NOVA TWINS, FAC

Who Are The Girls? They are Nova Twins! – #2020vision lighting up dark days – and newly announced among fifteen new Ambassadors of the FAC. Appealing to every music loving human demographic (and undoubtedly extra terrestials in our multi verse), Nova Twins latest achievement is extremely exciting.

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The FAC is the UK artist trade body. Many high profile names are already involved.

New ambassadors from a diverse range of backgrounds are helping to grow the organisation’s community and amplify it’s message of fair representation for artists.

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FAC is delighted to also receive support from two of Britain’s finest musicians and songwriters Johnny Marr and Paloma Faith.

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New Artist Ambassadors include Skin, lead singer of multi-million selling British rock band Skunk Anansie. Born of Jamaican heritage and raised in Brixton the singer has created a path for women in a genre traditionally dominated by white men.

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The FAC represents artists from around the globe, announcing Canadian DJ, producer and former Radio 1 broadcaster B.Traits as well as one of the founding fathers of House Music; Larry Heard aka Mr. Fingers from Chicago. 

Joiningas international ambassadors are Sophia Saze, born in Georgia and based in New York, South African producer Esa and Moscow-born and Denmark-raised artist Anastasia Kristensen. True 21st Century delegation, alongside Paloma Faith, a multi talent tasking inspiration.

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Included are London trio Pengshui, tear down any walls between grime and punk at festivals like Glastonbury, Anna Meredith, described as ‘one of the most innovative voices in British music’ by Pitchfork, and Jake Burns, frontman and founder of Belfast’s seminal Stiff Little Fingers.

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Simone Marie Butler, DJ, session bass player and bassist with Primal Scream, Welsh producer and multi-instrumentalist The Anchoress (who is also woven into TheZineUK documentary) and Tawiah, who‘s debut album secured support tours with Michael Kiwanuka, are among this latest host of talented Ambassadors.

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They are alongside some of the most exciting acts from Manchester, including Afrodeutsche, a British born Ghanaian / Russian / German artist, composer, producer and Children of Zeus, a soul project from Konny Kon & Tyler Daley.

All the above are within and beyond the music industry .

Nova Twins exemplify this. They played our first Expo (40 stalls, a bar and a stage) in a disused Deptford Warehouse) then headlined our ArtBeat Amersham Arms shindig (with Mark Beaumont of NME on the decks) which spawned the ArtBeatFest expo pre-Brexit.

Watch their tale develop.

The world becomes increasingly crazier. Music is a mental salvation (which, in our case includes scenes of Calva Louise’s Jess moshing at the Nova Twins stage invasions!). 

2020 – FAC is increasingly important and generously helpful to artists at all levels.

On Britain’s last day in Europe, January 31st, I met with David Martin, General Manager of FAC, who took time from his hectic schedule to check out clips of Nova Twins, MOSES, Bugeye, The Novus and more. I’m so excited about the newer wave and any support/interest.

It’s not just lip service, The FAC is supportive of our grass roots movement, (Balcony Festival etc).

“I’m delighted to welcome these incredible artists to the FAC family. Right now, perhaps more than ever, people are recognising the value of music. Sadly we are also seeing the devastating impact that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the industry and the precarious position that many artists are in. This cannot be right for those who are at the very core of making our industry a global success. Therefore we’re delighted that the Artist Ambassadors are coming together and lending their voice to help us support the artist community with the representation and visibility that it needs.” (David Martin, The FAC)

Amy and Georgia, 23 January 2018, Some Might Say launch headlined by Strange Bones

Amy and Georgia, 23 January 2018, Some Might Say launch headlined by Strange Bones

Visibility for what’s happening in rock under the radar, despite Austerity, Dystopia and now Covid-19 is a surreal movie as life. We fight the hostile environment with our #FertileEnvironment of uniqulture. The snapshot above from Sahera Walker’s event.

