Skrillex... Credible or Dreadful?

Sonny Moore used to be a scene-core metal kid, in a screamo band called 'From First to Last'. Having left the band in 2007, Sonny Moore decided he needed to let his music out in a different outlet. Having released some material under the name Twipz, he was about to undergo a radical change and become one of the biggest music stars on the planet. In June 2010, and under the new name of Skrillex, Sonny Moore released his debut EP My Name is Skrillex' and less than a year later, he was signed to deadmau5' record label, had released a second EP and was about to embark on a worldwide tour. So why the hate?

The following section is why Skrillex is a credible artist, written by me. After my points are made, my buddy Robbie Powell (@robbiepowell8 on Twitter) will explain why he feels Skrillex is dreadful. Then you, the readers (the few of you there are) will be able to tell us who you feel makes better points!

Skrillex plays a mixture of Dubstep, EDM and House music, all be it, with a hardcore, metal and rock mentality. Having been a metal kid growing up, Sonny uses these influences to create heavy beats which attack the senses, bruising and punching away. Skrillex makes EDM for the metal crowd, and it has the crossover appeal for the mainstream to like him and the music he creates. So much so, that he was able to collaborate on tracks with the Godfathers of Nu-Metal, KoRn and helped to revitalise their career and give them a new lease of life. This has been shown on their newest album, The Paradigm Shift, which features the dubstep wobble that Skrillex gave them. So a kid with actual interest in music, and not just making noise and money? Check

EDM is not heavy unless it's done by Skrillex and to an extent, Knife Party. This gives him crossover appeal and allows him to appeal to both the outcasted metal kids, and the mainstream, which is a huge advantage for him, in terms of both shows and record sales. This is evidenced at the Reading & Leeds festivals. Skrillex headlined the NME Tent at the same time as Green Day, and pulled a sizeable crowd, which was full of people from loads of different subcultures. Metalheads, ravers, steppers, rockers, and EDM enthusiasts, all saw Skrillex's set, which shows he can pull different subcultures together and create harmony. In the days of emo kids getting abuse and beaten, this shows a different side to music fans, which is a good thing to see. Then there's the mainstream media. Skrillex is a Grammy winner, and a multiple time Grammy winner at that. He's created music good enough to win the most prestigious award in Music and he won in more than one category. The kid's done good to be fair to him. So crossover appeal to two contrasting worlds? Check

As Skrillex is a metal kid, he is very in tune with lyrics and what music means to people. When you see these 'Bedroom DJs' bashing away at a laptop and having overnight success, Skrillex crafts his work on an acoustic guitar to begin with. He then records all the instruments, guitar, bass, drums, and keys, he records them all. He then overdubs them on a laptop and creates the wall of noise that he does so well. While he may use a laptop to create his final product, he does all the groundwork the way music should be written; with instruments, thought and practice. Skrillex has never forgotten his roots, he always harks back to them and uses those influences in his music, and you can hear them. The next step would be for him to play live shows with a live band, like Chase & Status and The Prodigy do. It'll add another dimension to his shows, and make the noise that much louder. A guy who writes his own music and does the leg work? Check

I will now hand over to Robbie and his point of view:

The curious case of Sonny Moore

Sonny Moore, former angst ridden emo kid turned electronic music extraordinaire. He sure has come along way since his aforementioned From First To Last Days, completely reinventing himself to in an attempt to change and revolutionise his impact upon the mainstream music industry. In a career that has undergone a radical change, the only constant throughout has been the mediocrity of the work he has put out.

Moore’s new persona Skrillex, the newly crowned king of ‘brostep’ (Dubstep for frat boy douchebags with little or no music taste barring a penchant for heavy drops and ‘phat choonz’) has puzzlingly, found astronomical success with his new creative direction. Skrillex is performing top of the bill slots at a magnitude of dance and electronic festivals and is genuinely celebrated by most casual dance music fans as ‘like, a totally gnarly dude.’

But at the end of the day one truth remains constant, Skrillex’s music is merely unpleasant, unlistenable noise with little to no redeeming qualities. Skrillex’s music is built upon painful irritating noise, heavy drops and all manner of sound effects to provide ambient backing music whilst you and your ‘bros’ rack lines of ketamine on the back of a nightclub toilet seat.
I often hear arguments such as ‘Skrillex writes all of his music on an acoustic guitar, he puts a lot of time and effort into his music and therefore deserves respect.’ This sadly doesn’t alter the fact that Skrillex’s music is unpleasant noise, regardless of how much thought he has put into it. Lou Reed released Metal Machine Music in July 1975, an album consisting merely of unorganised guitar loops, guitar effects and feedback organised into one continual, wank collection of audible cyanide. You could argue Metal Machine Music was an early example of Avant Guard electronic music, a ground breaking album that paved the way for future electronic musicians. You could argue that, but you’d be lying to yourself. Sadly it doesn’t alter the fact the album is completely horrendous and is a Geneva convention disregarding assault on the ear drums. You can big up Skrillex’s music with as many faux compliments in the same way you can dress a badger up like a dog, but it’s never going to win Crufts. It’s worth remembering that you can argue that there’s artistic merit in anything, as art is an intrinsically subjective field and at the end of the day there is no right or wrong answer, all we have are our opinions. Unfortunately for Sonny Moore my opinion is that his music is insufferable garbage and although its lasting appeal remains to be seen, this reviewer believes that Sonny Moore will have to go back to the drawing board if he wishes to better his previous contributions and make any significant mark on musical history.

Any thoughts? Who has better points? Tweet us at @poeticjustice92 or @robbiepowell8 and let us know what you think! 

Pax-Am Days EP - Fall Out Boy: REVIEW

So Fall Out Boy returned this year from their hiatus and set about taking over the world once again, with their unique brand of pop rock. 'Save Rock & Roll' might be a pun, but as the band have stated, it's a lot more about the ideal of Rock N Roll which they are trying to save. The idea of plugging in and playing with your friends, playing music that you want to play. FOB released the album which put them back in the public consciousness. Now they're set to rerelease 'Save Rock & Roll' with an extra EP.

