My Demo 2014-2015

My demo from 2014-2015 below includes presenting skills, commentary, interviews and fun features. Click and listen!

New Music Mondays: October

Forge Presents... New Music Mondays 19/10/2015 by Forge Radio Music on Mixcloud

Forge Presents...New Music Mondays 12/10/15 by Forge Radio Music on Mixcloud

Forge Presents... New Music Mondays 05/10/2015 by Forge Radio Music on Mixcloud

Slow Club Interview

I caught up with Slow Club and soaked in the sun before their show at Tramlines Festival 2015!

Formation Interview

Check out this cosy interview I did with the lovely chaps from Formation!

Forge TV: Tramlines Highlights

I hooked up with Forge TV and went down to Tramlines to talk to some bands, the public, and have a great weekend in the sunshine (and showers). Take a look below!

The View From The Afternoon - End Of Season

The View From The Afternoon - Rod or Rocky? by Jjshreeve on Mixcloud

The Devonshire Street Demolition Decision

Buildings that survived The Blitz are set to be demolished after Sheffield City Council gave permission for planning to go ahead.

Photo by Shefnews

The work will see 162-170 Devonshire Street knocked down and replaced by a three storey building consisting of 14 apartments, a restaurant and a shop.

The decision comes after a majority vote by councillors to demolish some of Sheffield’s most loved shops. However, there has been great opposition resulting in the biggest protest in the city’s planning history. 

An online petition which gathered over 20,000 signatures was initially set up by Sheffield poet, Jonathan Butcher, who stocks his books at Rare and Racy, which is one of the shops that will be demolished. He said: “The repercussions of this will be immense. The amount of people who come to Sheffield because of its character and what it offers culturally has a massive impact on our reputation and economy.”

The councillors are the ones “to blame” according to Mr Butcher and their decision has come under mass scrutiny as local band, Drenge, have labelled Sheffield City Council as “one of the most spineless city councils in the UK”. 

Deputy council leader, Leigh Bramall, has responded to these criticisms and said: “Perhaps they don’t fully appreciate Planning Law. I too feel disappointed that we do not have sufficient control to protect buildings in the manner we would like.”

Planning Law refers to the current National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which often takes the decision out of local councils hands and acts in favour of the developer. The NPPF was created in 2012 following the Coalition’s Localism Act in 2011 with the aim to make regional planning much simpler and more accessible.

Primesite Ltd’s application adheres to the NPPF as they state that the new buildings will retain the original character of those before them. Furthermore, planning officers have recommended that the plans should go ahead. Were the councillors to go against their decision and it went to an appeal, it would cost them excessive amounts money. 

This meant that a majority of seven councillors voted in favour of the demolition, with three voting against and one abstention. 

Sheffield Central Labour MP, Paul Blomfield, who is currently campaigning in the run up to the local election, has expressed similar frustration as fellow Labour party member, Leigh Bramall. 

Mr Blomfield has laid out how his party would tackle planning issues differently if elected into parliament on May 7th. He said: “What Labour will do is give councils more powers to intervene and to stop decisions like this so that they have a greater opportunity to shape the communities in the way that local people want. We would give council’s more power to establish use class orders.”

These ‘use classes’ apply when buildings are categorised depending on their use by The Town and Country Planning Order 1987. In relation to this scenario it states that shops (A1 use class) can be changed to restaurants (A3 use class) without the need for planning permission. Increased council powers on use class orders may allow situations like these to be prevented in the future. 

Sheffield Civic Trust have stated that the proposed restaurant or cafe unit undermines the Devonshire Quarter Action Plan, which suggests that the shops should be preserved to maintain Devonshire Street’s quirky character.

However, The Green Party’s Jillian Creasy, who is also standing for Parliament for Sheffield Central in May, is disgruntled by the decision but admits: “The Devonshire Quarter Action Plan is not strong enough guidance to trump the national guidance.”

She also said: “I think this is important because it’s a historical thing, wanting to retain those buildings that have some sort of architectural interest.” Sheffield Civic Trust have supported this view in that the trio of buildings ‘form part of the broader setting of the adjacent Grade II listed Wharncliffe Fireclay Works and adjoining showroom.’

However, despite the historical values of the surrounding buildings, the current shop buildings are not listed. The council could have undergone ‘spot-listing’ in a last ditch attempt to prevent the demolition, but this would only cover the building for six months whilst awaiting on a permanent decision. Mrs Creasy states that getting the buildings listed “might have made a difference.”

Whilst councillors and the public mull over how they could’ve prevented what seems an unstoppable decision from occurring, Jonathan Butcher says he will continue to challenge the decision with fellow opposers who are ‘aiming for a Judicial Review.’

Meanwhile, the shop owners of 162-170 Devonshire Street consider their future. The oldest of the shops, Rare and Racy, has been there since 1969 but the owner, Alan Capes, has refused to comment on the matter as he has a lease with the landlord for another two years. Either side of him, Natural Bed Company and Syd and Mallory’s Emporium will also wave goodbye to the area once deemed Sheffield’s ‘independent quarter’.

Syd and Mallory’s Emporium have displayed letters of opposition from the public in their shop window. Owner, Lucy Jo Newell, said she first heard about the plans to demolish her shop through social media. “We were annoyed and shocked. We thought this was the best location we’d ever get in Sheffield and thought we’d be here forever but then that changed.”

