Finally! (Part 2)

After much haggling over the phone and the cost of a small fortune, I finally have the internet up and running in my flat so now I can type this from the comfort of my living room instead of the crowded computer suite on campus. Oh happy days indeed! Now that we're all expecting regular updates of this here blog, I am restarting production on the BTB Podcast which means I need your music to showcase! Let's restart this journey and get it going properly.

The first act are called Dandelion Wine from New York City. This trio don't just make music for music's sake but also to convey messages of the world we all live in and by bringing these messages out, they try to make the world a better place to live in. The actual music they play is a relaxed, mellow sound and though there are some similarities to other indie bands, there is also enough of a difference to put Dandelion Wine in their own little niche. Dandelion Wine, with their sound, make you think maybe life isn't so bad. Give them a listen and let the sound wash over you.

Favourite Song: Drunk Driving


The second band today is called The Boundary who are from Almada, Portugal. These guys are the more typical indie band which we here on the radio quite a lot. However this does not take away the fact that The Boundary are an entertaining band. Their songs have kind of any early Libertines vibe about them which gives them a good staying power. I say give them a listen and discover another good indie band.

Favourite SongL Overrated.

Sunday Post

Yes I am doing the rare thing of posting on Sunday. I usually don't do this as I am more often than not hungover. I was expecting to be hungover today but what do you know, I'm not. So I thought I'd do something worthwhile, no not my Journalism essay, but write about our favourite subject, music. I feel on Sunday is the best day to listen to music because for me that's when the world stops being hectic.

Now, British Rap/Grime has only a few truly recognised icons in the mainstream music light such as Dizzee Rascal and Lethal Bizzle. However I think I've found one of the most exciting and probably one of the most important rap group that has ever existed. These guys rap to you about the real issues in the world in a brutally honest way and then leave you to deal with the questions raised. I give to you Scribe Tribe. I could write a lot of things about this lot but the true justice and appreciation for them is by listening to their words. If you truly appreciate music in all its forms then sing these guys praises, vote for them at:

www.totallyunsigned.co.uk/members/467/

Support them in any and all ways possible. Scribe Tribe, I salute you.

I, also for the first time, don't have a second band to mention. It's a first I know. I think I need to get my head together before I find some more talent. Until then...

At last new headphones!

So why have I taken ages to actually write anything? Is it because I'm lazy? Maybe. Is it because I have had a ton of uni work to do? Possibly. Is it because my access to the Internet has been sporadic? Almost certainly. However the biggest reason is that I haven't had a pair of headphones to listen to music. Why is this important you ask? Well, when I listen to the bands I review I like to be surrounded by their sound so I can get a real feel for their music. That's a feeling you can't get out of speakers when other people are walking about and talking. Headphones help me block out the outside world and focus completlly onthe band at hand. I will say that posting for the next week shall be sporadic but from December 2nd I shall finally have the internet in my flat so I have no excuses. Onto the first band!

This first band are called Lite Brite. No! The glowing guys such as this one,

have not come together to creat a band, though that would be pretty cool. Lite Brite are a band from Sacramento, California and a great band at that. Take some influences from classic indie rock, mix them together with some contemporary sounds and you have what could be one of the most exciting sounds around today. These guys have a sound that could take you from sitting around listening to their music, to hearing it in an indie club somewhere and having you up on your feet. I have one thing to say to this band. Shine on Lite Brite, Shine On.

BTB Favourite Song: Shine On

The second band is from Oslo, Norway and go by the name of While You Slept. Now I have a love/hate relationship with music from the Scandinavian region. I'll tell you why, the biggest band from Scandinavia in the world was and still is ABBA. How can this still be the case when we have bands like While You Slept on the circuit?! It makes no sense! While You Slept combine the voices of Jakob Jones and Benedikte Wallace to create a vocal sound that cuts right down to the core of you. Combine that voice with some of the best muscians, Nikolai Grasaasen, Torgeir Beyer and Øystein M. Johansen and you get a sound that is really powerful, and full of talent. I'm now going to go start a campaign to get music management companies to have more scouts in the Scandinavian countries. If While You Slept are anything to go by, then it is pretty much an untouched treasure chest.

Favourite Song: Moments Gone

Thus ends another day of finding new music while bringing you guys some listening pleasure. To the two bands who I mentioned today, please keep making music as it is simply brilliant.

Aran

The Welcoming Return of BTB! *insert maniacal laughter here*

That's right everybody! I'm finally back to doing what I do best and that's finding the music that you want to hear. It's been ages since I wrote anything worthwhile here and recommended new bands for your listening pleasure and for that I apologise. However though the blog is making its welcome return, the podcast will still be on the sidelines until all things with that are sorted and I build up a back catalogue of tracks from bands. Enough of this faffing around! Let us begin the journey once more!



First we're hitting Portland, Maine, USA to find a band named The Murder Weapon. Formed in 2004, these guys have come a long way and are making tracks that sound professional but retain their charm and character. I can honestly say they sound like all the best bits of all your favourite big time rock bands, thrown into a bowl and mixed together then unleashed on a tour of quality. The voice and guitar playing of Jon Nothing, bass playing D Murder and the drumming of Cory Marz brought together creates one of the most exciting underground bands of our time. Let yourself become a victim of The Murder Weapon now.



Favourite Track: He's Gone



The next band to feature on this return post come from my favourite city in the world, London! Recommended to me by a friend, Jack Gant, this band are The Tenets. These guys take the classic ideals of punk rock and bring those ideals into the modern era. This four piece have more influences than any other band I've reviewed to date, everything from other bands and musicians, to authors, to films. With so many influences I'm certain that The Tenets will be making music for a long time and that can only be a good thing.



Favourite Track: Bridges and Balconies.



Well due to time constraints that's all I can bring you today. I'm going to make this a regular thing once more so I should be posting again tomorrow. Hooray for that! Remember I want you to recommend bands to me and support BTB. Do it. You'll love it.

Aran

Technical difficulties!

So I haven't added any new music or podcast or updated this. This is because I lack internet in my new home still and the computer lab computers have no speakers. Annoying I know. Once BT stop being silly we'll get some music going again!

It's been missions!

Yeah so apologies for being away for so long. I've been busy getting a lot of stuff sorted at work and for my upcoming move (only 12 days away!) so I haven't been able to find much new music. Instead today I will come up with a Top Ten of bands who I have reviewed/seen live for today. I need something to get me motivated so without further ado it's The BTB Top 10 so far!

10: boxViolet - boxViolet are one of my favourite bands because they are genuinely different. Their sound hails back to a bygone era when rhythm effects and sound effects were the key to making music that would top the charts. boxViolet are bringing that back and what a welcome return it is!

Favourite Song: It's still 'Sad Sad Girl'

9: Frenchie - This guy is Pop at its Poppiest and to say anything else is a lie. Frenchie doesn't try to disguise his pop sound, like so many artists do, but embraces it and that is the mark of a true musician. This a pop act Mika should be looking up to and saying I want to be like him because you know, Mika isn't great. Frenchie is.

Favourite Song: Oh What A Feeling.

8: Fire In The Hole - This is a rock band with a twist. You may think their sound is similar to others and then they bring in the funk. If the Red Hot Chili Peppers had kids with Michael Jackson then I'm sure Fire In The Hole would be their offspring. These guys were born to make music and make it they shall!

Favourite Song: The Human Race Erased

7: Sound The Attack - This group epitomises heavy rock and they do it well. It's all you can do to stop yourself becoming emersed in their sound and jumping and singing with them. So my advice. Don't stop yourself. Let Sound The Attack attack your senses with full force and you'll be all the better for it. Rock has found one of its new saviours.

