Sunday 19 January 2014

Introducing Katie Coleman



'Honest, energetic and fun' are the three words that up and coming solo artist, Katie Coleman, uses to describe her debut EP.The bubbly 19 year old has been dividing her time between her hometown of Darlington and the studios of London to work with, amongst others, Mike Bianco at Elephant Lane Studios and Grammy winner, Ian Dowling. (Adele) for the still to be named EP, which I was informed will be released early this year. Most people would find it stressful or difficult dividing their time between two cities so far apart, however Katie takes it all in her stride. 'It's not so difficult really! I teach singing on a weekend in my hometown, so I'm always down during the week for studio time and writing. I think if you really wanna pursue something you love, then I feel it's only a small thing in the long run'. The Pop Soul singer has a voice as big as her personality, which has already gained her a few slots at London's famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz club. 'For the last year I've really developed as an artist, so being able to play these venues is a really cool achievement!' Is her answer to how it feels to have accomplished so much in such little time before adding 'I've been working hard in the studio with some great writers and producers the last few months working on the 'Katie Coleman' sound. I feel like I've already gained so much experience, so it feels good'.





With a signature blonde bouffant and flicking eyeliner, in all of her YouTube videos Katie has certainly nailed the stylish, vintage look which then manifests itself into her music but with a personal edge.  'I've always been fascinated with the old school sound and really classic iconic looks from those eras. I grew up listening to soulful singers like Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Jimi Hendrix and those are just a few names from my dad's collection that I would put on in the car as a kid! But now, as music is evolving, I love mixing that sound with an urban twist and really trying to find something new, which people will connect with how I did with those old soul singers!' As well taking notes from such musical icons, Katie Coleman manages to find her own niche within her songwriting by mixing in her own life experiences. 'I've been writing since I was 10 years old, so a lot of the inspiration Comes from life experiences since then; family, relationships, friends and love! But now I'm nineteen, my perspective on things are different. But listening to other artists and genres of music out there also inspire you to write something you wouldn't normally write about.' 

Although it is early days for the northern songstress, with such a memorable sound and personality, the name 'Katie Coleman' will become a whole lot more familiar on the music circuit. The positive work ethic and warm, unique vibes deems Katie ahead of her age but is also what makes her so likable as an artist.

Live Dates
10th February at Barfly, Camden (tickets £5)
13th February Proud Galleries (free entry on guest list - rsvp @ Adam@madamusic.com)

If your on Facebook and/or Twitter then visit her pages;
https://twitter.com/katie_coleman

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Katie-Coleman





Sunday 5 January 2014

'Love It's A Killer': Exclusive First Review of Mutineers' New Single


Yesterday I was sent over a new single courtesy of The Mutineers ahead of their ‘Love, it’s A Killer Tour’ which kicks off next month. The new single, which goes by the same name, took me by surprise from the very first beat. Going by the name alone, I was expecting a melancholic love ballad but what I heard instead was something more along the lines of The Fratellis. The intro brings us into a new, jaunty sound with a fresh attitude. ‘Love, It’s A Killer’ seeps with personality and energy with it’s confident vocal harmonies accompanying Nicholas Mallins, as he reminds us the extent of his talent. Michael Reed provides us with the cutting guitar riff which gives the track an added punch. This, combined with Twemlow's, Gronow's and Salt’s work on the rhythm, creates perfect chaos. The Mutineers maintain their intricate melodies, but it is tackled less seriously, ‘Love, It’s A Killer’ has all the makings of a strong single with it’s sense of urgency and relatable lyrics.