The Ruskins - Nu-Ska Rockers

Mainstream ska may be, most notably, the sound of the '80s - intrinsically tied to the likes of The Specials and Madness  - but that doesn't mean there's no place for it in the 'noughties'. The Ruskins lads - Eamon on lead vocals and guitar, Dave on drums, and Ricky on bass and backing vocals - are leading the way in modern ska-rock, gaining props along the way from the likes of BBC's Huw Stephens, XFM's Steve Harris, The NME and the The Sunday Times. Drawing inspiration from  The Streets, The Pogues and Jamie T, their infusion of distinctive beats are making waves in the scene.

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name's Eamon and I'm the lead singer of The Ruskins. We're from a little town in West London called Isleworth. Those who know it will know that it's just absolutely lovely...tree lined roads, thatched cottage roofs with lambs frolicking in the sunshine and all that. For those who don't know where it is, just Google Hounslow."

What have you done?
"At the moment we're concentrating on getting our single recorded along with the music video. Converse have been kind enough to fund the video, which means we don't have to sell everything we own to get it filmed. We've also got Kaya Scodelario (Effy from Skins) and a few other secret people starring in the video so really looking forward to that."

What inspires you?
"I'm recently finding it hard to avoid Van Morrison. In terms of direct inspiration, he doesn't seem to abide by commercial barriers, which makes it that bit more refreshing when it comes to writing. Right now I'm listening to a little dose of traditional Irish folk and when I'm feeling slightly less soppy, I'll whack on a bit of pre-Johnny Marr Cribs or old school garage. Real life events in their raw honesty inspire me lyrically."

What makes you stand out?
"The fact that my dad's Arab and my mum's Irish? Apart from that we're slightly over-weight according to our doctor's chart. Musically, we're a concoction of upbeat rockabilly ska, with storytelling being our most treasured aspect. It's what hooks our most dedicated fans to follow and promote in a dedicated fashion. They're who make us who we are, and make us stand out."

Where are you going?
"Fans are always going round sticking our stickers all over their towns and uploading them [to Facebook etc], it's a nice way to keep the buzz going. Also really looking forward to our EP, which is due to be released in March. Really cant wait to get it out there and the tour, especially when we're sourcing artists for artwork and young broadcast students for videos. It all keeps the home-grown idea within arms reach!"

In the meantime, we're all up for the free download shizzle, so go grab a few freebies here

Picture courtesy of Tomo photography

Bad For Lazarus - Heavy, Nasty Pop with Guitars

Taking a biblical name and mixing it with some rough noise has worked well for the boys of Bad For Lazarus. The Brighton based band are brandishing their violent pop tunes much further than the coastal music hub. Their endeavours have seen them play with some of the best, from Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster to Nine Inch Nails to UNKLE.  November 30 welcomes their debut single release in the form of 'Old Rats on a New Ship' through the band's own label, Shit Chic.

Rich Fownes answers

Who are you and where are you from?
Rich Fownes: "I changed rock and roll forever, it's just that no one agrees with me."

What inspires you?
RF: "As irritatingly snobby as it is, most of my personal influence is how awful 99.99 percent of music is. I think we're like critics that are actually trying to do something about it rather than
moan about how everything sucks...and then do nothing about it."

What have you done?  
RF: "That's a bizarre question. I don't know how other people have felt about our band but I couldn't really be more proud of what we've achieved. In a year and a half we've written two albums worth of music and played some astonishing shows with amazing bands. We've already superseded my personal expectations a hundred times over."

What makes you stand out?  
RF: "One thing we never anticipated was an amazing energy between the members onstage. You never know what that's going to be like until you do it, and it's personally overwhelming how our performance aesthetic pulls together sometimes. Song wise, I think we sound like a '50s doo-wop band, but when it meets the violent / masochistic vibe of how we like to play our instruments, we found something quite unique."

Where are you going?  
RF: "More everything, of course. I think once we've recorded our album we'll have to start thinking more seriously. Until then, just do our thing; scream and fall over live."

Blackchords – Emotive “Strings'n'Things” Rock

These dark Australian rockers, with their jagged guitars, twinkling percussion, string arrangements and soft emotional singing, have drawn references from Jeff Buckley to Elbow. This is a band that's definitely in touch with their feminine side – Rivmixx doesn't  know many, any even, lead singers that are also professional ballet dancers. Tutus aside, theirs is of that that beautiful rock balladry variety – the type that makes it ok for grown men to cry. With a highly acclaimed debut just out it won't be long 'till they get more recognised on these ere shores. Unless, of course, they're really like Elbow and take 20 odd years to strike gold...

Who are you and where are you from?

“We are Blackchords from Melbourne, Australia.”

What inspires you?

“A lot of things. Opening the tabloids to see what a load of trash it is, meeting people, speaking to people, listening to music, looking at photos remembering memories, experiencing life in general.”

What have you done?

“We have formed a band and made a record, we have been touring the record in Australia, France and the UK. We played in bars we played in theaters. We have played in front of crowds and we have played in front of radio presenters. We have played along side great bands and we have played along side a girls doing hoola hoop tricks while squeezing oranges on her boobs.”

What makes you stand out?

“Our music. I'm not sure what it is that makes us terribly different. Apart from the fact that we aren't trying to be anybody other than ourselves. I guess that works for us. People like our music and they come to see our gigs.”

Where are you going?

“We are going wherever we need to go so that we can make music for the rest of our lives.”

GLISS - Rock 'N' Rollers

Victoria, Martin and David make up the wonderfully bizarre sultry-sounding, fuzzy-feeling garage rock band GLISS. Having already toured with Editors, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Smashing Pumpkins to name but a few the experimental LA-residents have seen their critical acclaim grow as fast as their - highly dedicated - fan base. Known for swapping instruments on stage and famed for having "the best tour horror story" after their van broke down in the Texan outback, the trio are living the rock 'n' roll lifestyle to the full. Their sophomore album 'Devotion Implosion' came out November 2 - check our review here.

Who are you and where are you from?
Martin: "We are GLISS from Denmark and Los Angeles"

What inspires you?
M: "Life and love, all walks of life, tragedy, pain, sincerity, tears..... you name it"

What have you done?
M: "We have one EP called 'Kick in Your Heart', a full length album 'Love the Virgins', and now our new album 'Devotion Implosion'. We've toured the US and Europe extensively as well as the UK. I am very proud of engineering our new album, it has always been a dream of mine. It was an honour to have Gareth Jones mix it, he is a genius you know!"

What makes you stand out?
M: "We switch instruments, live and in the studio. Really we're three bands in one, its quite fun for us. My voice is different, I've been told it's "unique and sexual"..."

Where are you going?
M: "We are headed out on a tour of Europe this November to support 'Devotion Implosion'. After that we are coming home to record our next album. We have a load of ideas, this is a very productive and creative time for us"

 Got Spotify? Then click here to listen to this artist. Not got Spotify? Then click here

 To listen to the artist on We7 click here

Crystal Fighters – Opera-inspired Live Dance/Folk

Signed to the beautifully eccentric Kitsune label, Crystal Fighters are part electronic music, part rock, but fully hardcore. Together, the five experi-mentalists create a kinetic mash up of Basque folk, Kitsune electronica and European rock. They're rave, they're rock. They're fast, frenetic, full on and bloody brilliant live. Just go see 'em. Soon. They're gonna be BIG.


Who are you and where are you from?
“We are Crystal Fighters, currently living in London. We make fast, live, dance music with Basque instruments.”

What inspires you?
“We are largely inspired by an unfinished opera that Laure's grandad wrote before he died. She brought it to us and it consumed us completely, and it encouraged us to explore Basque music and instrumentation which is the backbone of the music we make today.”

What have you done?
“We have released two singles on Kitsune, we have played shows in France, Spain, Germany, Swtizerland, Italy, Japan, USA, and the UK. We have made some music that we think is really new and interesting. We have started on a journey with this strange music that has taken us to places and to people that we never dreamed of meeting, which is a great thing to be able to do.”

What makes you stand out?
“We make a type of music that we have never heard anything like before, and we are continuing on this tangent for our album that we hope will surprise people lyrically, musically and stylistically. We have grand plans to change the way people think about dance music.”

Where are you going?
“We are going all over the world to spread our sound and our attitude and look forward to seeing more incredible things and incredible people along the way.”

 Got Spotify? Then click here to listen to this artist. Not got Spotify? Then click here

 To listen to the artist on We7 click here

May 68 – Glam' Disco Pop

Supposedly named after a date they saw on a poster – rather than the historically significant French revolt – MAY68 create sounds inspired by the New York disco scene, post-punk, Chicago house and classic pop. Glam', fun and fronted by a Karen O look-a-like, theirs is a refreshingly danceable blip on an even bigger northern indie scene. They haven't even released their first single yet but, after spotting them during Manchester's In the City last month (October), Rivmixx is certain they're gonna bloom. Camille (Cam) Bertin told us a bit more...


Who are you and where are you from?
“The band consists of Jude Wainwright (vocals), Matt Dutton (keys and percussions), Owen Manns (bass), Jonny Sture (guitar), and Camille Bertin (drums and vocals). We all met in Manchester, UK, and formed MAY68 in 2008.”

What inspires you?
“As a band, we're inspired by a lot of post punk, house, pop, krautrock, disco, italo, hip hop... The obvious names being Talking Heads, Prince, Daft Punk and LCD Soundsystem, but the list is endless. We share a love for '80s science fiction, essentially films by John Carpenter and David Cronenberg. We also like to go out and travel; spend time together and with our friends.”

What have you done?
“We released our demo in February 2009 (now sold out); supported some great artists, notably Max Tundra and The Juan Maclean; toured the UK with We Have Band in September; and are currently working on our first single. The highlight of our year so far is probably a sold out showcase with The Drums at this year's In The City festival.”

What makes you stand out?
“It's probably for other people to decide.”

Where are you going?
“We're supporting Glass Candy at The Deaf Institute in Manchester. It's one of our favourite bands so we're really excited about this one. We know we'll be releasing our first single early next year, then hopefully start recording the first album. We're also looking forward to playing some festivals next summer!”

BEAK> - Experimental Raw Rock

They're not yet a year old, but BEAK> are causing tsunami sized movements in their musical path. Made up of Geoff Barrow - of former Portishead fame - Billy Fuller and Matt Williams, the men have come together as a new breed of rock musicians that shun the art of editing and thrive on the buzz of live performances. Their debut album 'Recordings 05/01/09 > 17/01/09' prides itself on being recorded and delivered in 12 days, complete with rough edits and little over dub. The result bleeds the exact raw nature - in sound and attitude - that the trio have clearly worked on becoming as a band.


Who are you and where are you from?
"I am Matt from Bristol. I like to make a load of music all the time, and I play stuff."


What inspires you?
"Physics and mathematics and the old Greek dudes because they knew their s**t and how important music is to the 'soul'- or whatever you want to call it. I don't stick rigidly to any one genre. I like to make noise music live because it is pure and free and one of the happiest sounds I can think about making."

What have you done?
"I've done a bunch of shows - some good, some bad. The same with CDRS, I put out a few every now and then. I don't think I made any impact apart from sometimes people dig my stuff and sometimes people hate it. Life's too short to worry about that s**t so I'll just get on with it thank you very much."

What makes you stand out?

"I don't think I have any fans, or I don't know if I do - probably I have more detractors possiblè? I don't think anything makes me stand out at all, I just make the sounds I like and that's good enough. I don't care about unique, just a sound that hits right there in the chest and makes you feel light and heavy at the same time."

Where are you going?
"Same old. More gigs, more recordings, more agoraphobia, more skin conditions and less money, probably. Unless I go to prison or something."

 Got Spotify? Then click here to listen to this artist. Not got Spotify? Then click here

The Switch - Exciting Northern Folktronica

Brand new on the Manchester music scene, yet causing something of a stir amongst folktronica/trip hop fans - those fond of acts like Massive Attack, Portishead or even Bat For Lashes - The Switch, led by  Caroline Sterling, are serious contenders in the "ones to watch" field. Not only that, their creative knob twiddling prowess - stuff like a Wii remote sample manipulator - is som't else live...