Favourite Song: Bully Empire

6. Private Dancers - I love Brazil for many things and Private Dancers are one of them. This lot know how to make music that people will still be humming long after the songs have finished. If CSS were the first true big band out of Brazil then Private Dancers will be the second. I know it because I say it. To disagree that Private Dancers are an amazing band should be punishable in some way. I don't how but it would be painful.

Favourite Song: The Form

5. Carmen - Carmen are brilliant. They have such a great sound about them that I bought their album to hear the gems they hadn't put up on their MySpace. It's a brilliant debut album and I one I would recommend to anyone who is serious about their music. Their rock pierced with melodies makes for listening you won't forget.

Favourite Song: Be My Forever

4. Plug In - These French rockers are brilliant and were the joint pick of the bunch when I asked listeners for their band of the podcast when these were featured. Surely to be as big, if not bigger than their french contemporaries The Teenagers. We're reaching an age where, I hate to say it, guitar bands are becoming one and the same. Plug In have something about them that sets them apart and I can't wait for their EP.

Favourite Song: Misters

3. Crossed Keys - My favourite band from the USA. They won the Californian Battle of The Bands and for good reason. They're brilliant. They sent me their CD and I'm not bored with it at all. I really can't wait until Crossed Keys come to the UK. I'll be right at the front of the crowd singing along to all their songs. They had a big impact on me from the first listen and that impact gets better with each listen.

Favourite Song: Sin In a Bottle

2. PARK - Nothing can describe how mega their sound is. I can try but I wouldn't do them justice. This band need to be big. They just have too! Their songs, especially Not For Me and Nameless Faces, are so damn epic that they need to be played on the Main Stage at Reading and Leeds. Just listen to them and I know you'll agree. There's a reason I haven't stopped listening to them!

1. Letters From London - Okay so I never reviewed these guys on here but I've seen them live enough times to justify why they are number 1. I've followed these guys for the last 3 years and seen them grow bigger and better. They even have a Japanese street team! How many bands can claim that? They're live shows are always fantastic and if they can they will let you invade the stage on their last song. John Sterry creates lyrics as well as Pete Doherty if not better, Billy Smith plays Bass like a demon who's escaped from hell, Danny Smith plays the guitar like a mainiac because well he is one and Christian Parker bangs his drums like a madman with talent.


My Top 10 and I'm sure you'd agree. BTB is back! Woop!

Still alive!

Alright no music in this post. It's just a confirmation that this place isn't dead. Hopefully I'll get things moving again within the next couple of days.

Damn Work!

Yes I have been working pretty much non stop so I haven't had the time to review any bands however this working condition should subside by Monday. Until then expect this to be the update to tide you over this weekend. Of course to do that I have to tantalize and tease you so that is what I will do.

The first band only have an EP teaser on their MySpace but this one teaser gives insight to more talent than most bands manage through a whole set list of songs. They go by the name of Kids Uncanny and they are from London. You can tell from this teaser they do all kind of styles and mixes and because of them I'm now going to have to end my money saving habit and buy their EP when it comes out. If this means I don't have heat for month then so be it because the talent this band shows is worth it.

Favourite Song: If only there was more than the teaser. I already need their songs!


The second band I have for you are called British Standard and after only hearing one song on their MySpace I think they are brilliant! These Essex lads don't play about and are right in your face from the opening of 'Scoundrel' and will stay there until you give into them. Another plus is that you can download Scoundrel for free off of their MySpace. Do it, you won't be disappointed. I can see British Standard becoming memorable and bigger as the years go on.

Favourite Song; Well it has to be Scoundrel....it is the only one I've heard.

And the thrid band I have for you is called Helium from Huddersfield who mix rock, blues and calming rhythms to produce some excellent music. These guys are jumpers, in the sense that no two songs sound the same which is what I like about Helium. They have songs that appeal to everyone. One second they've got a song that will calm your nerves and they jump to a funk induced frenzy. Helium will keep on rising and rising with their music. They are also giving their songs away. Huzzah!

Favourite Song: Some Things

Well I'll update this blog again on Monday, unless something comes up which I'm hoping won't.

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
Facebook (link provided above)

Burnout

Sorry I haven't been very active recently but a few days I just completely burned out as a lot of outside pressures got to me which meant I wasn't at all motivated or, if I'm being truthful, bothered about this place. However I'm past that but do expect a bit of disruption in the times I post because I am going to be at work a lot over the next few weeks.

Right to start Jesster once again graces us with a new review. The undercover reviewer who no one knows about, unless you do actually know the person behind Jesster...but we'll pretend you don't.

Another Manchester band for you :)

The Interruptions (http://www.theinterruptions.co.uk/) hail from Manchester and Blackpool,
and have been around since 2004.This band caught my attention because, as an indie band,
they’re not something I would usually listen to.However, as the intro to “Paul” played,
it made me want to give them a chance.
With influences including Joy Division
and the Stone Roses,they manage to catch the sound of these bands,
and spice it up with a little of their own flavour.
I’m sure these guys are going to have plenty of success.

Best song: Liquid

Jesster.

Now the first band I, Aran, bring you are called The Cuts from Paisley, Scotland,
an exciting indie punk band,with enough talent to take over the
UK with their tunes.They have a great variation singing about different
subjects and taking you through a journey which at times is slow but at others
speeds up which hurtles you forward through musical brilliance.
Keep an eye on this lot because I sense big things.

Aran's Favourite Song: We're Alright

And the final band to bring musical joy to my ears are called The Mouth, from somewhere
in the UK, the exact location which alludes me. However what does not allude me is the fact that The Mouth are a great band. Granted I've only heard on of their songs, entitled Bow And Arrows. I look forward to hearing more from these guys and I don't think we're in for a long wait.

Aran's Favourite Song: Bow and Arrows obviously....

Right that's it for this day. We'll bring you more in a bit.

contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or the Facebook page!

If Music were...

In my humble opinion music is like a mine. You have to dig and dig through a lot of unimaginative or boring stuff before you find the few good gems. Some days you find a lot others nothing. I didn't post anything yesterday because I could not find a single musician that inspired me and that was after an afternoon of searching. Then and there I was about ready to give up forever and let this place die....However I'm going to keep on digging because I know there are more gems to find among the rubbish.

The first band are a very new band, just starting early this year and they are called Three and A Half Englishmen, who are from Kenilworth in the Midlands, England. Firstly I want to thank Three and A Half Englishmen for restoring my faith in music. These 4 guys are an indie band and sound like they've been playing the circuit for years, not few months, with their already distinctive sound. Sure they haven't brought anything new but I'm sure they will be an amazing band, one for the future because of the rate they are working at. They're coming out of nowhere but they'll soon be heard everywhere.

Aran's Favourite Song: Clowns

The second band are from a small village in Wiltshire, called Broughton Giffin which is near bath and they are called Port Erin. This 3 piece have been about since 2007 and mix a style of indie, funk and rock in a unique way. They mix the sound very well which keep their tracks fresh and exciting. Vocalist, ReubenTyghe as a voice that is very distinctive and sets Port Erin out from the rest as well as the rhythms and the sounds that are created by this exciting lot. Give them a listen.

Aran's Favourite Song: Day's Soon Fly

I'm afraid I've only got two bands today because of time pressure. I'll have more bands for you tomorrow!

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

or the Facebook page by clicking the link above!

