Advertise with The Big Takeover
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.

Judas Goat & the Bellwether - Water Into Wine (self-released)

9 December 2024

Judas Goat and the Bellwether is the love child of Pete Vincent, a multi-instrumentalist from Yeovil and Sara Vian, a singer/songwriter from Frome; described as indie-rock alchemy, transforming leaden woes into sonic gold with sweet, melancholic riffs, moody basslines & powerful, nuanced vocal performances with luscious harmonies.

Nick Gusman and the Coyotes - Lifting Heavy Things (self-released)

9 December 2024

Nick Gusman and the Coyotes’ new album Lifting Heavy Things was released on December 6. The band recorded it completely live at Native Sound Recordings in St. Louis*—no click tracks, no overdubs, just six people playing together above a whiskey bar on *Cherokee Street.

Pink Turns Blue - Black Swan (But I Know There is More to Life) (ORDEN Records)

9 December 2024

Iconic post-punk band Pink Turns Blue has announced that their new Black Swan album will be released in February on limited edition vinyl, CD and digitally via Orden Records. Ahead of that, they present ‘Black Swan (But I Know There Is More to Life)’, the only ballad on the album, this song offers ample fruit for thought. Delving into profound questions about existence, it reflects on life’s purpose and the beauty of the world.

The Yets - 3's / Define The Man (self-released)

9 December 2024

Based in Myrtle Beach, The Yets features the creative synergy of guitarist-producer Craig Anderson Snook and vocalist Robin Wilson, both natives of the state. Their collaboration fuses Craig’s dynamic guitar work and production expertise with Robin’s rich, emotive vocals, resulting in a sound that is both powerful and distinctive. Further highlighted by their multi-instrumental performance abilities, The Yets have developed a sound which is truly their own. From composing to performing to production, Craig and Robin are a “duo” in the most genuine sense of the word.

Kramies - That's a Midwest Christmas (VanGerrett Records)

7 December 2024

Kramies (pronounced Kraim-iss) is an American singer-songwriter, best known for his work with producers Jason Lytle of Grandaddy, Patrick Carney of The Black Keys, Jerry Becker of Train, and Todd Tobias of Guided by Voices.

Raised on Candy - Raised on Candy (self-released)

7 December 2024

Raised On Candy has arrived, their music echoing with the promise of something truly extraordinary—a testament to the alchemy that occurs when three souls unite to craft something greater than themselves. The dynamic rock trio, with roots in the San Francisco Bay Area and New York Tri-State, features Joe Penna (vocals/guitar), Scotty Imp (drums/percussion), and Kevin Harris (bass/vocals), blending indie rock, post-punk, and shoegaze into a unique sound.

Crash Harmony - Nobody Asked For This (Magic Door Records)

6 December 2024

Crash Harmony is made up of Dave Derby (vocals, guitars), Mike Potenza (guitars, keyboards, vocals), Jon Nighswander (bass, vocals), and Nils Nadeau (drums, percussion, vocals). Formed in 1986 at Yale University in New Haven, CT, the band played its last gig in May 1988 and hadn’t played together again until beginning to record this album in 2022.

colby! - Dead Giveaway (Sony Music Entertainment)

5 December 2024

colby! grew up in Fort Worth, TX, surrounded by live music and spent her time exploring creative passions like singing, writing, baking, painting, and performing. Diagnosed with severe dyslexia at age 8, she spent three years in intensive therapy to learn how to slow her brain down enough to try to read. Creative arts helped her cope, and she started singing and writing at a young age. At 14, she began co-writing with her producer and brother, RJ Johnson, a Berklee College of Music grad. When not writing, she loves driving while singing (screaming) at the top of her lungs. Her most immediate goal is to continue to create songs with her brother that people will want to scream in their car to, thereby possibly escaping from situations they do not find encouraging.

