I've been a fan of David's for around 3 years now, after accidentally stumbling across his music. (This seems to happen a lot). I guess I'm just being selfish not telling anyone about his music. However, out with my selfish ways and on with the magic.
I give you, David Ramirez.

In a society filled with Top 40 tunes and twerking teenagers, a lone singer/songwriter would seem to have his work cut out. This looked to be the case for Austin-based David Ramirez, however he has undoubtedly charmed quite a following. David has released a number of recordings over the past 10 years, spanning 2 full length albums and 3 EP's. My favourite album of his, and his most recent is 'Apologies'.
Ramirez has a growing fanbase and in 2012 we saw Ramirez play over 175 gigs, ranging from large theatres to independent bars. When asked about his fan base, David stated " I've been humbled by the response I've received from people. Not only do they come to a show or two but they seem to be in it for the haul. Touring can be tough, but knowing that people around the country are excited to be a part of my music brings so much joy and meaning to the miles." knowing that david appreciates the time that fans take to support him, is a real nod to the man and artist he really is.
You see the fact of the matter is, David Ramirez isn't like other songwriters. His emotion isn't artificial, his low growl and quiet country sway thoroughly authentic.
Listening to Apologies, I can't help but agree with David when he said the album was personal, but I don't think it was a bad decision on his part. It feels as though we're being given an unequivocal look at the deepest parts of his soul. His country tinged songs are brutally honest, and decidedly beautiful. Armed with only a small band and/or a guitar he grabs hold of you and never lets go exquisitely telling his stories. My favourites from the album are:

1.An Introduction - The track recalls David'd childhood search for God. Ramirez grew up in a christian family and the song holds an almost bitter grudge, without being distinctly anti or pro God. It's my favourite track, and one of my all time favourite songs.  










2. Stick around - Is a beautiful song in which David laments at his inability to hold down roots. With stunning vocals and such a personal insight to david, there isn't room for wrongdoing.







~





3. Find the Light - My last favourite. In fairness I can appreciate the entirety of the album, but this one particularly stands out to me. No one really ever mentions this track and I think it deserves more love. Give it a listen.

The phrase 'A voice beyond their years' is a term I seem to hear more and more frequently with newer, younger artists constantly emerging on the music scene. I'm thinking of the Lorde's, Jake Bugg's and so many other younger artists of today. However, this term bears a completely new meaning when it comes to describing the voice of George Ezra. George, a singer/songwriter born and raised in Bristol, is a abrupt reminder of how looks can be so very deceiving. This fresh faced 20 year-old, surprised us all with a beautifully careworn and soulful voice, unconfined to his youthful disposition. Despite the floppy blonde fringe and a pout many boy bands would be proud of, George Ezra has a voice more fitting positioned on a flannel wearing, guitar strumming, middle aged texan man. Definitely not a sound one would automatically connect with a skinny, fresh faced 20 year old from Bristol. Nonetheless, this never seems to draw away from how natural, and let's not forget how remarkable his vocal talent is.

George Ezra cites Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie as some of his musical influences, and this can be seen through most of his music. George's EP 'Did You Hear the Rain' seems appropriately titled, as the tracks are the perfect 'mooching around inside the house on a rainy day' kind of music. The four-strong collection of folk infused, blues speckled country bliss, George really showcases his vocal ability, and is a sure hit with any fan of the genre. His gravelled voice combined with crooning that has a feeling of warm honey works in a musical friendship, capturing the hearts of even the coldest of critics. Lets face it now, he's hard to fault.


'Budapest' is a stunner for the start of this EP, with my foot subconsciously tapping away at the floor throughout the track. This is paired hand in hand with one of my other favourite tracks 'Benjamin Twine'. These tracks show a definite contrast between the others on the EP, with their upbeat, happier tempos. Moving slowly onward, 'Did You Hear the Rain' presents slightly more gravelled vocals and sinister, threatening lyrics. The track 'Angry Hill' seeps pure grief and lament, without ever having overbearing vocals. George shows an array of musical ability within the EP and I'm sure he has much more planned.

George's EP undoubtedly encompasses everything new and fantastic entering the Country/Folk genre. Whether you like just one track or all of them, i'm sure that your love for George Ezra will grow just as much as mine has.

George is still working on his debut album to be released at a later date, and I have no doubt in my mind that it will be just as good as we're all anticipating.







    Millie x

The Colourist are a 4-person band from Orange County in the wonderful USA. Led by singer/guitarist Adam Castilla, and vocalist/drummer Maya Tuttle, they are also joined by Kollin Johannsen on guitar and bass and Justin Wagner on bass and keys. This awesome foursome present an unblemished bit of talent combined with some beautifully placed melodies, tied together with a sharp electro base. The Colourist first stumbled upon one another in an underused warehouse in Orange County, where Adam and Maya discovered the 'harmonic chemistry that has come to define the bands bright and charismatic signature sound.'