The 4th Podcast and more Music

Well finally I've managed to get a podcast up on the MySpace page. Get over there and have a listen...after you've read this of course. I'm quite glad all the sound has finally been sorted out which means a lot more better shows in the future to showcase new bands. If you are a member of a band who wants to be on the podcast send me an mp3 to brokentoybox@hotmail.com. It looks like good times ahead for Broken Toy Box.

Right the first band contacted me after reading this blog and they are The Black Tricks, who are from Herts, UK. The Black Tricks are a punk band who sing about all kinds of social observations. They have a great sound and I think they should've been signed up a long time ago bringing their music to the masses. I cannot find a single weak song among the ones they have on their MySpace page which speaks volumes about this band. If I were to recommend a punk band that stood out and were relevant to today then The Black Tricks would be that band. Check them out now.

Aran's Favourite Song: Look What You've Done

The 2nd band is called Inside the Far and are from the USA. They label themselvses as ant Alt./Prog Rock band and I agree with that but I'd also go to say they are infused with some electronica which gives rise to a new and exciting band steadily rising to the top. The sound they mix along with the hauntingly brilliant vocals of Christy Trinkler stays with you long after the last moments of one of their songs has stopped. That is the mark of a truly great band, to stick in your mind even though you are not listening to them.

Aran's Favourite Song: Anger Spins the Empire

And the final band today is called Change It To Jack, from Portland USA. This band has been about since 2005 and they produce some great rock/pop tunes. Some songs are slow which keep the mood nice and mellow and some of the songs are louder quicker which make you want to jump up and dance. They've recently signed with Greenland Music Group, hoping to spread their sound across the world. With the music they are producing that will surely be no problem. Change It To Jack have a bright future ahead of them and things can only get better.

Aran's Favourite Song: 10000 Pounds

That's the 3 bands for today. Remember the new podcast is up on the myspace.

Contact:
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
Click on the Facebook link above or search BrokenToyBox Music on Facebook.

It's Summer...

Yes that's right, the summer holidays are pretty much upon us. It affects me due to now my brother and sister also being at home for the next six weeks which means updating this place is going to become a very difficult job indeed as well as recording. However I shall persevere or lock them both outside in the garden...I haven't quite decided yet. I'm going to be bringing you 3 bands today as Jesster will only be popping up from time to time.

The first band I bring you is called Next Day, from Santa Cruz, California who are a Prog Rock band who have some good tuneage. The two songs on their MySpace don't have any lyrics but they do have some excellent guitar playing. I know they have songs with vocals or they say they do so I can't say much more about this lot until they bring out some more songs and I can really see and the vocalists and the tune mix.

Aran's Favourite Song: Make Your Past

The next band I bring you is called Caledonia who are from Halifax & Toronto, Canada. These guys have something about them that makes them different but familiar. I want to say these guys sound a bit like the Editors but then I stop and think no they sound like someone else. They may play with your mind in this respect but they also make your mind appreciate good music which Caledonia have quite a lot of.

Aran's Favourite Song: City Is Burning

And the final band for today is called, Paid Pilots who are from Minneapolis, Illinois, USA an indie experimental rock band. I'm really liking these guys sound which mixes the traditional indie sound with some very well placed effects to make their music sound a lot more real and less generic and samey like the majority of the global indie scene. I said last time that electro and experimental bands are the way forward. Paid Pilots is another of these bands I expect to find success.

Aran's Favourite Song: Kito

Right I'm off now to record the latest podcast which should be up later today. In a bit!

A New Writer joins the ranks!

So I've bought in a partner to help with finding bands and this person is simply known as Jesster. In a way I feel like BTB has its own version of the Stig. Well welcome Jesster to the team and I hope for a long and prosperous working relationship. As Jesster is new I feel we should use their band review to kick off this post. Here it is:

"For my first review, I’ve gone for a local band. Whipcord are a trio of Mancunians, with a rocky sound that hints towards influences of Queens of the Stone Age and Motorhead. They aren’t breaking into new never-heard-before areas with their sound, but they don’t need to. Their blend of music is perfect to rock out to, and is a welcome change from the generic indie bands that dominate the current Manchester music scene.

And the best thing? They’re constantly gigging, so there’s no excuses for missing them live!"

Jesster

A great band brought to our attention by Jesster. Cheers for that.

Right now a couple of bands I've found for you to peruse as well. The first is from Tunbridge Wells and they are called Welcome to Winchester who are a 4 piece indie rock band. They seem to get their influences from all sorts of rock bands from Queen to Biffy Clyro. What they do is create some great tunes that in my opinion need to played loud to get the full effect of the sound Welcome to Winchester are trying to put across. They have a number of shows coming up so go check them out live.

Aran's Favourite Song: Sight

And for our final band today we have Frosted Tipz, who blend electro and rock perfectly. They hail from Edmonton, Canada and have been making music since 2004. This foursome know how to make some brilliant music and honestly I'm surprised they haven't really been heard of outside of Canada. I predicting that electro rock is the future and Frosted Tipz will be one of those bands to rise to the top because it.

Aran's Favourite Song: Sea of Bronze

And that's it for today. Just want to once again say welcome to Jesster and also hope you, the readers, enjoy the music that Jesster and myself recommend. Remember to contact BTB do the following:

e-mail: brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
Or click on the Facebook link above and become a fan today!

Music and Caffeine really goes well.

So after waking up stupidly early today I've resorted to loud music and lots of caffeine to wake me up a bit. So far it's working slowly, I just need waking up or a lie in. Anyway, what musically gifted entities have I found for you today. Read on and you shall be enlightened.

The first act is called Wake Up Mordecai who are from Ohio in the USA. Francis and Mordecai, the two band members, create easy listening acoustic pop that even on a day like today, a cloudy rainy miserable day, they can't avoid cheering you up. They sing about girls and relationships and the ups and downs of the two. These guys are really worth listening to if you want some bright sunshine in your life. Do it now!

BTB Favourite Song: Girls don't ride in viking ships.


The next band I have for you is called Codego who are from Halifax in the Northwest of England. These six guys, Lee, Ozzi, Figgy, Sam, Danny and Alex, know how to create some great chilled out indie rock and some louder rock as well. They're making quite a name for themselves in the North and I'm sure it won;t be long before they are breaking ground all over the UK where their kind of sound is highly praised. Get a listening to Codego now ladies and gentlemen.

BTB Favourite Song: The Music will See Us Through

And the final band for today is Future Chaser from Derry, Ireland. Brilliantly loud punk rock from theses 4 gentlemen who were formely known as Organized Confusion. With their great sound I can't see anything standing in their way while they make music which really will bring out the rocker in all of you. I'm one of many who is excited by what Future Chaser do in, well the future.

BTB Favourite Song: Free

So that's that for today. I'm going back to bed...

Contact:

brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or click on that Facebook link above.

Searching...

Again I have found it difficult to find musical acts that make any impression on me but I kept on going until I found some bands that were worth my time and worth your time. After filing through a lot of crap I want to thank these bands and all the others I have reviewed so far for keeping my faith in music strong. Also I'm searching as it were for someone to help me with this, an additional writer so if interested then contact me.

The first I have found that is very talented is boxViolet from LA (yes its LA again...) who to me sounds like a modern mix of Eurythmics and Blondie rolled into one. As soon as I heard the first beat from "Sad Sad Girl", I knew that I would be hooked into listening to every song boxViolet had to offer and then listening to them again just to hear the musical genius they hold. If anyone deserves worldwide fame then boxViolet are that band. I dare you to tell me these guys aren't talented because you'd be wasting your breath.