Stuart Haxton, a security officer at Meadowhall, understood the change and said: “The whole principle of business is that the weak ones go and the strong survive, that’s cruel but that’s what it is.” 

Primesite’s agents, Coda Planning, have claimed that buildings are in a state of ‘disrepair’, echoed by the council. However, David Jenkins, 60, said: “The council’s argument is that they’re beyond repair but do we believe our politicians?” This is view is supported by The Hallamshire Historic Buildings Society who state that the building is in ‘generally adequate condition’ due to repairs undergone in the 1980s and thus Coda Planning’s argument is not valid.

For now the decision remains to demolish the current buildings. Development will begin on the area no later than the expiration of 3 years from the decision date to comply with the Town and Country Planning Act. 

@JJShreeve

The View From The Afternoon March & April

The View From The Afternoon - 9th March by Jjshreeve on Mixcloud

The View From The Afternoon - Animal Songs by Jjshreeve on Mixcloud

The View From The Afternoon - 13th April by Jjshreeve on Mixcloud

The View From The Afternoon - 20th April by Jjshreeve on Mixcloud

The View From The Afternoon - 2nd March

This week there's some big new tracks from the likes of Blur, Drenge and Everything Everything as well as man of the hour, Jack Garratt! Keep listening for my new feature too called 'Birthday Beats', celebrating albums that mark a special birthday in 2015. This week it's Bloc Party's 'Silent Alarm'.

(@JJShreeve)

The View From The Afternoon - 23rd February

Listen below for more fun and games in the form of #TakeItOrShreeveIt along with new music from a new band, Blaenavon.

(@JJShreeve)

The View From The Afternoon - Back On Air!

This week, new tracks from The Prodigy, Slaves, Swim Deep and The Bohicas along with a new feature called #TakeItOrShreeveIt. Listen below!

(@JJShreeve)

Interview with Blaenavon

Blaenavon have become renowned as the band who doesn't release music. Almost eighteen months since their last release, the KOSO EP, they say things are about to change.

With a handful of festivals on the horizon, a debut album nearing completion and school left to one side, the trio are finally making use of their musical abilities. Tonight at The Leadmill in Sheffield they support Dry The River on an intimate UK tour but unlike some support acts, they leave the crowd wanting more of them rather than the headline band.

Live they are one of the tightest units around and fit snuggingly amongst the likes ofDry The River themselves and The Maccabees. 'Denim Patches' brews slowly, with Ben Gregory's vocals wavering like latter's frontman, Orlando Weeks. Other crowd favourite, 'Into The Night' shifts through picky riffs and drummer Harris McMillan turns tribal on the drums.

The crowd are treated to a taste of new tracks to come with thicker bass lines and strings that ring more like synths in what sounds like older influences from The Cure. 'Swans' is the highlight though, and despite it being first played before the band had even accomplished puberty, it's lullaby opening is a throwback to The Maccabees 'Toothpaste Kisses'. It's a wailing love song and far too mature for their youthful souls but a sure sign that their album to come could be a dark horse to say the least.

I had the chance to talk to the band just moments before they went on stage and they revealed more information about the album, their thoughts on the Brits and misleading song names.

Listen below:


By Josh Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

Interview - Slaves - NME Awards Tour

The NME Awards creep up on you each year and you have to fumble to think of deserved winners of the glamorous 'middle finger' award. Unlike some of the winners, which you won't remember in years to come, the NME Awards Show provides some of the finest new talents around to tour the UK around the month of February.

Slaves backstage before their gig in Norwich last year (photo by Cal Beasley).

Traditionally including four acts, although tonight The Amazing Snakeheads have pulled out, the first slot is sacred and held by the likes of Coldplay, Florence and the Machine and the Kaiser Chiefs. This year it's the turn of Slaves to kick off the 2015 NME Awards Tour at The Leadmill in Sheffield, but first they must decipher which is the best flavour of Monster Munch and after settling on pickled onion, they sit down for a chat. Listen to what they had to say through stuffed mouthfuls of stinkin' crisps.

Interview by Josh Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

Slaves Release 'Feed The Mantaray' Video

Slaves have released the surreal video for their latest single, 'Feed The Mantaray'.

The pair, who are currently on the NME Awards Tour, have released their most eccentric video yet, which features, naturally, a giant mantaray chasing them on a sea bed of pick 'n' mix. The track comes of their debut album, 'Are You Satisfied?', which is due for release on June 1st. 

You can watch the video for 'Feed The Mantaray' below:

(@JJShreeve)

Live Review - Slaves - NME Awards Tour 2015 - The Leadmill, Sheffield

You’ve got to give it to Slaves. Not only have they managed to make it to the first night of the tour, when other band on the bill, The Amazing Snakeheads have just dropped out, but they’ve come prepared. They claim they don’t have pre-show plans but armed with a fridge full of ham sandwiches and clenching packets of monster munch, they’re ready for war. 

A giant mantaray lurks behind Slaves as they open the NME Awards Tour 2015.

It’s down to them to get the NME Awards Tour 2015 kicked off with ‘White Knuckle Ride’, the catalyst for the first spews of beer. In between erratic marching, vocalist and stand alone drummer, Isaac Holman, asks the audience what their favourite type of biscuit is but there’s little time to answer as he scrunches his face up once more and batters the skins whilst Laurie Vincent shouts, ‘anyone for a garibaldi?’