Another thread of our interdependence, Sahera has laid foundations with Werkhaus on Brick Lane since last Summer. Hope that we can all be in venues again soon.

The rise of fresh forces united is real. Seeing positivity represented is a thrill.

Nova Twins are creators, fashion icons who design sound scapes and enliven make up. Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s in heaven blessing these 21st century punx for kicking Rock Music’s arse with their musical supernature which channels diversity, social inclusion. Sci-fi pedal fuelled bass (Georgia South) and guitar (Amy Love) with rapped non-conformity from sweet hearted cyber stars of the newer wave. Gigs are an absolute RIOT! Of course. My last glimpse was at Neighbourhood Festival in October (‘Who Are The Girls’ album tour 2020 is safety first postponed)

Decolonised, non conformist, DIY chic feminist punks of colour empower the people’s senses. Nova Twins have had to create the identity that didn’t exist for them to reflect. The perfect tour support for Skunk Anansie last year. Like Skin, they are already a national treasure.

The super Nova sound has packed international festivals, sold out tour dates, gained mainstream media (MSM) attention and been the face of Dr. Martens Autumn Winter 2019. 

Nova Twins have worked with Jim Abbiss (Adele, Arctic Monkeys).  Their platform is a pro-active, interactive, fan fuelled tale. Like mad scientists of entertainment invention, even the sky is not the limit. They’ve promoted their peers, including being part of putting Art Beat Central, Lewisham on the creative map (London Borough Of Culture 2021).

Guess what? I know I speak on behalf of many in TheZineUK community when I say we are totally excited that Nova Twins have joined an illustrious alumni at the Featured Artists Coalition.

Amy and George are the Concept and Creative Directors, Costume Designers and Hair/Make-Up artists on their latest video. This is our future.

'Taxi' Out Now: https://NovaTwins.ffm.to/Taxi 'Who Are The Girls?' Debut Album Out Now: https://NovaTwins.lnk.to/WhoAreTheGirls Director: Harry Lindley Conce...

The FAC’s Board of Directors represents includes the likes of Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien, Imogen Heap, Katie Melua, Sandie Shaw and Blur’s David Rowntree as the organisation’s Artist in Residence. 

https://www.thefac.org | Facebook/Instagram: /featuredartistscoalition | Tweet @featuredartists 

Words: Caffy St Luce

DROOL ‘SNCMH’

‘She Never Cut My Hair’, appropriate lockdown locks licks from a bold rock release by Drool. In less than two and a half minutes you want more. We caught up for an interview. 

Meet a credible career potential, must-hear band.

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So, it’s like that, is it? From Spring to Autumn 2020, home grown stars in waiting are gonna unleash some of the biggest tunes while we’re in lockdown dreaming of where our heads will bob in unison to crashing power chords as we sing along, part of the show. Drool are no exception. This has an international sound that embraces hard rock, T-Rex and The Pixies without sounding derivative. 

Drool know what they’re up to. This is the third single from the London quartet.

The story so far – 2018

Vocalist and writer, Joey Rogers, joined forces with ex Vant drummer Martin Soderin and guitarist Louis Greenway. In April 2018, bassist Joe Bennison completed the band. 

In a June 2018 article, we reported that “This band made TheZineUK sit up with an expansive rock sound that wouldn’t be out of place in a gothic cathedral with acid trip coloured stained glass windows.” and we stand by that.

After many circuit gigs (including a sold-out Paper Dress Vintage) they rounded off that year at The Riverside, Newcastle, opening for Black Grape.

2019

Their first release, the single ‘Fun’ (January), picked up instant, addicted attention (over 70,000 monthly Spotify listeners included). Much of that was owed to the music video gaining traction on Reddit (currently heading for 30,000 views on YouTube)

New Music Video for Playground Wars OUT NOW! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7VXSNVSIbM Directed by Nick Jones: http://pictureimperfect.co.uk/ Produced by J...