BTB Favourite Song: Sad Sad Girl


The next band I have for you is called Attention Now! from Stavanger Norway. Now this is of the best indie electro rock I have heard in a long time. The blend the sounds they have really well topped with two talented vocalists and some great musicians and you have a recipe for perfection. Attention Now! are that perfection you seek in everything else and more. I cannot find a single fault with this band...well one. I'm not going to be able to see them live for a long long time!



BTB Favourite Song: Sarcasm Shooter

And the final band I have for you today is called Noise Republic and are from Nottingham, England. This pop punk twosome know how to write some good tunes and lyrics. These guys are working on their album and if listening to the songs they have on their MySpace and Facebook page doesn't make you wait in anticipation for that release then nothing will. The music that Noise Republic create can be listened to in any situation and in a way gives the songs something of a keeper status by which I mean that their songs will not be forgotten 5,10 or even 20 years from now. Get listening!



BTB Favourite Song: Gambit



Download: Gambit from Noise Reoublic's MySpace

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
or Facebook
or www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

The Music Notebook.

So I got a notebook yesterday to keep track of all the bands I have wrote about and was astonished to find I had written about 68 bands so far. I didn't know it had been that many already! Good times I feel and all quality bands I feel and I'm sure you all agree. Anyway I've noticed that people getting in touch with me, you guys, has dwindled so I say change that and send me a message at brokentoybox@hotmail.com, join the Facebook group and tell your friends. It'd be nice to know who is actually reading this.

Right the first band I have for you is called Broken Mile who are from the UK and have a great sound about them. They really stand out from the current crop of music mixing rock and the blues in a brilliant and exciting way. Music has not been changed like this since the likes of Nirvana and Pearl Jam pioneered Prog. Rock. Broken Mile have such a great sound to them that's its impossible not to like this lot. I tip them to be one of the breakthrough bands of 2009 if not this year.



BTB Favourite Song: A Toast To Sympathy.


The second band I bring you is called Wheels On Fire who are from Athens, Ohio. Their rhythms they make echo from the past especially the 50's and early 60's which make them sound like a happy go lucky bunch of talented musicians. Every song makes you want to just jump up and dance and sing along with the band. Honestly this band makes me think that we should all be wearing leather jackets and hanging out in diners while the Fonz is standing in the back nodding his head along to the beat. If you don't like the songs and the image this band seem to portray then I feel sorry for you. Hooray for Wheels On Fire.



BTB Favourite Song: Too Stubborn To Fold


And the final I bring to you today is called Noterock who hail from Pasadena, California. who mix hip hop with indie rock to provide a great mix of tunes for your listening pleasure. They seem to take their influence from the very best of both the rock and R'n'B greats which means music that appeals to a wide range of people. I say give them a listen and let the music they make soak into your brain. You'll have their songs stuck in your head and even then you'll want more.




BTB Favourite Song: Rebound


Download of the day: I have to say download the songs from Broken Mile's MySpace. You will not be disappointed.

BTB Music: Mmm that's good listening.

Well its another week and I've decided that BTB needs a slogan, something catchy as it were so I'm opening up the floor to you readers. Think of a slogan for Broken Toy Box music and the prize is...well I haven't got that far yet....maybe a shout out on the podcast or playing a song you want to hear. So get thinking! Anyway new music is what I'm about so lets begin.

The first band are called Face Time Police and they are from Chicago, Illinois. Think of early Linkin Park and then you'll get what these guys sound like. These guys can range from everything to loud electro rock pop as witnessed with their song 'Of Man and Monsters' to rap as heard in their song 'Brittle Bullet' to acoustic melodies as heard in their song 'Dragonfly'. With such great range I can see Face Time Police appealing to all sorts of people who are into all types of genres. You rarely get a band who is willing to experiment with all sorts of genres so to find one of Face Time Police's calibre is a real treat. Give them a listen!



BTB Favourite Song: A Different Road

The next band is called Better Than Bedlam and they are from Louisville, Kentucky. They are a 4 piece indie rock band and have some quality tunes. Nothing exceptionally loud instead this band goes for the sit back and enjoy approach which works very well. Now the world is awash with indie bands so these guys belong to a large group but its the way they don't act loud but instead focus all their energy on the music that sets them further apart from the other indie bands. Give them a listen:



BTB Favourite Song: Day Number Nine

And the final band for today is called Armen Firmen who are from Melbourne Australia. They class themselves as an indie rock pop band and I am inclined to agree. Their tunes are easy to listen to and are as equally enjoyable to sing along with and dance to. As I write this their music is uplifting me so if it can have that affect on me who knows what it would do for you... Armen Firman have already had one of their songs 'Porch Dweller' as single of the week on iTunes so with this in mind maybe we've just found the next Australian band to put on a pedestal



BTB Favourite song: My Black Eyes (and this is just the demo!)

Unfortunately I don't have a download of the day today. Maybe tomorrow. Anyway I'm off for a nap. Enjoy the music!

Podcasts, Music and Facebook!

Righty oh the latest podcast is officially up:

Podcast The Third

Or alternatively you can now find BTB on Facebook.

Anywho what makes this blog is the music and I have some treats for you today. The first band is from Goulbourn, Australia and go by the name of Jester. No this foursome do not dress up like clowns with funny hats but yes they do play some of the best rock I have heard. They formed in 2002 and have played over 400 gigs. These guys are heavily influenced by the rock bands that graced the 70's and 80's and they bring that classic sound into the 00's very well. I can see why these guys have broken records at venues they have played and I can see them breaking records worldwide eventually. Give them a listen.

BTB Favourite Song: Fire

The second act I bring you today, from Waterbury Connecticut, USA, is called Closed Till Dark who infuse jazz, hip hop and R&B. Ryan Walker heads this project and brings in guest musicians to help him out. This is pure chill out music which you can tap your foot to or bob your head, do whatever you wish. If ever you need a soundtrack to lazy days or a chillout session all you have to do is stick on som Closed Till Dark because the skill and talent is there that no matter what type of music you like Closed Till Dark appeals to everyone. And to the record companies out there, WHY ARE YOU NOT FUNDING THIS?!


Favourite Song: Could've Been

And the final act for todays blog is Holding On To Sound from Siin City itself, Las Vegas. This three piece rock band show off the talent they have as loud as they can and they should. They stand out for no particular reason but that's the great thing about them. They don't need a reason, they just need to play and they'll instantly have you in their grasp as you dance and sing along. Take a listen and add them. Watch them rise!












BTB Favourite Song: Modern

And now the download of the day. I can't link you to it but you can get a free Cajun Dance Party track off of itunes. Do it now!

Contact:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
http://www.facebook.com/pages/BrokenToyBox-Music/19575301523?ref=ts

Good times!

Music. Lalalalala!

So I haven't posted in a couple of days. Sorry been a bit busy with stuff at home meaning I haven't had much time to update this thing. It may be like that for the foreseeable future due to work commitments among other things. As I write this the 3rd Podcast is being uploaded but as usual is taking its time. I've spent hours going over it to make sure the sound is much better.

Right for the first band we have is called First City Fallen, a band from Edmonton, Canada. This fantastic fivesome to me are like a Canadian Feeder with a pinch of Rise Against. They're also generous as they let you download their whole EP for free from their MySpace. Now they haven't brought anything new to the music genre but they are one of the bands that have taken what has come before them, refined it so it fits and made it sound better. Just listening to them they sound epic and I feel they will gain a massive fanbase globally. Give it a year or two and everyone will be talking about First City Fallen.