Not taking themselves too seriously could be the key to success. Holman is shy yet mischievous off stage, but once in front of a crowd it’s his chance to confront everything that’s ever pissed him off, including ‘Debbie’ in ‘Where’s Your Car Debbie?’, which he says is of a story of searching for her car with a Sasquatch in hot pursuit. When joined in by Vincent’s vocals, there’s shards of The Clash flying about, but the duo claim they’re not trying to sound like anyone, although not even the most acute hearing can draw comparisons to anything from Sex Pistols punk to American garage rock. 

The street poetry tales continue from a shirtless Holman, who turns the ‘Yorkshire’ chants into ‘Feed The Mantaray’ when a roadie joins them onstage dressed as a giant mantaray. It’s all of a sudden turned very Shooting Stars as if Vic Reeves is shredding guitar as Bob Mortimer spits ludicrous venom. The light hearted story telling turns ferocious and politically charged in ‘The Hunter’, as opening lines, ‘the people are freezing and the water is warm, and the ice caps are melting what will happen when they’re gone?’ gather momentum and there’s a riot building in front of Vincent who peers through the mist. Moments later Holman finds himself amongst this mass as he leaps in during the breakdown of ‘Hey’, using them as a human towel to dry every beed of sweat he’s exuded over a short but savage set.

(@JJShreeve)

Zane Lowe Set To Leave BBC Radio 1; How Will They Cope?

The news came out on Sunday that Zane Lowe, Radio 1 DJ and all-round music know-it-all, would be packing his bags and leaving BBC studios in March.

It was no coincidence that in 2003, two phenomenons came out of New Zealand; the Lord of The Rings films featuring the Kiwi's green pastures, and the other a sprightly DJ setting off on his own adventure between the XFM and BBC Radio 1 studios. Twelve years later, after a barrage of sirens and loops of twenty different nationalities pronounce 'Zane Lowe', before each song, and the man has announced that he will leave the BBC studios. The next chapter of his career lies in The States at Apple headquarters, and who can blame him. But what's going to happen to the holy grail of Radio 1; that 7pm-9pm Mondays-Thursdays slot?

The mixing desk is big to fill, but already Radio 1 bosses have found someone willing enough to see if the headphones fits. Annie Mac is no stranger to the radio game, and her shows often sound as if they could be replicated within a live festival capacity, which she often does. She's been at the station for almost as long as Lowe himself and has a firm grasp of what it takes to put together engaging shows and can chat to some of the biggest musicians out there without a starstruck gaze.

Return of the Mac... to a new time slot.

There's probably few other options the heads at Radio 1 thought of, so Mac is a reassuring choice. However, with all her expertise in the field of electronic dance music, which she already presents at 7pm on a Friday, you can't help but feel this could be a bit limiting when tuning into her first show on 9th March where you're greeted with a soothing voice and the intro to Route 94 instead of an ecstatic Lowe drilling Metallica to your core whilst whizzing onomatopoeic words over the airways.

The point is that Zane Lowe has built more than just the foundations for many acts and much of the music the nation, let alone other nations listen to today. Yes, he has his favourites; Enter Shikari often get more than their fair share of the pie but the enthusiasm that oozes from the New Zealander's twangs towards a largely versatile amount of music is unrivalled. It's whether genres such as rock, which is only just resurfacing due to the success of bands such as Royal Blood, also championed by Lowe, will continue to get the coverage they deserve amongst the dance and R'n'B scenes which have thrived for the past decade or so under Radio 1.

For all his annoying twists and fizzes, it's hard to name someone with quite so much enthusiasm and knowledge of the past, present and future of music. He's been capable of capturing some exclusive interviews with people such as Jay-Z and Chris Martin, right through to giving some of the smallest names a go on his show. Annie Mac is likely to mould the two hour slot in a way which probably reflects more on Lowe than herself, but will she still keep features such as 'hottest record in the world' and 'next hype'? Most probably not, but so long as Lowe passes on the baton of versatility and all things future, Mac should settle into the big chair soon enough. The question for everyone right now though is, Mr Lowe, which song shall you choose to play you out one last time?

(@JJShreeve)

Palma Violets Return With New Song 'Danger In The Club'

Palma Violets premiered their new track on Zane Lowe's show last night ahead of a prospective new album in 2015.

'Danger In The Club' is the first track to be released since their 2013 debut album, '180'. It's distinctly still Palma Violets with a plodding melody not dissimilar to Iggy Pop's, 'The Passenger'. You can listen to the track at about 53 minutes by clicking here.

(@JJShreeve)

Metronomy, Ben Howard and Jungle Announced For Parklife Festival

Parklife have announced their biggest line up to date for this year's festival at Heaton Park in Manchester.

The line up, which is usually predominantly made up of DJs, has more than a sprinkling of alternative musicians this year to make up an impressive looking weekend. Joining the likes of Ben Howard, Metronomy and Jungle will be; Disclosure, George Ezra, Mark Ronson, Fatboy Slim, Caribou and Mac Demarco.

There's also a return to the stage for Everything Everything and an appearance from The Brits Critic Choice winner, James Bay on the weekend of June 6th & 7th. Tickets go on sale here from 9am, Friday 13th.

(@JJShreeve)

Single Review - Swim Deep - To My Brother

It'll take a listen or two just to get your head around the fact this is the same Swim Deep whose debut album was fronted by the lyrics, 'don't just dream in your sleep it's just lazy'; a lethargic approach to a debut which at the time was filled with such promise.