Who are you and where are you from?
Caroline Sterling: "We are a Manchester based electronic band, called THE SWITCH.

What inspires you?
C.S: "Inspiration comes in many forms. I'm a dreamer and a fantasist, I could watch a film or hear two friends gossiping and be inspired to write a song - that's where 'Heartbreaker' came from. Sometimes the lyrics and melodies come first but the energy of the song comes once we're all in the studio together. Musically, we're all obsessed with 'sound' in the band. Our songs usually have a powerful feeling or emotion in them. I think we inspire each other too, we're in our own bubble when we write a song together."

What have you done?
C.S: "We've only been together six months, and received incredible feedback from the moment we uploaded our first track. Prior to our first show, our songs had been playlisted on Xfm X-Posure and BBC's Introducing shows. We recently recorded a track for  forthcoming John Cooper Clarke record, alongside artists such as Alex Turner (Arctic Monkey's), Goldie Lookin' Chain, Madness and more."

What makes you stand out?
C.S: "I think the style of music we play makes us stand out from most of what's going on in Manchester at the minute, banks of electronics and gadgets and the live show will consist of visuals providing the backdrop where you'd usually find a drummer."

Where are you going?
C.S: "We're straight back into the studio, writing and recording. 2010 will see us playing up and around the country at some of the best clubnights, and we'll be looking to release an EP at the start of Spring."

Lemonade – Live Dance Blends

Band members Callan Clendenin (vocals), Alex Pasternak (percussion) and Ben Steidel (bass) were childhood friends but decided to set up sonically together following their developing love of drone music, dancehall, and Pasternak's training in Arab and Latin music. It's a peculiar concoction but it  seems to have worked; now, four years on, they've already created their own niche in San Francisco's underground, blasting DIY electro to the masses. And have since moved onto Brooklyn  citing a range of current musical influences, including the UK grime and dubstep scenes - resulting in a whole-heatedly individual sound.


Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Lemonade from San Francisco, but now live in Brooklyn."

What inspires you?
"We are inspired by artists that don't really try that hard to be liked but strive to improve people's perception of the world. We are also inspired by precious things like sunsets, beaches, and natural mysteries."

What have you done?
"We have released one short album and a batch of remixes. The music has been spontaneous for us but conversely the records take forever to be released."

What makes you stand out?
"Its just a unique thing that we've got. Nobody else approaches music like we do. Its dance music, but it's coming from so many different places."

Where are you going?
"We are going to go everywhere hopefully before we die. That is what is so good about living today, you can fly all over the place."

The Federals – Pick'n'Mix Rock'n'Roll

Innocent, indie-looking boys The Federals have descended into the world of music and are taking several along for the ride with them. They've already won over the likes of Radio 1 presenter Fearne Cotton - who has been seen sporting the band's T-shirt. They've supported Nine Black Alps on tour. They opened The Lovebox Festival in London's Victoria Park this year. They've got a UK tour with Joe Lean and The Jing Jang Jong in the works And they've only been together since 2008.


Who are you and where are you from?
"We are The Federals who are Jim on guitar & vocals, Jak on drums & vocals, Jack on bass and Sam on guitar. We're from York and I think we've made a good impact as there is only mostly singer songwritery things in York so a good loud electric band is cool."

What inspires you?
"We're inspired by having a good time. We never intended to create the music we do, the whole idea of The Federals at first was a completely different thing. As soon as we started jamming in rehearsals it became a completely different thing and brought out our real influences of '60s/garage/fuzzy/loud/rock - anything which makes you feel good when you listen to it."

What have you done?
"We're proud of everything we've done, it's all been absolutely great and we've done some really cool things. I think we're steadily making more and more of an impact and getting more and more fans week by week, which is awesome. We also have an EP called 'Take It' available on iTunes and Spotify or you can download our demo EP 'Transistor' for free on MySpace."

What makes you stand out?
"We blow the cobwebs out of people, it's loud and quite catchy. We don't really lie in one single genre, we're kind of an open genre, which is better as we have a wide variety of fans."

Where are you going?
"Gigs, gigs and more gigs (and more recording). First and foremost were a live band so we just want to carry on and try make the best live shows we possibly can and write more and more songs. As long as we're all having a good time then we will still play."

An Experiment On A Bird In The Air Pump - Goth Rock Gals

An Experiment On A Bird In The Air Pump are a trio of goth-influenced shoe-gaze punks from various parts of London. Like XTC fathering Siouxie And The Banshees children (or perhaps vice versa), they pen fantastic darkly atmospheric rock tunes that make White Lies look like The Saturdays.

Who are you and where are you from?
C-Bird: "I'm C-Bird 1/3 of An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump. My parents are both originally from the Phillippines and I live in suburbs just outside of London. Leafy and green!"
D-Bird: "I am D-Bird from Bethnal Green, London."
X-Bird: "I am X-Bird and I currently reside in the suburban undergrowth. Think Metropolitan line (the purple one) as west as you can go."

What inspires you?
C-Bird: "Everyday life, close and not so close encounters, the weird and the wonderful, bass and drums."
D-Bird: "Confessional poetry, angry guitars, soft voices, throbbing drums, morose basses."
X-Bird: "Good dependable friends and Hollywood Babylon by Kenneth Anger, a book about scandal during the dawn of Hollywood. I find the trash of old Hollywood and the idea of hanging dirty laundry in public intriguing."

What have you done?
C-Bird: "Before the birds I performed in Eve Black/Eve White with X-Bird which was a doo-wop electronic band. It was heavily drum driven with eery synths but with a soul vibe. We experimented a lot with our voices to act as part of the instrumental."
D-Bird: "I've been doing club nights (Decasia Club and Sick Club) for the last 4 years and this band for just over a year."
X-Bird: "Now and again I make short videos about myself coming to terms with whatever is currently irking my subconscious. I'm also in an electronic duo, Eve Black/Eve White with C-Bird."

What makes you stand out?
C-Bird: "Drums, bass, vocals. Vocals, drums, bass. Bass, vocals, drums"
D-Bird: "My extreme, passionate opinions and utter obsession with music."
X-Bird: "As simplistic as this sounds- anyone just being themselves is what makes ANYONE stand out from the crowd. I'm currently accepting and understanding my flaws, perfections, neuroses...etc,etc and rejoicing in the fact that it's these things about me that make me unique."

Where are you going?
C-Bird: "Global!"
D-Bird: "To San Jose, if I ever find the way...."
X-Bird: "I want to go to San Francisco but I'm most probably going to bed. Good night!"

Illa J – More Than A Name

Twelve years younger than his brother and hip hop super legend J Dilla (AKA Jay Dee), Illa J has finally unveiled his own long-awaited project. 'Yancey Boy', released September 21, sees Illa J rhyming and singing over a treasure trove of previously untouched Jay Dee gems. The 21 year old Detroit born but LA based rapper is riding high off the back of his sibling's legacy, but Rivmixx is sure there's more to this man than a name...

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Illa J aka John Regal. I'm an MC/singer/songwriter/producer from Detroit."

What inspires you?
"Music has always been a big part of my life since a very young age, so it has been very natural for me. As far as inspiration goes, it can pretty much spark from anything. I watch tons of movies and I can definitely say I get a lot of inspiration from film."

What have you done?
"Well so far, I released my debut album 'Yancey Boys'. I put out three singles from the record. I shot videos for each one. As far as shows, I just recently did a few shows in London this past July. It's always fun doing shows in Europe. I've been fortunate enough to say I've been to various countries throughout Europe. I got to perform in front of more than 20,000 people. They show me so much love out there. I'm going to be back there the end of this year doing shows with Frank Nitt & J-Heart on our Delicious Donuts tour."

What makes you stand out?
"I'm just me. No matter what I'm influenced by, it still comes out as me."

Where are you going?
"Finishing up my next album. John Regal is my alter ego. You'll see more of my singing & song writing side. I'm hoping to put this album out next year.'

Odissi - Electro-Punk Pin-Up

With over 50 releases under her belt already, the 'producer, vocalist, DJ, pin-up model and former Stringfellows dancer' known as Odissi has been a busy girl. Renown around the scene for turning up to gigs in underwear, her not-so-shy demeanour has certainly made people take notice. Originally from sunny Florida, Odissi's brand of electro-punk vocals and techno tunes has now brought her to London, where she spends most of her days in the studio. Odissi's latest single, 'Empty Vodka Bottles', is released on Lot49 in October 2009 - watch out!...

Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm originally from a tiny town in Florida, but relocated to London as soon as I turned 18 to chase the somewhat delusional dream of becoming some kind of electronica rock star. Some would say I've succeeded to an extent. I've had my share of international tour dates, stalkers and online impostors."

What inspires you?
"Recently I've been doing lots of library music for film, TV, games. I also do a bit of engineering for live music projects. When making music for fun and not for the dollar I tend to lean toward electro/tech funk, anything with a dark, dirty rolling groove, a sleazy vocal and a chunky 4/4 beat."

What have you done?
"Being a woman in this scene is hard, I guess I'm most proud of the fact that I've worked with enough big names in this scene (Meat Katie & D. Ramirez, Hyper, General Midi, Jim Davies (former member of the Prodigy and Pitchshifter), Dylan Rhymes, Vandal... to name a few) that I personally feel I've reached a point in my career where I have nothing to prove to anyone anymore."

What makes you stand out?
"I've never really thought about it. As a vocalist, I'm known for having a punky edge combined with eloquent lyrics, which I guess is refreshing when everything else in dance music tends to lean towards diva pop or hip hop. I guess people listen to my music because they want something different."

Where are you going?
"I'd love to do more work for Lot49. As a label they really appeal to my eclectic tastes by catering to so many different styles and sounds within their release packages. They seem to be one of the few labels out there against pigeonholing within their brand and I have so much respect for that! I'd also like to release an album."

Burns – Chaotic Nu-Rave Chic

Rod Kashani, AKA Sticky K, has only just begun to make a name for himself in the UK. After his specialised mix was aired on Kissy Sell Out's Radio 1 show last month (August) his electro house vibe is finally being noticed and pricking up ears from one side of the Atlantic to the other. This year saw him remix everyone from Diplo to Crookers and put a fresh twist on the seminal Daft Punk tune 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger'

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Rod Kashani. I'm a 22 year-old producer/DJ from San Francisco, California. I'm signed to the UK house label run by Switch. I pretty much make and listen to music all day and then DJ on the weekends. I Couldn't ask for more."

What inspires you?
"Everything inspires me! I get inspired by things that aren't even musical!  People doing something fresh because they just love doing their craft gets my juices flowing!"

What have you done?
"This year I put out my debut EP.  Did a guest mix for BBC Radio 1.  I did about seven remixes (for Diplo, Major Lazer, Larry Tee, Crookers).  And got a residency in my home city. Jack Beats came here the other weekend and I played with them; that show was too epic."

What makes you stand out?
"I'd like to think that I have a unique sound that's a mix of heavy bass and middle eastern tribal elements. I don't like tracks that are just verse/break/chorus etc. My tracks tend to evolve and develop layers. Most importantly, I always have melody or [a] good hook. Too many club tracks these days that are just noise!"

Where are you going?
"For me, being a club DJ/producer is just a stepping stone in my music career towards my ultimate goal of being a straight up record producer. I want to work with artists and help them push themselves to do their best creative work. If I could do the equivalent of Rick Rubin - convincing Johnny Cash to cover Nine Inch Nails -  I could die a happy man."

Sticky K - Ghettotech House Stickler

Rod Kashani, AKA Sticky K, has only just begun to make a name for himself in the UK. After his specialised mix was aired on Kissy Sell Out's Radio 1 show last month (August) his electro house vibe is finally being noticed and pricking up ears from one side of the Atlantic to the other. This year saw him remix everyone from Diplo to Crookers and put a fresh twist on the seminal Daft Punk tune 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger'

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Rod Kashani. I'm a 22 year-old producer/DJ from San Francisco, California. I'm signed to the UK house label run by Switch. I pretty much make and listen to music all day and then DJ on the weekends. I Couldn't ask for more."