BTB Favourite Song: Chemicals

The second band is called Second Sense and are from London. This indie pop group are brilliant, unique out of the mass that makes up the indie band population. The vocalists voice ( I would tell you her name but I don't know it) is great and has the influences of Arethra Franklin and some Dido. A great combination which leads a very talented band who draw influence from all genres giving such a distinctive edge to Second Sense. When I make my return to London, Second Sense are definitely at the top of my list of bands to see and I suggest you see them too.













Favourite Song: Tonight Tonight

And the third band is called Third Conduct, an all girl pop punk group. This tremendous threesome are from York, UK and have supported the likes of The Wombats and have 3 years of gigging experience. There's always been a lot of sneers when all girl punk groups break into music and unfortunately there will always been those who will sneer at such things. However Third Conduct are that band ,in in my opinion, to make a vast majority of people dump these stereotypes. Their songs are really great to listen to and sound like they are influenced from Green Day to Muse. I can see these ladies breaking new boundaries in the music industry and taking the next step to fame.
















Favourite Song: Withdrawal


Also a new feature I'm adding. Download of the Day:

The song that I think is really good is a song called My Drive Thru by Pharrell, Santogold and Julian Casablancas. Some of you may have seen the advert for converse that this has been played in. Its an excellent song and you should download it:

My Drive Thru - Download

Remember to contact me:
brokentoybox@hotmail.com
myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or comment this blog!

A New Music Week

So we begin this week on a...well I don't know, that's for you to decide. However one thing tells me you're here, you're reading this and so you're expecting new music. Well... I don't have any...That's a lie! Of course I have new music, what would I be if I didn't? Well I'd still be me just without this I'm hoping blog and the podcast which I'm hoping will be 3rd time lucky with the sound. Onto the Music!

The first band is a duo from the Bay Area of California and they go by the name of Posterboy. This is great acoustic poppy punk from two talented individuals who I can see going far. Now a lot of bands kind of build up a generation gap however Posterboy are breaking down the barriers and are a band that everyone can enjoy regardless of anything. Could they be the new sound to the indie summer which has been a bit lacking? You better believe it.













BTB Favourite Song: Cold Stone

The next band are called Tentonic and are from Atalanta, Georgia. While listening to them I'm getting the impression they have been influenced by a lot of Brit bands including The Stone Roses and Oasis. Just listen to the track Blueprint and compare it to Wonderwall by Oasis. This by no way means Tentonic aren't a great band because they are and to see they are taking influence from such great bands only means that they themselves are aiming from greatness. It'a almost like Tentonic are an American made British band who should be playing the larger festivals over here such as Glastonbury (take note Eavis') because they would go down really well. Already making waves in the US I cannot wait for the day until Tentonic play their first major show here in the UK. It'll be one to remember.


BTB Favourite Song: Blueprint




And the final band for today is called Trashed on Fiction who are from New York. This is a smooth indie band who have a defining sound about them. You'll be hard pressed to find another band that sound like Trashed on Fiction. They flit between Acoustic melodies to pure rock songs with a bit of the roots music thrown in for good measure. A band you should check out live in my opinion if you are in the New York area. I'm sure they put on one hell of a show. Expect them to be getting bigger and drawing a huge fanbase and hopefully touring.



BTB Favourite Song: Igby and His Crockets











So ends another post. Remember contact me with suggestions or if you just want to talk:

Comment this blog
E - Mail: brokentoybox@hotmail.com
Myspace: www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

The Music...

No not the band, though they are quite a good band but the actual sound of it. It evolves ll the time so as usual I'll bring you some new sounds of music. Also I know a few of you have gone to the O2 Wireless Festival this week to see the likes of Beck, Morrissey, Jay Z etc and a whole load more of you are going to ZOO8. I have a favour to ask of those going, send in some reviews of what you thought of these gigs and some pics of your lovely selves. Get your point across. Is there a prize for this? Well no...unless you want become a writer for BTB. Get cracking.

Anyway the first band I bring you today is called Heroes In Error, though by listening to their music its very hard to find any errors at all. This indie 5some have some great tunes which you'll just listen to over and over again. This lot are from Surrey/London and have won the Most Entertaining Band award at Bookham Band Night so obviously these guys know what they are doing. They are taking a break for the summer but you can catch them live from September, so go watch these award winners.



BTB Favourite Song: Your World

We stay in London for the next act. Her name is Rosered and this is acoustic melodic pop at its best. This is the kind of music you can just kick back and relax to whenever you want to. Rosered's voice is quite harmonic and has a good range to it. Her song content vary between just singing along to relationships. She could be the next Sandi Thom but with some more hits. She has some shows coming up in August so go check her out.

BTB Favourite Song: Stonecold









And the final band for today is from Portland, Oregon and go by the name System and Station. System and Station are an alt. rock band in the same kind of section as Breaking Benjamin, 30's Seconds to Mars etc. Just read their about me section as well, this band isn't a quiet lot getting into all sorts of situations and more importantly have played with the likes of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Obviously this band know how to party. The band has also gone through so many line up changes and so many moves however this hasn't stopped them from making great music. The band entity, as it were, has been around since 1998 so its been 10 years of gigging and creating some great songs. I fail to see why these guys aren't putting out albums and having their own headline tour. Maybe and hopefuly it will happen.

BTB Favourite Song: On the Way






So that's that for another day. Remember check the bands out and send some feedback to:

brokentoybox@hotmail.com
www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic
or leave a comment.

The 2nd Podcast and Some More Music

Yes the 2nd podcast is up however there are still some sound problems. I thought the tests I conducted before had sorted that out but obviously not. Anyway check it out at:

http://brokentoybox.diinoweb.com/files/

Not my preferred website but the file was massive. Anyway some more music you for you music loving lot.

The first band are making some big waves this year but the majority of people have not heard of them. This band is called Splinter X and they are from Berlin, Germany. To me they are a bit like Radiohead, the In Rainbows era, and have seemingly mastered the electro/rock partnership. They've won the Canadian Bodong Battle and have currently released one album entitled "The Sound of Revelation" which I would buy if I wasn't currently financial unable. They have a great sound and they are playing in L.A. in the near future. I'm predicting they go down very well there and then take on the world. Check them out.


BTB Favourite Song: "I Am"












The second band is from Atalanta, Georgia, USA and are called Legend Has It. They are an exciting band who are influenced by the likes of Blink 182, Metallica and Weezer. They are a solid band who I think have the ability to go far if they keep at making music. They can play slow ballad like tunes such as 'Work In Progress' and the faster tunes like 'Given The Chance'. If I were to tip a band that would replace the likes of Blink 182 and Sum 41 then Legend Has It is that band. Good luck boys.



BTB Favourite Song: Given The Chance





And for the final band we find ourselves back in London and the band in question? They are called Count Fisher. The tunes they play are very uplifting while the lyrics in some cases could be considered depressing. That doesn't stop me from tapping my feet while listening to Count Fisher and writing this. There's just something different about them from all the over bands currently out there. Sure all the big alternative bands are great to listen to but they all sound the same. Count Fisher are the thing that the British music scene has been missing and its about time these gentlemen got the exposure they undoubtedly deserve.

BTB Favourite Song: Where are you now?

Remember check out the bands, send me feedback, add them as friends, go to their gigs if possible. I'm off.

More Music and Podcasts

So its official the first podcast is up and while I'm writing this the 2nd one is currently uploading. If you want to listen to the first podcast just go to:

The 1st BTB Podcast.

I'll give the link of the 2nd one once it is up on the MySpace. Anyway I'm sorry for the lack of updating recently, I've been quite busy with other things though that should now change. Well what have I found recently in the new music scene that I feel you should listen to. Read on and see.

