5 for 2010: It’s personal!!

Music is an inspiration for us all as it shapes, touches and enlightens us in more ways than many of us imagine. At its most powerful it can help shape the world….Demand change and make politicians take note. This time of year the movers and shakers compile a list of who’s who for the forthcoming year. I kinda want to stay clear of the label hype and PR pressure to list some who may make it and some who should….
 
1# The Joy Formidable –
 
Following tours with the Editors, Howling Bells, Temper Trap and Passion Pit this trio from North Wales (now based in London) will certainly build on the successes of 2009. Layered guitars, soaring vocals, reverb by the bucketload and one of the best live acts in the UK. They have long been on my radar as ones to watch, currently my favourite unsigned band!
 
http://www.myspace.com/thejoyformidable
 
2# Marina and The Diamonds –
 
First caught my attention earlier this year with the excellent debut Mowgali’s Road. This half-Welsh, half-Greek siren has substance beyond the hype!! Think Lena Lovich, Hazel O’Connor, Kate Bush and a sprinkling of Tori Amos. With a single and album due in February she will be propelled into your living room via the music channels.

Marina & The Diamonds – Hollywood
 
http://www.myspace.com/marinaandthediamonds
 
3# Sweet Jane –
 
Another band I have keenly followed the last eighteen months or so, these Dubliner’s have long been a favourite of mine. If The Raveonettes, Jesus & Mary Chain or The Velvet Underground float your boat then check them out. Lydia from the band tells me the debut thirteen track long-player is recorded and ready to drop Spring 2010.

Sweet Jane – Silent Night
 
http://www.myspace.com/officialsweetjane
 
4# To Kill a King –
 
Kid iD released one of my favourite EPs of 2009, Black Comedy. The lyrical brilliance and storytelling ability captivated me. From the ashes of the now-defunct Leeds band has risen To Kill a King. With shades of Prefab Sprout at times through to Divine Comedy and indeed The National. With the right exposure the sky is the limit! It’s intelligent, well-structured and light years ahead of the landfill indie that makes my ears bleed.

To Kill A King – Cold Skin
 
http://www.myspace.com/tokillakinguk

5# Krystle Warren –
 
Over the last few weeks I have fallen in love with the amazing voice that is Krystle Warren. Hailing from Kansas City, she learned to play the guitar by listening to Rubber Soul and Revolver. Her tastes range from Rufus Wainwright to Betty Carter, Willie Nelson to Nina Simone. She’s toured the US with Martha Wainwright, Zap Mama, Rodrigo & Gabriela and Erykah Badu. Krystle is signed to Because Music, the label that brought you Amadou & Mariam and Manu Chao. She is I’m sure a name that will be on many people’s lips through 2010.
 
www.myspace.com/krystlewarren

Tags: krystle warren, marina and the diamonds, sweet jane, the joy formidable, to kill a king