What inspires you?
"Everything inspires me! I get inspired by things that aren't even musical!  People doing something fresh because they just love doing their craft gets my juices flowing!"

What have you done?
"This year I put out my debut EP.  Did a guest mix for BBC Radio 1.  I did about seven remixes (for Diplo, Major Lazer, Larry Tee, Crookers).  And got a residency in my home city. Jack Beats came here the other weekend and I played with them; that show was too epic."

What makes you stand out?
"I'd like to think that I have a unique sound that's a mix of heavy bass and middle eastern tribal elements. I don't like tracks that are just verse/break/chorus etc. My tracks tend to evolve and develop layers. Most importantly, I always have melody or [a] good hook. Too many club tracks these days that are just noise!"

Where are you going?
"For me, being a club DJ/producer is just a stepping stone in my music career towards my ultimate goal of being a straight up record producer. I want to work with artists and help them push themselves to do their best creative work. If I could do the equivalent of Rick Rubin - convincing Johnny Cash to cover Nine Inch Nails -  I could die a happy man."

Cosmo Jarvis - Off-The-Wall Warbler

Currently getting huge support from Radio 1, Cosmo Jarvis seems intent on spreading his far from conventional, eclectic sounds across the country. Already being described by Wall Of Sound MD Mark Jones as "without a shadow of doubt the most raw talent I've ever come across in all my years in music" Cosmo has a lot to live up to but at only 19 he has a lot of time to do it in.

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Cosmo Jarvis. I came from my mother's womb. I remember it being dark. Couldn't wait to get out. Boring. When I did, I was in a place called Ridgewood, New Jersey."

What have you done?
"Well, I have stolen various packaged goods from motorway rest stops, tried anal, spilt my drink, thought rude things about relatives, punched Michael Berry. But yeah, born in the States, moved to Plymouth, UK.

What inspires you?
"I get inspired by a variety of things. Sometimes people, places, looks on people's faces, strange situations, Lost, other people's music, very pretty women, the downtrodden, single mothers, trying to find the real meaning of sentences slung around with frivolity, relationship of all categories, death, life, pity, suicidal thoughts, clothing, advice."

What makes you stand out?
"Nobody stands out because to stand out the thing (person, object) in question must be in a context that is widely recognized as having a norm or standard. I am assuming the question is referring to my music or film creative efforts. So, the way I see it is: nothing can 'stand out' because the idea of standing out only exists in the mind of the person who proclaims something 'stands out'.
"Now, I know you are asking me what makes me 'stand out', but the person in this case, who's individuality is at question, can never describe his or her own individuality in their opinion because, as I said earlier, I believe a person stands out only in relation to those around him or her, and the ones around a person or object are the only ones that describe the category of normality that object or person possesses, but I try to wear red on stage."

Where are you going?
"To infinity and beyond.

Florence Rawlings - Head Strong Soul

Florence Rawlings is a beautiful, young easy listening/soul singer with a classic sound and the chops to compete with whatever her contemporaries can throw at her. This summer will see the sultry songstress play a string of dates including Hyde Park's Wireless Festival, Guilfest, Bush Hall, and a hop across the channel to take part in the Stuttgart Jazz Festival. Under the careful guidance of Mike Batt (the man who made Katie Melua) Florence debuted with her band at the Isle of Wight Festival (June 6 - 7).

Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm Florence Rawlings, from South East London."

What inspires you?
"Musically, I'm inspired by artists like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway. In life in general, I'm inspired by friends, people who are willing to give themselves wholly to something they love."

What have you done?
"I started singing at six, and performing from the age of 12 anywhere and everywhere - jazz venues, restaurants and pubs. I proceeded to complete my A-levels in Music, English and Theatre Studies and have been working with Mike Batt ever since."

What makes you stand out?
"I'd like to think that my album separates me from other artists at the moment because it was predominantly recorded live, with the main inspirations being soul and Motown."

Where are you going?
"All around the world and back is the aim!"

A-Stout - Fresh Thinking Hip Hop

Hip-hop collective, A-Stout are made up of three lads from varying corners of the globe - Rootwords, Larynx and VLM - who've come together through a love of international rap-ertoire.  Hailing from Zambia through to Mexico, they met in Geneva in 2000 and have since brought their international musical blends together and into the world of hip hop.  They've spent the last ten years perfecting that sound and are, just about, ready to release their debut album this year.
 
Who are you and where are you from?
Rootwords:  "We are A-Stout, the international rap-hip-hop outfit, the trio - who are currently based in London Town. We are two emcees (Rootwords and LarynX) and one producer (VLM). We were born in the underground, raised by hip-hop and fathered by the world. The combination of our past residencies include; USA, Ghana, Zambia, Switzerland, Singapore, Mexico, Australia and France."

What inspires you?
Larynx:  "Our biggest inspiration is our life experiences. We make music about the things we go through and see in our surroundings. Obviously, other artists have influenced, and continue to - such as Nas, The Wu-Tang Clan etc. Essentially, they paved the way and provided us with very strong examples of how to do this hip-hop thing.  We got involved in making this style of music because that's the music we were raised on and we love this culture to death."

What have you done?
VLM:  "So far, A-Stout has appeared on several mixtapes, EPs and albums. We have collaborated with various artists across the globe from different genres and styles of music. Our debut album is in the making, our eight tack 'Dreaming Of' EP is available online; and of course, our radio and TV single 'Drinks' is out for the world to hear and see. We show our dedication to creating good music that is somewhere in between the underground and mainstream, and it can be said this is something we are definitely proud of."

What makes you stand out?
Rootwords:  "The combination of where we are from as a band makes us different. We are the living and moving representation of change. People listen to us because they are attracted to change. It is only natural. Ask Obama. We are a new breed in the evolutionary growth of hip-hop. We are genetically geared to survive, rhyme the fittest, and produce intelligently healthy offspring that will carry our name deep into the 21st century."

Where are you going?
Rootwords:  "We are taking our music anywhere and everywhere possible. We want the name A-Stout to be synonymous with good music. We want to convert haters of hip-hop music to lovers of the genre. We want girls to faint at our concerts like they did for Michael Jackson. We want our names to be in the hip-hop encyclopaedia under the subtitle - groups that changed the face of hip-hop. Some might say these sentiments are a bit pretentious, but you know how the saying goes...if you can imagine it, it can happen."

Tiny Masters of Today - Minuet Music Makers

Tiny Masters of Today's credits speak volumes about just how far they have come for people of their age. They have featured on the front of Artrocker magazine, been endorsed by David Bowie and have had two albums out, all at the age of 15 (Ivan) and 13 (Ada). The tiny pair, brother and sister, made a name for themselves on Myspace in 2005 and are taking America by storm.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Tiny Masters of Today from Brooklyn, NY"

What inspires you?
"Other bands inspire us. Our friends and family. All the people we meet."

What have you done?
"We have put out a few albums and singles and played a bunch of shows."
 
What makes you stand out?
"Well, some people focus on the fact that we are younger than most bands but we like to think the music has something to do with it."

Where are you going?
"Hopefully everywhere. We have been to 8 countries already and we want to play all of them."

The Silent Years - Detroit Twee-Pop

The Silent years hail from motor city itself, Detroit, Michigan. Whilst renowned as the home of Motown, the city also houses the heart of America's dance music scene. The Silent Years have side-stepped all of this cultural heritage and beaten their own twee-pop path, blending elements of Rufus Wainwright, The Shins and Americana. They'll be heading UK-wards come October and we recommend you check them out.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are The Silent Years from Detroit, Michigan. When I started this band in late 2005, the Detroit music scene was mostly made up of garage rock and techno. Currently, there is a huge array of music being made here, which I hope that our success has aided to some extent."

What inspires you?
"It is a difficult thing, to attempt to describe what it is that makes us want to create things. I'd suspect that for some of us, the desire to create is a bit like the desire to eat or drink. Our influences are ever changing as I think they should be, but currently we are listening to a lot of Paul Simon, Grizzly Bear, Why?, and The Beatles (more John though)"

What have you done?
"We have done so much in the almost 4 years as a band. I am very proud of having produced so much music while staying on the road about 5 months every year. Mostly, I am proud that we have continued to strive for creative growth and that we still feel we can do better. As Bob Dylan said, "Once you think you've made your best thing, you're in trouble"

What makes you stand out?
"I'd like to think it's because I am so good looking, but more likely it's the combination of lyricism and melody. Paul Simon said recently, "Many people have a talent for one or the other [melody or lyrics]" and while I realize I have room to get better, I'd like to think I have a bit of both so far."

Where are you going?
"We are hoping to record a new full length record in Los Angeles in September and then tour the UK and Europe in October. I cannot wait to be among so much history in those old cities and towns. I cannot wait."

Bastila - Horn-infused party-romping tunes

Bastila - Adam Clark on guitars, Patrick Dignan on drums and Codie Entwistle on bass - are on the cusp of taking their horn-infused, party-romping music to the next level. Signed to Rob da Bank's Sunday Best label after winning a kick off slot at his own festival, Bestval, in 2006  they return this year to reaffirm their status and prove themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Bastila. Five young lions from the Isle of Wight armed with a guitar, drum kit, bass and trumpet... and a big imagination."

What inspires you?
"The desire to not have to get proper jobs. Bands like Gomez and the Stone Roses. All in the hope of doing something a little different."

What have you done?
"We have released our debut album under Sunday Best recordings. We have a new single coming out, which is our favourite track of ours. It's called 'Ghosts'."

What makes you stand out?
"Said trumpet over fast and furious beats."

Where are you going?
"In the future? Who knows..."

Hot Gossip - Blistering Pop-Rock

Giulio, Sergio and Giacomo make up the blistering Italian rock 'n' roll trio that are Hot Gossip. With their second album 'Look Faster When You're Young' due to be released next week (July 27) they have already toured the UK and gathered critical acclaim for debut single 'Stab City'. The new album comes as a result of two long years touring and a month of hardcore work in the studio. Their music has been described as “unapologetic pop and upbeat rock” and their tracks described as “melodies so wonderfully haunting [you'll feel like you've] known it all your life”.

Who are you and where are you from?
“We're a band from Milan, Italy called Hot Gossip. We all come from different provinces not too far from Milan, when the band started we were living a little spread out and it wasn't easy to gather for
rehearsing!However, in a few days we wrote 4 songs and we recorded them in one afternoon. Our friend Alessandro put it out with his own tape/cdr label called Eaten By Squirrels, and within a month or two we were touring the U.K.”

What inspires you?
“Music in all its forms, art, photography travels as well as everyday life. It's not easy to understand where the inspiration comes out from, it can come out from almost anything, it depends a lot on who is the observer. in some ways i can say we are.”

What have you done?
“We've done lots of shows around Italy and Europe, and at the beginning I think that we showed to some people that you can have a very thick live show with just a three piece, and without playing hardcore music and screaming into the microphone all the time, that is pretty dull in 2009.”

What makes you stand out?
“I'm not really sure, we don't want to pretend to stand out, nobody does, or very few. We try to be ourselves, we don't come with ideas like "oh we really should sound more like this because nobody does it" or the opposite "we should really sound more like this because everybody is into it right now" We just do what we do, people can hear it and state that the record has a bigger or smaller personality than another one.”

Where are you going?
“Right now we are really excited, we feel inspired enough to define a new sound for us, we're really digging lots of different styles than what inspired us before. so we need to wait until our brains get all the stimulations we need to process something new.”

Ezra Bang And Hot Machine - Disco Rap With Teeth

Ezra Bang and Hot Machine are a 5 piece boy-girl line-up labelling themselves a "revolutionary" brand of "guerrilla funk". Their list of credits read like an ensemble of back handed compliments (of which they are happy to embrace) ranging from The Guardians description of, 'an extremely camp version of Public enemy's Chuck D gyrating his way through a rap set", right through to the Dail Post's take, describing their music as a “hit and miss, style over substance, disco-sex rap”. If nothing else, you are left intrigued as Ezra Bang and Hot Machine refuse to be pigeon-holed falling into electro, hip hop, post punk and 'noise' as their listed genres. 

Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm Ezra Bang of Ezra Bang & Hot Machine. I come from a tiny town in New York called Endicott, it's the hometown of Gary Wilson and a river called the Mighty Susquehanna."
 
What inspires you?
"Everyday life. I don't believe that miracles are a thing of biblical lore, we're surrounded by them everyday. Michael Jackson came from Gary, Indiana. What the fuck? have you ever been to Gary?  Miracle."
 
What have you done?
"As much as I could, when I could and sometimes more than I could, when i couldn't."
 
What makes you stand out?
"I think maybe I just do what comes natural to me."

Where are you going?
"If I knew the answer to that question, I'd be doing much more with my life. But since you ask I'm moving to Berlin next month and working on our 1st album."

White Belt Yellow Tag - Heavy Melody Makers

White Belt Yellow Tag have quite a pedigree. Two of the band were in innovative rock upstarts Your Codename Is: Milo and the group's live drummer is none other than Tom Bellamy of the Cooper Temple Clause. Nowadays the trio are busy creating their own melodic rock monster in the form of White Belt Yellow Tag. All dramatic breaks and colossal guitars, the band knocked Rivmixx's socks off live, prepare to lose further footwear as this month (July 13) saw the release of their single 'Tell All Your Friends (It Worked Out)'.

Who are you and where are you from?
"I am Justin, I make records and am currently in White Belt Yellow Tag of the north of England. In terms of impact, I'm not sure I could measure that yet, I think that is something I'd have to qualify from beyond the grave. My background is in left of centre guitar music of which my former band (Your Codename Is: Milo) were purveyors of. Scenes aren't really my thing, I've never been in one and I doubt I ever will, I like to keep my head down and create as opposed to backslapping / circle jerking / general high fiving and chest bumping... Scenes tend to do more damage than good."

What inspires you?
"I'm inspired by many things, mostly music made by people who are long dead. I try and work across many genres but am massively partial to large scale drums and guitars with tons of melody. Aside from this, I can be inspired by many trivial daily events such as cinnamon Grahams with just the right amount of very cold milk, or a quality pain au chocolat with a killer cup of tea, followed by a good cigarette.


"

What have you done?
"I don't tend to think about what I've done, that's the past and isn't for me to quantify... People get far too hung up on past acclaim/events/actions and tend to not concentrate on what's in front of them. I am proud of every record/project I've ever been a part of.
"

What makes you stand out?
"Someone remarked recently that we're a mystical band. I didn't quite catch the context but I'll go with it.
"

Where are you going?
"Right now were heading to Latitude for our first festival performance. Which is nice. From there we'll most likely be touring every inch of this here planet. And pondering many a paradox. And playing a lot of the popular board game Risk."

Still Flyin' - Anti-Gloom Sunshine Pop

Still Flyin' are a gift from the god of sunshine. A force for purity and light, wiping away the grime of an English summer like Cif through shower scum. They pen glorious sunshine-pop tunes, combining funky guitars, brass and sing-along choruses to create an infectious blend of global summer music. A psychedelic breath of fresh air and colour, Still Flyin' are single-handedly combating the credit crunch and the overall downer which has consumed the world of late. They can probably cure swine-flu too. Catch them at the Barfly, London this Wednesday (July 22).

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Still Flyin' and we come from San Francisco primarily, but also San Diego, Brooklyn, Melbourne, Berkeley, and unknown additional locales. San Francisco is too small to contain us."

What inspires you?
"Life jams. Walking a dog. Cooking a stew. Eating a burrito. Jamming a brew. Winning a staged fight. Being hungover. Being confused about confusing stuff."

What have you done?
"A lot. We just got attacked in Barcelona. Several times, if you count failed attempts at being pickpocketed. We've also eaten a lot of pork lately as that seems to be the only food option in France, Spain and Germany. When we get to the UK in a week (July 20 - 25) it will be nothing but fish and chips all the way, all the time."

What makes you stand out?
"Some of us look weird and some of us look normal and some of us are tall and some short. Different ethnicities too. There are just too many of us so we've inevitably got something for everyone."

Where are you going?
"Tonight we're going to the Meanie Bar in Hamburg to play a show. Tomorrow (or perhaps tonight) we'll check out the Reeperbahn in Hamburg and later on have a bbq at our host's house. After that we head to Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, Nijmegen, etc. infinity."

Homecut - Soulful Hip Hop

Masquerading behind several names, Homecut promotes himself as the new soulful contingent to the Hip-Hop family. Conscious lyricism, live instrumentation and a mix of Soul, Hip-Hop and sonic experimentation marks him out as a welcome fresh sound on the UK landscape. His debut album released on First Word Records, 'No Freedom Without Sacrifice', is widely critically acclaimed and features collaborations with Grammy winner Corinne Bailey Rae, Mercury Prize nominee Soweto Kinch and US rap legend J-Live as well as many others.

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Homecut, which is kind of my producer name. I also go by the name Testament when I rap but my Mum calls me Andrew. My Dad is English and my Mum is Ghanaian. I was born in London and lived all over until I settled in Manchester and for the last ten years, I've lived in Leeds. I definitely feel part of the scene. Not just in Leeds but in Manchester and Sheffield too. There's a really good community of musicians that are up here and a lot of love, that helps."

What inspires you?
"I'm really influenced by anything with soul really. Cross-genre, cross-decade, cross-culture. I guess my mixed race background contributed to that plus I've lived all over the place. My folks were keen to bring up their kids  a special appreciation of people, standard. From whatever their background. I guess that got into my music too. I got into jazz and funk as a teenager, Marvin, Stevie, Gil Scott-Heron, but then again I'm into David Bowie and Arvo Part too. Ultimately musically, I guess Hip-Hop is my core. Talking about real life interests me. Keeping it real but also trying to "keeping it right" as De La Soul said. So, I'm inspired by things that are real and that build life."

What have you done?
"Right now, its a really good time. My debut album, 'No Freedom Without Sacrifice', is out and is getting a lot of love. That's really encouraging. I spent years working on it and its rewarding to see people vibe to it. Everything just came together when making it. There's collaborations with Corinne Bailey Rae, Soweto Kinch, J-Live, Flying Lotus collaborator Andreya Triana and loads of other heavyweight musicians. It was a great process getting to know and working off some wonderful people who I really dig. At the moment I'm doing two types of show to promote the album. One with my full 7 piece live band and a broken down version with just a pianist and myself using beatbox and a loop station. Live was more my natural environment for a long time."

What makes you stand out?
"That's a hard question, I'm just trying to be myself. Rather than follow any trends or whatever. Making this record, I just tried to put as much of myself in there as possible and hoped people could relate. So my thoughts on life, humour, media, politics, spirituality is all there. Most of the album was made using live musicians. Some people really dig that too."

Where are you going?
"I'm really looking forward to seeing what doors open from this record. Its already exceeded my expectations with MTV Base playing the video, Gilles Petersen digging it and stuff. Plus, I'm really enjoying the live shows at the moment...um... Who knows? All I can say is the next album's going to be a lot of fun."

Nathan C – Prodigy Producer Come Pioneer DJ

Nathan C, at the tender age of only 23, is crashing through the dance scene, gaining huge support as he goes. Pete Tong, Mark Knight, Sasha, Fedde Le Grand, Eddie Halliwell, Hernan Cattaneo and many others have all shown their support as he prepares to take over. His productions resonate the modern electro house sound that can be found echoing the dance floors across the country but with a gritty edge that makes the sound undeniably different. Far from being just a producer Nathan C is also a DJ who forms one half of the outfit 'Tastemakers' and has perfected the art of a remixing with his latest offerings.

Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm Nathan C, a 23-year old Producer and DJ from Guildford. Predominantly I make House music, but also venture into the realms of Pop, Drum & Bass and Gothic Trance. That last one is a joke, but yes, I do produce right across the board. I graduated a music production degree 2 years ago and have been working professionally within the scene since then. I love it!"

What inspires you?
"Just everything that I hear around me is my inspiration. I was playing FIFA on the Playstation the other day and heard this really cool 80's style synth-based track in the background. It was 2am and I was like "Damn... I HAVE to make a track like that right now" - consequently I didn't get to bed til 6am, and it was a school night.
Anyway, I used to be heavily into Drum & Bass a few years back, but then got a little tired of the scene and fell in love with House music about 3 years ago and haven't looked back since. The scene has changed a lot within that time and I'd say right now, stylistically, I'm probably most heavily influenced by the Toolroom sound (I'm a big Mark Knight fan) tinged with a sprinkling of feel-good House music, labels like Stealth and Defected, plus a bit of Progressive House."

What have you done?
"I've been really busy with plenty of projects recently. I've just had a release on Cr2 Records with good friend Danny Dove called "Make Me" - that has been doing really well and getting big props from the likes of Mark Knight, Sasha, Hernan Cattaneo etc. My latest track "Ike" has been released this month on Kid Massive's label Audio Damage, gaining support right across the board from the likes of Eddie Halliwell, Fedde Le Grand, Laidback Luke, Prok & Fitch and more. I've also got another release with Danny Dove on a track called "Vangazi" which is being released on Holland's prestigious Spinnin Records later in the summer.
Also I've done some production work for Lily Allen (a few tracks for her live shows) and also remixed the opening track "Everyone's At It" with Eddie Kid from her latest album. That remix is smashing it everywhere, I'm constantly getting emails from all sorts of random people bigging it up!

Gigs wise I recently played Digital in Brighton which was a fantastic gig, I'm headlining Dex Club in Brixton this Saturday (Juy11) and will be warming up for Seamus Haji for Licked at the Whitehouse (Clapham) on Saturday 1st August. In addition I've also got my residencies for Stereo Sushi and Bargrooves across the country."

What makes you stand out?
"I'd like to think that I'm versatile and varied in what I play and produce and can therefore draw in people from a variety of sub-genres. Carl Cox really inspires me with his diversity and I'd like to think I could achieve something similar in what I do."

Where are you going?
"Just hammering out the music in both quality and quantity, keep doing what I'm doing and hopefully achieve a wider listener base in the process. Would love to get a big residency in Ibiza in the next few years and my own radio show on Radio 1, for example. But that's all aspirations for the future! I'll just carrying on doing what I'm doing and it'll all fall into place."

The Lines - Indie Pop-Punk

The Lines are a blistering punk-tinged indie-pop juggernaut. Sounding like a contemporary melding of the Buzzcocks and the View. They write finely-honed sunny rock songs that tread a wonderful line between happiness and desperation. Libertines-esque guitar licks are layered over rampaging Ramones chord progressions and, occasionally, it all drops out to allow the construction of more complex soundscapes. The Lines have been working hard to make a name for themselves the old-fashioned way and, as their reputation grows, it seems to be paying off.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are the Lines and we're from the Midlands... Gornal, Sedgley and Stafford to be precise."

What inspires you?
"Everything that you experience from the time you open your eyes to the time you shut them and then the stuff between that."

What have you done?
"We have grafted then grafted some more, making music for ourselves, friends , family and loved ones. We've recently recorded our first album and we are just waiting for release dates etc. so we're pretty excited about that. We have released two singles to date: our first being 'Domino Effect' which was a vinyl only release and reached number 10 in the UK indie charts and the second, 'Half Dreams', which was a limited release that sold out. Last year saw us touring England as well as playing Amsterdam, Russia and Austria where we played the Frequency Festival.
Our biggest achievement to date would be selling out our hometown show at the Wulfrun hall which holds 1200 hundred people. It was an immense gig... we hope for more like that."

What makes you stand out?
"We've never really followed a particular style or tried to fit into the latest trends so we guess that's what makes us stand out. We just sound like us. Our live sets vary in terms of songs and we think that's important. We try to make it interesting visually as well."

Where are you going?
"Who knows? As the old saying goes 'Its not about where you're going, it's how you get there'."