The first band is called Falling Souls and they are from Port Olgin, Ontario, Canada and are an amazing 4 piece. They've had a few line up changes but it now seems they have the right mix of people to make some great music. Their sound of rock could be compared to that of Disturbed or Breaking Benjamin. Whatevey you think they sound like there is no denying these guys are very talented and are going places. They have an EP out but it could be tough to get a hold of if you don't live near these guys or go to a show of theirs. If you do then you must buy one. No self respecting music fan should pass the chance to own such musical masterpiece. Falling Souls is one of my big picks to be huge in the future and be heard worldwide.

BTB Favourite Song: Holidays Ago

The 2nd band that I have come across is called HUMANROOM who are from Washington D.C. They say it themselves that they sound like "everything you've heard before but in a good way" and I'm inclined to agree. While HUMANROOM aren't breaking down the barriers of music they are pushing them forward. HUMANROOM have an exciting sound. They sound great with both the acoustic side and hardcore sound of things which I think is great. Give this 4 piece a listen and you won't be disappointed.



BTB Favourite Song: The Highlander

And now for the final band. They are called National Snack and are from London. This band are really good and have played at the legendary Glastonbury festival. This is Punk making a comeback in one of its finest forms after a long time and it has been worth the wait with a twist of MoTown, especialy prevalent in the song "Soho". This uniqueness has been missing and I for one am glad National Snack are making songs like this. It's about time someone did. Some of their songs are available to download off of their MySpace page so do it. Also check out their Mischief Demo, it's ace.

BTB Favourite Song: Soho

That's that for another post. Now I'm off to wrestle with this damn upload service so the 2nd podcast can be heard by you lovely lot. In a bit!

The Advancement of BTB

Hello guys. As most of you are now aware I'm working on a new podcast to accompany the blog so watch out for that. I'll have more details once I've started the main recording of it. Good times ahead I feel. However that does not mean this place will suddenly die because this is what has got the ball rolling so lets bring about some more music!

Again we find ourselves in LA and San Diego. I may as well just move there the amount of times I talk of bands from that area. This band is known as Lonely Mattress Salesman, the name inspired from when Steve Loase, the bands front man, went mattress shopping and saw these salesmen all alone. He pays homage to them and what a way to do it. This 3 piece piano driven soft rock band are amazing and have that uniqueness about them that surround major bands like Muse and so should be playing sold out shows and at major festivals. Why haven't they been signed yet? You record labels need to have a listen to this band and sign them, make them big. Piano led bands are a rarity in modern music so to find something this special is truly great.
BTB Favourite Song: You are no better.

Next we go to Chicago and home of a band known as Stone Descendant who play good old fashion rock music with a bit of a twist. This 5 piece have so much talent that its almost unnatural. You can't help to compare them to the likes of Pearl Jam, Nirvana and any of the big rock bands from the 70's. They have the tunes that you just have to dance along to and sing. At a time when the old style rock isn't as big as it used to be we need this band to become big and bring that sound back with a resounding, headbanging, crash. I don't think you'll be disappointed with this lot, I'm certainly not.



BTB Favourite Song: Midnight

And for our final act, ladies and gentlemen, we have Mute Critic from Louisiana. I like this band a lot and so had to give them a mention. These guys play a bit of slow rock, a bit of fast rock and some rap, very fast rap. I'd say they sound a bit like Smashing Pumpkins and Placebo. They have an excellent variety which is needed by a band if it want's to survive in this day and age. Mute Critic will survive and they will mute every critic they meet because any one with any sense of what good music is will not say Mute Critic are bad. This talented lot have got the sound to take them all the way and further. So listen and enjoy!


BTB Favourite Song: As It Was

Right that's todays post done and now I'm going to work on the podcast. Exciting stuff. Remember any suggestions, you can reach me on the MySpace page or brokentoybox@hotmail.com.

A Medley of More Music.

Today feels really summery in my opinion, so today I'm going to give you some bands that are easy listening, bands that you can just enjoy while lounging about in the sun maybe with some kind of beverage. The biggest news this week is that Glasto kicks off this weekend. If you have a ticket you can go down to to the campsite from today so go for it. Get in the festival mood early. As for me I'll be stuck watching it on TV. Maybe I'll put a tent up in the garden...Anyway enough of this rambling. On to the music!

The first band was found by Mr Jack Gant of The Gantage Order so all thanks go to him for this mention. The band go by the name of Oh Mr Stereo, who are from Leeds. Oh Mr Stereo are a 4 piece and the band members are:

Mr Ste - Lead Vocals/Guitar
Mykey Stereo- Bass/Vocals
Disco Dave- Guitar/Vocals
Chris D - Drums/ Vocals

To me they sound a bit like The Fray and bands in that genre. I can see them becoming a favourite band for people from all backgrounds, their sound is that appealing and so give them a listen, you really won't regret it and tey will put you in a nice calm mood. Oh Mr Stereo currently have an EP out so go and buy it. Only £3 for 7 songs. Great deal there.

BTB Favourite Song: Eye to Eye

For our next we travel over to Los Angeles, again. Seriously I know talent thrives in LA but the number of times I end up mentioning it...it's madness. This singer is simply known as Juliana and has talent both with her singing and her production skills. Everything you hear she has produced herself. Now this fits in with the summer theme because I can see her songs being played in the evening when people get up and dance after chilling all day. Her songs would also not be out of place in any nightclub, she has that great range. I can't predict the future but I see Juliana being in the charts soon enough and being played on the radio worldwide.

BTB Favourite Song: Rock By Numbers

And for our final act, its Badges from Bournemouth. Why do I choose them in this summer themed post. In my opinion this band is a festival band, band that should be going places. The band is made up of 3 guys, Adam, Nick and Chris. You can tell these guys have been influenced by some of the biggest bands around and they take that influence and create their own brand. Acoustic indie rock at its pure finest.


BTB Favourite Song: Careless

So concludes another BTB post. Remember keep reading and listening and send me the feedback either at:

MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic

or

E-mail: brokentoybox@hotmail.com

The Big 20!

Well we're now at post number 20, which means there are more posts than birthdays I've had! So from now a new era in Broken Toy Box's history begins. The blog is getting revamped, already the colour of it has been changed and so will everything else. No longer will we just have 2 bands, that's getting knocked up to 3 and there will be pictures of the bands. Lets liven this place up a bit!

The first band is from North Carolina, USA and go by the name of Incidental Encounter. We're talking metal here and good old fashioned headbanging. This 5 piece is made up of Kevin Moberty on Lead Vocals, Robert LaFollette on Bass, Robby Moya-Mendez on Drums, Anthony Dressler on Guitar and backing vocals and Aaron Loftin on guitar however he is joining the Marines so will be leaving the band. Incidental Encounter haven't had a lot of exposure outside their State, which is a shame because they deserve it. Hopefully you guys who are reading this will give them that. They have great songs from the loud Mike V to the great Tear Me Down. I rate this band highly and believe in the future they will be playing festivals all over the place. They have that kind of sound.


BTB Favourite Song: 'Tear Me Down'

From North Carolina to the North of England, Preston/Wigan, to be kind of precise and a band called Pencil In. They only fully formed during this years spring but you'd be forgiven if you thought they had been playing for years. In such a short space of time they have refined their sound, recorded a number of great tunes. The band members are:

Bill Orrick- Lead Vocals/ Guitar
Tony Arnott - Guitar/Backing Vocals
Neil Sharrock - Bass
David Perkins - Drums/Percussion

They want to sound different to everything else that people hear everyday on the radio and I think they have taken their first step to achieving that. According to a lot of sources Glasvegas are the best new band in Britain. I challenge that and say listen to Pencil In. Miles better in my opinion. All their songs are of great quality.