Pax-Am Days is a collection of 8 songs which last a grand total of 13:19 minutes. The band recorded it at Ryan Adams, a band friend and a singer songwriter in his own right, house, just recording whatever they felt like. Being described as a very laid back record, the band didn't know that Adams was recording 90% of the sessions on tape, so they didn't even know what was going to be recorded and what wasn't. The tracks consist of 80s punk and 90s hardcore influences, and are hard to the floor, punk rock songs, showing that FOB can be down and dirty when they want to be. Sounding like early Clash, Sex Pistols and Ramones, all at the same time, is an incredible achievement. The band sound tight, hungry and full of fire. Everyone who claims they're just the sell out punk kids will be shown as to being very wrong here. You can take the kid out of the punk scene, but the punk scene never leaves the kid. Hardcore and punk are a way of life, and all 4 members were in various punk bands throughout their early years.

Of the eight songs, only one of them reaches past the two minute mark, this being the closer, Caffeine Cold, which is a mammoth 2:42. The shortest song clocks in at 1:03, Art Of Keeping Up Disappearances, but it still packs a mighty punch. The riffs and drums are the main instruments on show on the EP, with Pete Wentz's bass taking more of a funky twist, which allows Joe Trohman, Andy Hurley & Patrick Stump to really show their technical playing ability.

All in all, Pax-Am Days was written as an off the cuff, for a laugh, boys day in and that's shown. There's a fun element here which is prominent and allows the band to flex their muscles in ways not seen for many years. Punk Rock is becoming more and more rare to find, but this EP shows that when done right, it can be a great addition to any back-catalogue. Now will FOB play any of it live? I for one genuinely hope so.

4/5

REVIEW: Old Souls - Deaf Havana

Deaf Havana are a band with a twisty backstory, from being one of the standout bands doing the ‘clean and scream’ vocal combinations, to tearing up their own rule book and smashing all expectations with ‘Fools and Worthless Liars’, to this; the release of their 3rd album, Old Souls.

‘Fools and Worthless Liars’ set the tone for ‘Old Souls’. Out went the screams and heavy tuning, and in came the multiple instrument breakdowns, and heartfelt crooning from lead singer (and chief songwriter), James Veck-Gilodi. Seen as a very self critical man, James needn’t have to be anymore, because Old Souls is one of the best rock records that will be released this year and is one of the best records this year period. No matter what way you cut it, Deaf Havana have written a gem.

Lead single, Boston Square starts us off, and the influence of Bruce Springsteen is evident, with a very country Americano feel, the sound is of a band who are confident in their abilities to pull off this kind of music, and they do it well. Throughout the 11 other songs, James tells stories of love, loss, regret and a wish to make something of his life. Deaf Havana have a knack for writing melodies that get stuck in the mind and have a love of combining many different sounds to create something which is new. ‘Subterranean Bullshit Blues’ is a rock song with soul, something the mainstream won’t ever know, no matter how many times they claim to ‘pick up a guitar’ will properly understand. 

Bringing in Youth to produce the album, a man who’s discography includes working with The Verve,  has proven to be a masterstroke. ‘Caro Padre’ even manages to squeeze in a Gospel Choir, which gives the song a huge ballad-like feel. An ode to an absent father, ‘Caro Padre’ might be the best song Deaf Havana have written, completely encapsulating what it is that they do best. Heartfelt lyrics, big breakdown, huge chorus, and great harmonies. Elsewhere, ‘Mildred’ and ’22’ show that the band are ready for the big time. They might be headlining the Roundhouse next month, but don’t be surprised if they end up headlining Brixton Academy next year, on the second leg of the Old Souls tour. 

Deaf Havana are a band who are going places, and going there quickly. Old Souls showcases everything that is good and pure about the band, and could be the rocket which sends them into the stratosphere. Whisper it quietly, but if this album takes off, and the next one does too, who’s to say they might be able to headline the legendary Wembley Arena? Playing there in 2012, supporting You Me at Six, Deaf Havana are set to follow the path they have, which has seen them flirt with the mainstream. The world is there for the taking and they’re ready to step up to claim it for themselves. Get ready, Deaf Havana  are here to stay.

Old Souls - 9/10

Key Tracks:

• Caro Padre
• Mildred (Lost a Friend)
• Boston Square

The next band to break out...? Don Broco

This past weekend, I attended the Reading Festival, featuring some of the best bands the world has ever seen. Green Day, System of a Down, Nine Inch Nails and Deftones all returned to Reading and played exclusive sets for the UK festivals circuit. Some unknown acts were given the chance to play bigger stages than they're used to. Bands like While She Sleeps and Mallory Knox were to open the Main Stage.

There was one band who played on the Sunday, playing 4th from the bottom of the bill, on the Main Stage, called Don Broco. A Bedford Quartet, these boys play Rock music, which has been called both 'Jock Rock' and 'Lad Rock' singing tunes about life, love and everyday occurrences.

These guys are going to be HUGE. Jump on while you can, this band are one of the fastest growing I've seen, and they're growing in the right way. They've been a band since 2008, and have played literally everywhere this country has to offer. Having played venues like the Barfly, supporting Glamour of the Kill for the Sonisphere Secret Sessions, to headlining the Hit the Deck Festival in Nottingham, playing Rock City, these guys have the work ethic to match the tunes they write. Having released 'Big Fat Smile', their 3rd EP, in 2011, they finally began to gain some attention from the media, having their single 'Beautiful Morning' gain them more fans and attention. They took bookings whenever they could get them and travelled for hours from show to show.

The anticipation for their debut album reached a fever pitch, but the boys carried on touring. Their debut album 'Priorities' was released in 2012, having been recorded whilst on tour in their van, putting speakers and recording equipment under the seats and wherever they could fit it! The band had signed to Sony and released their debut album on a major label. 'Priorities' reached number 25 on the charts, which is massively impressive for a proper rock band these days. This led to the 'Priorities Tour 2013' in which they headlined venues gradually growing in size, and they managed to sell them all out. A tour of over 15 dates, featuring 2 legs, had every single ticket, sold. They managed to sell out Camden Koko (Capacity 1400) and branded the night 'Broco At Koko', which was their crowning achievement.

This week they played Leeds and Reading festivals, on the Friday and Sunday respectively. Now, I don't know how they went down in Leeds (what I've read, they were good) but Reading they were on fire. They absolutely smashed the Main Stage. The best part of the set? The sheer enjoyment, happiness and shock on the boys faces. The shock from how the crowd reacted, because they played a hell of a show, while smiling and enjoying the hell out of it.

