its lo-fi opening to the all sit around the campfire and clap joyously finale. What else could you possibly need on a Monday morning? Some more Marching band songs might help I guess (psst, their website has some). KD

Marching Band - Letters

More Info: Marching Band
Buy the: Marching Band EP
Year: 2006

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#249 January - Contact Light

What was Alan McGee to do when his baby Creation Records collapsed? Home to such stellar artists as Ride, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, the Boo Radleys and Teenage Fanclub it was instrumental in creating some of the best albums in the 1990's. His follow up Poptones was always going to have a job on its hands to replicate the success and so far it has struggled. While not discovering anything as important as any of the aforementioned it has had some creditable successes such as the Hives, January and their latest flag bearers the Late Cord (of which more later). January was primarily Simon Mclean's project but a lot of the credit must go the slide guitarist Sarah Peacock who could whip a dreamy concoction of splendid riffs at the drop of a hi-hat. On their finest moment 'Contact Light', Mclean's vocals are wispy and touching while a flotilla of loveliness pours forward from Peacock with the unhurried feel of a council worker. KD

January - Contact Light

More Info: January
Buy Album: [UK] I Heard Myself in You [US] I Heard Myself In You
Year: 2001

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#248 The Brilliant Trees - Mistakes

You can now buy the debut album from the Brilliant Trees 'Friday Night' from our record label Indiecater!

I'm probably biased but when I google Brilliant Trees I expect to read about Dublin's finest exponents of jangle pop and not David Sylvian. But hey, it's not a fair world and I'm sure Mr. Sylvian is good at what he does. Ah, but the injustice of the Brilliant Trees only selling a couple of thousand records. I listen to 'Mistakes' and my neck feels as if a thousand centipedes are having a full moon party there. As soon as the shimmering chord fest appears within earshot I have to tie myself down for fear of over excitable moshing on the spot. Taken from the Brilliant Trees pristine second album it is a priceless demonstration of how the Finglas band could've had it all. In the main there was nothing particularly insightful in their message but they made an exception with 'Home', which was a heartfelt plea to the brown bag loving authorities to stop tearing down old Dublin. It didn't work. Alan Hoey's vocal style was a doppelganger for Damon Albarn's but there were melodies a go-go in everything they produced so it hardly mattered. It wouldn't take much to get these 4 lads out of retirement so spread the good word. KD

The Brilliant Trees - Mistakes

The Brilliant Trees - Home

More Info: The Brilliant Trees
Buy Album: [US] Wake Up & Dream
Year: 1998

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#247 Zinedines - Twice Upon A Time

Apparently there is a bit of a retro scene going on in Spain that harks back to the sunnier bands from the 1960's. Leading the charge are Majorca band the Zinedines (named after the French footballer, hmm) who specialise in Byrdsian effects but combine that with the sound of latter day merchants of shimmering chaos like Teenage Fanclub and more particularly Cosmic Rough Riders. The Zinedines sing in English and there is little or no trace of their native tongue. 'Twice Upon A Time' is a warm summer breeze of a tune with plenty of rickenbacker, pleasant harmonies and a laidback feel that'll have you applying the suntan lotion before you realise it's raining outside. The Zinedines greatest trick is to bolster an old idea, it could easily sound stale but in their hands it's as pleasant as fizzy sherbert melting on your tongue. KD

Zinedines - Twice Upon A Time

More Info: Zinedines
Buy Album: [UK] Take Me Take Me [US] Take Me Take Me
Year: 2004

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#246 Cheyenne - Houses

Beau Jennings is the captain of the Cheyenne ship of travelling musicians. He's a gentle soul and his music bears that fact by displaying a soothing texture characterised by his soft vocals and intimate instrumentation. Cheyenne's album 'I Am Haunted, I Am Alive' is a lost wonder from last year and contains at least one song that you will carry around with you for life. 'Houses' is so resolutely cute it could take the place of most lullabies. In fact its inclusion in a multicoloured wallpapered room with swinging basket and tiny tot could be what most parents would call bliss. Then again, it's pretty much a treat for everyone. Ahhhh. KD

Cheyenne - Houses

More Info: Cheyenne
Buy Cheyenne's: I Am Haunted, I Am Alive @ emusic
Year: 2005

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#245 William Souffreau - Gardenman

William Souffreau headed up classic Belgium rockers Irish Coffee back in the 1970's but has been solo since 1990. His sound is from a different time but retains a hugely impressive presence. If Paul McCartney could pull off songs like Souffreau’s he’d still be a million seller. Souffreau inhabits the edges but his appearance on myspace should see his music reach a large collection of interested ears, both young and old. 'Gardenman' is easy to absorb with elegant guitar drifts, holiday bongos and Souffreau’s gravely vocals recalling dusk circa late August 1969. Looks like we are in the throes of the most exciting period ever for music with the reach of the internet uncovering a wealth of music like this that would otherwise be lost. KD

William Souffreau - Gardenman

More Info: William Souffreau
Buy Album: Time
Year: 2005

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#244 Spirit - My Friend

Reading any bio about Spirit is like engaging Lord of the Rings such is the cast of players involved. All mention the genius that was Randy California's guitar playing who along with his stepdad Ed Cassidy (see, there were forerunners to the Mystery Jets) formed the nucleus of the band. Despite having Jimi Hendrix in their ranks at one stage Spirit never attained their full potential. A catalogue of mishaps and bad mistakes (they turned down an offer to play Woodstock…yikes) meant that the albums kept coming along but widespread recognition remained out of reach. Potato Land was recorded in 1972 but was deemed too political by the bands label Epic so was not released until 1981. Based on the concept of the wretched life of potato people on their way to the slaughterhouse (Morgan Spurlock had a ready made soundtrack!) it included precious ditties such as 'My Friend'. Honky tonking with the best of them 'My Friend' has the air of a classic with supreme melodies and a frenetic momentum. Somehow it has been lost through the ravages of time but should rightly stand side by side with other goldies such 'God Only Knows' or 'California Dreamin'. Randy California died in 1997, still a very young man. KD

Spirit - My Friend

More Info: Spirit
Buy Album: [UK] The Original Potato Land [US] The Original Potato Land
Year: 1972