Carl Carni - Home-Grown Swagger

Carl Carni has had a constant presence in the underground urban scene for over a decade and is finally ready to unleash his sound on mainstream ears. He mixes the polished, neck-cracking production that we expect from imported U.S hip-hop, with a South London twang and a flow likely to impress Twista - hardly surprising given his Drum & Bass background. His debut single 'On 2 Me' is due to drop in September '09 and with a debut video that features a cameo appearance from UK rapper, Ashley Walters (Asher D), it looks as if this one is already turning heads.

Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm Carl Carni, a hip-hop artist from South London. I first started to make my mark in the Jungle / Drum & Base scene in 1996. Working under the moniker of Nice MC, I became a resident MC on the most prestigious Drum & Bass radio station in the UK, Kool FM. I had a set with DJ Pitch and we played at a lot of the biggest raves - including One Nation, Telepathy, Helter Skelter, Best of British and Pure Science Dekefex - where I worked alongside many big MCs and DJs, such as Hype, Nicky Blk Market, Swift, Skibadee, MC MC, Prince and Dett.

Hip-hop and D&B have always been my favourite genres, but I felt slightly restricted in terms of being able to express myself fully in the D&B scene because the music always comes first, the MC is effectively a host. So in the last few years I've changed my name to Carl Carni (Carnivore), locked myself in the studio and put out mixtapes on the underground, which received a fantastic response. Now, finally my material is due for official release."

What inspires you?
"I've always respected artists who are unique and diverse. Hip-hop has come such a long way, musically. I find artists like Timberland, Lupe Fiasco, Kanye West and Busta Rhymes are all so unique. For me, you know when something is really special, because at first you might not get it, as there's nothing obvious to compare it to - it's innovative."
 
What have you done?
"I've been cooking up hits in the studio for the last four years, mastering the craft, learning and trying to better myself by further understanding the art of music. My two mix-tapes - London's Burning Chapters 1 and 2 - sold over 15,000 copies. I've played some live shows around London and Cyprus Music Festival was massive - to have people singing the words of your song is magic."
 
What makes you stand out? 
"I think my difference comes from my broad range of musical influences and experiences. I take elements that I like, or that interest me and try to express that through my music. I think that's what people find unique. I would never like to be put into a category; I'd like to be looked at as an individual."
 
Where are you going?
"I would like to take UK Hip-hop and urban music to an international level and be something the UK can be proud of. As I said, my material is now ready for official release - my single 'On 2 Me' is due out late summer, so I'm just going to be working hard to promote that throughout this summer - check the profile for live dates and come out and support the movement! I'll be heading back to Cyprus to play their music festival for the third year - so if you're out there make sure you come down!

They'll also be a new mix-tape coming pretty shortly for the underground heads and I'm hoping my album will be ready later this year. After that, I can only aspire to the top! I want to enable UK hip-hop to be prevalent in the mainstream, because home-grown hip-hop has always been drastically overlooked in this country."

Invasion - Heavy And Soulful

Invasion are a blast from our British metal past – a fist pumping, head banging, tighter-than-Thatcher's-purse-strings onslaught of heaviness. It's metal, but not as we know it - soul vocals clash with White Stripes Vs. Maiden style tunes and it's all delivered by bright young thangs.  They still have a penchant for grimy t-shirts, though!

Who are you and where are you from?
“Two girls and one geek formed Invasion – a heavy metal/soul band – together in London after travelling from the not so far reaches of this land.”

What inspires you?
“Good metal, fantasy (Wizards namely...), booze, deep space, deep thought, free drugs...”

What have you done?
“Live gigs-wise: Latitude festival in collaboration with Future Shorts was amazing.  Download Festival 2008 was pretty sick.  In Paris 'La Fleche D'or' was super fun to play and free red wine is always good.  Supporting the Sword at Underworld was intense... I could go on; its always fun to play gigs!

“We also released our EP 'Moongazer' last year and we have the first single, 'Conjure War' - released from our debut album - out on June 2, followed by a second single early August.  Then the album, 'Master Alchemist' [will be out] early September, and after that we'll all jump in the van for a European tour.”

What makes you stand out?
“We're from the 70's but strangely we don't look that old (Rivmixx did some research they look uncannily like teenagers) ... Smoke, lights, magik, and most importantly decent heavy music with originality.”

Where are you going?
“To the pub for another beer.”

Hafdis Huld – Catchy Scandi-Pop

Hafdis Huld caught our intention just recently with 'Kongolo', her inspired ode to Alain Robert (the real-life Spider-man). A self described 'glittery fairy princess', she pens catchy little Scandi-pop gems that dig their glittery fairy claws into you.

Who are you and where are you from?
"My name is Hafdis Huld and I come from Reykjavik Iceland."

What inspires you?
"Interesting people with unusual stories and also things that happen either to me or the people in my life are my main inspiration. I always start by writing the lyrics for my songs so stories are important to me."

What have you done?
"Lots of different things, from acting in films to being a Sunday school teacher, but I am guessing you mean in music so the music answer would be... that I sang with an Icelandic electronic band called Gus Gus when I was very young, then came to England and sang with a band called FC Kahuna. In 2006 I then released my first solo album and have toured in Europe and supported people like Mika and Paolo Nutini. Oh and I also make video blogs, you should check them out."

What makes you stand out?
"I am tiny, I talk a lot (with a bit of an Icelandic accent), I use toys and unusual instruments in my music. And I sew my own banners and little pictures for my website and badges and stuff. Oh and my songs are good."

Where are you going?
"Next I am going to play in Brighton, Glasgow and London and then back to Iceland. But in the future I hope I will be going to Japan, I want to play my song 'Tomoko' to lots of girls called Tomoko."

KOF – Good-Time Hip-Hop

Liverpudlian lyricist KOF delivers mile-a-minute good-time hip-hop. Catchy hooks, old-skool (with a 'K') dance beats and bouncy hip-hop bass are all combined with fast-as-hell rhyming in an aerobic-dance-rap workout. Having already landed airtime on Radio 1, 1 Xtra and Galaxy FM as well as supporting sets with Akala, Dizzee Rascal and Lupe Fiasco, KOF looks set to become a regular feature in the music pages.


Who are you and where are you from?
“My name is KOF, I'm from Liverpool, grew up in London, now I reside back in the Pool.”

What inspires you?
“Love, Life, Music and everything outside my window!”

What have you done?
“I have turned my dreams into reality. Cheesy but true!  I've supported some great acts in Akon, Dizzee Rascal, MS Dynamite and Lupe Fiasco. I've performed all over the country. Radio stations seem to like my music. My first EP, 'The KOF', is out now.”

What makes you stand out?
“The colours I clothe myself in and the way I use my voice box!”

Where are you going?
“As far as my creativity and talent will take me, which will be further than my last step!  This summer I'll be in Stockholm and Malmo and performing at Glastonbury also. I have a headline show in Liverpool on June 18 and support slots with N-Dubz and Tinchy Stryder.”

Phuturesonic – Funk-Hop Collective

This lot caught our attention with their breaks-meets-funk-meets-hiphop crossover sound.  Originally created by DJ/producer Henry C as a studio-based project, he's since enlisted a vocalist and rapper - to make the tracks more 'song' like - and a live band, to make their live shows more dynamic.  Together they've created a sound they call funk-hop, which we think is definitely worth a listen.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Henry Gillespie - production/keyboards; Jon Audio - vocals; MelanieJane - vocals; Adam King - bass; Jon Speedy - guitar; and Jimmy Norden - drums.
"We all come from the far and wide depths of the UK but met up in the wondrous city of London through jams. We have all played together seperately and decided to put the genius we had found together, to form Phuturesonic. We now reside in somewhere between the past, present and phuture."

What inspires you?
"Between the six of us we are inspired by any genre of music you want to throw at us. We have taken these influences and created a nostalgic sound which is reminiscent of so many things - but you can't quite put your finger on what it is. It's the mind melange that makes the megaphonic music of Phuturesonic!"

What have you done?
"We all have many achievements as artists seperately. Collectively we have worked with Good Looking Records, Fullcycle, Passanger, Zena Edwards, Alice Russel, Blu Rum 13, Sarah Winton, Nitin Sawney, Jon Kennedy, Cooking Records, 777 Records, Aquasky and many more. This level of musicianship helps us to create music that is fresh, positive, conscious and food for the soul."

What makes you stand out?
"We make music that plays lyrical tricks and makes you want to dance. It will be the soundtrack to your hopes and memories. It gives you goose bumps and makes the hair stand up on the back of your neck. When you hear Phuturesonic, it will feel like you have heard it in a dream that has now come true."

Where are you going?
"We don't know until we get there, but we are going to enjoy the journey travelling to wherever we're going - and during that journey we will endeavour to create as much positive energy as we can! We want to help people to believe that they can create anything they wish and spread the power of positivity.
"We release our debut single 'World Adrift' on Funkhop Records on June 21, with distribution through Kudos Records.  And will be playing live shows including Beach Breaks Live Festival, Secret Garden Party, Favela Chic in Old Street for the launch party on the June 3 and the Notting Hill Arts Club on the June 19. We implore everyone to come and see us and buy the single all mixes(!) and come and see us live to really experience the funk-hop sound that they we are championing.

IMMa – Rockin' Self Belief

iMMa writes fist in the air odes to self belief, sticking the proverbial middle finger up to any sense of doubt. A consummate performer, whether it's ballet, open-mic nights or unleashing on-stage during her own shows, she delivers. In fact, it's here where she is at her best and it's therefore understandable why she has surrounded herself with quality musicians - her band have fought the good fight with Feeder, Skunk Anansie and Lady Sovereign to name a few. So now, fresh from a tour with the aforementioned Skunk Anansie, iMMa is preparing for a summer of gigs, including London's Rock On The River.

Who are you and where are you from?
"Hey I'm iMMa. I am born and bred in South London with a whole load of Japanese culture thrown in from my mum!!"

What inspires you?
"Every day inspires me - what's effecting me and people around me. People who strive to do things that seem impossible and fail and try and try again."

What have you done?
"I have started my own record label, about to release my debut album on it! I have toured through out UK and Europe, I have been in a band which turned into a solo project."

What makes you stand out?
"I hit the stage hard. I have no inhibitions, the stage is my release. I see a lot of bands shoe gazing, not giving it a performance and that's where I tend to stand out.... on stage doing what I do best!!"

Where are you going?
"I wanna travel the world, sell records and make my living through writing and performing my music."

Photo by:  Shan Rixon

Dieter Schöön – Experimental Psychedelic-Tronics

Something of a unique experimentalist, Dieter Schöön is typical of a musician's musician that's not trying to make music for the masses, but for himself and those who happen to enjoy it.  It works, though, nonetheless.  Somewhat akin to Moby's latest psychedelic compositions, it's fresh, funky and utterly engaging.  From folk to jazz it's all thrown into the mix and streamed out the other end over sonic spaced out electronics.  Minimalist, wholesome and psychedelic.  Try it, you might like it.

Who are you and where are you from?
“Dieter Schöön from Sweden / Gothenburg, but I am pretty stateless. I am "from" everything that's ever influenced me and that's mostly planet sound.”

What inspires you?
“Simple things... random generosity of spirit in others, Gothenburg harbour by night, William Burroughs.”

What have you done?
“Errr, lot's things, how long you want this answer to be?! Most recently I've "done" an album called 'Lablaza'.”

What makes you stand out?
“I mix everything musically. I try to break things down and put them back together again. People say it's experimental, in a way it is but it MUST have a very good feeling or I don't do it... and that's not always the case with "experimental" music.”

Where are you going?

“On Friday to London for some gigs, then back to Sweden to complete the next album.  And, generally speaking, wherever the music takes me.”

Man Like Me – Fun Ska Pop

What can be said about Man Like Me, that wouldn't sound too gushing, yet inform you of their brilliance? This trio from Camden town, London are hilarious and entertaining. Their 'Single Dad' track is not only stuck in our heads months after hearing it, but we actually enjoy it being there - unlike most songs we've hummed for the 100th time.  And the video almost made us fall out of our chairs we laughed that hard. Their Maddness-esque sound can only be a good thing in our humble opinion!