These Dead Machines - Any Minute Now (self-released)

5 December 2024

Any Minute Now is the debut album from These Dead Machines (a human also known as Dan). There’s a lot of deeply personal and yet universal themes of loss, love, anxiety and resilience. While the alt-core from the days in the previous band, there’s elements of a slightly electronic touch

The Harbours - Live it Up (OMT Studios)

5 December 2024

The Harbours, formed in 2024, are an indie band from Leicestershire, UK. An exciting upcoming talent their debut single ‘Out of Sight’, featured on BBC Introducing in the East Midlands. The Harbours went viral on social platforms when promoting ‘Out of Sight’, with Manchester City FC commenting “what a banger!” Their catchy follow-up single ‘So Sweet’ launched in time for 2024 summer vibes, increasing their fan base and cementing The Harbours energetic sound.

The Giraffes - Cigarette (self-released)

5 December 2024

Cigarette is a hypnotic hard-edged psychedelic rock score for our current age of decay and disappointment, fear and fury, idiocy and hope. Previewed by the singles ‘Pipes’ and ‘The Shot’, this long-awaited and loaded 7-track offering is full of surprises, taking new risks with subject matter and composition while maintaining the intensity and dexterity fans know and love.

The Muster Point Project - It Was Here He Received His Only Formal Education (Francomedia)

4 December 2024

An album with 12 original songs dealing in a theme of remembrance, change and loss. Some are celebrated, some are sombre. This is TMPP’s third album Some of the songs have already been released leading up the release of this album. TMPP’s third album called It Was Here He Received His Only Formal Education is spinning on a speaker near you right now. Also on limited edition blue vinyl!

Old Tom & The Lookouts - Northeastern (self-released)

4 December 2024

Led by Alex Calabrese, Boston-based indie-folk band Old Tom & The Lookouts blend the introspective grit of Americana with the emotional rawness of indie rock. Known for their brooding lyrics and powerful storytelling, the band explores themes of mental health, love, and resilience. Drawing influences from artists like Tom Waits, Frightened Rabbit, and Phoebe Bridgers, Calabrese’s evocative vocals and poignant songwriting strike a chord with listeners searching for authenticity and emotional depth.

SICKY - I'm Happy If You're Happy (self-released)

4 December 2024

British alternative artist SICKY presents his new single ‘I’m Happy If You’re Happy’, an upbeat affair exploring temptation and the art of winning over another…. of all the possibilities if the bait is pitched right. Featuring Jen Bone (Project Blues Band) on double bass, this is the first taste of his new album Troubled Delight, to be released in early 2025.

The Celtic Social Club - Inventory (Aztec Musique)

3 December 2024

In 2014, a group of Franco-Irish musicians formed The Celtic Social Club for a one-off performance at the Vieilles Charrues Festival. Now, they are celebrating a powerhouse decade of The Celtic Social Club with a BEST OF album INVENTORY and a World Tour.

Bad Mary/Mega Infinity - Mega Bad Disaster Party EP (Ska Punk International)

3 December 2024

Alternative-glam-punk band Bad Mary teams up with fellow Long Islanders Mega Infinity for a limited edition split 7-inch single, Mega Bad Disaster Party. Each band contributes two newly recorded tracks, set for release on the digital streaming platforms via SPI (Ska Punk International) on December 3, with a vinyl release to follow in early 2025.

The Muster Point Project - I've Heard It All (All Canadian Music) (Francomedia)

2 December 2024

This single is a tribute to Canadian music. This upbeat indie rock song references many famous and not-so-famous Canadian artists who have influenced The Muster Point Project over the years. It’s being released along with a 12 song album.

Atlas Rivers - The Vanishing (self-released)

2 December 2024

Atlas Rivers is a new UK indie-rock three-piece with big tunes and a big future. “The Vanishing” is their second single, recorded at South City in Manchester for self-release in November 2024. A towering chorus, catchy hook and ethereal lyrics continue the upward trajectory of this hard working band.

Colm Warren - Thinking of You (self-released)

1 December 2024

Acclaimed Northern Irish vocalist and songwriter Colm Warren returns with his latest single, “Thinking Of You.” Known for his distinctive voice and refusal to conform to genre expectations, Warren delivers a unique blend of Beatles-era rock and orchestral sophistication, making this track a standout in today’s music scene.