Previous tracks weren't dreadful, no. After all, 2013 saw a lot of attention on Swim Deep, probably only due to radiation of praise towards fellow B-Town mates, Peace. The problem though was that songs with the lyrics, 'Fuck your romance I wanna pretend, that Jenny Lee Lindberg is my girlfriend' are unlikely to stand the test of time and a superficial growing hysteria around the band. After twelve tracks it's been hard to see where Swim Deep could go from debut album, 'Where The Heaven Are We' and progress to a more serious level, until now.

You always knew 2015 was the natural, two-year cycle, return for Swim Deep and here it is. Disguised under a gown of synth-pop, new addition James Balmont has revived the band, with new track, 'To My Brother', crying out to be an early contender for summer indie anthem. Frontman, Austin Williams', vocals are obscured by the greater focus on 80s melodic synth and thicker guitar riffs. It's what The Klaxons latest record should've sounded like and any bullshit lyrics are quickly rid of, with 'All I do is preach for my brother', being the main loop which blissfully echoes through a much richer track which only gets better throughout.

To have moved away from their previous sound is something that'll reinvigorate crowds and some love-lost fans. Quite what the rest of the new album will sound like though is open for debate.

Swim Deep - 'To My Brother'
Out of 10: 8/10

Album Review - All We Are - All We Are

All We Are aren’t your usual suspects and neither is their self-titled debut record. The trio, originating from Ireland, Norway and Brazil, not only represent diverse nationalities, but also influences in an album that draws comparisons to a number of likely names but often falls short of completing their own package.

Running rather effortlessly from start to finish, occasional relapses into unconsciousness are not uncommon but alerts of bombarding funk hiding behind their shy exterior do get their turn to peek out from behind trembling strings. At times it feels as though the band are on the verge of tripping into a coma rather than conquering 2015 but previously released tracks, ‘Feel Safe’ and ‘Stone’ though, they could be on to something. The latter graces with deep soulful tones provided by Guro Gikling, which verge on Florence Welch vocals that spring free from the restrained shackles of tracks such as ‘Something About You’ which sound more like Snakadakatal on the brink of their break up. Similarly, ‘Go’, never really takes off until it ditches the usually impressive male and female vocal overlaps for the tickles of Casio keyboards.

‘Honey’ comes out of nowhere. It’s an indie dance floor gem strutting in platform shoes across a 70s dance floor shimmering in Bee Gees spandex. ‘I Wear You’ takes more of a backseat approach, luring to the plucky bass of Metronomy and the forward yet smooth lyrics; ‘I wear you right up on my shoulder, I wear you like this is all we had’. This awkwardly clingy nature finally blossoms as soul ridden rock riffs ooze from a shy guitar fret board. The hesitant vocals only continue in, ‘Keep Me Alive’, with lyrics, ‘I need you baby, to keep me alive’, left ringing in the ears like an uneasy outcome of a couple’s marriage therapy. If the slower tracks sounded more like a heartless break-up, this is the mending of the pieces to form an unstoppable sound.

Perhaps the most intriguing turn of all though is, ‘Utmost Good’, where funk weaves into deep psychedelic plunges and vocals are kicked way out of reality. Tame Impala lethargic wooziness comes to mind, but above all, it shows that on their debut album, when All We Are really reach out, they’re worth holding onto.

All We Are - All We Are

Out of 10: 7/10

(@JJShreeve)

Ben Howard and Bombay Bicycle Club To Headline New Festival, 'Citadel'

Ben Howard and Bombay Bicycle Club have been announced a the headline acts for new festival, 'Citadel', which will be held in Victoria Park, London on Sunday 19th July.

The one day festival comes from the creators of Lovebox and Wilderness but Ben Howard and Communion record label themselves are the ones sorting out the rest of the bill and judging by their appointment of Bombay Bicycle Club, there could be plenty more big names to come!

Tickets are only £45 and which you can purchase from this Friday at 9am. Alternatively, if you pre-register, tickets will be available from this Thursday at 9am. Click here to find out more about Citadel festival.

(@JJShreeve)

Live Review - Peace - Queen's Social Club, Sheffield

You’d be mistaken for thinking Peace aren’t a big deal judging by the venues they’ve picked to play in over the next few months. The B-Town band have left academies to one side to showcase material from their second album, 'Happy People', in front of more intimate audiences. 

Queen’s Social Club is their residency for the next two nights and follows suit with it’s beer stained carpets and tinsel covered walls. Filled with a few hundred teenagers, and couples sat on laps around the fringes, it feels like a weird school disco, where the wacky kids stick out like a sore thumb. 

Once upon a time Peace would have fitted into that category, but having stuck it out in their mum’s garage and donning dubious haircuts, they’ve now grown into something everyone craves. Bodies swirl in a swollen mass towards the feet of singer Harry Koisser’s trailing fur coat as the band rattle off ‘Higher Than The Sun’ and ‘Follow Baby’ from first album, ‘In Love’. The opportunity to play new material is latched to as ‘O You’ and ‘Perfect Skin’ are heard for the first time, the latter opting for the chance to console niggling anxieties; ‘I wish I had perfect skin, I wish I was tall and thin’, not the first unusual lyric choices we’ve become accustomed to.