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#243 Elfi - All By Myself

Did you know there are people playing Arcade Fire covers already? Yep the album has only turned 18 months and in far flung places such as darkest Sweden there are girls like Linda Anderson trying to recapture rebellion and lies. If the covers don't work out then maybe Elfi (Linda in creative mode) can probably make a decent living from playing her own stuff, which never fails to light up the northern sky. Signed to the young yet prestigious Molokini Records Elfi has just released her first single which includes the nifty 'All By Myself'. Twee as you like and as spirited as a bottle of rogue poteen this has cult hit written all over it. Imagine Bjork cast out into the woods with only her rhymes for company and you've got this in a nutshell. KD

Elfi - All By Myself

More Info: Elfi
Year: 2006

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#242 Placebo - Bionic

Despite the fact that the odds were ostensibly stacked against them Placebo have rarely lost their focus in writing great tunes. Brian Molko might not be your average Joe but who cares once he can craft tunes that can be rightfully called important. Over the course of a decade his bands talent has rarely dimmed and a recent singles collection should only prove to be the end of part one in a triumphant career. 'Bionic' is taken from the bands ecstatic debut and is one of Placebo's unheralded gems boasting grand horizons, epic propulsion and a unstoppable zest for life (and love, ahem). Molko keeps the words to a minimum because all around him the band spin bulbous melodies in the form of expansive riffs. The bass is particularly ear catching, something an on form Mani could be proud of. The dynamics are aided by the looping guitar assaults that turn supersonic at regular intervals. This is the hair dryer effect put to music. KD

Placebo - Bionic

More Info: Placebo
Buy Album: [UK] Placebo [US] Placebo
Year: 1996

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#241 The Star Department - Embers

It's been a day and I really can't be wasting my time with demo's like this.

It's been 2 days and it's starting to sound interesting. Really rough around the edges in a way that could scare the life out of Pete Doherty but I think I'll sleep on it and check in tomorrow.

It's been 3 days and I still can't decide whether this is a bona fide classic or a rambling pile of mess. One thing is for the sure though, the production is a tad shabby, and the lines are hardly defined so it's likely that there could even be more ideas getting lost around the edges. 'Embers' is at least 3 defined pieces that segue in and out of each other at regular intervals, an android that is prone to extreme bouts of paranoia you might say. The singing is drawn from 2 sources but the words seem almost incidental to the flow of sound. The band responsible are from Dublin and are just starting out. It seems they have a lot to give and they want to announce it out to the world in one fell swoop. Then you discover that all their other songs are just as densely packed with melodies and flickering pieces of jangle.

It's been 4 days, I've had a great nights sleep and have just disseminated the music with a clearer head. It's the euphoric way that the loose collection of random ideas are thrown together that indicates that this could be the start of something special. Sort of like 'Confusion is Nothing New' (Beachwood Sparks) with beefed up scattered elegance. The raw talent on show means that the Star Department have a couple of avenues open to them, be it post-rock, sublime indiepop or perhaps their own unique hybrid. Absorb this sonic cavalcade and you'll see what I mean. But be warned, it may take a couple of days. KD

The Star Department - Embers

More Info: The Star Department
EP: On the way any day now

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#240 The Sundays - Can't Be Sure

Despite only ever recording one truly classic album the Sundays are rightly lauded as pioneers. An intoxicating mix of fluid mix jangling guitars and Harriet Wheeler's crystal clear vocals meant that their sound was distinctive. The band notably wrote about British themes including the miserable weather and Wheeler's vocals were a product of old London town. 'Can't Be Sure' is taken from the aforementioned classic 'Reading, Writing & Arithmetic' and pitches an awkward shimmering riff with decidedly artificial drum patterns. Wheeler's partner David Gavurin throws the guitar lines about like confetti in a seemingly shapeless montage but disassembling the intricacies is one of the songs great strengths. Take time to let this sink in, it should form the bedrock of any serious music fans collection. KD

The Sundays - Can't Be Sure

More Info: The Sundays
Buy Album: [UK] Reading Writing and Arithmetic [US] Reading, Writing and Arithmetic
Year: 1990

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#239 Devics - Song For A Sleeping Girl

If you are of the Mojave 3 persuasion then Devics might well be up your alley. Made up of LA twosome Sara Lov and Dustin O'Halloran they produce the sort of softly does it material that will cool your boots everytime. O'Halloran is a noted pianist and has even released an acclaimed instrumental album called, funnily enough, 'Piano Solos'. Lov for her part has a distinct ethereal quality to her singing that perfectly matches the slow-fi music. 'Push The Heart' is the duo's 4th album and provides a fascinatingly gentle listen. 'Song For A Sleeping Girl' is instantly appealing with a soft tread you'd normally associate with a guardian angel. The song shuffles so quaintly that O'Halloran barely needs to amaze on the keys yet the subtle shifts in pace means that return visits become inevitable. You can find 'Push The Heart' on the increasingly brilliant Bella Union label. KD

Devics - Song For A Sleeping Girl

More Info: Devics
Buy Album: [UK] Push the Heart [US] Push The Heart
Year: 2006

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#238 The Little Ones - Cha Cha Cha

I dunno, perhaps whimsy is coming back into fashion. Maybe the world is getting sick of sharp angular pop and is turning towards a place where everybody smiles as they gently cajole noises from their overly curved instruments. In this place resides a band from California who along with being the sweetest fantasists on the planet also sing songs that contain a veritable treasure chest of plush ideas. 'Cha Cha Cha' is utterly adorable with its selection of shimmering guitars, heavily sedated animal on drums and a singer who still plays imaginary games with a sackful of marbles. This will hardly break into daytime schedules, but then that's the world's great loss. As Wonka might have put it this is a work of pure imagination. KD

The Little Ones - Cha Cha Cha

More Info: The Little Ones
Buy the Sing Song EP: la la la la....
Year: 2006

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#237 Depeche Mode - Dreaming of Me

If you are dreaming of a time when Depeche Mode didn't necessarily mean gothic trenches of noise with greasy guitars and unbearably bleak themes then you will have to journey back at least 2 decades. For a time the Essex lads were the epitome of breezy synth pop that went on to colour a thousand dancefloors. Lush organic arrangements and cool readily accessible melodies meant that they once rivalled OMD and the Human League for the electro crown. 'Dreaming of Me' was as fluffy as it got, the synchronized drumbeats subtly providing a frame for the casioesque refrains from Vince Clark (later of Yazoo and Erasure). In its wake the band went on to records other classics such as 'New Life', 'Just Can't Get Enough' and the majestic 'Everything Counts'. KD