The Dazed Minded - Oh Boy (Rock 'n' Roll Tea Drinkers)

30 November 2024

The Dazed Minded, hailing from Reading, England, is a rising indie sleaze garage rock band making waves in the music scene. Lead singer and songwriter Beth, along with bassist Tam and the rest of the band, deliver a unique sound influenced by the likes of Miles Kane, Kings of Leon, and Razorlight. Formed late last year, the band quickly gained attention with their debut single ‘Oh Boy’ and a cover of The Family Rain’s ‘Gasoline,’ showcasing their talent and passion for the independent music scene.

Janita - Real Deal (ECR Music Group)

30 November 2024

From the outset of her career, Janita has commanded attention. As a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter, she has uniquely defied convention yet repeatedly enjoyed mainstream success. Her new single, “Real Deal,” is out November 21st, ahead of her tenth studio album, Mad Equation (out May 2025).

Trickshooter Social Club - Better Than Love (The Animal Farm)

30 November 2024

“Our music is an oddly literate, completely eclectic approach to fuzzy, tweedy, garage-y, country-tinged, stomp and clap American rock-n-roll. Sometimes singer/songwriter, sometimes loud and unapologetic – our songs are a little whiskey soaked and world weary – but always leave a little room for redemption.”

Inca Babies - Ghost Mechanic Nine (Black Lagoon Records)

29 November 2024

Manchester post-punk death-rock rockers Inca Babies release their ninth studio album, aptly titled Ghost Mechanic Nine via their Black Lagoon label. Here, frontman Harry Stafford (guitar, keys, vocals) revisits the raw guitar sounds of the band’s 80s output, joined by Rob Haynes (drums, percussion), Jim Adama (bass) and Kevin G. Davy (trumpet).

The Holiday Hustle Club - White Elephant Waltz (self-released)

29 November 2024

The Holiday Hustle Club is a throwback to the era of iconic nightclubs, vocalists and songwriters. It connects to the Great American Songbook through the likes of Irving Berlin, Mel Tormé and Ella Fitzgerald. And it introduces new tunes inspired by their sophisticated musicality, simple storytelling, and winking innuendos.

Otherish - When I Was You (Old Flat Top Records)

29 November 2024

Hiberno-British collective* Otherish* announces its 4th album of original songs in just three years. The triangulated quartet (with several gifted guests) mounts its operations from the triptych of Belfast-Frome-Bristol. Whilst the triumvirate of Otherish’ writers is defiantly, wilfully multi-instrumental, the magnetic north constant at the heart of the band is, as ever, drummer Mark Bradley.

The Sea At Midnight - Burning (self-released)

28 November 2024
“Burning” by The Sea At Midnight is a poignant reflection on the state of our planet amidst climate change. This single, featuring a collaboration with Chemical Waves, stands out for its emotional intensity and raw delivery. With lyrics that demand attention and a sound that captivates listeners, “Burning” serves as a call to action in the face of environmental crises. The Sea At Midnight’s unique approach to blending rock elements with powerful storytelling makes this release a significant contribution to the music landscape, resonating with audiences on a deep and thought-provoking level.

Black Rose Moves - Jessica (self-released)

28 November 2024

Black Rose Moves (Birmingham, UK) present their third single, released 1st November 2024,“Jessica,” a mesmerising dive into a love unravelled. “Jessica” explores infatuation’s darker depths, driven by relentless basslines, pounding drums, and sharp synths. Catchy guitar riffs and an intense, repetitive chorus irresistibly pull listeners into the song’s obsessive trance.

Ever More Nest - Merry Little Thing EP (self-released)

28 November 2024

Holiday music finds its honest voice in Ever More Nest’s Merry Little Thing EP, a three-song collection that speaks to both the joy and solitude of the season. Rather than coating the holidays in sugar, songwriter Kelcy Wilburn crafts narratives that resonate with genuine lived experience, from playful marital spats to profound solitary moments.

Andrew Alarcon - Otherwise (self-released)

27 November 2024

“Otherwise” is a raw and introspective journey through self-doubt, regret, and the start of self reflection. With moody melodies and emotionally charged lyrics, the song captures the vulnerability of confronting one’s inner turmoil while yearning for clarity and hope. Its blend of introspection and relatability makes it resonate deeply with listeners navigating their own struggles.