The Thursday before the shows, they released a new single, 'You Wanna Know', a heavier than normal guitar based song, with a few more synths than their other stuff, it features a huge chorus, and some clever lyrics & guitar work. This was well received and you could tell there were some diehard fans there, as the words were already being sang back to them. The band's connection with their fans is incredible.

In the crowd at Reading, I overheard some guys talking about the band. One said and I quote: "These guys are the perfect summer band". I wholeheartedly agree with that, Don Broco write feel good tunes, that you can listen to whilst having a barbecue in the back garden, drinking the day and night away. Easy listening, easy to relate to, and superb guys. I've seen them 6 times and once acoustically, and they're absolutely quality both ways. Touring for so long on many different types of bills has honed them into a well oiled machine.

Zane Lowe has been a huge supporter of them for ages, and he's usually right with finding the bands who are going to break through and get big. He was right about The 1975, and they've not even released an album, at time of writing. He's also supported the likes of You Me At Six and Enter Shikari, both bands have chosen Don Broco to support them numerous times.

Don Broco have announced their biggest tour yet, playing venues like Birmingham Institute , Manchester Ritz and culminating in the the biggest headline show of their careers at the legendary Camden Roundhouse. A 2000 capacity room, which houses the iTunes festival, these boys will sell it out, I have no doubts about that, and I am quietly confident they will sell out the entire tour again. They've worked too hard to not to. They deserve all the success in the world, as well. Here's hoping the second album does send them to the stratosphere, because they've got the drive to go all the way to the top.

They're here to stay, taking over the airwaves, smashing the live shows, festivals and putting the mainstream acts to shame with a work ethic which is second to none. Jump on the Broco train now, these boys will go as far as they want to go. Don Broco are my pick to be the next big thing.

Check out:

Don Broco - You Wanna Know

Don Broco - Beautiful Morning

3 Unmissable Acts: Reading & Leeds

This time in one week, I will be in a field in Reading, awaiting one of the best weekends of live music available this year. Following a rebranding, changing logos and putting an emphasis on different music at the festival, Reading & Leeds are ready to show why they were voted the best festival of 2013 by NME Readers. I'm here to pick a main stage act that you can't miss from each day, barring the headliners.

Friday (Reading) & Saturday (Leeds)

Bring Me The Horizon

I have no worries in saying that this is a band who could be headlining festivals in the future. Sheffield's own, they play a brand of Metal, tinged with deathcore and as of 2013, electronic. BMTH are led by a charismatic frontman, Oli Sykes, and he's a polarising individual to say the least. One thing he can do is provide a show that captures the attention of a crowd. With their newest album, Sempiternal, showing that they are going to be a force in the coming years especially with festival crowds, BMTH are going places.

Why should you see them?

BMTH are playing fairly low down on the main stage, which will probably work in their favour, as there won't be as much pressure on them. This will allow them to come out and absolute smash the main stage, and as I said, they will be headlining festivals soon. They headlined the Vans Warped Tour last year, and could easily be headlining the second stage this year. Look for one of metal's future main event players to take to the stage and show why rock isn't dead. BMTH are going to do only one thing. Get bigger, better and higher up the festival bills.


Saturday (Reading) & Sunday (Leeds)

Chase & Status

One of the most controversial acts of the past few years. Chase & Status are bonafide draws. There is no debate about it, they've played pretty much every major festival this country has to offer, and have torn the roof off of every single one. The dance act play a mixture of dubstep and drum & bass, with some amazing beats and a host of guest vocalists, they've become a staple of the radio playlists.

Why should you see them?

Chase & Status are easily one of the best live acts in the country today. Led by MC Rage who coordinates the carnage from the front, he knows how to get a crowd moving. They play just before Eminem, so the crowd will be hyped anyway. Chase & Status are the perfect act to play before Eminem, and have proven they can play any festival. They played Download last year, a metal festival with a proud heritage. They played before The Prodigy and they were voted the best act at the festival. Their set, will go off.


Sunday (Reading) & Friday (Leeds)

Nine Inch Nails

2013 marks the return of one of the most popular bands of the 90s, Trent Reznor's Industrial Metal outfit play their first UK shows for 4 years. With a new album coming out later this year, and some classic tunes already in the bag, NIN will be one of the most looked forward to bands at this years festivals. The brainchild of Reznor, NIN play heavy synthy metal with pop melodies, making them a very diverse act and one who appeal to many different people.

Why should you see them?

Quite simply, they'll be one of the highlights of the festivals. Having headlined Lollapalooza this year, NIN won't be rusty as a live act. Driven by Ilan Rubin's drumming, and led by Reznor's charisma, stage presence and voice, NIN are a formidable live act. Stretching their muscles at the Scala the week of the festivals, NIN will bring an impressive stage set up and light show, one which will rival the headliners and might even surpass them... NIN have been gone for what feels like a lot longer than it actually is... They're the darkhorse for best act at the festivals as well... DO NOT miss them.

Reading's Main Stage Acts: Sunday

The following are the acts playing the Main Stage at Reading on the Sunday and my opinions on them.

Bury Tomorrow

Kicking off the final day of the weekend, Bury Tomorrow bring their own brand of metal core to the main stage. Now in their 7th year of existence, Southampton's Bury Tomorrow make their main stage bow, following a successful 2012 full of praise and hype. Releasing The Union of Crowns last year, Bury Tomorrow received rave reviews for it, and have toured extensively, playing venues and festivals of various sizes, and gaining a solid rep as a live band. In 2005 Trivium smashed the midday slot at Download and have gone on to become one of the most well known metal bands in recent memory, and these guys will be aiming to do the same.

We Are The In Crowd

Hailing from Poughkeepsie, New York, come pop punkers, We Are The In Crowd. Playing a brand of pop rock, akin to Paramore, this band have been gaining traction all over the world. Fronted by the cute Tay Jardine, the band's bouncy rock will be perfect for the main stage. Utilising 2 singers in Tay & Jordan Eckes, gives the band a different dynamic, and with songs like Kiss Me Again, Exits & Entrances & Rumor Mill, singalongs are going to be easy to orchestrate. Catch em while you can!!

Hadouken!

Named after a finishing move in Street Fighter, Hadouken! are back at Reading once again. A staple of the festival for many years, these grime-rave-rockers always put on a great show. Having played the NME Stage last year, they get to step up to the main stage this time. As a band who rely on a lightshow along with their live tracks, they might struggle on the main stage, due to a lack of a roof, thus a lack of lights. Having released their third album Every Weekend earlier this year, they have tunes galore. They're almost an underground Calvin Harris with how many tunes they have that they can whip out at any time. They'll bring the bounce and the mosh to the weekend.