Depeche Mode - Dreaming of Me

More Info: Depeche Mode
Buy Album: [UK] Speak and Spell [US] Speak & Spell
Year: 1981

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#236 Good Shoes - Small Town Girl

Shoes don't really get a fair crack of the whip when it comes to being mentioned in songs or band names. Alright, the great Furniture had a minor hit called 'Love Your Shoes' but precious little else springs (runners like) to mind. That might be all about to change though as Morden band Good Shoes are currently spinning heads with a delicious concoction of Wedding Present guitars and even more rabid singing. Wouldn't be worth the effort if the band didn't throw in such a heavy quotient of melody and some gleeful whippersnapper energy. Not that you could tell from their website, mind, as it's as difficult to negotiate as a desert map. 'Small Town Girl' is a single from 2005 and it will be soon as precious to your family as rocky the thoroughbred poodle. Jangle pop is not often this charming so soak up the twinkling melodies before they grow up on us. KD

Good Shoes - Small Town Girl

More Info: Good Shoes
Buy A Single: [UK] We Are Not the Same [US] We Are Not the Same
Year: 2005

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#235 Charlemagne - Your Scars

I haven't been so excited about music like this since Mike Batt started writing songs for the Wombles. Carl Johns is the impetuous behind Charlemagne and his second album 'Detour Allure' has just been released. Charlemagne expose plenty of country elements yet the overriding feeling is of blissed out pop. The music is prime for the summer but could quite easily brighten those frost bitten winter mornings as well. 'Your Scars' might be the Boy Least Likely To's best song with the tacked on studio tricks removed. The song flows on its painterly way, shamelessly addictive and capable of drawing claps from the hardiest of hands. Johns vocals are joined on occasion by a sighing female boosting the soft dynamics. With so much feeling billowing in the grooves surely it's only a matter of time before someone invents a fluffy character to cutely headbob to it. Charlemagne is Carl Johns solo project, although he tours with a full band, and he is currently on career break from his band Noahjohn. KD

Charlemagne - Your Scars

More Info: Charlemagne
Buy Album: [UK] Detour Allure [US] Detour Allure
Year: 2006

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#234 Umlaut - Winter Coat

In the end an obsession with winters cold face proved too much for Umlaut (a word I've heard Alfie use from time to time). Despite being signed to the uber cool label Fantastic Plastic this Sheffield band split up after only releasing one single in late 2005. 'Winter Coat' had the scratchy surface of a demo but for this reason alone it contained a spark so often erased by production gloss. Sounding like a hybrid of Cable/Lodger 'Winter Coat' begins with what sounds like a composition written on a casio keyboard by an infant. Pretty soon though the short sharp guitars kick in with the little monkey on vocals giving it arctic style. The casio returns at various intervals but it's masked by a sweet coterie of sounds that flail around it. Umlaut's DIY approach is a breath of fresh air, sort of punk with a cuddly exterior. You can find various members of Umlaut scattered between 2 new bands, the very promising Situationists and Johnny Rocket & the Bang Bangs. KD

Umlaut - Winter Coat

More Info: Umlaut
Buy A Winter Garment: Umlaut
Year: 2005

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#233 Logh - Note On Bathroom Mirror

Most of Logh's 'Every Time a Bell Rings an Angel Gets His Wings' was recorded at night but there is nothing dark about what they ended up with. This is an album that will surround you with its subtle guitar riffs, hum like vocals and pronounced yet undistracting percussion. It works best when heard in its entirely, breaking it up dulls the effect but one or two tracks operate well in isolation. 'Note On Bathroom Window' is one, staggering to its feet about half way through with a rush of acoustic strums, layered vocals and scene setting bass riffs. The band come from Lund in Sweden but share the same artistic persuasions as Canada's Do Make Say Think. Their last album was recorded in 10 hours so as you can imagine there is a natural feel to the way their music flows. Nothing is pushed or polished; the ideas are as they were when they first appeared like a light bulb in the bands imagination. On their European tour last year they were robbed several times, so as you can guess they might not be the luckiest band in the world but with album number four out this year they could be the likeliest to emerge triumphant. KD

Logh - Note On Bathroom Mirror

More Info: Logh
Buy Creations By: Logh
Year: 2002

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#232 Precious Fathers - Snowshoes

It's been a while since post rock threw up a new burning light so it's genuinely exciting when a song with no words produces a rush of excitement. Vancouver band Precious Fathers released their self-titled debut last year, have supported the Album Leaf and rather reassuringly at least 50% of their number sport beards. 'Snowshoes' isn't particularly intricate; in fact its docile nature is half the attraction. Think Explosions In The Sky circa 'Friday Night Lights' with more expressive rambles that see the momentum pick up delightfully over several minutes. Swap a chorus for some circular jangling and you might have a number one hit but Precious Fathers prefer to charge their instruments with the feelings that pour from aorta central. The result is a mood piece that'll have you catching raindrops in your mouth as a colourful rainbow forms about 3 fields away. KD

Precious Fathers - Snowshoes

More Info: Precious Fathers
Buy Precious Fathers: Precious Fathers
Year: 2005

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#231 Blink - Cello/Five New Friends

This Finglas band will be famously remembered for making the much less interesting yet vastly more popular Blink 182 append the numerics to their name. Led by the diminutive Dermot Lambert, Blink were a spunky quartet that were characterised by raging guitars, slight yet effective synths and Lambert's tumultuous word volleys. Over the course of 3 well received albums Blink matured into a fine band, creating pop nuggets at every turn. Their debut remains a favourite, however, due to its lavish whimsical nature and sheer energy. The band were a huge live prospect with Lambert at the core whipping proceedings into a frenzy of activity. Included here are 'Cello' which saw Blink dip their toes in ambient waters. The other track is a b-side from the 'It's Not My Fault' single that is as tender as a pork chop and twice as tasty. Dermot if you are watching, we'll never forget that Chelmsford gig way back in 1994!