Their polished tracks immediately captivated me in a way I hadn't been for a while. Listening to 'We Won't Go Home' I was bopping along within minutes. This by far is my favourite track, followed by 'Fix This'. The track 'We Won't Go Home', has some electrifying guitar riffs and stunning vocal work from both Maya and Alex. I must say though- Maya has impressed me the most. It's rare to find a drummer with the ability she possesses, yet is still able to harmonise nearly every note so perfectly. She pulls off with such effortless supinity, showing she can easily keep up with the boys. Although 'We Won't Go Home' is slightly repetitive it does make it all the more catchy.

The Colourist have performed some incredible gigs for such a new band. Their current track record includes supporting  well known bands such as The Wombats and Metric, as well as playing Coachella. Their indie pop vibe has had me wowed, and quite frankly? it seems it's had the same effect on everyone else that's listened to the band. I'm glad that their fanbase is growing, why wouldn't people enjoy their flawless dance pop? and if they say that they don't like a little bit of dance pop they're most likely lying, and you my friend, don't need that kind of negativity. The Colourists fans are in love with their fusion of dance indie pop, never failing to wow. They're a gem for any fan of the genre.
The Colourists 'Lido' EP left me desperate for more of the bands recordings. With only four songs to it, they still managed to show off their vocal and musical ability, laced with hooks, riffs and lyrics that still leave you breathless. (Though i'm not sure if thats from the dancing, Trust me you'll want to dance.) Adams vocals are the at forefront of the bands songs with Maya's being more hushed. I personally think this works well for the group, letting the instruments do their thing, and combining to make a dream of a record. The debut album coming from these guys is going to be stunning.

I cannot wait for their rise in the future, and i'm pretty sure they'll go far on their own. Here's to their success and I wish them all the best.

Ah. Another long awaited Artist Feature.

I was lucky enough to be able to see a live performance of Tom Odell with my lovely friend Alycia last night, at Manchester's O2 Apollo. Just to mention the gig was amazing. However, I wanted to take a moment not to praise Tom, (although he was as usual great) but instead, one of his support acts.
I'll admit i'm as surprised as you are, I was anticipating writing a post on Toms set, not some random guy he got to hype the crowds up.
However, The first of Tom's two great support acts was a 22 year old young chap from London, James Bay. After clearing up the fact his name was infact James Bay and NOT James May, (like the fella from Top Gear) I'm just going to admit it right now. When he came out, the audience made primarily of women, went wild. Myself included. Looking pretty casual in jeans and a hat, I wasn't expecting much from him (I never do with support acts).
But it was, just wow. His voice was so on point throughout his set it almost hurt. James Bay manages to possess an untarnished strain of talent that not many musicians possess anymore. His raw expressions and gravelled voice work perfectly in unison, magically capturing the audience immediately, and the melodies sending goosebumps over the crowd with perfect ease. It was clear he knew what he was doing, elegantly and effortlessly charming the crowd in between songs, made much easier by his voice. Lets get one thing straight, He has serious talent.

His music was that of a singer/songwriter that had a sort Ben Howard/James Morrison essence about him and yet he held the acoustic charm of James Taylor. I think we can tell already that he was a winner in my book. He played an acoustic guitar, as well as a vintage semi-hollow body too.
They say its better to leave the audience wanting more, rather than outstaying your welcome, and I think its fair to say he did just that. His set was quite short, and I desperately wanted to listen to more of his tracks.
I had never heard of him until that night, but from what I heard, I predict things are going to get big for James Bay in the future.
After listening to his EP and his demo's I would have to say my favourite tracks (although I love them all) are 'When We Were On Fire' 'Collide' and 'Need The Sun To Break'. They are all beautifully put together songs, with sincere vocals and matching lyrics. I love all of his songs, a rare quality I love to find, and I hope you will too.
I was also lucky enough to meet James after the gig, where he was LOVELY and gave me a signed demo. (and a picture of us both) I won't share the picture as I look awful, but it was an amazing experience getting to meet him in person, and to just say hello.
Mr Bay has already managed to gain a great deal of support already, mustered from his touring across America in support of his debut E.P 'The Dark Of the Morning' and a UK tour with Kodaline.
After his tour with Tom Odell, James will be headlining 15 dates of his own, only to finish with more dates alongside Kodaline.

I will be no doubt making desperate efforts to try and see him again. I loved his performances and feel confident that he's going to go far.



Any particular advice from me?

Go for it James.


 Millie x