Don Broco

Here we have one of the biggest success stories of the past 12 months. Bedford's own Don Broco could very well steal the main stage spotlight this year. Playing rock music while singing about girls, mates and drinking, the band have been labelled as 'Jock Rock'. I've witnessed these guys a few times, and they are INSANE live. Having released their debut album Priorities, this year, it debuted at number 25 in the charts. And if that wasn't enough, they sold out TWO headline tours, totalling 17 dates, including a show at the legendary Camden KOKO venue in London and a headline set at Hit the Deck Festival in Nottingham, this band are destined for big things. I've not even mentioned the support they get from BBC Radio 1, having played various live events for them over the past 12 months. This band really are going places, and they want you along for the ride. 4 great, genuine guys who can rock with the best of em, get ready, they might be your new favourite band after the weekend!

Editors

Stafford's sons Editors return to Reading, their last appearance was in 2008 and they bring the Indie for the day. Having released their comeback album The Weight of Your Love, this year, Editors bring dark brooding indie rock to the main stage, fronted by the very unique voice of Tom Smith. Akin to previous day main stagers, White Lies, expect the tunes like Munich, An End Has A Start & Smoking Outside The Hospital Doors, especially with the choruses they contain. I'm excited by the return, one of the genuinely interesting indie bands out there, expect a bang during their set.

The Lumineers

On the back of their hit single Ho Hey, The Lumineers are another band making their main stage bow this year. Hailing from Colorado, the Indie Folk outfit will be hoping to capitalise on the Mumford & Sons hype over here. Ho Hey reached number 8 in the charts over here while hitting number 3 in America. I don't have much to say about them, as they're not one of the bands I found interesting enough to listen to. If anyone would like to expand on them for me, comment! Moving on!

Fall Out Boy

In 2009, Fall Out Boy announced that they were going to be taking an indefinite hiatus. In 2009, many people thought that Fall Out Boy were dead, with the members never confirming or denying this statement. In 2013, Fall Out Boy are alive, well and kicking ass all over again. Having reunited in February, after months and months of rumours, whispers and speculation, they released their first new material in 5 years. My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light Em Up) is a 3 minute pop rock tune which showed Fall Out Boy hadn't lost what had made them one of the biggest bands in the world. Charting at number 5 over here (one of the highest charting rock songs in a while!) Fall Out Boy then followed it up by releasing Save Rock & Roll, a tongue in cheek title perhaps, but one with a very clear message. Rock & Roll isn't a tangible thing, it's an ideal. Armed with many tunes in their back pockets, Fall Out Boy return, 4 years after their last appearance at Reading, united and hungry. Expect a performance full of singalongs, partying and dancing. One of the main draws for this year's festival by far.

Nine Inch Nails

Another reuniting (of sorts) band. Trent Reznor, the mastermind behind these Industrial behemoths retired NIN as a touring act in 2009,has won numerous awards for his soundtracks for The Social Network & The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. Reznor has a magical ear for a pop melody and song, while disguising it within some heavy riffs and distortion, which allows NIN to appeal to so many different types of people. Listening to their Best Of album is one of my favourite pass times, due to it being chock full of absolute killer tracks. It's hard to think of a NIN song that is sub par to be honest. I am excited to witness the return of one of the biggest bands of the 90s and one of the best live bands going. The live musicians are some of the best in the world today, especially Ilan Rubin. The current sticksman for NIN and Angels & Airwaves and a touring member of Paramore, he's one of the most underrated drummers out there, and will be the driving force behind NIN come Sunday evening.

Biffy Clyro

Reading this year has the historical act in Green Day, the draw act, Eminem and the newcomer act in Biffy Clyro. A 3 piece from Kilmarnock in Scotland, Biffy are band who've played Reading 6 times before this year, slowly working their way up from opening the NME stage in 2001, to now headlining the whole festival in 2013. Starting off in 1995, they began as a Nirvana covers band, while writing their own material. This material was dark math rock, featuring their signature oddly timed riffs, screams and very well written lyrics. Simon Neil's heartfelt lyrics gained a fanbase off the bat and Biffy Clyro's live shows were a thing to behold. 3 albums in and Biffy were finally starting to get noticed, but they were about to go over the top.

Puzzle, Biffy's 4th album was released in 2007 and crashlanded in the charts at number 2. People started to take notice of them, due to the airplay they received for Living is a Problem Because Everything Dies, on Zane Lowe's Radio 1 show, eventually forcing them to release it as a single due to the reaction. In 2008, the band released Mountains an expansive, riff laden tune with an absolute MONSTER of a chorus. Hitting a personal best number 5 in the singles chart, Biffy Clyro had found their signature song, one which closes almost all of their shows since. Only Revolutions was released in November 2009, and charted at number 3 in it's debut week. It won numerous album of the year nominations and awards and started to show why Biffy should be taken seriously, as song writers and as a live act. Fortunately, they were about to get their first big break.

In 2010, Biffy Clyro were asked whether they would like to headline the UK leg of Sonisphere festival on the prestigious Saturday night slot. The other headliners? On the Friday, the Thrash Metal Big 4 of Slayer, Anthrax, Megadeth & Metallica. The Sunday? Slipknot laid siege to the Sonisphere main stage. But a funny thing happened after the festival... Many polls asked who the best headliner of the weekend was. The smart money wouldn't have been on Biffy Clyro, but low and behold, they were near enough unanimously announced as the best headliner at this festival, a festival where they didn't fit the mold and weren't a metal act. This was the next sign that Biffy were about to blow up.

After many other prestigious support slots, like Metallica at Download, Foo Fighters at the MK Bowl and Pearl Jam at the Isle of Wight festival, they decided it was time for big action. Holing themselves up in America, they wrote a double album. The Land at the End of Our Toes & The Sand at the Core of Our Bones combined created Opposites. An album that landed at Number 1 in the album charts and was named the album of the year by Kerrang. Taking in many influences, and giving them a Biffy spin, Opposites has finally put Biffy Clyro where they belong. At the top.