Haag - Haag The Huge (Amirhossein Rezaei)

27 November 2024

Haag is a rock band that was formed in 2011. They met at the Tehran University of Art for a gig before 300 university students. Amirhossein the drummer, asked his brother Mohsen and his friend Arya to join him to form a rock band called Haag. Haag is a Persian word that means “spore”. After the gig, they continued as Haag and released their first original EP in 2015, Buoyancy. Asia Magazine wrote about Buoyancy and called it “The first instrumental Rock album released in Iran”.

ColSeth - Stellar Illusions (Zoo Pact)

27 November 2024

The artist ColSeth returns with Stellar Illusions, a striking new album that showcases their signature blend of evocative production and masterful songwriting. Spanning twelve tracks, the album delves into a rich spectrum of emotions, exploring nuanced shades of grey that resonate with the depths of human consciousness—an experience that transcends what words alone can’t convey.

King's Vengeance - Mystery (KV Recordings)

27 November 2024

Formidable up and coming rock trio King’s Vengeance is set to push the speakers of the music scene into overdrive with their latest single, ‘Mystery,’ released on November 15, 2024. The track is a relentless, driving and dynamic hard rock song full of big riffs and even bigger choruses! ‘Mystery’ is the sixth single from the Melbourne (Australia) trio, and it demonstrates the unwavering intensity, unpredictable changes and raw power that have become synonymous with King’s Vengeance.

Poison Oak - Tell Me (self-released)

27 November 2024

Four suburban friends make up the Indie Punk Rock swelter, Poison Oak. From the sunny streets of Townsville, Poison Oak has been kicking around for half a decade. Since their inception, they have released three Eps and their debut album These Suburban Dreams.

FHMY - my blue heaven ft. AQL (Memphis Records)

27 November 2024

“my blue heaven” is a joint composition between FHMY and AQL, two suburban music friends from Maadi and Haram (literally translating to Pyramid) in Cairo. Their bond deepened further as they battle societal dynamics, relationship changes, childhood traumas, loss of family and friends, as well as negligence overall. This single is the first of 3 created between the duo.

ALGORERHYTHM - Social Genocide (self-released)

26 November 2024

“Social Genocide” delves into the negative impact of social media on our daily lives, reflecting the band’s keen observation of contemporary societal issues. This marks ALGORERHYTHM’s first studio effort, entirely self-funded, showcasing their dedication to their artistry and authenticity. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Cody Leavitt of Asteroid M Records in Las Vegas NV, the release captures the band’s raw energy and passion, offering listeners a powerful musical experience that resonates long after the final note fades.

Paul Terry - SkyBabyRecords Est. 1999 – A 25th Anniversary Celebration (SkyBabyRecords)

25 November 2024

2024 marks the 25th anniversary of indie label SkyBabyRecords, through which multi-award-nominated composer/songwriter Paul Terry releases all of his music projects and soundtracks. SkyBabyRecords Est. 1999 – A 25th Anniversary Celebration (out now) is a 25-track career-spanning collection. It features: film soundtrack selections, deep cuts from Cellarscape, songs from Paul’s brand new instrumental project Aptøsrs, and more.

Pam Ross - Kansas (MTS Records)

25 November 2024

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Pam Ross, recently honored as the Female Multi-Genre Artist of the Year at the 2024 Josie Music Awards, is set to release her powerful new single, “Kansas,” on November 15th. The track, distributed through MTS Records and Virgin Music/Universal, is the latest preview of Ross’s eagerly anticipated LP, Outside the Box, due next year.

Howling Hawk - Ramona (self-released)

25 November 2024

The band, featuring Paolo (guitar), Gonzalo (lead guitar), Jimmy (bass/vocals), and Clemente (drums), blends Britpop influences like Oasis with the raw edge of The Strokes and The Stones. Two members hail from Chile, one from Italy, and another from Camden. After playing iconic London venues like The Dublin Castle and Rooz Studio, they’ve attracted a diverse, international crowd.

