Features Listing
Thu, Mar 18 2010
Their debut album, 'Baby Darling Doll Faced Honey', attracted numerous fans after its release last September (2009), but they've also added a different audience following their Twilight: New Moon soundtrack contribution. With their latest single released this week, as well as a tour starting in May, Rivmixx thought we'd have a chat with those garage/blues rockers, Band of Skulls....
Tue, Mar 16 2010
Now in its fourth year, the BLOC weekender has gone from strength to strength, picking up the best independent electronic acts each and every year. Salt n Pepa led things this year, whilst Autechere and Congo Natty added an altogether different vibe...
Fri, Mar 12 2010
Legendary American hip hop trio, Salt n Pepa, descend upon Butlins, Minehead this weekend for BLOC festival – their first UK performance in 15 years. Riding high in the popularity stakes over the pond – fuelled by their Sex and the City-like reality TV show “for women of colour” - the girls who opened up pop sexuality for a whole generation are back, with a new Christian view....
Thu, Mar 11 2010
The man's worked with P. Diddy and Sean Kingston. He's just come off tour with Lady Gaga. And he's recently sampled an Imogen Heap track. He also wants to “be at the forefront of the healing process of the whole world'. 'Watcha Say' about Jason Derulo...
Mon, Mar 8 2010
The so called 'greatest art pop band in Britain' are back with their sophomore effort, 'The Optimist'. An album that puts their own emotions more on the line, producing a darker sound that's come from them, self-funded and self-promoted, all by them. Rivmixx' Craig Mills dug a little deeper...
Mon, Mar 8 2010
With the UK urban scene really stepping up the levels of late, (most noticeably, Dizzee's recent Brit award, Tinie Tempah's sensational number one record, ‘Pass Out' and acts like Giggs and Devlin getting signed to major record labels) isn't it about time this scene started to get recognised for it's successes, rather than it's failings? The Industry Takeover event on Saturday (March 6) - arranged and organised by the Urban Development team - is just one example of this scene putting something really positive back into its community.
Thu, Mar 4 2010
Inspired by the tragic death of her sister as well as a relationship breakdown, Lou Rhodes, as ever, penned down her emotional heartache. But, with this record – her third solo album since the break up of trip hop band Lamb - there's a difference. She is not an “emotional junkie” anymore. She's found “nothingness” to fulfil her, 'One Good Thing' at a time....
Thu, Mar 4 2010
Even throughout the noughties - the decade that brought urban music to the mainstream - Estelle was the only British female urban artist to have achieved a UK number one (and that was only after she stopped rapping and started singing, leaving the rap to a male artist - albeit Kanye West).
Mon, Mar 1 2010
There was a time when a female hip hop (before the term 'urban' existed) fan, residing in the UK would have to look across the pond to find a female artist that they could relate to. And while some of the best female rappers, such as Foxy Brown, Lil Kim and Missy Elliot provided gender issues we could recognise and a strength that we understood, they had a very different life experience from us. London life is not something that has ever been found in American hip hop.
Mon, Feb 22 2010
Any regular East London dweller will tell you to hit Free Fridays at Cargo. The beautiful venue - fully equipped with a large outdoor decking area, a restaurant and a more intimate room under the stone arches - lends itself to the latest bar-come-club vibe that has caught the attention of most clubbers lately.
Fri, Feb 19 2010
Mephedrone is the latest drug of choice in the UK. Delivered in white powder and readily – legally - available over the internet it's quickly become the biggest thing to hit the clubs since ecstacy in the '80s. Rivmixx decided, therefore, to delve a little deeper....
Tue, Feb 16 2010
As a follow on from our Dan le Sac Vs. Scroobius Pip and Spoken Word features from earlier this year, Rivmixx thought it only fair to give a platform to one of the most talented, commercially viable, spoken word poets we've seen in a long time – our Rivmixx Supports act, Kate Tempest....
Thu, Feb 11 2010
Led by the likes of Dan le Sac Vs. Scroobius Pip and Kate Tempest, not to mention the revival of legends like Gil Scott-Heron and BP Fallon, the spoken word poem is making a come back. This time it's being led by the beats, though, despite the lyrical stand out style. Roisin Kiernan reports, whilst Pip gives his top tips to get you started....
Tue, Feb 9 2010
Last year '90s grunge fans stood mouths agape as the Pixies, Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam all got pulled off their dusty shelves to be given a fresh airing. And this year, seemingly spurred on by the recession, there's a whole new sound emerging - and a "glunge" fashion - led by acts like Japanese Voyeurs, who're reinventing that stoner '90s grunge scuzz sound...
Wed, Feb 3 2010
As a fresh signing to the Hudson Mohawke/Rustie-associated LuckyMe collective, American Men have some serious electronic credentials. But they're not quite electronic. American Men produce 'music written by robots and played by humans', apparently. Maya M reports....
Tue, Feb 2 2010
Lightspeed Champion, the alter ego of the former Test Icicles front-man Devonté Hynes, and his second album, ‘Life is Sweet, Nice to Meet You’ looks set to be one of the brightest sparks to be released this year. Rivmixx decided, therefore, that it deserved something of a track-by-track run down....
Tue, Feb 2 2010
There's something of a metal scene booming in Reading – led by the likes of Exit Ten, among others. So Rivmixx decided that we'd get none other than our very own resident metal head, Chris Ecclestone begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting, to take a closer look...
Wed, Jan 27 2010
The Brits are being launched, many are choosing their 'best album of 2009' and there's top bl**dy music tips from everyone. Rivmixx, however, is more about passion - not about hype. So the acts that are going in our list are the acts that are getting us going. These are the acts Rivmixx Supports for 2010....