Come 9.30pm on Sunday, 23rd August, these 3 men will take the stage and will start their crowning moment as a band. If you're not sure whether or not to see them, I recommend that you do. Having seen the Sonisphere set, these guys can deliver a headline set, and with the new tunes, they will do it even more comfortably than at Sonisphere. This is a set where it all can literally change for the british music landscape. People said that Kasabian are the next break out band. I think Biffy Clyro are sneaking up on them and will take that title themselves. As I said in a previous post, Biffy Clyro will headline Glastonbury and I wouldn't be surprised to see them headline it in 2014.

Biffy Clyro are about to become Britain's biggest band. Get ready.

Reading's Main Stage Acts: Saturday

The following are the acts playing Reading's Main Stage on the Saturday and my opinions on them. 

Mallory Knox

One of the most buzzed about bands of the past year, Cambridge bred Mallory Knox. After touring extensively since their formation in 2009, they released their debut album Signals to a lot of buzz and support from the media, notably BBC Radio 1, Zane Lowe & Daniel P Carter. Talking up Mallory Knox is one of the easiest things to do as a DJ, with radio ready tunes like Lighthouse, Beggars & Death Rattle, Mallory Knox are about to play the biggest show of their careers so far. Mixing melody with great riffs and heartfelt lyrics, led by frontman Mikey Chapman's great vocals, Mallory Knox are gonna be around for a while. Get used to it.

Lower Than Atlantis

I'm going to try to be 'nice' to this band, as they are really really not my cup of tea. Playing poppy hardcore music, this band have grown a lot in the last few years. I saw them in 2009 and felt they were very average, and I still do. Though if I find them on Kerrang TV, I turn them off, as they grate on me that much. Look for an update for the blog if someone wants to give me a paragraph to tell you why they're worth your time but from me, don't bother wasting your time on them... MOVING ON

The Blackout

A band who I have seen many times and who will be bringing the party to Reading's main stage. The 6 piece welsh titans known as The Blackout are Reading stalwarts these days. Playing alternative rock with soaring choruses, these guys know how to play a live show, with Kerrang once calling them 'The best live band in the UK'. Fronted by Ringmasters, Sean Smith & Gavin Butler, the band's blend of pop, rock, screamo and hardcore will be the perfect soundtrack to your Saturday afternoon.

Earlwolf

2 members of the rap collective known as Odd Future crashland on the Main Stage this year. The controversial Tyler, The Creator & Ear Sweatshirt are two of the most talked about MCs on the planet. Tyler has made enemies of everyone and anyone, while Earl has been gaining publicity through his songs and an excellent live show. Replacing Brand New on the bill, expect a set which will be spoken about no matter the outcome, good or bad, these two will create BUZZ.

Twin Atlantic

Scotland's Twin Atlantic are another returning band to the bill this year. Having played very early on the NME Stage last year, they get to take their place on the main stage, and boy do they deserve it. Having toured for many years, they finally released their debut album, Free, in 2011. Gaining radio airplay on numerous stations, Twin Atlantic have become a beloved British bands, trying to follow in the footsteps of fellow scots Biffy Clyro. With great choruses, occasion breakdowns, and a lot of soul and passion, Twin Atlantic are another band who deserve to be bigger than they are, and could be about to take the next step in their career.

White Lies

The return of London's Indie Rock sons, White Lies are set to make their main stage bow this year. Having all but disappeared after their last tour in 2011, supporting second album Ritual, they're back, releasing their third album BIG TV, led by the single, There Goes Our Love Again. White Lies bring their dark, brooding but expansive sound to the main stage in a set people are excited about. White Lies went to Number 1 in the album charts, with absolutely no hype behind them. The public like these guys, and their set will be one to watch this year.

Foals

Foals are a band who've had a load of hype around them and now seem ready to capitalise on it. Playing a brand of indie tinged math rock, that harkens back to early Biffy Clyro, Foals released their most complete album this year, in Holy Fire, playing many smaller venues like the Sugarmill in Stoke, before headlining the Royal Albert Hall in London, Foals are becoming the buzz band who are rising above the buzz. Cassius, a song from their second album, Antidotes, is an indie club classic but with new tunes like My Number & Inhaler, Foals have written songs with the public in mind, and have become a staple of daytime radio. Incendiary as a live band, they could well be headlining this festival one day...

Chase & Status

Ah now we come to one of the weekend's strangest bookings for some people, but for me, absolutely the right choice to play this slot. Chase & Status, in short, are awesome. Rock enough to play this festival, pop enough to be able to be on the radio. Playing drum and bass mixed with dubstep, these guys rock. I saw them at Isle of Wight festival in 2011, and they played one of the best sets I've ever seen. The energy, the guests, the tunes. Chase & Status played this slot last year, at Download, before The Prodigy... Chase & Status, at DOWNLOAD. Think about that... Now think about the fact that Chase & Status got voted as the BEST act at Download that year... Against The Prodigy, Metallica & Black Sabbath... Chase & Status will headline a festival soon enough, but they will be a talking point regardless of what happens. Contender for best act of the weekend right here...

Eminem

The main event, the reason many people are going to the festivals this year. In my previous post, Eminem was stated as being vital, as being part of pop culture for the past 15 odd years. One of the biggest stars in the world, one of the best rappers in history, Eminem is writing history as he goes. A white rapper, who made it big? It doesn't happen very often, but Eminem's flow and lyrics made his skin colour redundant. He has SO many tunes, so so so many hits and an incomparable live show.

Eminem is at his best on stage. He comes on, plays his set & leaves. There is no dicking about, there is no show, Eminem does what people want... He comes on stage, plays the songs you want to hear, and then leaves. Eminem is at his best when he's angry & pissed off. That's when he's got the fire in his eyes, and the venom in his spitting. Having used to making a show out of his sets, Eminem has aged, and he's now wise to what people want at festivals. They wanna hear him spitting his classic lyrics, they wanna sing about being 'The Real Slim Shady', and most of all, they wanna party. Eminem brings the tunes and he brings the party. Returning after 12 years away from Reading, he's the main draw this year. No surprise he's sold out his day at Reading and is close to doing so at Leeds. This is easily the set to see over the weekend. The most must-see act at Reading, for me, goes to Eminem.

Reading's Main Stage Acts: Friday

The following are the acts playing Reading's Main Stage on the Friday and my opinions on them.