Blink Live Review From 2000

The Murphy's Live Mix sets out to prove that live music is not dead. To ram the pint (sic) home they employ Blink to open their Festival of free music. As with all Blink gigs expect the expected. Ferocious guitars, snarling vocals, epileptic drums and the calming infleunce of a rabid keyboard. Yes Blink encapsulate in 60 minutes what most bands set out to achieve on a Lollapolooza tour. This is no ordinary gig however. This is the spiritual home of Blink. The ownership may have changed but Eamon Doran's still retains that Rock Garden vibe where Blink started out. Dermot Lambert resplendent in appropriate orange shirt orchestrates his band to deliver pure music. 'Going To Nepal' and 'Is God Really Groovy' kick off proceedings in the best possible way. Then 'Happy Day' grabs your head and pushes it back and forth so you resemble a hungry woodpecker. What elevates Blink above their peers is an uncanny ability to make their songs so immediate. This is exemplified as the tempo of the gig rises as old and new material seam perfectly together. As the 'Fundamentally Loveable Creature' holds hands with the 'Girl Whose Skin Was The Wrong Way Around', 'Billy' realises that 'Everything Comes, Everything Goes'. 'Can' and the somewhat longwinded 'I Know You Broke My Heart But I Still Like You' distinguish themselves and sit neatly on the shelf marked future hit singles. The experience continues as 'Cello' climbs the stairway to pop heaven with effortless grace. The manic Lambert thumps his guitar over and over drenching our ears in glorious feedback and as the drums roll the killer keyboard harmony completes the sonic Picasso. For six minutes everyone present stares incredulous and bewitched. Blink prove you can be happy without being nauseous (The Wets), quirky without being sad (The Neds) and above all brilliant without being aloof (The Roses). 'Love Me' and 'Its Not My Fault' continue the onslaught and thankfully 'Snow(Be Precious)' arrives just in time to avoid core meltdown. As an encore we get 'Shake Everything'. Wrecked from the experience we are unable to shake anything and the floor becomes very wet. KD

Blink - Cello

Blink - Five New Friends

More Info: Blink
Buy Album: [UK] A Map of the Universe [US] A Map of the Universe
Year: 1994

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#230 Secret Machines - Alone, Jealous And Stoned

Never took much notice of Secret Machines, 'Nowhere Again' from their last album was a nice distraction but the message was often lost in the hyperbole of the music. So as I unfurled the Uncut Playlist CD of last month I wasn't expecting much from 'Alone, Jealous and Stoned'. Sure enough it had a cute entrance made up of sparse spacey noises but nothing to suggest greatness. Over a few listens though the inventiveness appeared through the fog. Now, Brandon Curtis' vocals sounded wounded as he replayed the break up of a long-term relationship, his brothers' guitars chirped tunefully and John Garza's drumming bellowed with untamed rage. Maybe it was the influence of recording way up high in the Catskills Mountains but you'll have to travel far to match the rolling crescendo that appears in the final third of 'Alone, Jealous and Stoned'. This is life-affirming stuff, proof positive that whatever prog means or stands for it certainly can produce moments of sonic euphoria like this. KD

Secret Machines - Alone, Jealous And Stoned

More Info: Secret Machines
Buy Album: [UK] Ten Silver Drops [US] Ten Silver Drops
Year: 2006

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#229 Lotion - Around

Lotion remind me a little of the Wrens, some by their sweeping music but mostly by the fact that both have the culture and talent yet little in the way of recognition. So by twinning 'The Meadowlands' and 'Full Isaac' together you get a sumptuous package of delights that could see you through any desert island stay. 'Full Isaac' was released back in 1994 and while the band has since disintegrated their treasurable output lives on. Tony Zajkowski provided the mature vocals (in a semi-Stipe type of way) while his band cooked up a storm around them. 'Around' is one of the many highlights on 'Full Isaac' with an effortless flow it's the sort of song that you don't want end. There is the lavish bass entrée, a main course of heartfelt words and an aperitif that piles on the strings. Zajkowski is now in a band called Honeycomb who won an American Music Award for best-unsigned act award in 2003. Oh, the travesty of it all. KD

Lotion - Around

More Info: Lotion
Buy Album: [UK] Full Isaac [US] Full Isaac
Year: 1994

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#228 Signum - What Ya Got 4 Me

Signum's 'What Ya Got 4 Me' was released on the neatly titled Tidy Trax label. While it ain't no Art Of Trance's 'Madagascar', Sasha's 'Xpander' or ATB's '9pm (Til I Come)' it has some fine moments especially when the squelchy synths approximate a whirlwind in the rousing finale. The early female vocal is a tad dry and the beat is all too familiar yet somehow about 210 seconds in this tune finds its feet and in the process breaches the walls that would normally filter its ilk from your ears. So much for indie schmindie there ain’t nothing like a electro workout like this to clear out your cupboard. KD

Signum - What Ya Got 4 Me

More Info: Signum
Buy Album: [UK] What Ya Got 4 Me: Recycled [US] What Ya Got 4 Me
Year: 1997

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#227 The Thrillseekers - Synaesthesia

A lot of what came out of the trance scene was faceless, the architects of the tunes seemingly anonymous clones eager to jump on a phenomenally popular strand of dance culture. This often meant that most disappeared after their momentary spot in the neon spotlight. The Thrillseekers is the work of ex-computer game maker Steve Helstrip and his most aluminous effort was 'Synaesthesia' which remains a glowing touchstone. Synaesthesia is a condition where a particular sound can trigger a visual that is not there, or vice versa. Syd Barrett of Pink Floyd was known to have the condition but how much of this can be put down to his drug intake is open to question. Helstrip's tune certainly conjures the feeling of whishing through the air and at its most devastating you may indeed feel as if a man can fly. KD

The Thrillseekers - Synaesthesia

More Info: The Thrillseekers
Buy Album: [UK] Nightmusic Volume 1 [US] Nightmusic Volume 1
Year: 2006

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#226 Slam - Positive Education

I went through a spell in the late nineties where dance music took over. Despite the slagging it got in certain quarters I loved the whole euphoric Trance genre, especially what came out on those Gatecrasher compilations. It made a nice escape when ye olde indie couldn't come up with the goods. I can remember walking to work with an uplifting number ringing in my ear and suddenly everything didn't seem so bad, that was until I turned off the walkman (remember those, jeez how we've moved on). Anyway, with it being one of the biggest holiday weekends of the year I will return forthwith to that period when a torrid mix of JD and all those beats per minute was the perfect precursor for a great night out. Slam's 'Positive Education' is a groovy monolith that spun from the chromosomes of 2 Glaswegian DJ's Stuart MacMillan and Orde Miekle. The plot is simple but the grandiose slabs of electronica wield such an innate sense of adventure that you can't help but pound the sky. Never ones to give up on a good idea MacMillan and Miekle fleece the theatrics for all their worth so that by the 7th minute every muscle in your body will probably ache even if you haven't abandoned the safety of the couch. KD