Who are you and where are you from?
Johnny:  "My  name is Johnny and im a boy from Camden town."
Jerome:  "I'm TromboneJerome and I'm from my mom and dad. Brooklyn New York after that."
Pete:  "I am Peter Duffy aka pesk aka bubblin' Chris. I'm from Tufnell Park, but if anyone asks me "oi what ends you from blood?" then I'll pretty much change my answer according to the location.

What inspires you?
Johnny:  "Stephen Fry inspires me - his views on the ways of the world give me clarity and understanding in my own life. It's not that he's god like or better than anyone else but he has this gift of making the most complicated things seem simple."
Jerome:  "J.J. Johnson, and debt."
Pete:  "Famous producers inspire me - I like reading up on the way they work; finding out what equipment they use; watching YouTube videos of them in the studio; and of course listening to music they make.  

What have you done?
Johnny:  "Written a few songs and had the pleasure of performing them to different types of people all around the world."
Jerome:  "I've recorded on lots of people's albums including Sean Paul, DJ Kane and Alicia Villarreal, which won a Grammy.  Visited over 75 countries and started my own band called Brassroots."
Pete:  "Not enough. Ask me when I'm 30.  Although so far we've done an album, five singles and gigs all over the world - so if it ends here I'll be happy."

What makes you stand out?
Johnny:  "My Burberry trousers feel like they give me that little bit extra."
Jerome:  "I'm big and black and I wear a hat."
Pete:  "We're out to prove that we've got nothing to prove.  I got that from the back of the DVD box for Napoleon Dynamite but I think it works for us quite well.  To be honest I wouldn't like to say.  If we do stand out then its due to a mixture of deliberate and unintentional elements that came together big-bang style."

Where are you going?
Johnny:  "To the toilet, went a bit over the top last night and need to get it out of my system."
Jerome:  "To Ikea."
Pete:  "Home, dinners on the table."

Black Canvas - Summer Reggae Vibes

Black Canvas provide listeners with a perfect summer soundtrack of roots reggae and hip-hop. The duo, Mr Melody and Rider Shafique, hail from Gloucester but are both deeply immersed in Caribbean culture - hence the roots vibe. Having individually worked with the likes of Pressure Drop, Freeland and Chase & Status, the pair are now combining their weight behind the Black Canvas project and we're sure their album will be pumping out of all reggae fan's sound systems this summer.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Rider Shafique & Mr Melody and together we record/perform under the name Black Canvas. Predominantly we are both vocalists hailing from the small city of Gloucester situated in the south west of the UK."

What inspires you?
"Life in general is our inspiration. We draw from life's ups and downs, the good and bad, and we express how we see the world through our music."

What have you done?
"We have just finished our first album together, which is entitled 'Rise', produced by Chubby J from Pressure Drop. There are also some great remixes and guest features on the album from very respected producers such as Chase & Status, Ed Solo, Breakfastaz and TRG.
"Together as Black Canvas and as individual artists we have featured on many different releases and projects in collaboration with artists such as Adam Freeland, Black Grass, Pressure Drop & Alien ENT.
"We also have performed live all over the world as part of the Pressure Drop Soundsytem and will hopefully do the same as Black Canvas."

What makes you stand out?
"Everything- our vocal styles, our sound, our approach. We are not afraid to be ourselves and create music to how we feel, which may not necessarily be the current trend."

Where are you going?
"Wherever the journey leads. Hopefully all over the world performing and meeting good people.  We are both starting work on our own solo projects and are involved in many different collaborations ranging from roots reggae, hip hop and dubstep. Keep your eyes and ears open - we hope to be everywhere."

Tiny Tigers – Feline Tea Rockers

Happier in a tea room than a Camden pub, Tiny Tigers formed in August 2008 over cupcakes, gin and a love of music. 
Now, having put together some driving punk rock tracks, they're preparing to drop their debut album later this year. With a rather quaint DiY EP – complete with ribbons and cupcakes – already making waves with their driving, spiky punk-tinged indie grrrrrrl pop rock, they're definitely ones to keep an eye out for.

Who are you and where are you from?
“Tiny Tigers are from East London to Ohio USA: Ms Angel, Ms Snow and Ms Ann Rock.”

What inspires you?
“A really good hook lead or pounding bassline always makes us want to pick up our guitars and write. We also find things that capture the moment quite inspiring - whether it be a photograph, the theme tune from Button Moon or simply bumping into someone you once knew. Things that remind you of the past and how you once felt are so amazing, it's what we write about and try to capture with our music.”

What have you done?
“Aside from drinking tea, eating cakes, and sleepwalking in the middle of the night (a long story), we've managed to gig across the UK, make a music video, record loads of demos and work with the ever-so talented producer Paul Tipler.”

What makes you stand out?
“Apart from the obvious reasons (all girl band, plays all original music etc), Tiny Tigers is a force to be reckoned with. Catchy pop music with a punk rock twist done in a cute but sophisticated way. It's honest and down to earth without all the pretentious rubbish of trying to look cool/be something you're not to fit the latest genre of fashion.”

Where are you going?
“Back out on tour this summer to promote our EP 'Time For Tea', then we're heading back to the studio to work with Paul Tipler again on our album in time for a Christmas release.”

Robot Disaster - Upstart Electro-Punks

Fenech Soler – Electro Glam Pop

Phonat – Electronic Rule-Breaker

P.O.S – Hardcore Rap/Rock

Part rap/hip-hop, part punk/rock, P.O.S crosses that divide like the Beastie Boys and the like before him. 

 With a history deeply rooted in punk rock and having been part of another hardcore band lends some understanding to his sound. Nevertheless, he's growing a loyal hip-hop fanbase, and with his third album upon us, it seems the rock-rap-hop of P.O.S is here to stay. His sound is fast-paced rap and rhythm accompanied by rolling drums and revved-up distortion – awesome.

Who are you and where are you from?

 “I'm a rapper named P.O.S (pissed off Stef, piece of shit, promise of skill, promise of stress, product of society... on and on).
'm from mpls [Minneapolis] mn [Minnesota] and I love it there, even in the winter.”

 What inspires you?

 “Mostly, trying to spin bad sh*t into good sh*t.”

 What have you done?

 “I have made three solo rap records, most recently 'Never Better' on Rhymesayers. I'm in a rap crew called Doomtree.Made a son named Jake - he is amazing. I've done bunches so far.”

Heartless Bastards – Raw Garage Rock

These Heartless Bastards sure have a lot of depth for a band with such a degrading name. Hailing from Ohio, Erika Wennerstrom (vocals, guitar), Jesse Ebaugh (bass) and Dave Colvin (drums) produce whisky-soaked, garage rock rawness propelled by the unique, transcendent androgynous voice of Wennerstrom.  

Signed to Fat Possum Records after a chance meeting with Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney, they've released three albums to date but are yet to be fully recognised internationally. With a few dates around London this May though, they should start to get the recognition they deserve. The leading lady talks us through...

Who are you and where are you from?

“My name's Erika Wennerstrom and I'm from Dayton, Ohio.”

What inspires you?

“Road trips, going to a good concert, good things that happen, bad things that happen.”

What have you done?

“I've released three albums under the band name Heartless Bastards, I've partied on Ice Cube's bus, I've also been a waitress, bartender, telemarketer, landscaper, and I worked at a bookstore.”

What makes you stand out?

“I'm not very good at selling myself so I really don't know how to answer this question. People say my voice sounds unique. I think my songs are very sincere. I just write songs that I like, and hope that people respond to them. So far everything has gone well.”

Where are you going?

“Only time will tell. I'm not big into planning far in advance.”

Esser - Cutting-Edge Conceptual Pop

This 23-year-old, mega quiffed pop troubadour from Essex has been mixing it up with some top notch artists, including Little Boots, Kaiser Chiefs and La Roux, to name only a few.  

Now, with his highly anticipated debut album coming out on Transgressive, it seems he's destined for big things. Telling tales of relationship dramas through a comical pop sheen, he's a leading male beacon in the music-meets-fashion field. Not only does he produce some funny, ska-tinged power pop moments, he also runs the riotous Midnight Moonstomp parties.  

Who are you and where are you from?

“I'm Ben Esser and I'm from Chelmsford, Essex.”

What inspires you?

“Lots and lots of things.”

What have you done?

“Today I had a cup of coffee and peanut butter on toast. Yesterday I was in SXSW. Before that I made an album called 'Braveface' that's coming out in May. Before that I played drums in a few bands. Before that I went to school.”

What makes you stand out?

“I think all music is made up of the same components and it's one's character and personality that makes people stand out most the time. So that and my ten foot quiff!”

Where are you going?

“To rehearse for my upcoming headline tour.”

Marvin Hagglar – Graffin' Hip-Hop Artist

This creative Zimbabwean artist is working damn hard, whether that's as a graphic designer, graffiti artist, illustrator or rapper/musician.  

Musically he produces real-life hard hitting lyrics about 'modern day dramas' alongside smooth, shimmering hip-hop beats. Often using a softer sound alongside soulful female vocals, his message-filled lyrics get the distinctive they deserve.

Despite working on the UK underground scene for a while, working with other up and coming artists like MC Sense and Edison (Grassroots Family), his sounds are yet to get a full hearing. But with a series of creative outlets, including the founding of, and being the visual designer for, Ghostdavandal-Originals – a customisation company – it'll soon be hard to miss the talent that Hagglar exudes. 

Who are you and where are you from?

“My name's Marvin Hagglar residing in the south side of London. Kingston is my area and it's in Surrey but it's like anywhere you go - it's got nice bits and bad bits.”

What inspires you?

“Well, I'm inspired by life. So artists that relate to life and a knowledge of self really inspire me, namely people like Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder, Fela Kuti, Lucky Dube, Thomas Mapfumo, Sade, Soul2Soul, just to mention a few!”

What have you done?

“Probably the first thing was pirate radio down south called EdgeFM, where we used to do the late evening hip-hop show.  Then our music got played on Ras Kwame's show on 1Xtra - we were called Greenhouse at the time, we came second, that didn't matter cos that kinda gave me more energy to get heard! 

“From then on started frequenting Open Mic sessions and doing shows in and around London at places like Notting Hill Arts Club, alongside acts like Just Jack, The Mass in Brixton and Scala just to mention a few.”

What makes you stand out?

“I guess just being a real person makes me stand out. I feel like a lot of people keep themselves in a shell so you never get to know the person behind the person. I like to keep things at a perspective.”

Where are you going?

“Its easy to say up but I'd like to think I'm going international – Europe, Africa, Americas, the world! I'm an open-minded person so I guess I'm outward bound!”

Wave Machines – Lo-Fi Organic Pop

Wave Machines are a quirky, organic art-pop four-piece from Merseyside. Known for wearing scary masks during their live gigs because they're 'conceptual pranksters, the various members – Tim Bruzon, Carl Brown, James Walsh and Vidar Norheim – also moonlight in a Liverpool art collective.
Like kindred spirits Hot Chip they play a selection of weird instruments, wavering between charity shop Casio pop ('You Say The Stupidest Things') and melancholic guitar-wallowing indie such as 'Punk Spirit'. They've just issued their new lo-fi disco single 'Keep The Lights On', out on Neapolitan Recordings, as a free download from their website and are already firm favourites with the post-rock Pitchfork cognoscenti.
Already snapped up for slots at Glasto, Bestival, Rock Ness and Dot To Dot festival, 2009 looks set to be a year when the band really make waves.


Who are you and where are you from?
“Tim, Wave Machines band member, from Liverpool, England.”

What inspires you?
“Our main drive has always been to make a living doing something fun. When you do something creative and people respond positively it compels you to repeat the experience. Being in a band with other great songwriters provides a huge amount of healthy competition. We all want to be the one that delivers the knock-out punch.”

What have you done?
“We've filtered a huge soup of energy and ideas and come up with a concentrated mixture of everything that makes us smile - ear to ear or it's in the bin.”