While She Sleeps

Kicking off the main stage on Friday morning is never an easy task, being the first act many people will be seeing for what they hope will be one of the best weekends of their lives. This slot has gone to bands like Tool in 1993 and Young Guns in 2010, and this year it's the turn of the Sheffield metallers. Something of a big thing on the circuit, While She Sleeps have been steadily churning out tour after tour, in support of their 'This is The Six' debut album. Charting at a respectable number 27, While She Sleeps have been gaining a reputation as one of the best live bands cutting their teeth at the moment. Combining metalcore breakdowns with passionate lyrics and delivery from their frontman, Loz Taylor, While She Sleeps are one of the quickest rising metal bands in the UK.

The Pretty Reckless

Founded as a side project by Taylor Momsen (of Gossip Girl fame) in 2009, The Pretty Reckless, have been pretty quiet in the UK recently, but a performance at Reading festival will serve as a reminder to who they are. Tagged as a 'heavier' Paramore, and backed up with a debut album and 2 EPs to their name, and an unannounced but heavily anticipated second album, The Pretty Reckless will attempt to show why they should be taken seriously. With tunes like Make Me Wanna Die & Miss Nothing, this band are one of the dark horses to steal the attention of the more established acts over the weekend.

Editor's note: The Pretty Reckless have now pulled out of Reading & Leeds!

Skindred

Self styled as 'Ragga-Metal', Newport's Skindred bring the Newport Helicopter to Reading's Main Stage. Benji Webbe's band of merry men bring a unique sound to proceedings mixing heavy riffs and grooves with Webbe's reggae like vocals. This is a band who deserve to be so much bigger than they actually are so to finally see them on the Main Stage is something that they deserve, this being their 15th year as a band. A favourite at Download, the Newport Helicopter is about to land at Reading. Are you ready?

New Found Glory

New Found Glory are back once again! After releasing a Ramones covers EP this year, NFG are back to smash the stage with their own personal brand of pop punk. Having been around for many years now, NFG are being heralded as being 'God Fathers' of their scene, alongside alumni like blink-182 and Green Day. With songs like, My Friends Over You & Kiss You, NFG will get the crowd bouncing like no tomorrow. Breezy, easy to listen to, and perfect to chill out with a beer to, NFG are dependable to put on a show when you need it, and may seem like an odd booking in the position they're in, but they will be impressive none the less.

Bring Me the Horizon

Another Sheffield native metal band, Bring Me the Horizon return to the main stage once again, on the back of their most successful album yet. Sempiternal charted at number 3 in it's debut week, their highest charting release to date. Having traded their guitarist, Jona Weinhofen for Jordan Fish, BMTH have taken an electronic turn in their music. Sempiternal is a gamechanging album for a stagnant metal genre, and all the traditionalists who hate on BMTH, need to get a grip. Metal is a changing genre and adding the keyboards & synths takes heavy to a whole new meaning. BMTH have been taking over the airwaves, and now they're here for Reading. Critically acclaimed as a live act, BMTH have the world in front of them, and Reading could be the first step to world domination.

Frank Turner

Having headlined pretty much every non arena venue going in this country, Frank Turner has played over 1000 shows. From supporting Green Day at Wembley Stadium, to headlining, a sold-out Wembley Arena himself, and even playing the Olympic Stadium as the warmup act for the opening ceremony. Frank has grown organically, going from playing pubs and dives to playing academies & theatres. Frank has played many many times at Reading over the years but he returns to the Main Stage as a bona fide draw. Playing a combination of folk, punk and acoustic music, Frank Turner and his backing band, The Sleeping Souls have become a highly tuned live act, always giving every ounce of sweat that he can, Frank Turner will leave it all on stage, with singalongs galore. Reading is in for a treat.

Deftones

Sacramento's alternative metal sons, Deftones are another favourite for Reading crowds. Following the death of their original bassist, Chi Cheng (R.I.P), Deftones return to the UK for the first time since this tragic event. Mixing many different styles of rock, alternative and metal music, the band have been at times dubbed, the 'Radiohead of metal', of their complex tastes and mixes that they create. In 2012, Deftones released Koi No Yokan (Japanese for Premonition of Love) another classic album in an already extensive back catalogue. With a reputation for being a fantastic live band, with classic songs like My Own Summer, Minerva & Rocket Skates, Deftones are one of the most anticipated bands on the lineup.

System of a Down

Having last appeared at Reading in 2003, System of a Down return on their reunion shows. Having gone on hiatus in 2006 till 2010 (in which time Serj Tankian did appear at Reading Festival a couple of times) this favourite of many rock fans, have returned to play live shows, much like Rage Against The Machine did. Having headlined Download 2 years ago, they return to Reading 10 years after they last played. With classic songs like Fuck the System, Chop Suey!, & Toxicity, System are one of the most anticipated bands on the lineup. Many fans have been waiting for years to see them and now is the chance, with a rep for being an incendiary live band, they're going to provide the perfect warm up to the main event.

Green Day

I've already written a small piece on Green Day but here I can fully explain why they're as big as they are. In 1994, after Kurt Cobain's death, the music world was on a downer. The publicly appointed leader of the Grunge movement was dead, and no one was willing to step up to the plate. In 1994, Green Day released Dookie, and were able to rewrite pop culture seemingly overnight, washing away all the darkness and despair that Grunge brought with it, and filling the airwaves with songs about getting high and masturbation. 10 years later, in 2004, America was in turmoil. Being led by George Bush, many members of the public were disheartened and unable to see a way out. A month after headlining Reading for the first time, Green Day released American Idiot, an album that took aim squarely at the Bush regime and blasted it in every way possible. Green Day went supernova and managed to sell out 2 nights at the Milton Keynes Bowl, and saw American Idiot hit number 1 in 19 different countries.

Green Day are now in an upper echelon of musicians. They are a band who can be called upon to headline most festivals in the world, and who have the ability to make every fan, no matter where they are in the arena, field, or stadium, feel as if they are playing to only them. Put them in Wembley Stadium, Shepherd's Bush Empire, the 02 Arena or any venue in the world, Green Day will put on a 5* show without even sweating. They are THAT good. Not just that, they have SO many tunes that it's hard to pick a favourite. American Idiot, Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Holiday, Basket Case, 21 Guns, When I Come Around, Minority...  The list goes on and on and on...

In Tre Cool, you have one of the most underrated drummers in the world. In Mike Dirnt, you have a cool, calm and collected, and most importantly dependent bass player, who locks in with the grooves seamlessly. And then you have the ringmaster of a frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong. Regularly being complimented as the best frontman in the world for the last 10 years, Armstrong is the key between the crowd and the band. He does what he wants, but he always times it so it has the ultimate impact.

