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The Big Takeover Issue #95

Dave Franklin

Dave has pretty much worn all the creative hats there are to wear. Musician, promoter, (small) record label boss, festival co-organiser, journalist, reviewer, publicist and everything in between. He now divides his time between writing about music and any number of other subjects from travel to games to social issues. He runs his own new music website and contributes to a number of UK based printed music magazines and a few smaller websites. He has spent the last ten years writing music columns for his regional newspaper though has recently given this up to spend more time with his record collection.

Mortal Prophets - Ghost Land (Lux Astralis Music)

21 January 2025

John Beckmann and The Mortal Prophets have done it again with their latest release, Ghost Land. This ambient-alternative soundtrack of 23 songs transcends the conventional boundaries of music, offering a profound auditory experience that feels otherworldly and deeply introspective, and cinematic. “Ghost Land” is aptly described by Beckmann as “Imaginary Cinema,” indeed, each track feels like the score to an unmade film set in a cosmic Western Martian landscape.

The Sea At Midnight - Our Brilliant Destruction (self-released)

21 January 2025

What sets this release apart is not just its musical prowess but also its philanthropic mission. In response to the devastating consequences of climate change, such as prolonged droughts and wildfires, The Sea At Midnight has pledged to donate all proceeds from their Bandcamp sales to support victims of the recent LA fires. This commitment to giving back to the community adds a poignant layer of meaning to “Our Brilliant Destruction,” making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts looking to make a positive impact through their passion for music.

Goddamn Wolves - We're Doomed (self-released)

21 January 2025

Goddamn Wolves’ new release, the DOOM EP,- represents the best of the band: male/female vocal interplay backed by hard hitting drums and relentless guitar and bass melodies. The first single “We’re Doomed” comes out January 20th, with everything that date implies. Brace yourself with Goddamn Wolves – melodic indie rock for the end times!

Someone Called Sarah - Lesson (Loft Bed Studios)

21 January 2025

Someone Called Sarah is a true DIY independent artist who takes care of every step of music creation herself, from underneath her loft bed in her small apartment bedroom. Combining singer-songwriter roots with pop, rock, and electronic influences, her dynamic sound resonates deeply with listeners. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Composition and Vocal Performance (2017) and has been teaching music since 2018, sharing her expertise on over 10 instruments.

Partners in Crime - I'll Never Find Another You (self-released)

20 January 2025

On January 1st, 2025, Partners In Crime released their captivating cover single, “I’ll Never Find Another You.” Recorded at Kinck Sound in Scarborough and produced by Fred Kinck Petersen and Terry Gadsden, this track showcases the band’s diverse influences, ranging from The Beatles to U2 to Roxy Music. With lyrics that blend humor and heartfelt emotion, “I’ll Never Find Another You” is a testament to Partners In Crime’s musical versatility and creativity. As one band member aptly puts it, “You’re Right!!”

Alwyn Morrison - The City (self-released)

20 January 2025

This song is a direct reference to New York City, where Alwyn Morrison lives, but it is really about any city, or any place, where someone feels like they belong there, and don’t, at the same time. In New York, there is this inexplicable feeling of wanting to stay in the city in spite of its many challenges. Everyone is always going through something. Or chasing something. Love. A job and financial peace of mind – maybe the job of your dreams. Maybe a nicer apartment. Or it can be making friends, starting a family, overcoming heartbreak

Blofeld Sands - People (self-released)

20 January 2025

Set to release on January 20th, 2025, ‘People’ offers listeners a refreshing blend of infectious beats and thought-provoking lyrics. While the single is not yet available on major streaming platforms, eager fans can obtain the track directly from Blofeld Sands by reaching out via email at blofeldsands@gmail.com. Stay tuned for upcoming live performances from this dynamic band as they continue to make waves in the music industry. Keep an eye out for Blofeld Sands – the next big thing in indie music!

Phwoar - Waiting for the Sun (First Frontier Records)

20 January 2025

“Waiting for the Sun” is a song about resilience. It explores hope as a form of rebellion and learning to find strength in times of weakness. In the UK, January 20 (this song’s release date) is known as Blue Monday, which is supposedly the most depressing day of the year (coincidentally in 2025, it is also the day of the US presidential inauguration). Blue Monday was concocted to sell you stuff, using people’s mental health as an excuse to do so.