With second single – the fuzzed up dreamgaze rock of ‘Junkyard’ (April) – they went on to support The Pale White, Band of Skulls and The Mysterines. Drool perfected their live act on a headline European Tour. 

Due to contractual complications, the band were unable to release further singles until now.

Spotify: https://bit.ly/drool-junkyard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_droolmusic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/droolband Web: http://www.crowdsan...

May 2020

Freshly unleashed via Awal, SNCMH is a visceral and infectious mega-TUNE with rousing riffs edging unashamedly catchy pop. Frontman Joey says: “It’s a fun, confident rock and roll track. My favourite records are ones you want to stick on in the car with mates and sing along to.”

Inspired by the intimate vocal delivery of Billie Eilish and soaring guitar hooks of The Strokes, they took the track to ex-Tribes guitarist and producer Dan White at his studio in London Fields. “We have had the song in our repertoire for a long time, but in the studio, with Dan, the song found new life” A live favourite with their fans it sounds like a winner that will see them through these dystopian days. 

Heather Minx was recently in conversation with Joey, finding out how Drool are doing in lockdown;

Heather: How are you guys doing? 

Joey : “We’re doing ok – it’s interesting in a world where bands are forcing themselves to create content from home. I don’t think the ‘acoustic zoom gig’ is natural to every performer and it’s sometimes hard, thinking of ways to continue to be relevant.”

H: What have you found to comfort you during this time? Any music you are deep diving into? 

“It is tough at the moment, but we go in waves of what comforts us. I (Joey) have dived into 50’s rock and roll – have made a really good playlist actually! Lots of Eddie Cochran, Elvis, Gene Vincent, Chuck Berry etc – banger after banger!”

What do you think lies in the future for live music? 

“I think the future of live music is exactly that – LIVE music. I feel like larger venues / outdoor spaces will hold smaller capacity gigs so everyone can be equally spaced/ stick with your specific circle. There will be a way but I don’t think 2020 will be the year of great gigs.”

4… Are you doing any online shows?

“We prefer to make other content but I am getting the nudge to do some by management and band mates.

I’m not really a fan of online gigs. I find them tacky/ pointless. The artists who excel there are usually the most narcissistic – loving the chance to take videos of themselves.  Luckily we had three singles already recorded and a video ready to go, ha! 

If I can find a way of doing it without making myself cringe then for sure, why not! I really like ‘How Far?’ By Gorrilaz, ‘Where The Fuck Did April G’o by The Streets, and ‘Second’ by Sleaford Mods.”

It will be waiting for, trust.

‘She Never Cut My Hair’ is the first of three singles produced by Dan White. The next, ‘Playground Wars’ is scheduled to be released six weeks later. Drool have a lot of material in their catalogue and are working hard to release as many singles as possible in a year like this. What a strong start! Here’s the video,  
Directed, Produced and Edited by Joey Rogers

Words: Heather ‘The Minx'“ of Minx Media.

9 MAY IS BALCONY FESTIVAL 4!

Balcony Festival 4 is in aid of The Trussel Trust Foodbank Charity. Hosted by journalist, Louise Schofield, this series has proved a digital success of the UK Lockdown. Stay safe and come meet us at the Joyzine YouTube channel Live Stream Show from 1 pm GMT on Saturday 9th May. The united nations of interdependent tipped artists and allies return with another essential and engaging entertainment extravaganza for a much-needed cause. 

Facebook Event with Artist/Charity info/updates  
https://facebook.com/events/905050393308422/

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TheZineUK are highly excited to welcome The DSM IV to our stage. In human history’s biggest year. The debut LPs are extra special and a band inciting hysteria (supporting Sleaford Mods and The Libertines and at their own sold out Lexington show) deserve eye-on x ear-on ATTENTION! Their LP is preceded by the aircraft hanger sized ‘Killing Your Time’ – their third release, it’s majesterially magnificent. Look forward to an intimately personal and exclusive Balcony Festival appearance. 

