MIX OF THE WEEK

A ROUND-UP FOR THE COMING WEEK

News and Releases:

Two things I'm keeping my eyes peeled for this week?

1) The mighty Gengahr album. A band I talk far too much about are releasing their debut on 15.06.2015 and I cannot wait. An ALT collective with an unplaceable sound. Very 70's movie soundtrack, kind of psychedelic. http://www.gengahr.com/

2) The SAY Award (Scottish Album of the Year) is being revealed on 17.06.2015 at the O2ABC Glasgow. Vital and prestigious not only if you're an enthusiast of Scottish music but right decent music in general. The shortlist is really the only list of music you need to work your way through if your collection is in a bit of a rut. http://www.sayaward.com/

Gig Stuff:

This weeks hottest ticket sales come from some of the UK's best female talent. Where recent weeks have been overshadowed by major (male) band announcements and the like, this week's one for the girls.

• Florence + The Machine (September '15)
  
  Florence returns this September with the promo tour for her latest album 'How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful' I'm saying this like it's unknown knowledge but I need to pinch myself a little to believe this beautiful human is back with new material. I feel like her previous two albums were a turning point for my life and love with music. Not to be missed for sheer ethereal experience reasons. 

• Gabrielle Aplin (September '15) 
  
  Gabrielle's first proper appearance for around a year since her EP release last May. Can tell her dainty acoustics could prove to make for a breathtaking and atmospheric set of shows. 

• Jess Glynne (November '15)
  
  In the space of half a year Jess has managed to go from venues with a capacity of around 300 to 2,500 this time around. Insane. Speaks for itself. Gone are the days she was just the voice of that 'Rather Be' song, very much an artist in her own right.

http://www.gigsinscotland.com/homepage.aspx

http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/

Soundtrack to my Week:
Childish Gambino's mixtape KAUAI

This may not be a new release but that doesn't detract from its relevance. Given the weeks glorious weather and apparent start of holiday season this has become the epitome of Summer for me. Already. Bold claims I know. The musicality of this mixtape is varied and light so as not to distract from its understated and honest wording. Jaden Smith's input in this also gives an interesting contrast to an old and young life outlook comparing Donald and himself, like a before and after type thing. Overall this is a lyrical summing up of summer optimism; the hazy, looking through rose tinted glasses (or filter), teenage angst, anything can happen vibe.

Video to my Week:

Years & Years-SHINE

For the time being Olly Alexander and co. can do no wrong in my eyes, so this video? 'nuff said.