Green Day are a juggernaut, and on the back of the UNO, DOS, TRE trilogy, Green Day are back. Last year they played the most known 'secret' set of all time at Reading, but having seen the hysteria they can incite on the NME stage, I can tell you that this year's set will be one of the most must see moments in Reading history. Green Day are back and they are returning to their spiritual home. Green Day will round off the first day's action in spectacular fashion and will set the bar very highly for Eminem & Biffy Clyro to try to hit.

It will be a moment of Green Day being able to say to the other headliners: 'Follow that'.

Deaf Havana: Their Background & Why to Watch Them...

Deaf Havana are a young english band from Kings Lynn. Formed by James Veck-Gilodi, Ryan Mellor, Lee Wilson, Tom Ogden and Sebastian Spitz (who was replaced by current member Chris Pennells), the band now has 6 members, with James' brother Matthew coming in, along with Max Britton, whilst Ryan Mellor left after the first album was released.

Meet Me Halfway, At Least, was released in 2009 and featured the singles Friends Like These and Nicotine & Alcohol Saved My Life, both of which became favourites with the fan base, Deaf Havana were creating. Mellor's harsh screams coupled with James' clean harmonies, created a mix which bands of a simliar genre were unable to touch. Along with the actual content of the songs, the lyrics showed that Deaf Havana are a band who are able to tug at the heartstrings just through words, but when sang with as much passion as their 2 singers, showed they were on the road to being something special...

Having lost Mellor, just after the release of their debut album, James Veck-Gilodi was tasked with writing their second album, whilst also growing into the frontman role. When Ryan was in the band, James took a backseat, contributing clean vocals and guitar in the live set up, so this was a big change for him personally, as he had to come out of his shell. But when he did, boy, did he write a cracker of an album...

Fools & Worthless Liars, was the first James led album and marked a very big change from their first. No longer were they the brash hardcore band with a magnetic screamo frontman. Now they were a more mature rock band, with a wide range of influences, and soaring choruses. Choruses were always a strength of Deaf Havana, but these songs had more character, more soul and a lot more magnetic pull relying less on a live show to get their songs across. Songs like Little White Lies, Hunstanton Pier, I Will Try & I'm a Bore, Mostly, bringing in a more mature sound, the band went from strength to strength, getting critical praise from the media, Deaf Havana embarked upon hitting as many stages as possible, supporting You Me At Six & Skindred on their headline tours, headlining 2 of their own tour and opening the main stage at the Reading & Leeds festivals. FAWL did so well for the band, they were able to rerecord the whole album a year later and rerelease it as a deluxe album, using many different influences and instruments. Mandolin, Banjo, Piano and a box were all featured and used. What is incredible about this, is that Deaf Havana created a whole new album, which was just as universally praised. Flexing their muscles as songwriters, the band are about to embark on the most exciting part of their careers.

Old Souls is due to be released in September 2013 and will pull from many many different influences. Carrying on from where FAWL left off, Deaf Havana released their first single, Boston Square in May 2013. Sounding like an English version of The Gaslight Anthem, and moving their sound to an American radio rock band, the band claim this is the most complete they've ever felt. Boston Square is a 3 and a half minute tune with driving guitars and great vocals on show, and a classic Deaf Havana chorus which doesn't go amiss. It's since become a staple of Radio 1's playlist, gaining daily play. 
They followed this by releasing Speeding Cars in America, another well written song, giving a more complete sound to the band, offering a slow intro, which builds into a pulsating rock song, led by an acoustic guitar and backed up with one the best choruses I've heard this year, whilst being built up with heartfelt lyrics which tug at the heartstrings. This could be the best song Deaf Havana have written in my honest opinion. Now, earlier this week, Deaf Havana decided to 'leak' one of their one songs, and it was one which had the fans very excited about hearing. Titled Kings Road Ghosts, it carries on where the alternative version of FAWL left off, being led by a mandolin and with lyrics harking back to Hunstanton Pier, due to the love for their hometown, it's a breezy rock song, you could easily throw on in the car and envision driving into the sunset to.

So why have I written about Deaf Havana today? Because now is the time to jump on the bandwagon. Having been a fan for many years, it is now the time to get really excited about them. Deaf Havana this year have become more prominently featured on festival stages throughout the country, including a supporting slot to the mighty Bruce Springsteen at Hard Rock Calling. This set in particular was very exciting, due to Springsteen apparently having a say in who supported him on the day, which if true, is a major endorsement, from one of the world's biggest artists. They've also announced the biggest headline tour of their careers, culminating in a show at the legendary Roundhouse in Camden, the biggest headline show of their lives. They also do something which isn't very evident in the charts these days; they write their own music and lyrics. And they do it well too. Deaf Havana are one of the resurgent UK bands who are trying to write music the old fashioned way, and music that they want to hear on the radio, let alone that they want to play. They're only going to get bigger, they have the fanbase, they have the backing, (Zane Lowe will be playing them on his show as his 'Hottest Record in the World' at some point this week according to Twitter) so it's about time to accept that they're here to grow and take over the airwaves.

Essential Listening:

From Meet Me Halfway, At Least: 

• Friends Like These
• Nicotine & Alcohol Saved My Life

From Fools & Worthless Liars:

• Anemophobia
• Hunstanton Pier
• Little White Lies (ft. Portia Conn)

From Fools & Worthless Liars (Deluxe) (All alternate versions):

• Youth in Retrospect
• I Will Try
• Times Change, Friends Leave, and Life Doesn't Stop For Anybody

From Old Souls:

• Boston Square
• Speeding Cars
• Kings Road Ghosts

Deaf Havana are: 

• James Veck-Gilodi
• Chris Pennells
• Lee Wilson
• Tom Ogdon
• Matthew Veck-Gilodi
• Max Britton

Catch Deaf Havana on tour here:

Festivals: Diversity & a look at the Reading & Leeds headliners.

The idea of a music festival might be one of mankind's best creations. A place where musicians, poets, entertainers and comedians can all come together and entertain the public for a weekend.

One of the best reasons in my humble opinion for going to a festival is to get out of your comfort zone, and experiment & take in the different types of music which are out there. Music is always changing and evolving, and so should our tastes as people. Some people are stuck in their ways, but the fact remains that music is there to be enjoyed. By being a bit open to other types of music, you might find an artist you fall in love with, that you'd never have heard of if you had carried on being close minded. And by mixing up your listening habits, you'll have a more productive time in life, as you'll be constantly stimulated and not bored by listening to the same thing over and over.