Wed, Jan 27 2010
Rivmixx caught up with the inimitable wordsmith Scroobius Pip - one half of that commandment re-writing duo Dan le Sac Vs. Scroobius Pip. They're back with a new Sunday Best LP release, 'Logic of Chance'. And we wanted to know all about it, and more....
Thu, Jan 21 2010
The Sunday Best-signed beatboxing star has just finished designing an Ableton Live template, teamed up with Tom Middleton, and has all the ingredients ready to transfer those in-demand live sounds onto record...
Fri, Jan 15 2010
Signed to Ram Records back in 2003, Sub Focus' rise from his rock routes into something of a drum'n'bass stand out has been seamless. He's not looking to stop there though. Currently working with Example and gaining interest from several Radio 1 luminaries, Sub Focus is following in the footsteps of Chase&Status' producing prowess....
Tue, Jan 12 2010
Third in the BBC Sound of 2010 polls, Delphic's debut album, 'Acolyte', couldn't drop at a better time. With talent like theirs, commercial rep isn't necessary though. Building on a Mancunian history and blending it with a distinct Berlin techno-based edge, Delphic have managed to make their own ambiguous combo of indie and rave....
Fri, Jan 8 2010
He's been revered as a battle MC for several years now, but everyone's favourite horticulturist, Professor Green, is starting to prove himself as a full on artiste. So much so, in fact, that he's growing as a fave to bring back the substance to an UK urban music scene gone pop...
Tue, Jan 5 2010
Some people might still love to hate their banjo music, but Mumford & Sons have definitely appealed to the masses. They've done so well, in fact, that UK folk music - late last year (2009) - was, seemingly, at the forefront of "popular" music; if you can call it folk....
Sat, Dec 26 2009
Dubstep music changed Mary Anne Hobbs' life. She'd been championing the sound for a while but it wasn't 'til her first "experience" at DMZ that she threw herself in feet first. Here she breaks down dubstep past, present and future for Rivmixx...
Sat, Dec 26 2009
It's been one helluva year for Rivmixx. Having officially launched on January 18, 2009, it was all systems go in chatting up the PRs, chatting to the artists and and then laying it all down for you, the audience. Here we each explain our best bits in that process....
Thu, Dec 24 2009
Rivmixx breaks down the development of dubstep music. From its garage roots, the iconic yet grimey club nights - FWD>> and DMZ - that gave it a platform, and its sound evolution through dub, grime, bassline and samples from everywhere imaginable....
Mon, Dec 21 2009
Matt "Rivmixx" Parker breaks down the jaw-dropping advances in technology and their impact on the music industry. From blogging to social networking, file sharing to streaming, and even fan shares it all points towards one thing - new forms of communication...
Mon, Dec 21 2009
Liz "Rivmixx" Stokes tracks down We7's CEO Steve Purdham to explain how artists can benefit from being on we7, the company's new mobile phone app, the future for streaming, and their own plans to expand...
Mon, Dec 21 2009
Rivmixx' design God, Andy Jones - who's also known for his DJing and house music production skills - breaks down, in his opinion, the top 20 albums of the noughties...
Fri, Dec 18 2009
Garnering interest as the latest signing to Warp Records, Nice Nice are accosting the airwaves with their unique brand of psychedelically woven electronica. Rivmixx caught up with the boys during their Warp 20 London gig - an event commemorating the 20th chapter of one of the most forward thinking labels on the music landscape...
Thu, Dec 17 2009
This Boston-based artist, Edan Portnoy, might well produce what many would call hip hop. But for him, it's a far cry from that bullsh*t the other motherf*ckers produce. He's more interested in the old rock and jazz sounds; incorporating things like Hendrix "swirls" into the mix. So, with Edan's 'Echo Party' album just out, Rivmixx had to find out more....
Thu, Dec 17 2009
Elvis and rock'n'roll hit the fifties, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones ripped through the sixties, punk ran riot in the seventies, pop music - including the occasional power ballad - struck the eighties while the nineties saw the domination of Britpop, grunge and the rise of girl power. So what was the defining genre for the noughties? Indie rock music, according to Craig Mills....
Wed, Dec 9 2009
Example's 'Watch The Sun Come Up' became something of a breakthrough summer anthem this year. The one time garage MC has been around for a while though, working with Mike Skinner and, more recently supporting Lilly Allen in concert, with Tinchy Stryder's tour up next. The white, posh boy rapper from London is due to release his second album soon too....
Mon, Dec 7 2009
The reason for Nneka's move from Nigeria to Germany is questionable – there's talks of wanting a better life as well as an education. Whatever the reason though, it's given her the necessary perspective and resources to build on that experience. An experience, both personal and political, that's played out through her music....
Sat, Dec 5 2009
So, it's the end of not just 2009, but of the whole decade that came to be known as 'the noughties'. The urban music scene's come a long way since 2000, and many artists, styles and genres have come and gone too. From Sisqo, Ja Rule and Blu Cantrell, through to Tinchy Stryder, Drake and Gracious K, Mark Devlin casts a nostalgic eye over some of the highlights.
Fri, Nov 27 2009
The little big man has been building his empire piece by piece, attaching himself to brands that have now become synonymous with him. There's Tinchy Stryder Star in the Hood, Tinchy Stryder Number 1, and now Tinchy Stryder LittleBigPlanet PSP...
Fri, Nov 27 2009
From paedophilia to gay pirates; bluegrass to rap; pop songs to horror movies; it seems there's nothing this crazy little creative can't do. He's scarily talented and could, someday, be dangerous. But that's what makes him so damn alluring. Roisin Kiernan digs a little deeper....
Wed, Nov 25 2009
What was once thought of as 'urban' and 'dance' music scenes have gradually been merging together. So much so that it's now difficult to tell them apart. Is it all just a fad, or is the fusion here to stay? Mark Devlin looks at the evidence so far.