Slam - Positive Education

More Info: Slam
Buy Album: [UK] Positive Education [US] Positive Education
Year: 1995

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#225 The Young Tradition - Now You Know

If you are tracing the Byrds family tree then the Young Tradition are going to prop up a particularly fruitful branch. The reason, put simply, is that they create the sort of loose jangling moments and fuzzed up vocal parts that could only have originated in a time when the love was free. Made up of equal parts Swedish and Japanese creators the band don't peddle anything that could be considered fully original yet their take on the classic imprint is both enticing and refreshing. Hardly surprising then that they are signed to Matinee Recordings which is home of such other tweesome delights as the Snowdrops and Pale Sunday. KD

The Young Tradition - Now You Know

Slightly More Info: The Young Tradition
Buy Album: [UK] Northern Drive [US] Northern Drive
Year: 2005

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#224 Luggage - Show Me Around

In the mid nineties a small pocket of bands from Dublin hinted that something wonderful could be on the horizon. The Jubilee Allstars, In Motion, Bawl, the Sewing Room and Sunbear were all fashioning alchemy from base instruments. Luggage weren't entirely in the same league but still produced a couple of terrific EP's over a short time. The 'Comical Life' EP was one such, four strong tunes with 'Show Me Around' being the obvious highlight. Think Tindersticks as the gloom is about to lift and you'll be ballpark. 'Show Me Around' exhibits lazy, shambolic chords thrown together like forgotten CD's in a bargain bin float by as Barry O'Mahony's laconic utterances transform the vocal slouch into an art form. Just perfect for those mid-term mornings when getting up isn't really a runner. KD

Luggage - Show Me Around

More Info: Luggage
EP: Comical Life
Year: 1995

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#223 PAS/CAL - Poor Maude

Casimer Pascal's band have somehow stayed out the limelight despite a melody charged run of EP's, Christmas singles and a contribution to the Donovan tribute album. Think early Belle & Sebastian b-side with a lorry load of sweetly tugged instruments propping up Pascal's high pitched vocals. 'Poor Maude' is elegantly tailored even if it plays like a song with a thousand different winning ideas, harmonies drip from its sides like ice-cream from an abandoned cone in mid summer. And for such a perfect pop song it somehow extends beyond the strict 3-minute guideline. That said the crash and tumble of the finale brings us back to dull life as seen through the eyes of a 115-year-old woman praying that the end is near. Ah, such a precious dichotomy in a straight ahead pop world. KD

PAS/CAL - Poor Maude

More Info: PAS/CAL
Buy Album: [UK] Oh Honey, We're Ridiculous [US] Oh Honey, We're Ridiculous
Year: 2004

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#222 Band of Horses - The Great Salt Lake

The making of a band.....

A Young Boy Kneels









I Wear Warm Garments Early Each Day










Hooray For Lively Equine Receptions










KD

Band of Horses - The Great Salt Lake

More Info: Band of Horses
Buy Album: [UK] Everything All the Time [US] Everything All the Time
Year: 2006

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#221 Eggman - Not Bad Enough

When Sice decided to take a temporary break from the Boo Radley's and write his own music he chose the highly suitable Eggman monikor (legendary slaphead that he was). Sice's gift as a singer was never in doubt so it comes a bit of a surprise to hear him on 'Not Bad Enough' where he approximates his less gifted partner Martin Carr's solid yet unremarkable voice. Thankfully 'Not Bad Enough' doesn't suffer because it also boasts a jovial riff that breathes life into the music. Eggman only produced fruit on one occasion, the gravitational pull back to base seemingly too strong to resist. For Boo Radley's fan it is an enjoyably less frenetic romp through the bands unmistakeable sound. As you should know yourself they remain one of the nineties biggest treats. KD

Eggman - Not Bad Enough

More Info: The Boo Radleys & Eggman
Buy Album: [UK]First Fruits [US] First Fruits
Year: 1996

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#220 Olivia Tremor Control - Hideaway

Neutral Milk Hotel, the Apples In Stereo and Olivia Tremor Control were part of the famed Elephant 6 movement. These were a group of experimentalists who used the Beatles and Beach Boys as a reference to create sumptuous new creations of their own. 'Hideaway' was taken from Olivia Tremor Control's 1999 album called 'Black Foliage: Animation Music', a sprawling affair over 27 tracks that dealt out some many ideas it took quite an effort to absorb in totality. 'Hideaway' is a beacon of amiability, however, that married the aforementioned influences into a lush carpet of sound. Feel the Wilsonesque harmonies, bathe in the delicate kaleidoscope of 'Magical Mystery Tour' fab four but most of all genuflect at the altar of OTC for creating a modern day pop classic. This will whisk you off your feet but is guaranteed not walk out on you the next morning. Treasure. KD

Olivia Tremor Control - Hideaway

More Info: Olivia Tremor Control
Buy Album: [UK] Black Foliage [US] Black Foliage: Animation Music By The Olivia Tremor Control
Year: 1999

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#219 Windings - It's-ok

How do you justify a tune without words that runs for 61 seconds? Surely a case of a throw away idea tacked on as a filler or a hastily arranged b-side to make up the numbers on an EP. Well in this sense 'It's-ok' breaks all the rules because its short stay is both insightful and exhilarating. Like a baby 'Surface To Air' (Chemical Brothers) is beats a path to your heart with the efficiency of a freshly sharpened surgeons knife. Wingdings is the side project of Limerick man Steve Ryan, his main job being with spunky guitar necks giveamanakick. Wingdings has supported an Arab Strap, Smog and a mouldy piece of Sugar in the last few months and his self-titled debut has been on the shelves since last summer. On this evidence he could be soon breaking hearts as well as the rules. KD

Windings - It's-ok

More Info: Windings
Buy Album: Windings
Year: 2005

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#218 Cud - Oh No Won't Do

Even Cud fans will struggle to get their hands on this barnstorming effort as it never featured on any of the bands albums. Mike Dunphy's liquid guitar play is the songs central feature; at one point the spiralling dynamics threaten to simulate a fractious riot. Carl Puttnam's heavy toned vocals are refreshing, his verbals matching his colleague for sheer energy. Of course things never worked out for Cud despite widespread critical acclaim and their dedication to covering cheesy numbers from the likes of Hot Chocolate. They had their brushes with the mainstream when 'Rich & Strange' and 'Once Again' became minor hits but their patience ran out in 1995. Puttnam has since forged a solo career and managed to pull a DJ slot on Galaxy FM. KD

Cud - Oh No Won't Do

More Info: Cud
Buy Cud's: [UK] Asquarius [US] Asquarius
Year: 1992

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#217 On! Air! Library! - Feb.