It's no surprise that bands are using more electronic instruments in their music, just as it's no surprise that hip hop, pop and rap artists are experimenting with guitars and bands, to try to mix things up, and to stay relevant. In the early 2000s Linkin Park came out with Hybrid Theory and completely rewrote the rulebook of what rock and rap should be. And then combining their obvious talent with the juggernaut that is Jay Z took their appeal skywards, and they're still revered as one of the biggest bands on the planet. They were the biggest selling band of the 2000s and are still going strong now.

Enter Shikari are proud to be known as the band who've 'been abusing the boundaries of genres and music for over 10 years now'. Combining rock, punk, hip-hop, metal, dubstep and electronic influences into a unique mixture, and then throwing a political lyric set into things, has made them one of the voices of a generation. This makes them the one of the best festival bands going, they're able to play near enough any festival and be able to draw a crowd. They played T in the Park last year and people who saw them were asking 'Why aren't they headlining?'. This year alone, they've played Download, T in the Park, Glastonbury and are to play Reading & Leeds, before a headline slot at the UK Warped Tour.

Speaking of Reading & Leeds, there has been an outcry at the fact that Eminem is to headline the Main Stage. People forget that Eminem has headlined at these festivals before in 2001. In 2001, when Green Day were below Travis, who've only just announced their return a few weeks ago. Eminem is a staple of pop culture and he has been for the past 15 odd years. Everyone knows at least 3 Eminem songs, and know what he's about. He's the start of a revolution at Reading and Leeds.

They won't be known as the 'rock' festivals for much longer, they'll be known as the 'Alternative' festivals. This year, they've added many electronic stages to give the choice to the punters. But they're still offering acts on a main stage which wouldn't normally be there. There aren't many festivals who would give a band like Don Broco, Hadouken!, We Are The In Crowd, Mallory Knox or While She Sleeps a chance at playing on the main stage. Reading and Leeds are offering bands of this size a chance to cut their teeth in front of a bigger audience. This has happened before, as in 2010, a little known band called Mumford & Sons were given the chance to play the late evening slot of the NME stage, a stage Mumford had no real reason to be that high on at this stage in their career, and yet they smashed it and produced one of the best sets of the weekend. Just 3 years later, Mumford & Sons played the headlining slot at Glastonbury. It was at Reading & Leeds that they were given their chance and they took it with all their hands and are now a massive band.

Remember 2008? When Kings of Leon were still fairly unknown and The Verve were still around? Both these bands headlined Glastonbury on the Friday & Sunday respectively... Who played the Saturday? A man already mentioned in this post once already, a man known as Jay Z. The outcry was ridiculous, with many saying he shouldn't be allowed to play there as he's not a rock act. How did Jay Z react? He kept quiet, let people talk, let Noel Gallagher talk whatever rubbish he wanted, and then he played his set... He opened with a cover of Wonderwall while playing a guitar, which was a massive middle finger to the doubters, aimed squarely at Noel. He then went on to play one of the best sets that Glastonbury has ever seen. Michael Eavis said that it's time to diversify and change. Jay Z opened the door for his wife Beyonce to follow his footsteps and headline Glastonbury 3 years later. This is part of the future of festivals. Don't be surprised if Jay Z headlines Reading & Leeds in 2014, especially if the promoters want to carry on the theme of diversification, and who else is better to show that, than the money making machine that is Jay Z?

The main point to take away from this, is that festivals need to diversify, move with the times and keep attracting business. Going to a festival you might not know too many of the acts, but that doesn't mean you can't experiment and try new stuff. New bands are always coming through, 2013 showing the emergence of bands like The 1975, Peace, Palma Violets, The Strypes and Deap Vally to name a few. Go with your mates and have a good weekend, you might just surprise yourself.

Reading & Leeds headliners - My view

Green Day return to Reading for the 2nd time in 2 years, after their not-so-secret set last year, which they played on the NME stage at 11am. Once again, Green Day headlined here in 2004, just before American Idiot was released and sent them back into the stratosphere, 10 years after they first took over the world. Over the years, Green Day have become a hit machine, and a very well tuned live act, driven by Tre Cool & Mike Dirnt's cohesion as a rhythm section, and fronted by quite arguably, the best frontman in the business today, in Billie Joe Armstrong. Once again, Green Day have their detractors, but there is not a single person who has seen them play a show who can say they aren't captivating live, and anyone who says they're not, is lying to you. After releasing 3 albums last year, Reading & Leeds mark the end of their album cycle. Is 2014 the year that they take over the world once again with another game changer of an album? If it is, it'll start at Reading & Leeds.

Going back to Eminem, he will smash his set at both festivals. I don't think there can be any argument, his return to Reading & Leeds, 12 years after he was last there as a headliner, and armed with 12 years worth of songs, he's going to be insane. An Eminem show is a rare thing in the UK these days, and as shown, almost all of the days tickets on both sites have gone for his day. The fact that Eminem has a very rock n roll mentality will serve him well in converting the doubters. Eminem has an hour and a half set, the shortest of the three headliners, but it will be action packed and stuffed full of tunes. Marshall Mathers, Reading & Leeds await the moment that the real Slim Shady stands up and proves the doubters wrong and that you prove, that you've still got it.

Finally, Biffy Clyro are the final & third headliner. The Scots are veterans of this festival, having first played it in 2001 and working their way up through the years, they've reached headliner status. Personally, this is the act I am most looking forward to, and I love Eminem and Green Day are my favourite band ever. But come Sunday night, about 9.30pm, Biffy Clyro will be starting their crowning moment on the main stage. This will be their Kings of Leon headlining Glastonbury moment. Biffy Clyro are about to become Britain's biggest band, and I would not be surprised to see them headlining T in the Park, V Festvial, Isle of Wight or Download next year. People who say they aren't ready will be blown away. The trio have the passion, the tunes and the ability to pull off, in their words, a 'big FUCK OFF rock show'. No gimmicks bar the obligatory pyro, just 3 guys, some guitars, a drum set and the tunes. Take this as a warning, Biffy Clyro will have headlined Glastonbury within the next 5 years. Armed with a new double album, Opposites (that went to Number 1 in the UK charts) and 5 albums before, Biffy Clyro are about to become a household name. Bet on it.