Thu, Nov 19 2009
Soundtracks have always been an important element of the film industry, but now, with album sales practically non-existent, they're becoming just as important for the music industry - they still have their own proud traditions though. Matt Parker takes a look at some of the greatest film soundtracks throughout the history of pop music...
Wed, Nov 18 2009
Taking '90s warehouse parties into a legal club setting is no mean feat, especially in London.
It is, however, a concept that Cameron Leslie and his partner, Keith Reilly, have done with passion - even to the point of adding a 'body sonic' healing dance floor. Fabric celebrated its tenth year recently, but is still just as brilliant as when it began...
Tue, Nov 17 2009
MGMT featured in the their latest, twelfth, studio album, and they're in the process of remaking Pink Floyd's iconic 'Dark Side of the Moon'. The Flaming Lips, it seems, are the leading light for all things psych rock related. Wayne Coyne tells us all about their culturally colourful associations...
Thu, Nov 12 2009
Mild mannered Canadian, Eric San, is better known as deadly turntable maestro Kid Koala. Earlier this year, alongside Dynomite D and Wolfmother's former rhythm section, he released '100%' - a free to download LP from the truly inventive scratch/rock project called The Slew...
Wed, Nov 11 2009
He's worked his arse off and onto Radio 1, he's even shared a cheesecake with Westwood, but DJ Kutski - the one time tape-collecting and making bedroom DJ - isn't stopping at that. He's promoting the real 'rave' scene - not Klaxons - and is attracting everyone from school kids to 68 year olds. His aim is to become the John Peel of hard dance...
Tue, Nov 10 2009
Their latest chart topping hit, 'End Credits', featuring Plan B, might well feature in the new British crime film, Harry Brown. But, having been associated with Snoop Dogg and Jay-Z. And, more recently, in producing Rihanna's latest album. Chase & Status are taking those British basslines international...
Fri, Nov 6 2009
John Robb is a busy man. His first influential punk band, The Membranes, reform next month for an ATP gig, thanks to My Bloody Valentine. And he's just released his latest book, Death To Trad Rock. But these are just two of the many things - Madchester, Britpop and Nirvana (yes, really) included - that the music fanatic is associated with...
Thu, Nov 5 2009
This determined little lass did just want her own Radio 1 show, which she's done with vigour - the Mash Up is a gloriously addictive session of party beats. Now, though, she's setting about developing Annie Mac the brand - an album's just come out; the show's been running for years; she wants to look into festivals; more TV work; guitar music. Basically, Annie Mac Presents it all...
Mon, Nov 2 2009
Much of DJ/production duo, James and Jas Simian's, growing popularity comes from their adaptability. Starting out as a 'mobile disco' that supported the lads' original Simian band, they've evolved from remixers, through to producers; supported electronic stalwarts The Chemical Brothers; and are in hot demand as DJs....
Tue, Oct 27 2009
London noise-poppers The Big Pink have been labelled as "one's to watch" by everyone from the BBC to bedroom bloggers. Currently ploughing head-first through a list of tour dates longer than Rivmixx's HSBC statements, Matt Parker begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting (just about) caught up with the ever colourful Robbie Furze....
Sat, Oct 24 2009
People dismissed the 'indie kids in a holiday camp' concept saying it'd never work. But now, ten years on, the All Tomorrow's Party festivals take place around the globe, showcasing some of the world's finest musical acts. To celebrate, ATP mastermind Barry Hogan is releasing The Film, detailing the debauched decade in action, as well as a series of festivals....
Fri, Oct 23 2009
Janis Joplin and Joni Mitchel were his friends in the sixties and Kurt Cobain in the eighties, but Seasick Steve only really came to the fore last year. He's since built himself something of a rep in the mainstream, despite channelling his own style of blues and being one of the oldest heads on the scene. He's also just released his fourth studio album, to critical acclaim...
Tue, Oct 20 2009
Since releasing their Ivor Novello-nominated debut single 'The Last Of The Melting Snow' last December, The Leisure Society have been on a bit of rock 'n' roll rollercoaster; they've gained celebrity endorsees like Elbow man Guy Garvey, been whisked from their factory job to The Ivy, and been plucked from obscurity by that fateful nomination....
Thu, Oct 15 2009
Never ones to take the direct route home the Foreign Beggars have crossed the road yet again, direct into the party corner - and they've enlisted those drum 'n' bass beat makers Noisia to lead the way. Rivmixx got caught up in the Metropolis to find out about their fashion crimes, X-Factor associations ,and another new remix album....
Tue, Oct 13 2009
Better known for his taste making time within The Wu Tang Clan, Raekwon, aka The Chef's, solo work is just as flavoursome - despite neither gaining the sort of desired relish they deserve. Nevertheless, with his second, highly anticipated dish up for grabs, Rivmixx thought it only fair to find out more about the hip hop heavyweight's latest ...
Fri, Oct 9 2009
Rivmixx caught up with FFAF's guitar and backing vocalist Kris Coombs-Roberts to talk about the emo scene, their associations with Iron Maiden, and their new "anthology" album, 'Your History is Mine: 2002-2009'.....
Fri, Oct 9 2009
Barât is hardly your typical rock star, despite numerous record sales from within The Libertines, Dirty Pretty Things and (thought not quite as much) Chavs. He might well be associated with that infamous drug/rock bleater Doherty, but Barât's character is somewhat more of a quandary. One part arrogant, another unsure, it'll definitely be interesting to see what the iconic rock behind-the-scenes man comes up with going solo...
Wed, Oct 7 2009
To coincide with the Junior Boys Own 20th Anniversary, Rivmixx caught up with Pete Tong and Darren Emerson to find out exactly how this renowned dance music 'institution' - the 'fun times' label that spawned legendary tracks like 'Born Slippy .NUXX' - took these two renowned DJs along for its seminal dance act releasing ride...
