Brighton has a wide range of bands and artists that are working in a multitude of different ways to get their music out there.
This year I’ve been equally as blown away by friends and fellow students in Brighton as I have by any other chart-topping artist. The town has a fantastic history of producing awe-inspiring bands, but many are already firmly under the radar, so The Badger has unearthed a selection of great acts just waiting to be discovered. If you like what you hear, you can catch them in many of Brighton’s prolific venues such as the Hope, the Prince Albert, the Providence, Concorde 2, Komedia, the Fishbowl and Jam.
Jess Allen
Brightonian singer Jess Allen was absolutely brilliant when she played in Brighton at Komedia on a night called Live & Lyrical. In particular, Allen’s track ‘Perfect Night’ is so beautiful it could almost make you cry. If that’s not entertainment, I don’t know what is! Another of Jess’ standout tracks is ‘Lifetime’, which you can hear for yourself on myspace.com/jessallensmusic.
James Bay
It took me one listen of ‘Glow’ by James Bay to get me forever hooked. ‘Glow’ has recently been played on BBC Radio 3 and is now available to purchase on itunes. This summer James Bay played at the Rhythms of the World Festival in Hertfordshire and was outstanding, so if you get the chance to see him play in Brighton, take it! In the meantime, check out ‘Glow’ for yourself at myspace.com/jamesbayuk.
Red Kyte
I can’t wait for you to start enjoying the great pop songs by a band that can really perform. ‘Waiting’ by Red Kyte is quite simply epic. When these guys begin, they seem unstoppable; they’ve got the timing and the gusto to blow you away. Be sure to check out the music video for ‘Waiting’ by Red Kyte on YouTube! If their Myspace is anything to go by, exciting things are about to happen – so check them out at myspace.com/redkytemusic and look out for Red Kyte playing in a venue near you very soon.
Defective by Design
The way Defective by Design scream their hearts out in their songs ‘The Cure’ and ‘Truth’ is truly amazing. You can find a sample of the debut EP ‘Colour in a Black and White World’ on YouTube. The original Irish lead vocalist Eoin O’Toole is up for almost anything and never seizes to amaze on stage, which makes it highly entertaining. Go to myspace.com/defectivebydesignuk to find out more.
Nathan Elliot
The electro pop/rock music of Nathan Elliot is a result of interesting experimentation and a deft mix of genres. I am excited to see him developing within the electronic music genre. Visit myspace.com/nathanjameselliot and have a look for yourself.
Nimmo and the Gauntletts
With awesome storytelling lyrics, your life will not be complete without a listen to ‘Starcrossed Lonely’ and ‘Maybe in the Morning’, both available on myspace.com/nimmoandthegauntlettsuk. The band have performed in London at venues such as Camden’s Roundhouse, the Boogaloo and Bush Hall. This summer they have been busy on tour, playing, Lounge on the Farm festival, gigs in Paris and Secret Garden Party’s main stage. You’ll soon be able to see NATG in Brighton for yourself as their winter schedule gets underway…
Her and the Colours
Finally, let me introduce the oh so entertaining rebellious riots of Her and the Colours. ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ and ‘Ooh Baby’ have both got the perfect punk power!
You can grab a free download of their track ‘London Girl’ at pilotfashion.com and find out more at myspace.com/herandthecolours.