On! Air! Library! self-titled album was one of the undiscovered joys of 2004. With a palette that swung from shoegaze to introspective moog dalliances you never quite what this experimental crew were about to throw out (Curve and Stereolab come to mind). A challenging listen, only one or two of the tracks made sense straight away; with the result that only the patient would be fully rewarded. 'Feb.' might be rolling down the track to nowhere but it is a very pleasant journey all the same. Claudia Dehaza (her twin sister Alley also plays in the band) supplies the understated singing while an sweet eclectic jamboree of noise spins about around her. 'Feb.' only stays around for about 2 minutes but it has the elegant grandeur that means you have to rerun the thrills ad nauseum. Sadly On! Air! Library! broke up late last year. Watch out for the split EP they recorded with The Album Leaf called 'A Lifetime Or More'. KD

On! Air! Library! - Feb.

More Info: On! Air! Library!
Buy Album: [UK] On Air Library [US] On!Air!Library!
Year: 2004

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#216 a-ha - Take On Me

Ok, it's Sunday morning and I have a headache, the birds are tweeting too loudly in the trees and I have to play football in an hour. Coffee, cigarettes (I don't smoke) or Panadol won't be enough to shake this leaden feeling. Perhaps some audio intervention is required, something that is always sitting there on the edge of my consciousness. Something that went through a period of getting the proverbial rotten vegetables thrown at it but still came out the other side with its shiny exterior intact. As a teenager I was transfixed by the promo with its Sin City style characters and wonderfully romantic ending. Yep, you know the story of the 3 Norwegian lads with the funny hair. This hasn't aged one iota for those who were there way back then and is as bubbly as a bottle of cheap cider. It had to be released 3 times before it became a hit. It was the first piece of vinyl that I ever owned and it's worth lots of money now. Right, pass me the ball. KD

a-ha - Take On Me

More Info: a-ha
Buy Album: [UK] Hunting High And Low [US] Hunting High and Low
Year: 1985

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#215 Matt Pond PA - Snow Day

The word of mouth on Matt Pond PA's genius is getting louder by the day and it's easy to see why when you listen to this soft bundle of joy. With the last vestiges of winter about to depart our shores for a few months this could be its lush death kick. The parts that make the whole are many and each is beautiful in its own right. Instantly affecting vocals, childlike fidgety acoustics and atmospheric cello moments all add up to a pretty mosaic. This is the sort of stuff that should pervade on radio stations the world over; you can't but feel that if it were the world would be a better place. 'Snow Day' is taken from the 'Winter Songs' EP that rivals Low's 'Christmas' in the bearing of holiday audioments. Just in case you are wondering the PA in the bands name stands for Pennsylvania. KD

Matt Pond PA - Snow Day

More Info: Matt Pond PA
Buy Matt Pond PA's: [UK] Winter Songs [US] Winter Songs
Year: 2005

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#214 The Happy Mondays - Hallelujah (Club Mix)

The Happy Mondays were always good copy being to drugs what Shane McGowan is to drink. Ryder and Mark Bery (Bez) were a devilish combination and their live shows were ecstatic affairs. 'Pills, Thrills & Bellyaches' is their high watermark, containing pretty much all their essential moments. The rest of their back catalogue has instances of greatness but lacks clear consistency. 'Hallelujah' is taken from the revered 'Rave On' EP that boasted a gaggle of remixes. This version is my favourite even if trims Kirsty McColl's screeching vocals to a minimum. This is the quintessential baggy anthem, pitching acid house atmospherics alongside accomplished guitar asides and Bez's flailing maracas. Ryder gruff vocals are superb, almost out of tune and laboured they provide the perfect foil for the hedonistic rhythms. Ryder's slow metamorphosis into a mongoose is sad to watch but thankfully Bez remains the stick insect of yore even finding time to win a celebrity reality TV show in-between those 10-hours-long practise sessions in his front room. The band are scheduled to appear this summer in London at the prophetically titled 'Get Loaded In The Park'. KD

Happy Mondays - Hallelujah

More Info: The Happy Mondays
Buy: [UK] Hallelujah [US] Hallelujah
Year: 1989

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#213 Islands - Tsuxiit

I nearly loved the Unicorns' 'Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone' but an overused slab of piercing organ ruined it for me. Now that that band has subsided ex-Unicorns Nicholas Thorburn and Jamie Thompson have reconvened to form Islands. Their debut has just been released and includes bit parts by fellow Canadians the Arcade Fire. The Unicorns sense of whimsy has been side stepped a tad and although the roots are awash with giddy melody 'Return To The Sea' has the maturity to become a classic. The album sweeps from cute archetypal indie tune to wispy instrumental at will, even stopping off at one stage to comment on all that avian flu fearmongering. A good example of the dinky tunes on offer is the lavishly angled 'Tsuxiit' which may take some time to win you over such is its awkward directions. Sounding like a close relative to a cute furry Mogwai it scuttles about with gay abandon but denys all attempts to dance to it. This is the tonic for those who want to ditch the prosaic for something more addictive. One other thing, is the cover art taken from Superman: The Movie? KD

Islands - Tsuxiit

More Info: Islands
Buy Album: [UK] Return to the Sea [US] Return to the Sea
Year: 2006

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#212 Panda Kopanda - If I Could Make You Happy

To wrap up tonight's hat-trick of understated beauties here is the Belfast's very own Panda Kopanda (named after a 1970's Japanese cartoon). The band somehow finds themselves label-less after the collapse of Howl Records but they shouldn't be short of suitors if the 'The Letting Go' EP is anything to go by. Panda Kopanda present subtle melodies by way of Gavin Reid's velvety indie-boy vocals and a backing band that are trying to redraft the jangly parts of 'Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain' all on their own. 'If I Could Make You Happy' is particularly precious, even if it initially sounds like Trio's 'Da Da Da'. Soon enough, however, it develops a premium set of shimmering riffs, a focused percussion and the general disposition of an encore classic. The cascading layers of musical melodrama that close the song are as inspired and life affirming as the story of Mimiko and her adoptive family. The band are about to release a new EP called 'Ocean of Fire' so adopt it asap. KD