Fri, Oct 2 2009
There were changes afoot at this year's MOBO Awards - a new location, and an abundance of British talent. Inevitably, there was the odd gripe, too. Mark Devlin reflects on the good, the bad and the fake of British black music's biggest event.
Wed, Sep 30 2009
Rivmixx caught up with the full-on front-woman from that nineties "clit-rock" band Skunk Anansie, uncovering the truth behind their supposedly controversial nature; what really happened with Mark and Feeder; and a few dubsteppin' Skunk licks...
Wed, Sep 30 2009
Arguably the greatest electronic British label of all time, and certainly one of the most influential, Warp Records is currently celebrating two decades in the game with a series of events and releases under the banner Warp20. To commemorate the occasion Rivmixx asked two of the Sheffield-founded imprint's contrasting core artists what the label meant to them...
Fri, Sep 25 2009
They've already gone multi-platinum in their home country, Australia, and cracked the States, but now the striking Origliasso twins are hitting out at the UK too and, judging by their first single, 'Untouched', people seem to be responding. Rivmixx' Liz Stokes popped along to check 'em out...
Tue, Sep 22 2009
As one of the godfather's of grime, Lethal B has been about and seen things develop, but he's still mixing it up with the new bods. With a third album on the way, a fourth in progress and a considered Wiley collaboration, it seems the MC once known for his violently controversial track has finally grown up and found peace - though he probably wouldn't want to admit that!....
Tue, Sep 22 2009
Always innovative, but wise enough to allow occasional contentment, Malone has forged a reputation as a raw creative force to reckoned with. Rivmixx was lucky enough to catch up with the humble musician to talk about polygamy, "provacative" breast imagery and achieving divinity through music....
Tue, Sep 22 2009
Whether it's collecting land-yards, fridge magnets or beats, The Nextmen's style is eclectic, it always has been, but now they have the nerve/confidence to write their own songs and record those mixed up beats - they've learnt to think "f**k it", apparently....
Fri, Sep 18 2009
Rivmixx didn't realise true indie bands existed anymore, but as Fanfarlo have started to make their mark, it's left something of an indelible pattern on our minds. This is a band who don't give a damn for the unwritten rules of the music industry; have dealt with a couple of modern pandemics; and are still going strong, making really rather good music. Matt Parker begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting digs deep...
Thu, Sep 17 2009
Despite a stellar line up and all the ultimate festival festivities in place, Bestival just didn't have the same vibe that some of the other, truly besti-festis have. Bat for Lashes, Seasick Steve and Trojan Sound System brought it all back for this reporter though....
Thu, Sep 17 2009
Dissatisfied with the negative feelings produced by today's lifestyle, Frankie Knuckles is releasing his second album of party-themed music therapy - 'Motivation Too'. This is his attempt to re-ignite that Chicago/New York house party vibe of love, peace and positivity through the power of music...
Thu, Sep 10 2009
With three highly regarded rock bands under his belt, you'd think Jack White would be taking it easy for a while. Not so. The project making prodigy is at it again, this time with The Rolling Stones' Keith Richards - we've also got a rather 'Loud' docu-film coming. But before we're led on that latest little mission, Rivmixx took some time to detail the man behind the music....
Wed, Sep 9 2009
Four years after acclaimed debut album 'OK Cowboy' - having filled subsequent time with ceaseless touring, a live album and remixes for the likes of Daft Punk and Björk - French electronic front-runner Vitalic is about to unleash his overdue sophomore set.
Wed, Sep 9 2009
Outsider favourite, Speech Debelle, has Manuva'd herself into a Mercury win with some Big Dada lovin'. But she wants to start her own label and work with Kings of Leon, apparently...
Fri, Sep 4 2009
By mixing and blending their own material with samples from a variety of musical corners, Jazzsteppa are known for producing truly awe-inducing dubstep riddims. Theirs is not typical dubstep though. Theirs is a mashed up beautiful blend of jazzy, bass-filled beats and breaks. Made live. And now they're steppin' it up a gear...
Wed, Sep 2 2009
With a stroppy Kings of Leon, too many GCSE finals' parties and a few sound-checking problems, Reading seems to be losing its rock-pioneering pinnacle - for this Rivmixx reporter anyway. But with its ever-stellar line-up, Reading and Leeds continues to rock'n'roll....
Tue, Sep 1 2009
Following his unlikely, yet triumphant, performance at the commercial V festival, Asher Roth seems to finally be making his mark on the UK's hip hop scene. His is no replica rap route though. His a story of college loving, cardigan wearing and teacher training...
Thu, Aug 27 2009
Rivmixx headed to the Chelmsford-based event of the double-sited mega-band fest that is V. Capturing MGMT, Lilly Allen and The Killers as well as a few 'ones-to-watch' - as is the way with this commercially cheerful branded summer fair.
Tue, Aug 25 2009
With Simian Mobile Disco's safe sophomore album just out - including several top notch vocal volunteers - Rivmixx thought they'd ask the 'electro overloards' just what's been going on with the once travelling DJ duo....
Tue, Aug 25 2009
Hip-hop was left with a hole when the inventive, experimental New York crew Anti-Pop Consortium disbanded in 2002. But now, having reconciled their differences, some of the most groundbreaking stream-of-consciousness producing performers are back, under Big Dada...
Wed, Aug 19 2009
With support from The Charlatans and Steve Lamacq, among others, Bleech are sitting pretty. But they're in no rush to hit the mainstream. Or follow the crowd. They're just doing what they do - creating filthy 90's-influenced grungy-sounding indie rock. Amanda Ramasawmy reports.
Mon, Aug 17 2009
Twenty years ago The Stone Roses burst onto the scene, changing the face of music forever. To celebrate, that seminal/overrated - you decide - debut is being re-released back into the public domain. And with renowned producer John Leckie back on the buttons we thought it only right to get some insider information....