Ecce Shnak - The Internet (Records Man, Records)

19 January 2025

NYC-based outfit Ecce Shnak presents their latest single ‘The Internet’, the third offering from their Shadows Grow Fangs EP, out February 7 via Record Man, Records. Here, the quintet makes a fine mockery of the web from the perspective of a time-travelling poet. “What the fuck is the internet?!” Of course, this might sound a little ‘zany’, but it’s really not. Not at all. It’s intricately constructed, methodically fashioned, and – while undeniably offbeat – as serious and logical as it’s entertaining.

Fake Plastic - Riptide (self-released)

19 January 2025

Fake Plastic is a band that, like no other, combines old-school rock aesthetics and stadium choruses with indie credibility, experimentation, and garage punk grit. Their songs are written and performed straight from the heart, and their cutting-edge poetic stuff reflects the contemporary condition.

Paul Cafcae - Eileen (Cafcae Records)

19 January 2025

An accomplished scholar of folk accordion hailing from the former USSR, Cafcae picked up the guitar while attending high school in Maryland. It was around this time that he began experimenting with writing his own material and went on to play in bands in Europe and North America.

Tom Minor - Future Is an F Word (Overreaction Records)

18 January 2025

Released hot on the heels of the warmest year on record (2024), the London-based indie artiste’s new single is a classically entertaining lament of a relationship going sour. Or – is it in actual fact a highly eloquent piece of political commentary on the inevitable global climate disaster, the probability of humankind doing fuck all about it before it’s too late and we’re all going to die a terrible heat-induced death soon enough? Well, perhaps a bit of both, but you decide. “Future Is an F Word” was produced by Teaboy Palmer – the Brian Wilson of West Hampstead. Let’s enjoy it while we may.

Crow Follow - Sylvia Sez (For Justine) (self-released)

18 January 2025

Crow Follow’s shaman rock and urban cabaret brings glowing brightness to the darkest tunes. Risen from the vibe of a diverse and energetic music scene in Boston MA, Crow Follow celebrates and transcends it. Their DNA is from the Art Rock, Low Rock, and Post Punk scenes of the late 20th century, filtered through the usual smoldering warehouses and sketchy sugar shacks of the American Hinterland

Okinawa Plane Crash - Wizards of the West Side (Original Plane Collective)

17 January 2025

OKINAWA PLANE CRASH is a 4 piece DIY punk band with heavy nu-metal and garage rock influences. On January 4th, 2025, they released their 3rd self-funded album, WIZARDS OF THE WEST SIDE. The first track, “MACHETE” (seen as “BILLIE EILISH MACHETE” on physical CD’s), takes the listener to an alternate reality in which Billie Eilish has had enough of fame. Run as she wields a machete, and dance to the instrumental break as she chases you through the woods!! There’s never been a slasher thriller this fun…

Owen Young - These Painted Flowers (self-released)

17 January 2025

With the EP “These Painted Flowers”, the pandemic album project started in 2020 is at long last complete. The full album “Muddy River” has four EP parts. Part One: “On A Day Like That” has been on line since late 2021. Part Two: “Town Line” added more stories at the start of December 2024. Part Three: Imaginatively called “Three”, its three extended tracks are a collection of songs and rants. Part Four: “These Painted Flowers” wraps it all up.

Sorry Holly - Use Your Heart (Sad Times Productions)

17 January 2025

Hailing from Portland, OR, Sorry Holly is a post-punk trio ten years in the making. Life gets in the way in many shapes and forms, keeping the band apart for a few scattered years. But in 2023, the band headed to Chicago, IL to record their first full length with producer Simon Small at Type One Studios. The debut album Use Your Heart is a dedication to lost loves and forgotten friends. A sonic wave of emo noise with an energetic live show to match. Sorry Holly is ready to give you a demonstration in poetic rock and roll justice.

CMON CMON - Turn Off the Lights (self-released)

17 January 2025

‘Turn Off The Lights’ is the second single from the forthcoming CMON CMON EP Headwind to be released on March 14 2025. The single was produced by British producer James Brown, recorded at Trypoul Studio in The Netherlands and mixed at JBJ Studio in Portobello Road, London, UK. Mastering was done by Carl Saff in Chicago, USA.