Panda Kopanda - If I Could Make You Happy

More Info: Panda Kopanda
Buy Panda Kopanda's: The Letting Go EP
Year: 2005

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#211 Cass McCombs - Your Mother And Father

The Lost On Purpose track has me thinking of something from times gone by. Ah yes Cass McCombs, a more sombre Wil Holland but no less talented for that. 'Not The Way' EP was his first foray and what a dishevelled piece of mastery it was. Lo-fi was never meant to be this melancholy but behind the shuffling arrangements lies a happy soul. Stacked end to end a Cass McCombs record can be too much to take for the casual listener. But separate songs like 'Your Mother and Father' from the others and what your left with is a staggering effort (in every sense of the word). McCombs barely intentions that he is interested while a sparse piano, scattershot percussion and thudding bass create a piece that could be viewed as slovenly. But, to be this good at playing the slacker takes talent and the more you take in the more you feel that there is something devastating being produced. This is, in the words of Cass, sheer prefection. KD

Cass McCombs - Your Mother And Father

More Info: Cass McCombs
Buy Album: [UK] Not the Way [US] Not the Way
Year: 2002

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#210 Lost On Purpose - Thank You Music Guru

Wil Holland from Cleveland is trying to earn enough money so he can give up his nine-to-five existence. His plan is to write music that people like enough to buy and thus save him from the dreaded wait 'til he turns 65. So far the plan is working pretty well because his solo project Lost On Purpose has built up a big enough repertoire of gilded gems to base a whole alternate career on. All that needs to happen now if for the people to tune in so here's a heads up in Wil's direction. His website is a good starting point because it allows you to sample plenty of what he has thus far conjured. Try and imagine Bright Eyes crouched inside your head armed with the minimum number of instruments (to save on space) working his way through his best songs ever and you'll have a good idea what Lost On Purpose are about. 'Thank You Music Guru' is perhaps as simplistic as Holland gets, his pinpoints the creative and executes it in the sweetest way possible. Acoustics shimmer like a ghost in the night and the vocals timidly make like the coolest sound since the theremin was invented. Building gently like a female construction worker it could yet be used by unstable governments to soothe angry mobs. Mr Holland, you'll soon need a dam to hold back the waves of delight from a legion of fans. KD

Lost On Purpose - Thank You Music Guru

More Info: Lost On Purpose
Buy EP: Anniversary EP
Year: 2005

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#209 The Jennifers - Just Got Back Today

Despite only being a teenager when Supergrass hit the big time with 'Caught By The Fuzz' Gaz Coombes had already been a minor success with his previous band the Jennifers. Written when he was only 14 years old 'Just Got Back Today' was the bands only release on Suede's label Nude Records but is typical of the early Supergrass sound. If anything it appropriates the genius of their second album 'In It For The Money' rather than the bubblegum of their debut. 'Just Got Back Today' is awash with such keen harmonies and dispatched with such charm that you'll hardly take heed of the perfunctory music. That said, the fleeting harmonica bolsters the atmosphere of the piece while Coombes catches his breath before delivering another luscious vocal spectacle. KD

The Jennifers - Just Got Back Today

More Info: The Jennifers Pt. 2
Vinyl Single: Just Got Back Today
Year: 1992

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#208 Ned's Atomic Dustbin - Happy

Time to whip out those extra long short pants and start throwing things cause it's Ned's Atomic Dustbin time. While the Ned's might only occupy a tiny footnote in the history of rock music they nonetheless left an impression. The band were part a scene of sorts that also included such luminaries as Carter USM, EMF, Thousand Yard Stare and the Wonderstuff. Fronted by the fabulously hirsute Jonn Penney what the band lacked in talent they more than made up for with joyous energy. They also found it necessary to have 2 bass players which meant that most early nineties speakers didn't stand a chance. 'Happy' is a choice cut from their debut and is a rampant example of their loose and thunderous style. Instruments are excitedly thrown into disarray by the galloping momentum. A bass riff is particularly ear catching being expertly delivered a la Jah Wobble spinning at 78 rpm. Remarkably Ned's Atomic Dustbin are at this moment recording their first new material since the mid 1990's and a single is due out in May. Perhaps you should start thinking about killing your television all over again. KD

Ned's Atomic Dustbin - Happy

More Info: Ned's Atomic Dustbin
Buy Album: [UK] God Fodder [US] God Fodder
Year: 1991

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#207 Paradise Motel - Ashes

Paradise Motel had their moment when they covered the Cars 'Drive' for the soundtrack to a movie about a dead guy and some pastries. This is sad because the world has been denied Merida Sussex's haunting vocals, which are so passionately in evidence on 'Ashes'. I spotted this song on a Melody Maker compilation CD from 1997 called 'Independent & Still Taking Liberties' and it blew away the competition. Most of the band were originally from Tasmania and asked Merida to be their singer after a chance meeting in a library in Melbourne. The band soon decamped to London to make their fortune but it wasn’t to be. 'Ashes' is so delightfully different; its showy strings means it could easily find an audience far beyond the stereotypical indie set yet its appeal is there for all. No surprise then that they were at some point signed to infectious records, because this is highly contagious. KD

Paradise Motel - Ashes

More Info: Paradise Motel
Buy Paradise Motel's: [UK] Flight Paths [US] Flight Paths
Year: 1998

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#206 Emperor of Ice Cream - Puerile

The future looked bright for 4 young Cork lads when their band Emperor Of Ice Cream was signed to Sony's cool offshoot Blow Disc's. Despite releasing a succession of great singles it seemed that the lack of public appetite finally took its toll. They also left a brilliant Fanning session, which even surpassed what was produced in the studio. The 'William' EP was released in 1993 and displayed lead man Haggis' gift for melody and his appreciation of the merits of all things Ride. Ok, the chords are a tad telegraphed but given time the collective could have mastered what the likes of My Vitriol were grappling with years later. The bands guitarist is currently in ramshackle noise makers Sylvia's Saint, the others are probably at this moment ironing their shirts for work tomorrow. KD

Emperor of Ice Cream - Puerile

EP: William
Year: 1993

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#205 Spectrum - How You Satisfy Me