Fri, Aug 14 2009
With the likes of The Gaslight Anthem and The Kings Of Leon quickly morphing into the next generation of stadium-rockers, it seems big rock is back. Rivmixx's Matt Parker grilled Georgia's next big things, Manchester Orchestra, about their part in the revival, their life on tour and how, this time round, rock's gone modest....
Thu, Aug 13 2009
The Big Chill is said to be more than a music festival; 'it's a way of life', apparently. So Rivmixx' Liz Stokes went to find out more....
Thu, Aug 13 2009
Rivmixx popped along to Sony's London HQ the other day to speak with that distinctive ginger dreaded guy, Newton Faulkner. He's been 'Rebuilt By Humans', according to his new album's title, so we asked him all about it. We even came away with more - our very own Newton cover...
Thu, Aug 13 2009
Inspired by La Roux and that old school '80s-sounding vibe a la mode, Beverley Knight is back doing what she does best - but under her own terms. Having split from Parlophone to go it alone, the steady soul/pop songsmith could soon have it all her own way. Liz Stokes reports...
Wed, Aug 12 2009
Having just played a mammoth set at London's iconic Fabric nightclub, as well as releasing his very own 'Fabriclive' mixtape, LTJ Bukem is just as prominent on the scene that he created over 20 years ago...
Mon, Aug 10 2009
Launched by two young, enthusiastic music lovers - who met whilst working at at Bloc Party gig - Transgressive Records has blossomed into one of the fastest growing indie labels in London. So to celebrate their "freaking miracle" fifth anniversary, they're putting on some special gigs around town. Where they'll "get wrecked" and tell all their acts "they love them."
Fri, Aug 7 2009
Daniel Merriweather is not your typical Aussie lad. He might have started off as a bit of a Melbourne tough nut, but music has been his savour. It's picked him up, mixed him with the high life of chart success, international travel and a home in New York – and churned out a pretty impressive debut album, 'Love And War'...
Wed, Aug 5 2009
Garnering status among the ever-growing boutique festivals on offer, Standon's three day event, set on the grounds of a 16th Century Hertfordshire manor house, had all the ingredients for a bloody good party. But would it live up to the hype - Matt Parker went exploring!...
Wed, Aug 5 2009
During the three day Standon shindig, founder, manager, promoter, land owner - and probably more in between - Alex Trenchard took some well deserved time out to give our Rivmixx reporter the low down on all the bits'n'pieces that make up his boutique wonderland....
Wed, Aug 5 2009
Matt 'Rivmixx' Parker grabbed the Friendly guys for a quick bit'o'banter about all things Fires related, uncovering their Crazy Frog aspirations (sort of); sing-along songs; and their next album...
Mon, Aug 3 2009
Victoria Park saw it's first ever open air DJ concert in the form of Tiesto last Friday (July 31). Well over 20,000 revellers poured in to witness Mixmag's number 1 DJ in the world complete what was billed as 'an outdoor celebration of euphoric electronic music under a summer night's sky'.
Mon, Aug 3 2009
A party in Shoreditch with several top acts du jour can only be one thing - right on trend. But, whether that's your thing or not, the acts on show should be enough to keep you there. Or even watching the trendy types getting washed away, or trying to do a sack race without cracking a smile, could do it....
Wed, Jul 29 2009
Providing a platform for all things Shoreditch - from the music to the food and even the culture - London's 1234 Festival, now in its second year, is steaming ahead in the urban day festi' stakes. Amanda Ramasawmy chatted to its founding promoter Sean McClausky, and went along, to find out more....
Mon, Jul 27 2009
Global Gathering 2009 proved once again that British weather men's predictions are about as trustworthy as a politician's expense claim - the sun shone down incessantly all weekend. Had Mother Nature had her way, though, she would have had a hard time trying to dampen the electric mood in session, even if she had dampened the ground.
Mon, Jul 27 2009
Camp Bestival is a self styled family festival brought to you by Rob Da Bank and the Sunday Best Crew. But the question remained - would it live up to the family friendly billing, or would it end up like just any other festival in the ever growing circuit? Keith Chisholm reports...
Wed, Jul 22 2009
If legendary metal heads the Deftones have learnt anything from their bassists near death - and still fighting - experience, it's that life is short. They might well have had a new album ready to roll, but the show must go on. So they've gone and recorded another, with another bassist. And will be out there, ready to rock Reading and Leeds, once more....
Wed, Jul 22 2009
Were you to distil Latitude, the UK's most family-friendly, green and idyllic festival, into one living entity, the garland-smothered result would undoubtedly resemble Bat For Lashes.
Tue, Jul 14 2009
After breaking onto the scene as part of the Terra Firma hip hop collective - and then breaking up with the same said group, which included a highly publicised disagreement with Klashnekoff - Kyza has caused quite a stir during his short time in the industry. But he's ready to mix it up again with his 'Shots of Smirnoff'...
Tue, Jul 14 2009
Britain's acclaimed alternative rock band Elbow have been paired with one of Britain's oldest professional symphony orchestras, The Halle, for two very special one-off sets as part of several exciting pairings for the 2009 Manchester International Festival...
Tue, Jul 14 2009
Pathaan has been fighting to promote "electronica fusion" music for over a decade and still shows no signs of relenting. His second 'Globetronica' album is just out and he's playing at Glade Festival this weekend - a platform that he hopes will open his music out to a wider audience...
Tue, Jul 14 2009
Fresh from supporting the Kings of Leon, flamboyant L.A-based beat punks, The Ettes, have just released their new 'Danger Is' EP and are working on their third long player, 'Do You Want Power?' which is set to hit the shelves in September. Maria Anthony went exploring...