The Tidal Water - Don't Succumb To Fear (Prorigg)

16 January 2025

Tidal Water is the brainchild of Martin Hovden, a passionate vocalist, songwriter, and producer from Oslo, Norway. Martin, the primary visionary and financial backer, infuses his deep societal concerns and personal experiences into Tidal Water’s music. His background in project management and event production enables him to bring a unique blend of powerful rock music to life, enhanced by the collaboration of talented friends from his musical journey.

The Muster Point Project - Darlin' (Francomedia)

15 January 2025

The Muster Point Project (TMPP) kicks off 2025 with a quick little indie rock number. Bordering on proto-punk, “Darlin’” takes off in standard hard rock fashion but departs quickly in the bridge, venturing into progressive territory, giving listeners a bit of a twist, lyrically and musically.

Ethan Samuel Brown - Small Actors (self-released)

15 January 2025

The album explores themes of patriotism, art, protest, and belonging through the lens of someone who’s spent years watching others tell their stories. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art* (“Rothko”) to the backroads of *Kentucky (“Rose Hill”), Brown crafts detailed narratives that challenge listeners to examine their own roles in America’s ongoing drama.

Mitch Rocket - Venture Cowboys (NASA Peepo Records)

15 January 2025

“Venture Cowboys” is the first single taken from Mitch Rocket’s performance at the Retro-Future Revue 2024. The full EP Live at the Retro-Future Revue is set for release in April 2025.

The Tasty Kings w/ Blondie Chaplin - Native Tongue (Andrew L Morse)

14 January 2025

“Maybe there’s times we do want to be owned and dominated by music. We long for something discordant and transgressive. Or do we really need to sit in the corner and weep uncontrollably? But when we’re not in any of those moods, when we do want to be loved, when we just need to meet up with a crew of good souls who mean us well, there’s an album like Native Tongue. It’s more of an invitation to a place, the invention of a certain space where we’re welcome to hang out. “

MatAre - Under a Stone (Matt Rousseau)

14 January 2025

“Under A Stone” draws inspiration from iconic bands like The Smiths, The Cure, and the Sundays. The track encapsulates the theme of solitude and acceptance, reflecting MatAre’s personal experience of living apart from loved ones. With a blend of upbeat melodies and introspective lyrics, this release stands out for its candid exploration of universal themes, turning despair into a matter of contemplation and resilience. Recorded in MatAre’s traveling home studio in Fort Walton Beach, this single features unique guitar tones that pay homage to the spirit of 80s new wave music, promising listeners a captivating musical journey.

HØME - Electric Love (self-released)

14 January 2025

HØME, shaped by projects like MAYFAIR, e suppoze, and The Naughty Daughters, have influenced the alternative rock scene for over three decades. With their first EP, Finding North, the four musicians begin a new chapter. After drawing attention with “Shivering and Cold” and “Sun to God” in 2023, their 2024 singles “Good Times” and “Electric Love” expanded their streaming audience. “Electric Love” stands out with its dynamic energy, perfect for the colder months.

Brainheart - Living In My Headphones (self-released)

13 January 2025

Music producer Brainheart has joined forces with singer-songwriter Michael Shynes to release a captivating new single, “Living in My Headphones.” This song is about those moments when the world feels overwhelming, and music becomes your refuge. At its core, “Living in My Headphones” is an anthem for anyone seeking solace in music during life’s most challenging moments. The song captures a person’s internal dialogue, navigating feelings of isolation, self-discovery, and resilience.

Flock of Indifference - Crashing Together (Planet Gowanus Records)

13 January 2025

Flock of Indifference is a dynamic rock band that blends the brooding intensity of post-punk with the electrifying energy of modern rock. Formed by a group of kindred spirits who met in Philadelphia, the band channels a raw, unapologetic sound that resonates with disillusioned hearts and restless souls.