BTB Favourite Song: It's hard to choose but I'll say Excess to Impress.


And finally we go to Toronto, Canada for the final band of today. They are known as After The War and are great. This 3 piece class themselves as a Rock/Pop outfit and I think their sound is great. It's not totally unique (what is unique these days?) but they do what they do very well. They only have two songs on their MySpace at the moment but they are both very well composed. There isn't a lot of information about this band floating around but they have been together since 2006. However there two songs are loud and really wake you up. Get listening, spread the word and get more people to listen to them.


BTB Favourite Song: WW3

So concludes the revamp of Broken Toy Box. The 3 bands mentioned are great so listen to them all and spread the word. Also send me feedback, comment, e-mail, even send a messenger pidgeon. Until next time!

Aran.

The Difficulties.....

Maybe I've hit a rut, maybe it's music in general but recently its been harder to find bands that make me sit up and listen. I've noticed a lot of the same old stuff out there. This blog is to find the new bands that are the cream of the crop and so far that journey's been great. Today it nearly took me 2 hours to find the first band that stood out to me. Maybe I'm becoming a cynical bastard...Anyway today's two bands have been found and I know you'll like them. Also I would just like to make a correction. Total Movement have informed me that Joe Dickinson is taking over the duties of guitar player.

The first band are from Pennsylvania, USA and they go by the name of Something Wicked. This twosome are kept busy with bringing their music together. Scott Nichols is vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist and bassist while Peter Vanderheyden the drummer jumps onto other instruments when need be. Two guys who sound like they are a 5 piece. Brilliant. Their music forte is rock, both slow songs and quick dance til you drop songs. In my humble opinion I can't help but think these guys could be a mix of Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana but doing it in their individual way. With so much talent I'm also surprised they haven't been snapped up by a record label. Like the other bands I have mentioned I champion these guys to go far.

BTB Favourite Song: Let's Play Hangman

Next we have Book Club also from Pennysylvania and also a two piece. These guys have a more poppy sound which I think its great. Their sound is really uplifting especially on a sunny day like today. Making up Book Club are Craig Almquist and Joe Giuffirda who have really hit the spot when it comes to good music. A good old pop sound with a twist of folk. Their lyrics also have some meaning and are really easy to sing along. If they continue what they are doing then I can't help but see these guys becoming big. If you are near Lancaster, Pennysylvania on the 18th July check them out at The Chameleon. You won't regret it.

BTB Favourite Song: Anything

So another end to the blog. Just a little note. You can now speak to me live via MSN. Just add brokentoybox@hotmail.com to your contacts and we can talk about anything from music to why flys repeatedly fly into windows. All good stuff.

Music: We all crave it...

Right into business today where I have chosen two fantastic bands yet again for your listening pleasure. However just a quick reminder that Carmen's album is out on the 30th of June so preorder it now, just like I have! Also Who is Chuy Vega? and Private Dancers have added new songs to their MySpace pages so check them out. Today we have two very different approaches to a similar genre...

The first band hail from Vancouver, Canada and are called Empire Alley. They are an indie four piece who have been friends for 20 years and formally formed Empire Alley in 2006. Since then they have been gaining great acclaim in their home town and now spreading thorughout Canada. Citing their influences as Bloc Party and Arctic Monkeys these four guys won't let you down. I'd say all their songs are great but the one that stands out is Orange Revolution. These guys have the sound of a band who have been working together for years, learnt from their influences and created something big. If I had to tip Canada's next top band these guys would surely be frontrunners.

BTB Favourite Song: Orange Revolution

Now we move to my favourite city in the world, good old London. London has always been a hive of creativity, ingenuity and entertainment. One such band that provides all three in spades is Total Movement. They have combined the genres of rock with electronica without any problems it seems. This exciting 4 piece have recently released their first EP so get it. The vocals of Paul Mansfold along with brother Alan Mansfold on Bass, James Field on Drums and Ollie Balman as guitarist and producer create a perfect harmoic balance that I feel has been recently missing from the radio. The originality of how these guys work should definently be noted and all music lovers better watch out for Total Movement. I see these guys breaking into the big leagues sooner rather than later. If you can check them out live. Apparently they're even better. I know I will be.

BTB Favourite Song: The Heat

So to the end of another post we have come. Remember comments, feedback etc. If you are reading this just drop me a hello at brokentoybox@hotmail.com or www.myspace.com/brokentoyboxmusic. Look forward to hearing from you.

More music for you hungry lot!

I mention hungry in the title because I'm hungry...I wish I had food. Anyway, unless you're going to offer me food, you are actually here to read about and listen to the music I have found and that I like. Also an alert just came up to say Carl Barat of Dirty Pretty Things has acute pancreatis. I wish him well. Also all you lot in LA and the surrounding areas, Crossed Keys have a tour bus event, $25 to join them. It will be a wise investment. Also to mention Carmen's debut album is out this Monday. Get a copy!

Right then lets start with today's batch of music. The first band is from Towson, Maryland, USA and go by the name of Fire In The Hole. They are a good rock band not quite like any other and yet they are if you know what I mean. Once you think you have this lot pinned down they do a bit of a reversal and change. Just compare two of their songs "The Human Race Erased" and "Woah Yeah Dance Tryna". This band are currently in the studio recording, I can only hope it's an album because that would be a wise investment if there was one. These guys know how to make music and I advise any bands starting up now to have a listen. Even without any singles released, Fire In The Hole are already raising the bar.

BTB's Favourite Song: Woah Yeah Dance Tryna

And now onto Leigh, England and a band simply known as PARK. They are an Indie Rock band, Another One?! I hear you cry, but fear not because they sound different. I could call a mix here between Arctic Monkeys, The Who and Muse especially on the track "Communication Breakdown". The actually rhythm and tune sounds like something that Muse would put together, the lyrics by the Arctic Monkeys and just the pure stadium epicness like The Who. So yeah a great mix and great talent from this band of five. Give them a listen and champion this band. They should already be getting awards.

BTB's Favourite Song: Communication Breakdown.

Listen, give me feedback and suggestions. Who knows? Maybe you'll be reviewed next...

And on we go

I hope you enjoyed yesterday's double update. Of course you did. Before we begin you may have heard a small indie band, Creaky Boards, claimed that Coldplay copied their melody for Viva La Vida. Well after listening to both tracks I can say although there are similarities Coldplay have done the better job, not to say Creaky Boards haven't done a good job. However getting publicity this way isn't a great way to build your reputation...

Anyway enough of that little life lesson and on with music. We start in New Jersey, USA, with a band called Agency. Now Agency have had one album out already which was released in 2006, however I haven't heard it yet. What I have heard is a handful of songs from their MySpace page which are good songs. Agency have a good range and can do both slow ballads, take for example their song "Dissolve to faster headbanging tunes, like their song "In The Static." I can't pigeon hole these guys. They have all the right ingredients that make a good band. So order their album, like I will be, give it a listen and keep an eye Agency.

BTB Recommended Song: In The Static

Now to The Windy City, Chicago and a band known as Searching 4 Charlie. They are an Indie Rock band and in my opinion sound a bit like Jimmy Eat World. These guys are a great band and have a lot of musical talent between the four of them. I'm quite surprised these guys haven't been signed by a major record label but I don't think they'll have to wait too long for that to happen. These guys have an EP you can order as well as loads of other merchandise if you so wish. Check them out.