Mon, Jul 13 2009
Ash - those 90's 'Girl From Mars' chart toppers - are back. And they're determined to "embrace modern technology"; by releasing 26 singles, one a fortnight, for 12 months from October....
Wed, Jul 8 2009
One of the world's oldest and most prestigious DJ organisations, DMC, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. So, just in time for its highly regarded UK DMC Final tomorrow (July 9), Maya M takes a look at Tony Prince's innovative DJ techniques - right from the start of his Beatles No.1 announcement....
Thu, Jul 2 2009
Known as much for his slick synth beats as for his tea drinking, the eclectic Mr. Scruff is something of a twee hip hopper - but he's pulled it off marvellously. Now, with his TEN year 'Keep It Unreal' album re-issue - yes, he's been about that long - set for release, Liz Stokes went to find out more...
Thu, Jul 2 2009
Not content with revolutionising the music business and opening the industry out onto an equal platform, the digital download era has made it easier for, well, anyone to set up their own label. Rob Arnell reports...
Wed, Jun 24 2009
After refusing an offer from multi-millionaire 'Dragon' Peter Jones and moving the whole festival site from Devon to Kent in under a week, it seems nothing can stand in the way of Beach Break Live's success. Rivmixx caught up with co-founder Celia Norowazian to ask her how they do it....
Wed, Jun 24 2009
With their highly acclaimed second album, 'Fits', hitting stores this week - as well as being tipped for Kings of Leon-style crossover success - Matt Parker thought it only right to find out more, uncovering details about their next release....
Tue, Jun 23 2009
With Manchester band The Answering Machine's highly anticipated debut album, 'Another City, Another Sorry', just out, Amanda Ramasawmy went to find out more - digging up that Manic Street Preachers link, the association with hostels and more....
Mon, Jun 22 2009
Pop's latest teen sensation, Pixie Lott, talks about that debut single release; being propositioned by Russell Brand; why she'll never give in to peer pressure; and her hunt for a celebrity boyfriend....
Sat, Jun 20 2009
Donington Park is now the epicentre of all things horned and heavy. Fans had become concerned after last year's Reading-alike vibe. But this year Download Festival's organisers had returned to their roots - as a full on metal centric mosh. Ollie Cornish reports....
Sat, Jun 20 2009
Taking over Scotland's legendary Loch Ness site, RockNess Festival has grown ever better in its four year history. And now, taking place over three days, it looks set to evolve into something of a must-do on the summer circuit....
Sat, Jun 20 2009
With a hefty European tour underway, a hit album ('The '59 Sound') under their belts and an approaching date with one Bruce Springsteen Esq. at London's Hyde Park, 2009, Rivmixx' Matt Parker got the chance to ask the Gaslight Anthem bassist, Alex Levine, all about it....
Wed, Jun 17 2009
Type multi-vocalist into any search engine and Killa Kela will pop up. It's a description he's chosen for himself - perhaps to describe the eclectic nature of his sounds. Sounds which have taken him from beatboxing to hip-hop, d&B, electro and now rock...
Mon, Jun 15 2009
Anne "Annie" Nightingale has been at the forefront of, well, everything about the music industry since her induction onto BBC Radio 1 in 1970. She was the first female presenter on the show; has championed all new musical genres through the decades; partied with the best of them; and has shared all her memories with Rivmixx...
Mon, Jun 15 2009
Having burst onto the scene in 2004 with that hit single 'Goodies', America's latest R'n'B sensation Ciara is back with her third studio album, 'Fantasy Ride'. Here she talks chart success, sexing it up with Justin Timberlake and collaborating with Janet Jackson...
Tue, Jun 9 2009
Despite the fact that they've never produced a number one single, yet, Kasabian are convinced their third album, the spectacularly titled 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum' - released this week - will launch them into the big time. Even with its "psychedelic fancy dress" cover art.
Fri, Jun 5 2009
Speech Debelle's debut album, 'Speech Therapy', was released this week on Big Dada records and if her column inches are anything to go by, Speech has a huge success on her hands. A very personal album, it describes in depth Speech's struggles with an absent father, a relationship breakdown and living in a hostel. Caragh Logan reports...
Wed, Jun 3 2009
The UK's premier street commentator, Bashy, released his debut album 'Catch Me If You Can' this week (June 1). But if you don't already know about him then you soon will - his infectious new single, 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?', is already available and with more hooks than a fisherman it looks set to be the urban tune of the summer. Caragh Logan found out more.
Fri, May 29 2009
From modelling for Vogue to creating her own half chicken comic book self, VV Brown is one of those all round creative types that you can't help but notice - and not just for her six foot frame. She's attracted the likes of music stalwart Damon Albarn, and has performed with The Ting Tings, Ladyhawke and more. So, with her highly anticipated debut album dropping next month, Rivmixx thought it only fair to find out more....
Thu, May 28 2009
The second instalment of Rivmixx's mammoth adventure to Brighton, showcasing Trip, VV Brown and The Brute Chorus - three very different, but damn hot, acts. In many ways!
Tue, May 26 2009
Currently tearing around the UK and Europe on the final leg of lengthy touring to support current record '200 Million Thousand' - their fifth studio album to date - Atlanta flower punks Black Lips' new EP 'The Drop I Hold' adds some true ghetto grit to their deep down dirty garage rock. Adam Anonymous found out more.
Fri, May 22 2009
Rivmixx was down in the UK seaside town of Brighton last weekend, running around with a mic and a camera, catching up with just some of the 350 or so bands that were there for The Great Escape.
Mon, May 18 2009
Moby's first hit release, 'Go', back in 1992 was inspired by the film maker David Lynch. And his forthcoming album, 'Wait For Me', has been kick started into action by the same renowned unorthodox creative. Now free from the corporate policy of EMI, the electronic experimental musician is back making music with "integrity". Roisin Kiernan found out more....