Other new tracks, ‘Money’ and ‘Lost On Me’ are already instant B-Town classics and send the crowd into a frenzy, but it’s ‘1998’ at full thrust which really sorts the tie-dye from the die-hards. The twisted version of Binary Finary’s dance hit isn’t the only 1998 floor filler to leak from their guitars though as ATB’s, ‘9PM [Til I Come]’ ,rings around the room amongst woozier tones of ‘Float Forever’ and ‘Sugarstone’. The band opt for a different pre-millennium sound though in romanticised ‘Someday’, where Koisser’s vocals slip in and out of Liam Gallagher whines, whilst he stands unashamedly in some sort of rat onesie - a questionable choice of dress even for him. Thankfully one of the stronger new additions to Peace’s set comes in the form of ‘World Pleasure’, an unassuming savior to Brit-pop which is meant for stadiums but stands glorified amongst sticky condensated walls. Bass player, Samuel Koisser even takes a step into the crowd to show off his funk-fueled riffs, as Harry hails the crowd, ‘one of the best we’ve ever had’.

If there’s any proof needed that Peace are one of the most important bands in British music right now, it’ll be seen this year. Shows of all sizes and a second album which teeters on the consistency of their debut could bring about the revival of Brit-pop to guitar-thirsty crowds.

(@JJShreeve)

Interview With Peace

I caught up with Peace frontman Harry Koisser ahead of their two night stint at Sheffield's Queen's Social Club. Reclined on a dusty sofa backstage, he gave the lowdown on their tour so far, the new album and other guitar based bands on the music scene. Listen to the interview below:

Peace's second album 'Happy People' is out February 9th.

Introducing - Middle Distance

Today's introduction comes to one of the freshest bands around. Not only this their debut single, but a promising one at that.

'Your Honour' comes off the Buckinghamshire band's debut EP, 'Don't Leave Home', which came out on 15th December. Their fresh sound, lively vibes are fused between darker, grungey tones, heavily influenced by the likes of Modern Baseball, and counter-balanced by the equally moody, but technically beautiful Morrissey-style vocals. The alternative-rock riffs and catchy vocals will be left ringing in a bitter-sweet rhythm around your head.

The band have also released a video to accompany the song through a rare 90s camcorder, check it out below, and grab your free download of the track on the band's soundcloud!

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EP Review - Coquin Migale - F E E L

Coquin Migale are a fairly unknown entity and seem keen to keep it that way with a mysterious yet gripping second EP, that fuses together ends of the musical scale, piece by piece.

The Newcastle quartet seem to thrive off their ability to inter-weave in and out of varying melodies. One minute they're not far off the tight, picky riffs of Foals in 'Gold' and 'Socotra', then the next they verge a nose dive towards the depths of heavy metal. The reverb of the electric guitar is the one constant, which strikes a strong chord throughout the EP, taking minimal breaks in 'Interlude' for a bombardment of hefty drums.

'Gold' throws back similarities to previously released track, 'Icarus', in the way it could integrate three different songs into one. However, 'Paris' is as strange as Coquin Migale go, toying with various speeds and rhythms throughout which could be mistaken for being chaotic. Starting with ghostly vocals and ending with a gentle jam, its brief but erratic guitar shred in the middle sounds like an early Bloc Party and The Editors gathering as they bond over speed.

For all the different influences etched into the EP, final track 'Socotra', brings another into the frame with the rowdy indie-rock chorus fitting in nicely with the more raucous sounds from B-Town bands, Jaws and Peace. The climax of the EP ends in a way that the band have become accustomed to; with a heavy whirlwind of riffs. If there's one thing to be said about Coquin Migale, it would be that it's hard to put your finger on exactly what they're all about. Whatever it is though ought to be burrowing through the obscurities and turning heads their way.

Coquin Migale - F E E L
Out of 10: 7/10

By Josh Shreeve

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Peace Go Overkill In Video For New Track 'I'm A Girl'

Birmingham outfit, Peace, have released the latest track of their forthcoming album, 'Happy People', released next month.

The track, 'Im A Girl', is the fifth track to be taken off the band's second album, which will also feature previously released singles, 'World Pleasure', 'Money', 'Lost On Me' and 'Gen Strange'. The video for 'I'm A Girl' is the band's first interactive video, as viewers can pick between four scenarios revolved around the lyrics; Harrison writing the lyrics on glass, Dom beating around them on his drums, Harrison and Doug taking to the mic in a karaoke style video, and finally, shots of someone instant messaging the lyrics, emoticons and all. It's fair to say that after sitting through those twelve and a half minutes of their new track, if you don't know the lyrics, then you 'ain't a true fan'.

'I'm A Girl' will feature on the band's second studio album, 'Happy People', released on 9th February. Meanwhile, you can watch the video, or all four videos for the track below:

(@JJShreeve)

Introducing - Rat Boy

Rat Boy is teenager Jordan Cardy who's making sounds not heard since early Jamie T mixtapes.

His scatty guitar and mashed up hip-hop vocals are glitched together in what can only be described as sounding like a mix between the judgemental lyrics of Jamie T, 'I'm not being rude but you've already got babies from two different ladies, how do you want to be viewed?', and the happy go lucky kind of indie guitar vibes of Only Real.

His first mixtape is available to download from Soundcloud and for your daily download I've chosen the pick of the bunch, 'Sportswear'; the most enjoyable mashup of the lot.

Download 'Sportswear' and other tracks from his mixtape below:



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By Josh Shreeve (@JJShreeve)

The Ballon d'Or: Ronaldo Regains His Title as Messi Misses Out Again

All football fans focused their attention on Zurich this evening as football's stars of the year took to the red carpet for the 2014 Ballon d'Or. 

