I get a whole bunch of nostalgic vibes when I listen to Fox Machine. There’s a lot from the glam rock of the seventies and a lot also from the late sixties with groups like Lovin Spoonful, the Kinks and even more from Rolling Stones like they sounded then and in the beginning of the seventies. I think the songs definitely come up to standard in this context; great melodies, they feel unique and there is a good drive.

A spontaneous feeling I get is that this should be a great live band. And according to an experienced concertgoer like Jerry, it’s exactly what Fox Machine is. Read also about Helena Björk’s meeting with these nostalgic live feelings. (in Swedish)
I will definitely take the chance to see them live if I have the opportunity.

Enjoy a couple of songs by Fox Machine:

Comin’ Down In Shoreditch, Anyone?
The One I Used to Know

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Edit 2/12 2011
The song “The One I Used to Know” has been recorded in a new version and will be released on an upcoming EP. Find more info on Fox Machine’s site.

Streets of Mars formed nine years ago and stands today on solid ground as a band on the way to success. It’s not a question if they will succeed, but when. And I really wish them nothing less but a quick break. I have seen them live twice, and sincerely hope there will be more occasions.

Among their most obvious influences are Red Hot Chili Peppers, U2 and Smashing Pumpkins. And I’m sure you’ll hear that when you listen (with the strongest vibes from the first band mentioned, if you ask me). Mix in a little of Moneybrother and Mando Diao, a real dose of energy, drive and feeling…well, then you are getting close.

You can visit their their Myspace page to listen, and you can download som tracks here, from the band that was appointed “Best International Band” at New York International Music Festival.

Bleeder
Taste
Breathe In Breathe Out

Edit 1/10 2010 – New versions of the songs. Listen on the band’s Myspace page.

There’s no doubt that Golden Hills have their roots in the early sixties music. Roy Orbison and Phil Spector are present in the background in several of the songs. With a few dashes of country and then Christian Björks heartbreaker-vocals, this turns very delicate, with a lot of heart and soul.

Golden Hills started in 2003 and is now working on new material, which will result in a new album next year. Christian writes:

“We have changed the direction somewhat, now it’s more straight pop/rock songs with a lot of influences from the sixties (a little Beach Boys, the early Phil Spector, Roy Orbison). But still there are some mellow country in some songs. We are readily influenced by the old groups and artists, but we think we have our own sound and that there are a modern touch to it all”

Listen to three nice tracks:

Since the Day
You Know
Separate Ways

Visit Golden Hills on Myspace

After many music adventures, Conny decided a couple of years ago to start writing music with lyrics in Swedish and in his own name. Since then he’s had a lot of success, especially on the net, but also on TV, radio and the many live gigs.

This is pop with seductive, mellow melodies, hard to neglect. It feels very personal and close and the lyrics invites you to identify yourself with the singer. I think one of the strengths with Conny’s songwriting is that he can describe the tough times in life without being pretentious or heavy; rather strong and natural. Well, judge for yourself and listen to two great songs below. (if you don’t know Swedish you can always write to Conny and ask him :-))

I take the opportunity here to create some publicity for the great live club Bara Unplugged in Stockholm, that Conny started a couple of years ago. Today he’s running this together with Olle Torpman (Icke Lika Med) and Ted Berggren. Every Wednesday, so if you’re in Stockholm, don’t miss it!

Visit Conny’s site to listen to more tracks.

Maskrosbarn (Dandelion Child)
Lämna mig ifred (Leave Me In Peace)

Things have been happening fast for The High Fives. They started out 2006 in Katrineholm, Sweden, in 2007 they toured all over Sweden and played at Hultsfredsfestivalen, they drank black absinth and turned a hostel upside down, and now in November 2008 they release their debut album “Work of Art” (Show Me the Money/Wonderland Records).

And their music runs pretty fast too. It’s indie pop/rock with a lot of energy with nice melodic hooks, and the latest addition to the band with two brass players emphasizes this even more. (extra pluses for saxophone solos). A party atmosphere I would say, positive and happy, and with this as a starting point I’m sure they will continue to get a lot of attention on their concerts and gather faithful crowds.

The third of November the album “Work of Art” is released, but you can get a taste of it here by listening to two great tracks from the record:

241
Duracell

Visit The High Fives on Myspace