Fri, May 15 2009
Sheffield is responsible for giving us a breed of incredibly forward thinking adventurous electronic music producers - from Warp visionaries Steve Beckett and Rob Mitchell, to Chris Duckenfield and Mary-Anne Hobbs. Next up it's Toddla T. Maya M caught up with the Steel City's rudebwoy to discuss his highly anticipated debut album, production, rice'n'peas and his trademark T-Fro.
Wed, Apr 29 2009
Dylan Mills, aka Dizzee Rascal, might only be 24 years old now, but after soaring onto the scene at 16 he's come a long way and is managing to create far bigger sounds from within the big machine. Roisin Kiernan caught up with the inimitable star off the back of his support show for the Prodigy at Wembley recently to discuss his new album, his change of direction and what he thinks of the grime scene now...
Wed, Apr 29 2009
This DJ/producer combo have been joining the dots between urban and dance styles since the early noughties, but are only now gaining justifiable mainstream props. Rivmixx thinks they should be massive. Nicole Finnerty went to meet the two urban jokers...
Mon, Apr 20 2009
Embrace are coming back, after a few years apart. But one of the hardest working dudes in indie music, lead singer Danny McNamara, hasn't just been resting on his laurels.
As well as setting up a live music night in London, he's gone on to find even greater success promoting in Manchester and has now bought a club. Rivmixx's Roisin Kiernan caught up with the Yorkshireman for some insight into who's set for the top and a stylistic change for Embrace...
Mon, Apr 20 2009
Described by Liam Gallagher as being “like The Jam”, Twisted Wheel are an upstart northern band really going places. Roisin Kiernan tracked down lead singer Jonny Brown for an insight into Manchester’s next big thing…
Tue, Apr 14 2009
Guru, the founding member of influential nineties east coast hip-hop group Gang Starr and the brain behind the legendary Jazzmatazz series, is back with a new album, 'Lost & Found 8.0'. It's produced by Solar, Guru's business partner in 7Grand Records. Rivmixx caught up with the pair...
Mon, Apr 13 2009
Laurent Garnier is an enigma. The French electronic DJ/producer is one of the most widely respected figures in music - skirting across genres, always pushing at boundaries. Rivmixx's Roisin Kiernan collared him for an exclusive video interview in which we find out about his forthcoming book, film and live shows, his kleptomania tendencies, and his project to score music for the Bolshoi ballet...
Tue, Apr 7 2009
On the eve of the re-release of four key remastered albums, Rivmixx spoke to mainstay Banshee Steve Severin about that period and the band's enduring legacy - and didn't mention the 'goth' word once...
Fri, Apr 3 2009
Electro shock-rocker Peaches has a new album, 'I Feel Cream', released next month - the follow-up to the controversially titled 'Impeach My Bush'. Produced variously by electronic stalwarts Soulwax, Digitalism and Simian Mobile Disco, it's arguably more accessible than her previous work and looks set to propel this cult figure into the big time. Rivmixx editor Carl Loben went along to meet her...
Thu, Apr 2 2009
Yeah, so they're another indie band, but they've got that edge. An edge that sets them apart from the likes of Franz Ferdinand, and a sound that is well thought out lyrically and stylistically.
Just as their debut album 'Understanding Electricity' is about to drop, Roisin Kiernan caught up with frontman Tom Burke to find out their secret...
Mon, Mar 23 2009
We here at Rivmixx are tipping Trip for the top. So we just had to blag this montage of all the videos on his forthcoming album to showcase exclusively to you. Take a trip into the mind of Trip...
Mon, Mar 23 2009
DJ Yoda isn't just a regular DJ. The scratchmeister has now moved into the audio-visual field, creating astonishing narrative collages in his Magic Cinema Shows. Rivmixx has nabbed an exclusive taster from his forthcoming DVD to give you an insight into the man's supreme skillz...
Mon, Mar 23 2009
Diminutive rapper Lady Sovereign is back with a new album - 'Jigsaw'. Rivmixx cornered her to ask about the rumours of depression, indie bands that she loves, and tackle scurrilous online debate over her sexuality...
Fri, Mar 20 2009
Virus Syndicate are a dynamite grime kru from Manchester in the north of England. Mashing up dubstep, hip-hop and grime, the four-piece - three MCs and a tasty beatsmith - recently released their second album 'Sick Pay' on Planet Mu, the follow up to 'Work-Related Illness'.
Thu, Mar 19 2009
Who are these dastardly producers, messing with the rules of hip-hop, drum & bass and grime, working with acclaimed rapper Sway, and putting the digit into digital? Paul Sullivan investigates...
Thu, Mar 19 2009
Best known as the kick-ass frontwoman of punk rockers The Distillers, Brody Dalle
looks set to bring some ghetto girl action back into the male-dominated world of rock. With a super new sound and a supergroup band Spinnerette - as well as being married to QOTSA frontman's squeeze - she's got serious punk priestess credentials.
Thu, Mar 12 2009
The annual Breakspoll awards recently showcased much of the breakbeat scene's talent and rewarded those who have shone in their field over the past 12 months or so.
Tue, Mar 10 2009
Emmy's cute-sounding chimes have been prodded and poked into the new anti-folk 'scene' - something she's quick to dismiss. With her debut album 'First Love' out now on her own label, Close Harbour, Roisin Kiernan went along to meet the young upstart, discuss all things Great and find out just what all the fuss is about...
Thu, Mar 5 2009
Vini Reilly's Durutti Column emerged from the Manchester post-punk scene in the late 70s and became one of the key, cult acts on Factory Records. Rivmixx's Nicole Finnerty collared Vini for a phone interview in which he talks about the early days of the Manchester music scene.