Ronaldo's return to the podium was hardly the least surprising event of the evening. His continued dominance on the world stage eclipsed Messi for the second year in a row and other runner-up Manuel Neuer must be pleased with making the top three, although it's a shame we won't be able to call it the 'Ballon Neuer' for the next twelve months.

One German that did win though was national team coach, Joachim Low, who led the country to a storming World Cup in Brazil last summer. He beat Carlo Ancelotti, who having won 'La Decima' with Real Madrid would've felt hard done by, as would Diego Simeone, who managed to lead Atletico Madrid to the La Liga title in what everyone assumed had always assumed was a 'two team league'. Perhaps our managers could take some tips from them. Here's looking at you, Roy.

Whilst coach of the year going to Roy Hodgson would've been a surprise, perhaps an even bigger shock came in the form of some of the players included in the World XI of the year. It threw up some of the most questionable winners since Owen Hargreaves took England Player of 2006 - not as prestigious but equally as puzzling. There were some expected names, with German blockade Neuer still standing in goal and his utilised national team-mate, Philipp Lahm sat in front of him, at left back on this occasion.

David Luiz; the biggest shock to be included in the World XI.

It's important to bare in mind that the World XI was voted for by writers, coaches and most importantly players from around the world, when looking at the majority's decision to pick David Luiz at centre-back, a player who many that voted for him would've weaved in and out of his shambolic defending. On that note Thiago Silva was lucky to be included too, also playing part in the team that shipped seven against Germany on their own turf. Thankfully, Ramos at right back the reclaimed a level of solidity, who despite having a disappointing summer with Spain, has arguably evolved into the most commanding centre back (not right back) in the world. Had he been placed alongside powerhouses Hummels, Kompany or even Godin, then the defence would have looked more convincing. 

In midfield there were two names nailed on; Di Maria and Kroos, who both left and arrived at Real Madrid either side of the summer. Di Maria is the only player within the line-up to currently play in the Premier League, yet the roots of his performances in 2014 lay firmly in Madrid and Brazilian soil where he helped Argentina reach the World Cup Final. Fellow team mate Mascherano could have also been in with a chance as our boy Roy voted for him as his player of the year, but he missed out to Barcelona companion Iniesta in a three man midfield. The ageing Spanish star has undeniably been one of the best players in recent years, but with muted performances last year, when others such as Yaya Toure are tearing teams apart each game, is there any reason why Iniesta still makes the World XI? Perhaps people need to put the memories of 2011 and 2012 Iniesta to one side and focus on more ground-breaking performances like Toure, Pogba and even Muller to contribute to a more up to date team.

Paul Pogba; a player that could make the World XI in the future.

Which leads me onto the front three; a formidable trio. Of course, it would have to be Messi and Ronaldo, but who would accompany the cavalry? Gareth Bale had an outstanding season for Real Madrid, only muted by the likes of Ronaldo playing alongside him, whereas the new Galactico, James Rodriguez, took the World Cup by storm, winning the golden boot in a Colombian shirt, but failing to make a mark just yet in his new Madrid gear. Many will argue that World Cup 2014 poster boy Neymar should've been picked but a few inconsistent performances and injuries have cost him a place. So back to the Premier League, no? Suarez must've been chomping at the bit to get into the line-up, but maybe that was the problem, causing him to be what seems ineligible to vote for. Aguero then surely, or Costa - neither. The most hotly contested place to make the World XI was Arjen Robben, who in my mind was a worthy winner. There are few players I watch who can influence a game like Robben. In a Champions League Final, the European Championships, the World Cup Finals, he can just switch it on, and that's why in my opinion he sits behind Ronaldo and Messi as the most influential footballers today.

Here it is then, the 2014 World XI...                                  

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer

                                                       

Right back: Sergio Ramos                                                       

Centre back: David Luiz                                                   

Centre back: Thiago Silva                                                          

Left back: Phillip Lahm                                                             

Midfield: Andres Iniesta                                                           

Midfield: Toni Kroos                                                                
Midfield: Angel Di Maria                                                         

Attack: Lionel Messi                                                                 

Attack: Cristiano Ronaldo                                                       

Attack: Arjen Robben             
                                                  

...and what I think it should've been:

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer

Right back: Philipp Lahm

Centre back: Sergio Ramos

Centre back: Vincent Kompany

Left back: David Alaba

Midfield: Yaya Toure

Midfield: Toni Kroos
Midfield: Angel Di Maria

Attack: Lionel Messi

Attack: Cristiano Ronaldo

Attack: Arjen Robben

So that's what the 2014 World XI probably should've looked like, with what appears to be a gentle bias to a couple more Premier League players, but as a Manchester United fan, it speaks volumes to replace Iniesta with Yaya Toure for his performances last year. As for Kompany over Luiz, there's no argument there. One man who did miss out, James Rodriguez, could at least take home the Puskas awards for best goal, beating female Irish footballer, Stephanie Roche's stunning strike for Peamount United last year. As for the rest of women's football, awards went to Wolfsburg's, Ralf Kellermann, for his coaching of the women's side, as his star player Nadine Kessler walked away with the Women's World Player award.

Nadine Kessler collects her award.

All that to round up a year, and our eyes are already firmly fixed on what's to come in 2015. Early indicators look like Carvajal could be mounting a challenge to Lahm's position of right back and an impressive Chelsea team look like they may have at least one player making the world team by the end of the year. For now it looks like Big Sam and Ronald Koeman could be fighting for a place as best coach, but let's not jump to conclusions, twelve more months to go.