Unlettered - Five Mile Point - (self-released)

25 November 2024

With three EPs already under its belt, Unlettered has garnered acclaim for its dark, hypnotic sound. Unlettered conjures fuzzed-out rhythms and swirling, angular melodies while lyrically unpacking themes of transition, loss, and melancholy—a poignant exploration of the human experience.

Split Second - Addicted To Love (self-released)

25 November 2024

Emerging indie band Split Second unveils their latest single, “Addicted to Love,” a soulful indie ballad marking the next chapter in the band’s new lineup and an important step in their creative journey. With a sound blending influences from Fleetwood Mac, Arctic Monkeys, Blondie, and Oasis, Split Second has become known for their signature mix of high-energy rock and refined indie pop.

Jess Yaffa - Just for One Night (Pleasant Ridge Records)

25 November 2024

Rising star Jess Yaffa returns with her latest single, “Just For One Night,” a high-energy anthem capturing the thrill of living in the moment. Known for her unique fusion of raw lyrics and bold pop/rock anthems, the 23-year-old singer-songwriter continues her meteoric rise with this catchy, feel-good track, drawing listeners into the excitement of seizing the night.

HATS™ - fear the mourning (remix) (RISER)

24 November 2024

Fresh off the back of their BBC 6Music supported single ‘fear the mourning’, the breezy ‘forest floor’, and vibrant comeback offerings ‘hand me downs’ and ‘just like this’ last month, emerging artist HATS™ (they/them) return once again with their progressive new single ‘testing’. Continuing to explore more of that warm and riveting aesthetic they have been cultivating recently, ‘testing’ makes for an incredibly rich and mesmerizing listen. With their spellbinding vocals spread aloft this shimmering production that grows into a truly anthemic crescendo, they continue to shine as a true innovator on the rise right now.

Elke Schon - Pages You'll Never Read (self-released)

24 November 2024

After a two-year hiatus, Brisbane singer-songwriter Elke Schon returns with her new single, ‘Pages You’ll Never Read,’ marking a bold shift from her debut ‘Talk To Me.’ At 19, Elke has refined her sound, drawing inspiration from artists like Billie Eilish, beabadoobee, and Gracie Abrams, and embracing a pop-folk style influenced by George Harrison and The Sundays.

Rex K & the Snake Pit Philharmonic - Sincerely Indecision (self-released)

24 November 2024

“Sincerely Indecision” is the 2nd single from Rex K & The Snake Pit Philharmonic. All parts were recorded by Rex K in his home studio and were mixed and mastered by David Norton of Ideal Audio and Records. “Sincerely Indecision” is about the feeling of being paralyzed by paranoia, frozen to the spot at a fork in the road, a loss of sense of self in the space between possibilities.

Nils Lassen - Close Those Ocean Eyes (Aenaos Records)

23 November 2024

Danish artist Nils Lassen8, known for his work over the past two decades and most notably as one half of the acclaimed dreampop duo *BlackieBlueBird, will release the single “Close Those Ocean Eyes” on 22nd November.

Luke Borchelt - Every Rain (Droptine Recordings LLC / Grey Area Records)

23 November 2024

Emerging singer-songwriter Luke Borchelt releases his highly anticipated debut album, “Every Rain,” marking a pivotal chapter in his journey from the Chesapeake Bay to the national stage.

SkyDxddy - Medusa (self-released)

22 November 2024

SkyDxddy delivers a new empowerment anthem with an accompanying video, “Medusa,” out on November 22 on all major streaming platforms.

Elea Calvet - Landslide (Hyssop & Victoria)

22 November 2024

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.

Jody and the Jerms - Winter Heart (JATJ Records)

21 November 2024

Jody and the Jerms round off 2024 with the fast-paced yet emotive single ‘Winter Heart’, a bittersweet song exploring loneliness and hope. Rich in melody with an epic and uplifting chorus, this track features an appearance by acclaimed violinist Erica Nockalls of The Wonder Stuff, The Proclaimers and one-half of the acoustic duo Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls.