STUART NEGUS - FEAST

The eagerly anticipated debut album titled “Feast” from Stuart Negus, has now been officially released. When an album has guest appearances by Theo Gilmore, Michael McGoldrick and John Kirkpatrick then you know this is going to be something very special. Stuart has been regarded as one of the North of England’s finest song-writers for some time, and was the driving force behind the successful “Songwriters Circle” evenings in Yorkshire a few years ago. The range of Stuart’s talents can be seen within the opening two tracks, starting with “May I Walk” which has a Johnny Cash “Hurt” feel to it, before the more upbeat and foot-tapping “The Only One” follows smoothly along as it emphasizes an addiction we have all had at some point. The start is just a prelude as Stuart takes the listener on a wondrous acoustic journey of reflection and hope, the evocative “Autumn Girl” makes you actually taste and feel the Autumnal lyrics, while “New Beginning” is exactly that, with a picture of hope and inspiration described in Stuarts own inimitable way. Everyone will have their own particular favourite track, as everyone will have a personal acknowledgement of what the lyrics of “Walls” means to them. Like Monet or Constable painted pictures with oils, Stuart paints pictures with richly textured lyrics on this masterpiece of an album which I cannot praise high enough. THE album of 2010.

STUART NEGUS WEBSITE

YOUR MUSIC SUCCESS

KATIE OWEN - COMIN' ON STRONG

While comparisons with Christina Auguilera are valid, Katie Owen’s voice and song-writing can stand alone on their own merits. The debut album titled “Comin On Strong” from the Southampton-based singer, is testament to a bright new talent within the British music-scene. While many singers would be tempted to shout through the power-vocals of “Putcha Finger On The Record”, “Terrified” and “OMG”, Katie remains in complete control. At times with a feel of Whitney Huston’s ballad-style to the more upbeat 1990’s Cher, Katie also moves effortlessly through the percussion-based “Give It A Rest” and the bouncy-feel of “Don’t Wanna Stop” to my own particular favourite, ”Something From You” with its unique sound and which allows Katie’s pure vocals to shine through. Although sure to be a hit with both chart and R & B fans, there are tracks which will appeal to fans of many different genres. Katie Owen, definitely one to follow in 2011.

KATIE OWEN WEBSITE

YOUR MUSIC SUCCESS

THE ARTISTS - TRICK OR TREATING

Sadly young bands come and go with incredible regularity, however one band that definitely could buck the trend is Leeds-based “The Artists” who have just launched their debut EP titled “Trick or Treating”. Consisting of Luke Thompson (Vocals & Guitar), Jack Mattison (Backing vocals & Keyboard), Mitch Thompson (Lead guitar), Louis Appleyard (Bass guitar) and Tom Webster (Drums), their offering has a freshness and vibrancy, which coupled with well thought out lyrics from the start of the EP title track and through the remaining three tracks, gives each an individualistic musical feel and texture. Impressive would be an understatement for an EP and band that will make the local and beyond, music-scene sit up, stand up and take notice.

BAND WEBSITE

YOUR MUSIC SUCCESS