Continuing our Spaceman 3 centric day are Spectrum led by the appropriately monikered Sonic Boom. Boom has the audacious reputation of out-sunglassing the mighty Bono and considering his bands outputs you'd imagine he must have had matching earbuds too. 'How You Satisfy Me' is a thunderous proposition with an all consuming burst of guitars built around a gregariously sequenced bank of organs. Boom adds the requisite euphoric repost that threatens to send giant cracks spiralling down the walls in your neighbourhood. The EP that the song is taken from is uniformly strong with the 3 other tracks conjuring that lay back in the sun quality that only Jason Pierce could replicate. KD

Spectrum - How You Satisfy Me

More Info: Spectrum
Buy Album: [UK] Soul Kiss (Glide Divine) [US] Soul Kiss (Glide Divine)
Year: 1992

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#204 BMX Bandits - Little Hands

BMX Bandits (named after the 1983 Nicole Kidman movie of the same name) was the breeding ground for the consummate delights that was to become Teenage Fanclub, Superstar and er the Soup Dragons. The band underwent so many changes throughout their career that you'd need a genealogist to map the line-up from day to day. While Duglas T. Stewart's name may not have the resonance of, say, Norman Blake he was main creative force behind the Bandits and their distinctive C86 template. Dishy guitars meets twee lyrics are a constant and to some such a concoction is pure Heavenly. 'Little Hands' lovingly describes the scene where boy in band falls in love with cute girl fan. Simple and cherishable it boasts Fanclubesque chords a la 'The Concept' while Stewart's vocals are just mildly nasaled by those heavy double-rimmed spectacles of his (probably). The EP's cover playfully dramatises the effect of the union on what looks frighteningly like Courtney Love's twin sister. KD

BMX Bandits - Little Hands

More Info: BMX Bandits
Buy the EP: [UK] Little Hands [US] Life Goes On
Year: 1993

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#203 The Darkside - Waiting For The Angels

The Darkside was yet another offshoot from the Spaceman 3 dynasty (see also Spiritualized and Spectrum). Consisting of main man Pete Baines (like Jason Pierce’s Spaceman tag Baines chose to be also called Pete Bassman), guitarist Kevin Cowan and drummer Steward Roswell the band recorded 2 studio albums before splitting after numerous line-up changes. 'Waiting For The Angels' is taken from their debut and is marked by Cowan's lavish guitar strokes as well as Baines thoroughly monotone vocals. Somehow the juxtaposition works and the piece has an epic feel even if it does sound of its time. Not quite a sonic boom then, more a tasty auditory snack. KD

The Darkside - Waiting For The Angels

More Info: The Darkside
Buy Album: [UK] All That Noise [US] All That Noise
Year: 1990

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#202 Sea Wolf - You're A Wolf

The thing about 'You're A Wolf' is the peculiar ease with which it snags you're attention. There is nothing radical going on but the persistent honeyed chords, Alex Church's smooth vocals and the building momentum suggest there's something special just around the corner. At the moment the only constant in Sea Wolf is Church (and his Wolf fixation, he even calls himself Mr Brown on the bands myspace page!) yet he has wide cast of cohorts to choose from including members from his other band Irving. With an album already recorded all that needs to happen now is for a savvy label to sign up the little guy before he burrows up in the countryside before the hot summer months. On this sort of form we could be bowing at this fella's altar before too long.KD

Sea Wolf - You're A Wolf

More Info: Sea Wolf
Album: Leaves In The River
Year: 2006

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#201 Whale - Hobo Humpin Slobo Babe

Love Is All may be the new kids on the block but you can trace their sound back to another chaotic Swedish band called Whale. Whale burst onto the scene in 1993 largely due to a remarkable promo which saw Cia Berg prance about in her hob nails, braces and white undergarments in a quarry. Filmed with the shaking intensity of a drug addict it provided a visual feast yet the music was no less dramatic. Sporting Beastie Boy like trump cards including a bounding bass line, hollering vocalists and ripcords to perforate eardrums there was a definite hip-hop feel to the piece with Berg's confused schoolgirl vocal theatrics spoiling the opportunity to classify. The trio recorded the song as a joke but its success led to the 1995 full length 'We Care'. Berg also acted in several films yet her best performance was saved for this rollercoaster trip. KD

Whale - Hobo Humpin Slobo Babe

Buy Album: [UK] We Care [US] We Care
Year: 1995

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#200 Love Is All - Make Out Fall Out Make Up

Wanna take a holiday from planet indie-rock? Find a space to unwind, throw off those tired riffs and kick those pouting egos into touch. Just smear on some ear protection and load up Love Is All who could yet be this year’s most enticing object of your affections. The Swedish band just don’t play by the rules, the singer could have been fronting Whale a decade ago such is the venom in her, probably, train-tracked mouth. The music is as frantic as the singer’s aggression providing a disruptive audio descriptive of the average teenage week. There are thumping electro stylings, crashing tirades involving guitars and trumpets and the general feeling that life is just one long traumatic upheaval when you are sixteen. Enjoy the break. KD

Love Is All - Make Out Fall Out Make Up

More Info: Love Is All
Buy Album: Nine Times That Same Song
Year: 2005

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#199 Power Of Dreams - Had You Listened

Power of Dreams are one of great lost bands. Playing in venues like the Underground in Dublin's Dame Street before they were legal only inflamed the anticipation of what was about to be achieved. One of their early demo tapes ended up in London and got them a major deal with Polydor. Their debut 'Immigrants, Emigrants and Me' was released soon afterwards in 1990. Highlighting Craig Walker's innate self-belief and talent it was a remarkable debut, fresh and arresting it spawned several great singles. 'Had You Listened' is flush with shimmering guitars that could burst into violence anytime and Walker's youthful delivery carefully rounds off the sound. Beneath the jangle, however, was a melancholy that was translated beautifully in the music. Sadly 'Immigrants, Emigrants and Me' was to be as good as it got for the band despite a huge following in Japan. Their demise eventually came in 1995 after 3 other less successful albums. Undaunted Walker went on to form the potentially great Pharmacy who imploded in the face of record label trauma. After several years in the wilderness he eventually settled with Archive who released an album called 'Lights' this year. KD

Power Of Dreams - Had You Listened

Buy Power of Dreams: [UK] Immigrants, Emigrants & Me [US] Immigrants, Emigrants & Me
Year: 1990

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