Sounds of an Eccentric

2016 took many great and iconic musicians away from us - from Bowie to Prince to Rick Parfitt. However a man in fabulous spectacles once sang and taught us about the Circle of Life. Although 2016 brought about a great loss, 2017 shall bring about a world of opportunity for up and coming musicians. There's an immutable abundance of talent in the North East, and it's time it got the recognition it deserves. So without further ado, here's my top tracks of 2016. COQUIN MIGALE - 'SOFT' Now Coquin Migale are a somewhat inconsistent group - their music either is a little lackluster or radiates an atomic bomb's worth of energy. However, it would be a crime to the local scene not to have this track in this piece. 'SOFT' is their latest and greatest work and I hope the band channel the vibe of this track in the new year and continue to grow and produce the incredible music they're clearly capable of. THE PALE WHITE - 'THAT DRESS...

The Black Sheep Frederick  Dickens eponymous debut six track E.P. is an undeniably theatrical composition. Although there are some moments of charming musicianship (such as the piano driven melodies and introduction to the opening track 'Sibling Rivalry' or the ebullient percussion in the fourth track 'Penny Buns and Gin'), the overall tone and feel to the E.P. is just self indulgent and a little hollow. The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens by The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens Furthermore the length of the E.P. is somewhat awkward and clumsy. Six tracks is just too long for an E.P.. The band should have opted for a four track E.P. or waited to have enough material to create a complete album. This is particularly cumbersome as the majority of the tracks are very similar and the whole E.P. does drag a bit. The only track with any engaging hooks or energy is 'Penny Buns and Gin' and it does salvage the E.P. slightly, but the distorted and over-prod...

Despite only forming earlier this year, cosmic-pop trio  The Old Pink House   have taken the Newcastle music scene by storm, becoming one of the coolest 'it' bands on the radar. Their debut single 'So Bad' is an infectiously catchy synth-pop anthem that'll see even the shyest of audiences singing and dancing along. The song is fuelled by falsetto vocals and peppy synth, heightened by the unique tone of the percussion, giving it tonnes of attitude without compromising its gripping catchiness. The track radiates a fun and upbeat energy, that's enriched by intricate melodies and sweet harmonies. The chorus revolves around the simple line of: "How am I supposed to love you now that it's over", making it accessible to all listeners, despite the quirkiness of the percussion. The track also featured on Spotify's 'Hot New Bands' playlist, alongside bands such as  The Pale White ,  Cape Cub  and  The Magic Gang . Their latest trac...