The Cereal Killer Cafe; Is It All It's Cracked Up To Be?

Somewhere along Brick Lane, you'll eventually find the Cereal Killer Cafe. With all the publicity the sweet-tooth sanctuary has gathered over the past month you'd think it'd stand out between the drab buildings in Shoreditch but don't be phased if it does take a couple of trips around the block before you find it.

Nestled between a chocolate shop and trashy boutique, as you open the door to the cafe, you're instantly greeted by the back of the customer in front of you in the ravenous queue ahead. The shoe-box sized room seats little more than ten people including, at this time, a table sat in the corner covered in light bulbs and drill pieces like a long lost DIY SOS project. 

The brief queue of customers does at least mean one thing; you could take your time to ponder over the wall of cereals, stacked up to the ceiling like a poor game of Tetris. By the time you can reach the mass of vibrant cuboids, those working there are hasty in getting you to decide on four things; your size of bowl, type of cereal, type of milk and any desired toppings. I chose to take the plunge into a bowl of cinnamon toast crunch, topped with mini marshmallows and soya milk, which cost 40p extra - a tough price to pay for any lactose-intolerants.

Despite the upstairs being cramped, we made our way down a creaky staircase to a room full of cereal goodies. As I sat down to slurp my £3.70 'medium' sized bowl of cereal I looked up at a set of televisions, one of which displayed an episode of 'Hey Arnold' in black and white. Fair play to the Belfast brothers who made their dreams reality and thought through this whole business. It's not just about the cereal, but it's about the morning TV shows and cartoon memorabilia associated with it. The decor of the place is simplistic but the memorabilia is well thought out, displaying a range of history and humour, from the Honey Monster skateboard to the Kate and William mock-up cereals, there's bits and bobs all around to take in. Mild nostalgia filled me as I tucked into my personally selected bowl, the marshmallows looking like chunks of polystyrene and sizzling with acidity, yet still complementing the cinnamon packages. One bowl was enough, both in price and the sugar rush that proceeded. 

The Cereal Killer Cafe fits in unassumingly with the niche scene of Brick Lane and when you step through its doors it's not overwhelming nor bombarding. It's a great place to pop into but with the prices they set, you won't be making it a regular on your morning commute and when it comes down to the crunch, its shelf life may not be all that long.

Introducing - Real Lies

Debut single, 'World Peace' by London trio Real Lies could not sum up a bands sound more accurately. Straight from the kick off, the border of 80s and 90s pop synth is crossed to create a melody almost too close for comfort to New Order; it's spot on.

Sounding just like the Italia '90 hit, 'World In Motion', Real Lies are instant controllers of their own destiny, slipping in clips of 90s football on a box TV and memorabilia strung across the walls in the video for the dance hit. It's almost a surprise that John Barnes didn't crop up with an irrelevant rap half way through. 

B-side, 'Deeper', is a throwback to Pet Shop Boys as Neil Tennant's mundane vocals echo are near enough present in every nook of the track. The effervescing synth still rings strong into latest EP, 'North Circular', which comprises more toned down and troubling vocals similar to The Streets. 'Dab Housing' on the other hand is dreamy and includes smooth tropical groove without getting too carried away. The track, perfectly suited for those dark and misty club nights is as intriguing as the band members, who choose to refer to themselves by their initials, KK, TW and PK. Don't expect them to remain strangers though, as the indie-dance pioneers bring it back to 2015.

From Anfield to America; A Big Mistake?

You'd think nothing could be worse for reds fans after seeing Steven Gerrard's nightmare slip give up the Premier League title last season. The trauma has only continued this season though with Liverpool barely teetering on a Europa League spot when the hardest blow hit.

A decision that surely required more than just a scratch of the head...

On Friday, halfway into their Premier League campaign, Steven Gerrard decided to call it a day at his home for the past 17 years, Anfield. The only glimmer of hope is that Gerrard can perhaps spur a revival and push Liverpool into the Champions League spots before he leaves in five months but that's being more than generous given the team's current run of form.

Having retired from international football after yet another disastrous campaign with England at the World Cup, his head seemed screwed on to stay at Liverpool for at least two or three more seasons, so why has he so easily been allowed to flee the tattered nest?

To Leave?

The KOP just hasn't roared the same this season as it has in previous, especially last year as Liverpool came within clutching distance of their first title in 24 years, and for good reason too. It's hard not to, but if you forget the Suarez effect and the loss of Sturridge to lengthy injuries, the team just aren't all there, and Gerrard has had to take the brunt of a lot of the abuse; some of it being just. It's clear his legs aren't all there, slipping more often than a sugar filled kid on a slip 'n' slide. Gerrard's deeper position in midfield has led to Henderson appearing the more hungry in games, something you wouldn't have said a year or so ago, but something Gerrard and the Liverpool staff must pay attention to.

Will Gerrard be handing his captaincy over to Jordan Henderson come May?

With players such as Henderson looking to make their mark, it has been noted that the distraction and attention on Gerrard's performances could in turn be having a negative effect on the rest of the team who look to get on with their game. The fan's only hope is that Henderson can turn into even just a tenth of what Gerrard became - a hero.

Along with the Gerrard departure, the club is surely going to get a significant amount of money. Hopefully they can reinvest this in players this time that they can nurture and mould into the squad, rather than the mess that happened with their summer signings. 

