One of the most important figures in modern music, Florian Schneider, has sadly passed away. Martin Gore of Depeche Mode cited Kraftwerk as “the Godfathers of electronic music”, journalist Neil McCormick said they might be “the most influential group in pop history”, and Bowie even named a song after Schneider (V-2 Schneider on ‘Heroes’). His passing had me reminiscing on the impact Kraftwerk and Schneider had on modern music. I’m sure as time passes obituaries to this man wi

Leeds-based producer Figgis’ latest release comes in the form of a five-track EP, he comes fresh off the back DJing the debut event for Velocity, a new up-and-coming events company who put on their first night at Old Red Bus Station back in February. The opener, ‘Bones’, uses chopped up vocal sampling and syncopated percussion to create a real sunrise anthem, for those early morning hours where your energy levels are depleting and it’s your mind which needs stimulating. An

Many musicians have used lockdown as an opportunity to work on their creative endeavours, hosting live-streams, releasing new music and collaborating with others. Alfie Aukett is no exception to this rule, having not only been working on existing projects like Alfredo Romero and Ready Meal Sounds, but more impressively launching his label Tapas Wax. We talked to Alfie about his decision to form the label, the artists that feature on it and the direction he sees it going on. H

We’re constantly on the lookout for amazing music new and old, and each month we share our favourite discoveries with our readers. The motto: “Broaden some horizons”. 3 songs of varying genres. 1 cover song that we love for some reason or another. 1 essential album to hear before you die. Song #1: The Western- PFM (1995) Released in 1995 on LTJ Bukem's label Good Looking Records, 'The Western' is an absolute masterpiece. This track showcases some of the best of 'intelligent d

It would be difficult to imagine the landscape of Leeds' sound system culture without Brotherhood Sound System. Rooted in the sounds of UK bass, Brotherhood has been gradually accruing popularity for the last decade, and have since put on parties with the likes of Bradley Zero, DJ Boring, Mr Scruff, and countless more. Having recently celebrated their 8th birthday with Jeremy Underground, we decided to have a chat with head honcho George Hartshorn, where we talked roots and o

Jamie xx breaks his five-year hiatus from solo producing, returning with the tempo chopping, indulgent track Idontknow. The subtle and effortless style that emerged from his first album In Colour (2015) has been thrown to the side for this release, instead choosing to boast his extraordinary talent through the track’s extravagant and complex parts. Although criticised by a few for trying too hard, Idontknow is an unapologetically bold piece of producing. From a moderate start

The music industry has been hit hard by Covid-19. Whether it's been cancelled tours, venue closures or delays on album releases we really have seen it all. Amongst all the ensuing disruption there have never been more people releasing music, doing virtual gigs and streaming DJ-Sets online. One of our favourite platforms for online music has been NTS, who have once again proven they are a fantastic resource for discovering new music from both upcoming and established artists.

Based in Leeds and Bristol, No Way Back is a brand that has been at the forefront of pushing left-field dance music in aid of charitable causes. Released on May 1st, 'Stir Crazy' features a diverse selection of tracks local labels, artists and residents. The compilation is raising money for PAFRAS (Positive Action For Refugees and Asylum Seekers). From food parcels and vouchers to emergency accommodation, this charity ensures that vulnerable asylum seekers who are destitute,

The Gorillaz have paid tribute to the late Afrobeat legend Tony Allen - Albarn’s band mate in the Good, the Bad and the Queen — in the animated band’s new track “How Far?” featuring Allen and Skepta. “How Far?,” is the most recent installment in Gorillaz’ Song Machine series, “was written and recorded with Skepta in London just before lockdown and is being shared immediately as a tribute to the spirit of a great man, Tony Allen,”. “There is no end,” Allen said in a statement

Dark pop band ALLORA have released their latest single ‘Creature’, a song which grapples toxicity hidden under the guise of silken, harmony-driven vocals. The group first made a name for themselves on the Leeds music scene in late 2018, and continue to impress with their slick production and powerful guitar leadlines. ‘Creature’ is the highly anticipated follow up track to their debut single ‘Burned’, which earned the trio a loyal following. After headlining the iconic Ke