Lauren Ash - Whiplash (self-released)

13 January 2025

Lauren Ash is a TV actress you may know from her portrayal of Dina on NBC’s “Superstore” for 6 years. She’s also most recently been seen as Lexi in the ABC series “Not Dead Yet”. And now, for the first time in her life, she is living out her childhood dream of releasing her own music! Her musical style has been compared to Paramore and “if Gwen Stefani fronted Blink 182”. This is truly a passion project that she couldn’t be more excited to share with the world.

Sheykh Forever - Run For Cover (Forever Records)

13 January 2025

Sheykh Forever is a factory for infectious earworms from somewhere between yesteryear and the distant future. Its writer, producer and principal performer, Iraqi-born Mostafa Al, fuses disco, heavy rock and hypnagogic indie pop—all slathered with a fat dose of booty-bouncing funk. Written, produced, and recorded entirely at his home studio, his new single “Run for cover” delivers an enchanting and unique take on the classic anti-war anthem, with influences ranging from the psychedelic taunts of The Flaming Lips to the emotive drama of Janis Joplin.

Shaven Primates - Chasing The Dragon (TAD Records)

12 January 2025

With grinding, rumbling basslines, wailing guitars, versatile synths shifting from retro to modern, thundering drums, and vocals that croon and scream, our sound is inspired by The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, Prodigy, Yes, Clash, Bowie, Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, and a relentless passion for the music they love.

Mardi Gras - Sandcastle (Underground Symphony)

12 January 2025

Sandcastle is an intense and very deep album based on an original treatment written by Sante Sabbatini, Francesco Braida and Filippo Novelli, out now as a Graphic Musical. Mardi Gras takes us on a introspective journey full of emotional tensions that highlight man’s fragility and insecurities, but at the same time enhances his strength and beauty.

Sons of Silver - Runaway Emotions (4L Entertainment)

12 January 2025

Los Angeles band Sons of Silver is set to deliver their debut full-length album, Runaway Emotions, in January 2025. This release features classic rock ‘n’ roll infused with apocalyptic post-punk fury, echoing the protest music of the sixties and seventies. The ten tracks offer a full-throttle rallying cry—guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards—to preserve our freedom and collective humanity in the divisive aftermath of the lockdown.

Jason Masi - Pretty (Masi Music LLC)

11 January 2025

Jason Masi’s newest release, “Pretty”, is a sexy retro pop rock song that is sure to get listeners in the groove with its tantalizing rhythm and infectious melodies. It is an animalistic theme of desire for a subject of fascination with a recognition that the hypnotic power of physical beauty has left the narrator helpless to escape the subject’s allure. This song captures the nature and power of physical attraction despite one’s self.

Sam Graber Band - Love & Fury (self-released)

10 January 2025

It’s not every day Minneapolis music royalty comes together and makes an album to leap out and grab the soul.” Grabs the soul indeed. Melody, heart, power pop and drive. With Love & Fury the Sam Graber Band has delivered one of the finest local rock albums in years.
The shifting balance between the love lyrical and the fury manic, that’s the album.

Jennifer Marie - Do It All Again (Jennifer Marie Music Group)

10 January 2025

Striking beauty, dynamic powerhouse vocals, coupled with her songwriting prowess, Jennifer Marie delivers a moving performance with her sophomore EP, Do It All Again. After great success of her debut album You Can Whisper, Jennifer Marie felt the pull to explore her love of soulful, pop music that shifts her from her prior project.

Sienna Wileman - Scenario (SW Tunes)

10 January 2025

Sienna Wileman is a British singer-songwriter and actor. She began writing songs at the age of 7 on the guitar and soon after learnt to write them on piano. At the age of 14, she released her debut single ‘Petals’ in February 2022. She is an indie dark-pop artist who writes lyrics based on her own experiences and inspiration from other artists.

Thurtythree - Control (self-released)

10 January 2025

Rising alternative rock artist Thurtythree has unveiled their latest single, “Control”, an emotionally charged track that encapsulates the turmoil of loss, frustration, and the desperate fight to regain stability. Known for their haunting melodies and evocative lyrics, Thurtythree once again proves their ability to create deeply relatable music with a sound that’s as fresh as it is nostalgic.

Tulipomania - Absolution (Sursumcorda Records)

10 January 2025

Philadelphia-based art-rock duo Tulipomania present their sixth album ‘Absolution’, inspired by an invitation from acclaimed author Jeff VanderMeer to contribute music as part of the publication of his latest novel ‘Absolution’, the surprise fourth volume in his award-winning ‘Southern Reach’ series.