In their own words;  “We’re psyched to be able to play some tracks 4 u, THE DSM IV début album will be released later this year. We can’t wait to see you soon at a live, live show! In the meantime, thnx so much to TheZineUK for supporting bands & fellow music hedz by making this possible! Be wise, stay strong”

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Saturday 9th May 2020 from 1pm (Stage Times On The Day!)
Nadia Sheikh on The Benumu Stage
Hurtling on the LOUD WOMEN Stage
THE DSM IV on The Zine UK Stage
Keel Her on The Sonic Tonic Stage
BERRIES on The Crocroland Stage
Foundlings on The Bechdel Sound Test Stage
Lara Smiles on The GigSlutz Stage
Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business on The Joyzine Stage
Nuha Ruby Ra on The Louderthanwar Stage
Foxpalmer at The Quarantini – Live Virtual Bar Stage
Rosehip Teahouse on The God Is In The TV Zine. Stage

As our documentary’s story unfolds, this latest episode is a mixture of faves and new friends weaving into the tapestry. You will know our collaborators from TheZineUK tale, and from previous Balcony Festivals. Also some of this episode’s stars (like Berries and Nadhia Sheikh) all golden threads. Absolutely EVERY set at these shows is an ear opener! The first three events have already made a mark on the year, as well as raising funds to help others.

Personally, I bloody LOVE team Balcony. As a collective of music sites and promoters we are all completely different in style and taste. At a time when Hate Island’s Hostile Environment is dividing and infighting during tragedy, the Fertile Environment is taking seed with social inclusion and, frankly, some of the BEST talents around. Tell your friends and seeya in chat land on the day!

Words: Caffy St Luce

SAVE OUR VENUES (AND FUTURE)

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Do you care about music? Click Music Venue Trust‘s Save Our Venues link asap! https://saveourvenues.co.uk/ (or… The Entertainment Industry wrecked).

No rising star venue circuit, means no future head-liners/awards winners, economic, cultural and reputational benefits (creative self employment and social collusion included). SERIOUSLY.

“Venues are the vital first stop for a band to build its fan base, confidence and character on stage. Unforgettable memories from all the venues we’ve played, sadly many are shut now. Lets try our best to keep the scene alive.” The Gulps (@TGulps)

Since announcement, artists and audiences alike have galvanised an online collaboration with local communities, national and independent media – plus venues themselves (many of which I’ve visited as fan/crew, inspiring Music Tourism. Many of us spend much of our lives in positive vibrations).

Follow and amplify #SaveOurVenues on social media. Don’t stop.

Join the #FIGHTBACK at   https://saveourvenues.co.uk/#/

Join the #FIGHTBACK at
https://saveourvenues.co.uk/#/

Like our NHS, our venues are a life blood of modern life that goes beyond passion to the genuine civilisation of being in a space where music people are. Our own documentary evolves in small venues with real stories of artists rising to lockdown’s hiatus.

These are essential multi purpose spaces that enhance any town or city. Often with iconic history and anecdotes worthy of a national treasure plaque.

We are ALL in some trouble or other now. Sad and scary days with a bleak outlook. Lockdown is Safety First, but what we do now shapes everything towards Day Zero of the new “normal”. Even the slightest help makes a difference, brightens the near future.

Visit the campaign site, watch the Play At Home gigs, spread the # and website address far and wide. As this movement grows, it would be heart warming to see the biggest artists throw their cash and weight into the bottom rungs of the ladder, trickle down style.

For now, DIY people power is the majority of this force and what an impressive community of belief, already!

“The situation is dire, government support has been exhausted, and it now falls to artists, music fans, local communities and the wider industry to take action.Put bluntly, without these venues the opportunities for artists and audiences to connect in a meaningful way at a local level will simply disappear in a lot of cases. If they go they will never come back.” (Music Venue Trust) 

Read the statement in full and donate at https://saveourvenues.co.uk/#/

Words: Caffy St Luce