Or Not To Leave?

A 'legend', the term which has flown around over the past few days, is true of Gerrard's impact on the club. The passion that man has is hard to come by and when the team's down in the dumps all heads turn towards him. If he is to pitter-patter off the team sheet, keep him on the bench, for that sense of reliability to hold a lead, or the kick up the back side the team needs when they're 1-0 down with ten minutes to go. Failing still, Rodgers ought to get him in his back room staff. Look at Giggs at United. Admittedly he's a few years older but the principles still stand. If there's no Carragher or Gerrard in the dressing room then who are you going to turn to? Not Mignolet, I'd assume.

Money aside, the MLS, Gerrard's port of call, is hardly the most challenging league. A couple of years ago he could've fitted snug into a Madrid midfield but now he'll be finding himself investing time into the Hollywood lifestyle and other American sports he'd never bat an eyelid at. All this can be done after retirement, it's not the same as a couple more years of battling in the Premier League. The will power to keep Steven at the club has thus not been of enough importance and they've foolishly let him slip. 

It looks like Gerrard could fill ex-England pal, David Beckham's, boots left at LA Galaxy.

Most surprisingly perhaps, with Balotelli miss-firing and Sturridge still not fit, Gerrard is the team's top goalscorer this season. Consistency is the key. Especially when a player goes down in the box, nine times out of ten Gerrard will nestle the ball into the net. 

Having just scored a double against AFC Wimbledon in the FA Cup third round, people are commenting, seriously or sarcastically, on why the captain is being allowed to leave at the end of the season. It's probably a thoughtless decision from the club as a whole but hopefully it'll give them room to move forward and you can guarantee Gerrard will be back at Anfield in a few years. One thing's for sure, with the defences he'll face in the MLS, he can be confident he can keep scoring the kind of goals that punished Wimbledon last night.

Interview - Catfish and The Bottlemen

As the year drew to a close I was able to snap up an interview with Van McCann from one of the breakthrough bands of 2014, Catfish and the Bottlemen. We spoke about the success they've had this year, featuring on the latest FIFA game and plans for album number two already firmly in place.

FanCam: Sheffield United v Notts County

At the end of November I headed down to Bramall Lane to watch a tasty game between Sheffield United and Notts County as they both continued to battle at the top of the table. The game ended in a 1-1 draw and I spoke to fans about their thoughts on the match and the future League Cup Quarter Final against Southampton.

Through One Ear and Out the Other; A musical shift from 2014 to 2015

Music is a constant, merely blurred by the boundaries of our calendar. 2015 will provide nothing different on the music scene as old rockers return and new names bubble to the surface, there should be something to savour for music fans this year. Here's some personal tips and moments to look forward to in 2015.

1. Return of the Maccs

On New Years eve Orlando Weeks and co gave us news of a new album and plenty more live shows hitting us in 2015. What the details are exactly we don't know yet but if it's anything like their last album, 'Given To The Wild', then their next instalment could be the record of the year.

2. The Rock 'n' Roll Revival Hits Wembley

In June Foo Fighters will take to Wembley Stadium to play some of their biggest shows to date but what's even more tasty is their support. It comes in the shape of hard-hitting duo Royal Blood who could soon rival Dave Grohl for a headline slot. 2014 was the definitive year for the pair but 2015 ought to firmly establish them as saviours of thick riffs and drums, a lot of drums.

3. Peace is the word

B-Town quartet Peace will bring some more shimmery vibes to your ear waves early on into the year with their second album, 'Happy People', dropping in February. Having spoken to the man behind the mic it seems that it won't end there though as a sea of tour dates and plans for a third album are very much in motion.

4. A Band Called Palace

With the return of the Maccabees already being noted, a band who will be hot on their heels this year is London outfit, 'Palace'. Their alternative tinting of archaic blues brought them a support slot on Jamie T's tour and 2015 will undoubtedly see them rise from their debut EP platform.

5. King Raury

If Outkast's comeback was too 2002 for you then welcome to Raury. The teenager from Atlanta is making rifts across seas and has impressed the likes of BBC to feature him on their Sounds of 2015 list. Over the past year he's released some interesting projects touching upon Andre 3000 and Childish Gambino influences which will carry him confidently through 2015.

6. Male music

Raury's not the only young man who you'll be hearing in 2015. Bipolar Sunshine will be delivering upbeat pop rhythms whereas the more gentle whirrs of Brits critics choice, James Bay, will be prominent and for the more rugged edge, Only Real will be bringing the skatty upbeat guitar playing back. Expect these three to be very much in and around some of the best things you hear this year.

7. Festivals

Hardly a surprise this but yes the dawn of 2015 means we move even closer to festival season. Despite the slightly under-par line up, Glastonbury was a stonker last year so if Eavis manages to book the bigger acts this year, it could be one of the best yet. Elsewhere Reading and Leeds have brought in Metallica, making their Glastonbury performance last year look not so special after all. Smaller festivals to look out for include Bestival - the biggest party of the year, and metropolitan festivals, Live At Leeds and Tramlines.

8. The Brits Bullshit

It appears the only good thing going for the Brits this year is that James Corden has been put out of his misery, his script tossed to one side as Ant and Dec take over the presenting duties. Don't expect any tongue in cheek public speech by Alex Turner this year though. Instead sit back and enjoy a festoon of faces who you'll have been tired of seeing since last February - Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift will all give 'big performances' on the show - all for the viewing figures eh.