What makes you stand out?
“Recently our collaborative work with Mercy poet Nathan Jones has felt like the most unusual thing we've been involved in. Gigs at the Tate and the London Word festival help to mix things up a bit - we are hoping to crash the poetry tents at some of this summer's festivals and showcase more of that work. Ideas and energy from a collective of other great artists are a massive part of keeping the project vital.”

Where are you going?
“Right now, we are off to London to make a video with the talented souls from Trunk animation. Beyond that, into a higher gear on stage. You really notice the improvements with each gig. I imagine it's like watching your arms grow in front of you as you lift weights, only without all the egg and chicken breast smoothies.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

Groove Diggerz – Groovy Breakbeat Funk

Groove Diggerz formed in 2005 in Reading around the nucleus of Rob Savage and Reuben Pearce. Initial breakbeat tracks such as 'Big Bad Bruiser' and 'Neon Funk' established their name in the breaks scene, and got them nominated for awards at Breakspoll in recent years.
The Diggerz have now expanded into a fully-fledged live band, with regular MC Ronnie Black and Beats International gal Lindy Layton handling vocal duties. They've also drafted in unsung breakbeat hero Jay Stewart and will be hitting the road very shortly.
'Money For Good Times' is their debut album, a highly accessible, groovy, funky digable thing that takes in sunshine drum & bass, electro-funk, dubwise breakbeat and downtempo soul. Out in Breakin Even Records round about now, Rivmixx collared main man Rob Savage for the Diggerz lowdown...


Who are you and where are you from?
“We're the Groove Diggerz, based in Reading in the UK.”

What inspires you?
“New sounds and new music, I think we get inspired by everything we hear really. But the new fresh stuff in dance music now is amazing, very inspiring.”

What have you done?
“We won Breakspoll Best Breakthrough Producer in 2007 along with being nominated for Best Breakthrough Label in 2007 and 2008. Groove Diggerz were also nominated for Best DJ in 2007 and 2008, we've toured amazing countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and all over Europe.”

What makes you stand out?
“Our sound is fresh and unique, we have five or six amazing vocalists that we work with. No-one sounds like Groove Diggerz.”

Where are you going?
“The live act is nearly ready to go, our album 'Money For Good Times' has just come out and is available to buy on CD from www.breakineven.co.uk. It will be available from iTunes, Beatport, Trackitdown etc very soon.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

Phoenix Williams – Heartfelt Lilting Folk

Sounding a bit like a modern day electro-fied Sheryl Crow, Phoenix fuses mellow acoustics with a sweet voice to produce a range of easy listening life-lamenting songs. Electro samples blend with country synth'd rock, and bluesy numbers are layered over lulling guitar strums and heart-felt lyrics.  

Last year she launched her debut album 'Wait And See' independently through Deuce Records, and the singles 'Permanently In My Heart' and 'On My Stereo' have been rapidly gaining radio play since.

Who are you and where are you from?

“I am Phoenix Williams, a British female singer/songwriter. I was born and raised in Blackpool - which is a seaside resort in the north-west of England - and at the age of 21 I moved to Brighton where I've been living ever since. I do love to be beside the seaside, yes I do!”

What inspires you?

“I'm inspired by music that makes my arm hair stand up - it's all in the goosebumps for me. I love it when a song or a live performance stops me in my tracks. One of the most inspiring moments I've had was watching Mellissa Etheridge perform live with a 12-string acoustic guitar on an MTV Unplugged years ago. I was completely blown away by her and after seeing that I went and bought a guitar.”

What have you done?

“I've invested 14 years into my music from teaching myself to sing and play guitar right along to writing, composing and recording my demos. It took me a few years of searching to find the right manager and after signing with Rob Saunders at Deuce management last year my music is now being played on radio stations all over the world. A highlight for me last year was releasing a 10-track album of my demos called 'Wait And See'. 

What makes you stand out?

“If I answer this, wouldn't that make me stand out as really conceited and full of myself? You're best asking yourself that question when you've listened to my music. I've been told recently by a make-up artist that I have eyelashes like a cow! It was meant as a compliment I think, so if all else fails I know I can count on them to pull me through.”

Where are you going?

“Onwards and upwards I hope. I like to go with the flow and try not to create huge expectations about the future as a rule. My plan for 2009 is to return to the studio to record an album that I consider to be the best I can do. 'Wait And See' is an album of demos, so what comes next is an album of mastered songs. When this is ready for release my manager and I will do our best to play it to as many people as possible - and after that who knows what will happen.”

Laura Steel – Experimental Electro-Pop

Drawing influences from Kosheen and M.I.A, among others, this young electro trip-hop popper has been attracting attention with the single 'Running', which featured on Channel Five's The Gadget Show.

Currently working on her debut album 'Time For Change' with super producer Frankie Biggz (Eminem, Kanye West, Britney Spears, Madonna), which ducks and dives through genres akin to dubstep, d&b, ambient chill-out and tech house, the piano-playing professional art director, stylist, hair and makeup artist Steel is destined for big things with her unique branch of experimental pop. 

Who are you and where are you from? 

“Laura Steel... Mars... (Sheffield).”

What inspires you? 

“Everyday life past and present events that I have experienced, love, hate etc.”

What have you done? 

“I am currently working on my album, putting out a single, writing new material with Frankie Biggz (Grammy award-winning producer). I have performed at Ronnie Scotts, Cafe de Paris, The Hippodrome...”

What makes you stand out? 

“I'm a bit crazy, I have an abundance of energy on stage, I'm not your typical long-haired WAG-type girlie girl, I'm edgy and proud of who I am and don't take no shit!”

Where are you going?

“To Florida in March for recording sessions with Frankie Biggz, Miami for some gigs and the Winter Music Conference. And Atlanta for a huge gig in May.”

Soft Toy Emergency – Squelchy Electro Pop

Fans of the new squelchy electro sound that's served up on a shiny pop platter, these five young “Casio kittens” aim to bring everyone along for a ride on their neon-coated disco ball. 
Strange advocates of the Buckfast drink, they're fun, young and utterly irresistible. Playing repetitive, catchy and pop-tastic stuff they'll have the Hoxton cool kids dancing in no time, and are bouncing onto the scene faster than you can say E-number overload! Check it.

Who are you and where are you from?
“We are Soft Toy Emergency. We are from Liverpool. Although we originally come from different and distant parts of the UK such as Glasgow and Maidstone.”
What inspires you?
“Musically - French electro acts such as Justice and Daft Punk, lots of pop music too. Other than that we are inspired to write music from events in our lives that happen due to the wonderful drink that is Buckfast!”
What have you done?
“Ruined all of our chances of ever getting a steady job?! We have just put out our first single, 'I Kno U Want It', with Friends Vs Records. On the gig frontier we just finished a little tour of the UK with a single launch show in Liverpool which was mental.”
What makes you stand out?
“The fact we'll kick dirty beats and synths in your eyes, then smile at you sweetly amidst the clouds of pop.”
Where are you going?
“We are going to go play lots of lovely little festivals including Great Escape, Dot To Dot, Sound City and Hinterland up in Scotland. We are putting out another single with FVsR in May and then we'll tour ourselves into the ground.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

Kids Love Lies - Riot Grrrl Renaissance

Having come together through their shared love of post-punk, this creative quartet with their fast, driving spiky indie guitar sound and sugary sweet vocals have become the new cool kids on the block. 
Their exciting riot grrrl/power pop renaissance with a twist is sure to make them ones to watch for in 2009. Singer Mad Dog Murphy gives us some KLL home truths...

Who are you and where are you from?
“We are Kids Love Lies, which consists of Mad Dog Murphy (vox), Say What Say When Say Well (guitar), Miss C (bass), Raffles The Gentleman Thug (drums) and Leigh Harrison Ford (guitar). We all currently live in London but we originate from all over the place - Liverpool, Lincoln, Watford!”
What inspires you?
“We’re all inspired by a wide range of music, from bands like Pretty Girls Make Graves and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs to At The Drive In, Janis Joplin and Therapy? We love to write songs together, it’s great when someone comes up with a riff in our weekly band practise, then Claudia will add a wicked bassline, then Raf smashes in with a beat and then I can work a melody and lyrics into it. It’s such an exciting process and if we didn’t all have full-time jobs I think we could easily write songs all day every day!”
What have you done?
“We’ve played loads of great gigs since we started in January 2008 and have been so lucky to play with some great bands, such as Fight Like Apes, who recently toured with The Prodigy.
“We’ve had a lot of great airplay, most recently Zane Lowe played us on his Radio 1 show as well as Huw Stephens on BBC Introducing, who we’re recording a live session with in April.
“We’re also releasing our debut 7-inch this April 13th on Cherryade Records. And we're playing at this year’s Great Escape festival, which is very exciting as it’ll be our first proper festival!”
What makes you stand out?
“I think our live performance really makes us stand out as we love to pump as much energy as we can when we play live, jumping around, getting sweaty and just having a good time. We dress how we like and write music we’re passionate about rather than what’s in style at the time.”
Where are you going?
“We’re going anywhere and everywhere - UK, Europe, the USA, all over the world! We’re going as far as we can. Kids Love Lies has become a huge part of our lives and we want our music to reach as many people as possible and enjoy it as much as we do.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

The Buizniez – 80s-Infused Hip-Hop

Trying to steer away from the usual bravado of hip-hop, the anonymous grime/r&b/electronic producer Buizniez stays true to his 80s musical inspiration in bringing party-themed bass-heavy beats and poised minimal electronic synth-infused percussive pieces. 
His work alongside the much-loved hip-hop/r&b vocalist Artcha, though, adds an altogether different tone to The Buizniez's bouncy, fun-filled hip-hop.  A highly promising producer.

Who are you and where are you from?
“They call me The Buizniez (no fixed address). I lie, I commute between a suburb in leafy Kent and Brixton, South London. Helps to put things in perspective.”

What inspires you?
“Good music and creative individuals from all walks of life.”

What have you done?
“Music-wise I am releasing the first official track from my album 'Electrify'. The single is titled 'Club Freaks Anthem Part 1' feat Artcha.”

What makes you stand out?
“I am comfortable in any musical genre, as my resume would verify. Apart from my hip-hop project I am producing a heavy rock EP for a rock group called Voodoo Pearl.”

Where are you going?
“Wherever the music takes me. Or as the saying goes: 'Have beats will travel'.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

IMS Beats – Londoncentric Hip-Hop Shizzle

The IMS crew peddle driving, delicate but dark beats with hard-hitting, in your face, London-born lyrics. MC duo SKD & Baska: Two Man Army feature on their forthcoming EP 'The War Salute'. 

West Londoners Ben 81 and East Man use old EMU and Akai samplers alongside vintage effects and compressors to create hard funk and film score-inspired hip-hop music.  

Who are you and where are you from?

“We are IMS, the I'll Move Sporadic crew. We're a hip-hop crew from London, currently based in Lewisham.”

What inspires you?

“Old dusty record shops, breaks and dub basslines, the northern line, Pete Rock, our music, ink stains, taxi drivers, Jay Dee, shit producers and MCs that get props, Bumpy Knuckles, finding breaks no-one else has, being better than most, Rufige Kru, design, cassettes, Liquid Swords, and growing up in London during the 80s/90s.”

What have you done?

“We've done crimes, we've hated paying f**king taxes, a few mix CDs, we worked with some crews in the states - regular collaborations with San Francisco-based group Second Hand Citizen and other ongoing ventures with rapper Gus Pony - and got stuff out over there. We done some gigs in London and Brighton and so on, we did a 12-inch release (single) in 2005, got good reviews. We just got on a tribute CD for Isaac Hayes which was released in Brooklyn in 2008, the list goes on - like Ariston!”

What makes you stand out?

“Our sound. Our dedication, and we don’t follow the crowd. No compromise.”

Where are you going?

“Listen to our beats and then you tell me…”

Lilies On Mars – Dreamy Pop Rock

These two avant-garde London-based Italian ladies use guitars, bass and synths alongside dreamy voices and distortions to create psychedelic folk pop rock – they're pretty hard to box. 