BTB Recommended Song: EXP

So brings about the end of another day of music. Enjoy!

Post Two of the Day: The Gantage Order Interview

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is time for the first ever Broken Toy Box interview to be published. A little bit of background before we begin. We live in a time where there aren't many comedy bands making it big apart from Tenacious D and when The Mighty Boosh start their band another one will grace our lives. However this isn't about the big bands we all know and love, it's about the small bands who do what they love. Also this interview was not the conventional sit down interview. Replace a room with a walk through a town centre at midnight when members of the following band are a bit drunk. Much more entertaining this way. I introduce to you The Gantage Order.

Members: Chris Page and Jack Gant
Genre: Comedy

So why The Gantage Order?

Jack: Well its quite simple really. Gantage is a mix of my name and Chris' name and Order came from Will Forder who is no longer in the band. It could've been The Orderage Gant, The Order Gantage, The Gorder Age. The Gantage Order made the most sense.

What inspired you?

Jack: Well my cousin bought a guitar and so then I bought a guitar and started playing it. Then other people bought guitars, except Page who already had a guitar. Then we made songs about the people we know.

Chris: Also trees and clouds inspire me!

Jack: Yeah, trees and clouds too.

At this point in time Chris starts walking along a grassy embankment, wasted, and then goes into a car park. Jack and I follow, where Jack and Chris then hug and spin in circles. This leads to Chris flying into me and near death as we nearly fall down a hill...On with the interview!

So tell me about your first gig.

Jack: Well our first gig was in my back garden. I think my neighbours enjoyed it.
Chris: I'm pretty.

Do you have an album in the works?
Jack: We already have an album out! We're currently working on the second one which will be called Friends of The Gantage Order. It'll be a well good album with even more great songs. That's not a surprise though because I'm writing them.

Chris: Lalala

Jack (as we're passing a little grassy area): Do you remember when I fell over that little hill with a kebab which went everywhere?

Me: Yes mate. And Chris ran off down that road all the way to his house.

Chris: Actually it was that road (points).

So does the Gantage Order have a tour in the works?

Jack: Well if by tour you mean between my house and Chris' house then yes we're touring! It'll be fun.

At this point we reach my house where I must depart ways with The Gantage Order.

Jack: Are you actually going to remember this tomorrow and publish it?
Chris: You better remember.

As you can see boys, I did remember.

Post One of the Day: Reviews

In this day and age it's not enough to now all about the mainstream bands that we hear on the radio. Every music fan is looking for something new, something original, something only a few people have heard before.

For our first band we go to Germany, home of the legendary Scorpions, and into the genre of rock. Ladies and Gentlemen I introduce to you Tricky Lobsters and their take on the whole rock and heavy metal scene. There is only one word that can do this band justice, extraordinary. The band have been together for just over 2 years but have the sound that makes them sound like they've been together for at least 10. All their songs have exciting riffs, which I'm sure, had they already been famous, would have featured on the 25 greatest riffs list of all time. I say check them out and let your headbanging side come out. My personal favourite from Tricky Lobster is "Keep an Eye on the Road" though all their songs are excellent.

Now we go from Germany and its hard rockers to Los Angeles, California and the rock/rap combination of Life Nine . This is the kind of genre that I am a really big fan of as it brings about two completely different genres and mixes them so well. Jason's, lead vocalist, has that air of familiarity yet you can never quite put yor finger on why he sounds familiar to you. One thing is that he is very talented at what he does. Then we have the rapper, Stix who can slow things down like he does on the track "Take Me There", or speed things up like he does on the track "Kiss Fast". Point is Stix has a range, something I feel a rapper needs if he wants to compete with the best. Combine these two great vocalists with the likes of Rob Josefsson on Guitar, Jesse Josefsson on Drums and Mike Gonsolin on Bass and you have the makings of a great band in the making. Life Nine are currently working on their debut album. I advise you to buy it when it is released as it is something you will not regret.in the future. My favourite track here is Kiss Fast as it brings out the raw talent all the band members have.

Now we move onto the final band to complete this hat trick of creativity and we move to Canada and a band called Alert The Medic . This band is kind of a pop rock group, formerly known as RUDY. They have two albums out, one under their old old name and a new self titled album. I like their sound a lot and can see their songs being played in all kinds of situations. The band have been together since 2002 and it shows in their music. Each member has drawn on his own experience to bring about a strong sound and combine it with the others to have a band that have already gained critical acclaim in their native Canada. However their music is struggling to break into the UK which I think is a real shame. So get listening to them, get your friends listening to them and give them the credit they so undoubtedly deserve. Every song is a gem and each one will have you singing along as the lyrics become familiar to you because once you hear these guys you won't stop listening.

Listen, enjoy and send me feedback!

So I'm shit at updating...

Right I now promise full service. It's been a bit of a hectic week and adjusting to living with parents again is hard and stressful. However that's enough about my life, unless you want to hear some more, and onto what this blog is all about. New Music. So what musical wonders to I have for you today? Read on and find out...

Our first stop this week is to Denmark and the genre of metal/grunge. The band are called Mirror in Charge and they are good. Not great yet but they'll get there. To me they sound a bit like a young Metallica so if your a fan of them check out Mirror in Charge. I predict big things for this band as they get more and more experience because we all know Metal never dies and this band is one band representing the new generation of metal rockers. Also to note is that all their songs are available to download for free from their MySpace which I can say is a good thing. Download their songs, put them on your mp3 player and take this new wave of metal with you.

From Denmark we move to where else but Los Angeles again. Honestly I think they've put something in the water in LA, because a lot of talented bands are rising to the surface there. One such band is Crossed Keys, a solid rock band. The band are led by the vocals of Night Maiden, who's voice I could listen to all day, it's that good. Then we have Wylde Rhodes on lead/rhythm guitar, Shaggy Strange also swapping between lead and rhythm guitar, Freddy Patron on Bass and The Beast on drums. In my own opinion, they sound a bit like Evanescence but no matter how big Evanescence are, I think Crossed Keys have something that will take them further than that mark, something bigger. They are currently looking for a record label so if there are any people from music companies reading this, check them out and sign them. You'd be foolish not to.

And so we come the end of another installment of the BTB Blog. Remember check me out here or here. Also send me feedback and suggestions!

Full Service Resumes

Well I'm back after an emotionally and physically draining week which didn't leave me a lot of time to find music, however Summer is now officially here which gives me all the time in the world to do what I want, one of those things being finding new music. First of all the members of Battery Acid have decided to change their band name to For The Moment so as of now Battery Acid no longer exists.

The first artist I have found this week is Ocean Reid from London a musician who concentrates on the acoustic side of things. If you're looking for a sound that will keep you relaxed and chilled throughout the summer then look no further as Ocean Reid provides in the very best of music you could ever hope for. My personal favourite is "Words Like Cold Water" which I believe brings out the best of Ocean Reid's talents, though his other songs are all close seconds. Ocean Reid doesn't just have great tunes but strong, meaningful lyrics and you will find yourself singing along.

Now we move to Brazil and more importantly Rio de Janeiro, one of the new homes of great music and a band, a band known as Private Dancers, a pop rock combo. The band is a five piece with Fake on vocals who can switch her style in an instant, a rare talent, then there's Johnny on guitar, Deanna on Keyboards, Carol on Bass and Gabriel on Drums. My favourite song is Empty Room but they're all good. We've had one good band come out of Brazil in the form of CSS, now it is the time of Private Dancers to follow and be embraced by the music world.