Mon, Feb 23 2009
It was back in 2001 that Norwegian duo Röyksopp - Svein Berge and Torbjørn Brundtland - unleashed their stellar debut album 'Melody AM' on the world. Its ten tracks of ethereal, electronic beauty - including tracks like 'Eple' and 'Poor Leno' - were the spangliest the music world had encountered in a long while, and deservedly earned the pair a slew of accolades and awards (including Best Music Video for 'Remind Me') - and, to date, over a million sales.
Fri, Feb 13 2009
Drawing references from quirky female artists such as Kate Bush and Björk, attracting attention from MGMT and Razorlight as well as presenting her own fantastical sound, Florence & The Machine is a welcome new addition to the cannon of music permeating the mainstream – glitter and all.
Fri, Feb 13 2009
The club music market is absolutely heaving with DJs, producers, remixers and compilations. However, even in a saturated environment like that, true talent shines through and slams you in the ear like a reverbed 909 snare.
One of these superstars is Hervé, a man of many talents.
Mon, Feb 9 2009
Wall Of Sound is one of the most diverse and exciting record labels on the planet, boasting acts like Grace Jones, Röyksopp, Soulwax and Reverend & The Makers on its roster. As it's celebrating its 15th birthday this year, Rivmixx's Carl Loben cornered irreverent head honcho Mark Jones for a frank and funny chat about the label's development and his personal part in it...
Mon, Feb 9 2009
With the scene's annual Breakspoll awards on the horizon, Rivmixx spoke to a few key players in breakbeat for their thoughts on the scene and where it's heading...
Fri, Feb 6 2009
Techno haven Berlin has a new addition to its clubbing pantheon this month - Dice. Set in an old Stasi power station, the cube-shaped industrial venue may look nondescript from the outside but is gearing up to complement Berlin's Tresor and Berghain venues dramatically. Rivmixx early adopter and electro DJ Jonty Skrufff (link back to profile) talked to owner Isan Oral to find out more...
Fri, Feb 6 2009
With the just-slightly-egotistical news that rap chameleon Kanye West has decided to change his name to Martin Louis The King Jr, Rivmixx thought that the naming process of new or existing acts deserved some investigation – uncovering rap's compensation, rock's snobbery and metal's umlauts!
Fri, Feb 6 2009
As independent house label Defected have just reached their tenth anniversary, Rivmixx collared head honcho Simon Dunmore for a chat about a decade of quality - and successful - house music.
Fri, Jan 30 2009
Music legends Stereo MCs dropped by Rivmixx HQ the other day for a chat with Carl Loben about their history and what’s coming up for them in the 09…
Wed, Jan 28 2009
Darren Emerson was one of the original successful UK house DJs before he joined Karl Hyde and Rick Smith, formerly of indie band Freur, at the beginning of the 90s. His influence on changing Underworld from an also-ran avant-funk band into one of the most successful dance acts ever is inestimable.
Sat, Jan 24 2009
2008 was a busy year for grime producer Swindle. Headhunted by former So Solid member Ashley Walters, he signed to Walters’ label AD82 and became an executive producer on his self-titled album, then left the label again to pursue his own production company and debut album.
Sat, Jan 24 2009
Despite describing his talents as silly, the lecturer-impersonating, super-marketing internet sensation has effortlessly taken his beatboxing style into the mainstream. With a new solo album on the way, Rivmixx’s Roisin Kiernan thought it only right to get silly-serious with the musical wizard.
Mon, Jan 12 2009
Today's music simulation games like Guitar Hero or Rock Band are hugely successful, paving the way for forthcoming console titles like Wii Music, a Beatles game and DJ Hero. These are the latest culmination of a long relationship that music has had with the video game since its inception in the late 70s.
Fri, Jan 9 2009
Remix culture is firmly embedded in music now, but when it involves visuals as well it really becomes a futurist artform. Hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash has dubbed Addictive TV "Next level sh*t' after seeing their show, and he's not wrong.
Wed, Jan 7 2009
Sonic Innovation And Looking Beyond The Mainstream Are Key, Says Neil Kulkarni
Tue, Jan 6 2009
A mainstay on the Greco-Roman party circuit, Drums Of Death's grimey techno-mash ups crash through soundsystems with deadly precision. But just what makes the man with the wild blacked-out eyes and stark-white face tick?
Sat, Jan 3 2009
Noisia's breakbeat behemoth 'Gutterpump' was originally released some two years ago on Aquasky's Passenger label and its driving breakbeat energy has since been simply played to death on floors ever since - cited by many as one of their all-time favourites.
Sat, Jan 3 2009
To bastardise mottos most recently associated with the burgeoning dubstep movement - if the fabric of your stereo speakers isn't billowing and the screech of iPod headphones isn't causing minor ear damage, then what, precisely, is the point?
Fri, Jan 2 2009
As Barbarossa, James Mathe fuses intricate beats and samples with heartfelt melodies. With a new album in the pipeline, this red-bearded songwriter is quietly making the music industry sit up and listen...
Wed, Dec 31 2008
Aussie Rock/Jungle Titans Sanction Violent New Video.
Australian act Pendulum have successfully reinvented themselves and are now one of the biggest and most exciting rock bands in the world.
Tue, Dec 16 2008
Reunion Fever Hits The Music Industry – Who’s Next?
So indie-popppers Blur (pictured) are back after splitting at the turn of the century. Seminal ska band The Specials are to return for their 30th anniversary, albeit without lynchpin keyboard player Jerry Dammers. Take That seem to be back for good, and may even let Robbie Williams rejoin the party.
Mon, Dec 8 2008
Reverend calls for scrapping of police's risk assessment music event form. It’s tricky putting on a music event in London. You have to keep the performers happy, oversee sound-checks and venue décor, do enough promotion so sufficient people show up, and so on.