Mary Strand - Take Your Time (Hygh Tension Records)

10 January 2025

Rising solo artist Mary Strand’s debut album, Golden Girl, dropped in 2023. Her forthcoming second album, I Don’t Need Your Permission, takes a big musical leap forward as she comes into her own sound and fully embraces musical influences from the garage rock, punk rock, and power pop eras of rock and roll. She has truly found her own voice.

Talk In Vain - Distant Land (self-released)

10 January 2025

“Distant Land” is the second single from Talk in Vain, offering a heavier and more dynamic sound compared to their debut, “Her Case.” This track demonstrates the band’s evolving style, blending powerful hard rock energy with gripping melodies. Magnus Hellman and Jessica Lindman craft a sound that is both bold and accessible, aiming to connect with rock fans worldwide.

Silent Income - Sweet Pea (Everyday Bread)

10 January 2025

Set to grace the music scene on 10th Jan 2025, “Sweet Pea” by Silent Income is a labor of love that has been three years in the making. The track exudes a playful and carefree vibe, showcasing the duo’s knack for creating memorable melodies and whimsical guitar solos. Recorded in various locations including Sam’s home studio and Union St Studios, this release stands out for its organic and collaborative recording process, capturing the essence of Silent Income’s creative journey. With a quote likening the track to an “endless summer’s day,” this single promises to leave a lasting impression on fans of indie-pop music.

Death of the Story - I'm Vanishing From View (self-released)

8 January 2025

Death of the Story are Jim Harley and Dean Morton and their influences include Fad Gadget, Ministry, Fat White Family, LCD Soudsystem, Talking Heads, Hot Chip, Swans and Death in Vegas

Infierno de Dante - Quizá Mañana (Sol Wave Records)

7 January 2025

“Quizá Mañana” is the new album by Infierno de Dante, a work that explores the contrasts of 60s psychedelic rock. Through eight carefully crafted songs, composed by its seven members, the band creates an introspective journey that delves into themes such as the fleeting moments of life and the relationship with various substances, both physical and emotional.

Carrying Torches - Good In Blue (self-released)

7 January 2025

“Good in Blue” was born from late-night jam sessions, weaving soulful lyrics with a driving alt-rock sound. It reflects a journey of self-discovery and emotional release, crafted with layers of synths and dynamic guitar riffs.

ChiodoSupply - 1919 (Eisenhower Records)

6 January 2025

1919, a poignant and emotionally charged record that exemplifies the heart and soul of his punk rock roots and transformation to his Americana sound. With rich storytelling and an authentic sound, 1919 is more than just a new record it’s an entirely new direction for ChiodoSupply.

Terry Blade - Tell 'Em (self-released)

5 January 2025

With influences ranging from legendary artists like BB King, Muddy Waters, Odetta, and Nina Simone, Terry Blade’s “Tell ‘Em” resonates with a deep sense of perseverance and hope. Drawing inspiration from the haunting sadness of Nina Simone, the rawness of Muddy Waters, and the minimalism of BB King, Terry Blade delivers a powerful message through his music.

Elea Calvet - Filthy Lucre (Hyssop & Victoria)

3 January 2025

Born in Canada to French parents, Elea lived in Hemmingford until age 5 when her family moved to Dharamsala, India for her father to pursue Tibetan medicine studies. She subsequently spent a few years in the south of France before moving to Bristol, UK at 16 to study music. Releasing a string of singles, “Lust”, “Trigger” and “Sacrifice”, to critical acclaim in her idiosyncratically “towering sound reminiscent of PJ Harvey and Feist”, she was touted as “a millennial Patti Smith”. Albeit being Gen Z, she decided not to correct the journalist for the (hopefully only partly) erroneous compliment.

Awaiting Abigail - Falling Under (Always Indie! Records)

2 January 2025

Formed in 2024 when Abigail Hill joined the project, Awaiting Abigail is, in part, a reunion of three high school classmates who were in bands together in the mid to late 90s: Heather, James and Laurie. Together, they were most associated with the band Lost Reality until 2000.