Securing Bill Gautier (The Cure, Paul McCartney, Fleet Foxes) to produce their debut album, and starting the collaboration with Elsewhere Factory - an independent cultural association that has supported the project from the very beginning – they invite you to “experience the intimacy created by instrument-sharing in a martian living room”.

Who are you and where are you from?

“Hiya, we are Lilies On Mars, aka Lisa Dply Masia and Marina Cristofalo, coming from Mars - obviously! We're based in London now and then, with our families from Italy and our hearts around the universe, catching new sounds and new experiences.”

What inspires you?

“Our trips from one place to another, we always try to get as much as we can from people and situations. Our music is coming from what is around us and our feelings about it.”

What have you done?

“Well, we had a few interesting experiences creating a tribute to David Lynch after his speech about transcendental meditation.  

“There's the amazing collaboration with Franco Battiato, an experimental musician and movie director who invited us to a gig with him around Italy and Europe.

“We also appeared in his last movie Niente E' Come Sembra with Alejandro Jodorowsky. In June 2008 we started the recording of our first project between Hackney and Shoreditch with our guitars and synths, meeting Simon Raymonde (Bella Union), who introduced us to Bill Gautier who mastered our self-produced recorded album.”

What makes you stand out?

“Well... that we come from Mars?”

Where are you going?

“At the moment we would love to stay on planet Earth.”

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

Wrongstar Society – Dirty Breakbeat Wrong'Uns

These Essex beat-tastic boys are breaking through the breaks scene but doing it their own way - or so it seems. Fusing hip hop, rock and most things in-between into classic breaks riddims, they're keen to be seen but won't accept any limitations.
Just signed to Leeroy Thorhill's (ex Prodigy dude) label Electric Tastebuds and coming over like a more breakbeat Audio Bullys, you can expect to sample more of their dirty treats soon.


Who are you and where are you from?

"We are the Wrongstars from happy Harlow in Essex. We're two pairs of brothers - two producers and two MC/Vocalists."

What inspires you?

"Our inspiration is taken from the people who have done what they wanted to and non-conformists - probably a bit cheesy and unoriginal, but it's true. For example, the whole punk movement (especially The Pistols), Johnny Cash, Nirvana.

"A lot of our current inspiration comes from working with people who we idolised growing up, such as former members of The Prodigy.

"The technical inspiration in our tracks comes from a range of different genres (nu skool breaks, drum & bass, hip-hop, metal etc) and the particular artists that influence us in breakbeat would be Quest, Noisia and Koma & Bones to name just three."

What have you done?
"Our first album turned out to be quite a small success. This was released independently through the Unstable Label and Z-Audio Distribution."

What makes you stand out?
"We are the Marmite of breakbeat, due to our slick basslines and Essex swagger vocals."
"There's really two sides to The Wrongstars - the hip-hop, rock and big beat fusion that is our album material, and our nasty twisted breakbeat single releases."
Where are you going?
"Currently working on our next album, this is the one we are hoping will take us to the next level. It's gonna be a lot more of the rock sound that was heard towards the end of our last album. We will of course continue to release speaker-shaking breaks tracks!"

Go to artist's Rivmixx profile

Klumzy Tung – Wicked Freestyle MC

This quick witted emcee has been tramping the hip-hop/experimental scene for years but his musical production has only just come to the fore. 
Starting out as a garage emcee, his performance has evolved alongside numerous DJs and promoters, including beatboxer Beardyman, who he's formed The Gobafthers duo with. 
His own tunes, however, have yet to be realised, but his recent work alongside Austrian producer Dero as well as solo experiments could see him push further into our eardrums. Definitely an exciting energy to watch.


Who are you and where are you from?
"I'm a freestyle emcee and singer/songwriter called Klumzy Tung, or Kris, from London."
What inspires you?
"I'm inspired by mood and what is going on around me at the time. If I'm feeling frustrated I'll write about that, or if I'm happy, and so on. I guess I'm inspired by my feelings and emotions, and sometimes how other people are acting triggers thoughts of how that can be transformed into music. At any time in the day i can be inspired by the smallest or the biggest action or event."
What have you done?
"I've been a freestyle emcee for years and am always trying to test and create further possibilities within it. I've performed on many stages in the UK and Europe - I've even freestyled in The House of Commons.
"I started working with Beardyman in 2004 as one half of the musical duo The GobFathers. Last year we did a show called Web Heroes for E4 www.e4.com/webheroes. I've also co-hosted The Freestyle Show on Sky, appeared on Rapture TV, the Tim Shaw Show on Kerrang FM, BBC Radio 1Xtra and Pyroradio.
"Since around 2007 I've been focussing on developing my own sound and material for release too. Working alongside long-term friend and colleague Andrew Stirling (K.Dot), I've produced tracks such as 'The 1st Supper’ and ‘Little England’. I performed the new material during the 4 Elements Hip Hop Festival in Graz, Austria, where I met the DJ/Producer Mr Dero."
What makes you stand out?
“My ability to freestyle about pretty much any subject on the spot, incorporating comedy and still making a point at the same time. My energy live and ability to include the crowd in the show. Catchy perceptive songs. Randomness. My overall passion and enjoyment for music. Klumzy Word Generator - an original invention and tool for live freestyle incorporating the audience.”
Where are you going?
“This year I'm releasing 'The Little Things EP', by Mr. Dero & Klumzy Tung on Tiefparterre Records. I've already scored a No.1 in Austria on Radio Graz Sound Portal for a track called 'Headscrews'.
“Also this year sees the release of the single 'Little England' alongside Beardyman, as well as completing my solo album, an acoustic album for 2010, and a freestyle album. And live performance anywhere and everywhere that'll have me play.
I'll also be continuing community-based work, encouraging positivity through rap and music and social awareness.”

Go to Artists Rivmixx Profile

Darke Horse - Catchy Funk-Rock

Frontman Kaviani was voted as best guitarist in the national Rock Idol competition, and also won the Riffathon songwriting comp backed by Jimmy Page and Brian May. The band attracted rave reviews from their first single 'Flat Screen Suicide' - a funky indie hook-laden bouncy number. These four Sheffield lads are definitely ones to watch this year.  

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Darke Horse from Sheffield."
What inspires You?
"It can be [Simon Kaviani - vocals/guitar] either jamming with Joe [Pearson - bass/vocals], listening to one of my favourite songs or it could just be through a conversation. 'Jack's My Friend' was written like that - I was at a bar in Spain and got chatting to this random bloke. I asked him 'Are you here by yourself?' and he replied, 'Jack's my friend!' - he was drinking JD and coke."
What have you done?
"In under 10 months myself and Joe have gone from the humble surroundings of the back of a cushion factory to the middle of a recording studio with local producer legend Alan Smyth, whilst recruiting friends Jonno Lodge [drums] and Chris Gill [guitar/vocals] on the way. 
"We are releasing 'Flat Screen Suicide' via Noise Control Records and are already starting to get tongues wagging.
"We've also had lots of fun recording the music video to the single which was screened at a packed out bar in Sheffield, hosted by none other than Jimmy Coup - guitarist of Andrew WK fame, who flew over from California to meet us as he has taken an interest in the band."
What makes you stand out?
"We have a different sound to what's going around at the moment and we entertain the crowd. Also, I don't know any British band that are doing a blend of funk rock at the moment, especially in the mainstream."
Where are you going?

"If I've got anything to do with it then we're going all the way to the top. I want to be that band on that massive stage making a new generation of music fans go 'WOW' and inspiring some to take up music. That's where I want to be and I'm determined to get there."

Go to Artists Rivmixx Profile

Blatta & Inesha - Fidget House Dons

Our favourite Sicilian beat makers, Blatta & Inesha, might be less than forthcoming with their words, but their beats refuse to be ignored. Having dropped numerous underground dancefloor thumpers, their new wave sounds of jacked-up, acid-tinged grooves will soon be heard throughout the world.  Expect distorted, twitchy fidgety fun.

Who are you and where are you from?
"Blatta & Inesha from Catania, middle of the road between Africa and Europe."
What inspires you?
"Money, celebrity and promiscuous sex!"
What have you done?
"We feel ashamed for what we have done!"
What makes you stand out?

"It's a secret!"

Where are you going?

"We hope on vacation in Thailand very soon!"

Go to Artists Rivmixx Profile

Kill It Kid – Blues/Jazz Aficionados

With emotive, distinctly growl-infused lyrics alongside raw modern blues/roots and random live showcases, Kill It Kid display passion and power well beyond their innocent indie look.
Drawing references from the likes of Tom Waits, Anthony Hegarty and The Raconteurs, the Bath-based five-piece provide a fresh, more unique sound than what's been clogging up the 'indie' circuit until now.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Chris Turpin (vox and guitar), Stephanie Ward (vox and piano), Richard Jones (violin and bk vox), Marc Jones (drums and perc), Adam Timmins (bass and banjo). We met at Bath Spa University while studying music."
What inspires you?
"We wanted to pull a new sound out of the old country blues and jazz records of the 1920s to 1940s, trying to build on this anthology of music while taking care to listen to what people actually want to hear in newer bands like The Black Keys and the Raconteurs. Being given the opportunity to write, record and release the music you want to hear and feel strongly about is the most amazing motivation for all of us."
What have you done?
"We formed about a year ago, and about three months in we were asked by John Parich (PJ Harvey, Eels) to record a few tracks with him which became our first EP. After that we organised ourselves a 35-date tour across the UK last summer - playing shows from 3-300 people - and were picked up by One Little Indian who we signed with in September.
"In January we went out to Seattle for a month to record our first album in a beautiful studio with the great producer Ryan Hadlock (Foo Fighters, Fleet Foxes, The Strokes, The Gossip). Things have moved so fast... its been crazy!"
What makes you stand out?
"We are making an effort to drag roots music and music with some substance - and hopefully soul - back to the public, especially in a live context. Having a fiddle taking on the role that a lead guitar would usually fill is unusual, and sharing the lead vocals between two singers who are hooked on early jazz and blues records must be pretty rare."
Where are you going?

"Our first album comes out in the autumn and we've two singles before that, the first being 'Send Me an Angel Down' being released in May. That's as far as we can get!"

Go to Artists Rivmixx Profile

My Toys Like Me - Grimey Poptronic Mashups

A little like Mike Skinner meets the Ting Tings crashing into Bjork, MTLM's unique-sounding frontwoman Frances Noon provides sugary-infused tell-it-how-it-is tales of everyday life over distinct genre-colliding poptronica.

Working chiefly with Lazlo Legezer, they create a heady mix of acid disco beats and hooks alongside sub-bass trip-hop, dub and crunching synths through to blissed-out brass and organ downtime ballads - yes, really.

Who are you and where are you from?

Frances Noon: "We are My Toys Like Me and we come from the primeval soup. Currently residing in London."

What inspires you?

FN: "Trying to put things together that don't look like they fit, like heavy rumbling basslines and lyrical, sweetly melodic vocals."
Lazlo Legezer: "People, nature, life as a surreal joke, harmony carved from entropy."

What have you done?

LL: "We've only gone and made an album! It's called 'Where We Are', out May 4th. Also we've released three singles, supported CSS, Micachu, Jamie Lidell and Aeroplane; played at Glastonbury, Bestival, Shambala, Pohoda, Airwaves In The City and Loop last year, and a load of gigs in London, Liverpool, Manchester, Italy, Holland and the Czech Republic."

What makes you stand out?

FN: "The layered rich sound of our music, unique vocals, our shameless use of different musical genres and of course some very heavy sub-bass!"
LL: "Our motives are pure and you can hear that in the music. We focus creatively on different ambitions than other bands and so we sound entirely different from anyone else."

Where are you going?

FN: "Who the hell knows? At the moment our fiercely ambitious drive is moving us forwards and upwards, and that's the way we like it."
LL: "We have no idea and that's how we like it. We will continue to follow our urges and see where it takes us."

Go to Artists Rivmixx Profile