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Curveballs 16th April 2014 (with Dave from The Filthy Souls, & Easter gig guide)
Click below to listen to the show: This week’s show included my recent chat on the phone to Dave Green (above second left), frontman of The Filthy Souls. The band are based in
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Curveballs 9th April 2014 (with Lee Sargeant from Vacant Touch, and Lisa Houghton)
To listen back to this week’s show click below. Scroll down for individual interviews & live videos. First up tonight I chatted to Lisa Houghton – whom you may recall did a session
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Curveballs 2nd April 2014 (with EastEnd Promises)
Tonight saw the return of EastEnd Promises (l-r Wayne, Jake, Iason, Lewis), their fourth Curveballs appearance. They last joined us in October 2012 just after the release of their debut album Alan & the
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Curveballs 26th March 2014 (with Stone By Window… & who’s that in the Gazette?)
This week I was joined in the studio by three-fifths of Stone By Window (l-r Bob, Nick, Mark). Hailing from various parts of the south east, the fivesome released their first EP, EP1,
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Curveballs 19th March 2014 (with Kata Hay, Meryl & A Bit of Yellow, and Lilac Sheer)
Listen back to this week’s show here (scroll down for individual interviews and session videos): This week’s show featured a triple bill of live sessions as I was joined in the studio by
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Curveballs 12th March 2014 (with The MBG and Mark Oliff)
To listen back to this week’s show, click below! First up tonight I was joined in the studio by Mark Oliff to chat about the upcoming Castle Reunion event at Eclipse nightclub, Brentwood
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Curveballs 5th March 2014 (with The Albino Peaches, & Vacant Touch’s Lee)
To listen back to this week’s show, click here: First up this week, I was joined in the studio by Lee Sargeant from local quartet Vacant Touch, just ahead of their headline gig
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Curveballs 26th February 2014 (with Porcupine Kiss)
This week I was joined in the studio once again by Chelmsford’s Porcupine Kiss. Since they last joined us in May last year, the fivesome have been recording their debut album Disillusion which is
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Curveballs 19th February 2014 (with Man Made)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by new pop-punk trio Man Made (l-r Josh, Jay, Chris). Hailing from Stevenage, the threesome recently released their debut single My Heart is Fool’s Gold, available for
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Curveballs 12th February 2014 (Valentine’s Day Special. Sort of.)
In the run-up to Valentine’s Day, tonight’s show consisted of a number of tracks on the theme of romance and how relationships can be a bit odd at times. On the subject of being
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Curveballs 5th February 2014 (with Loving Forty-Four)
Tonight was our first live session of 2014, courtesy of local threesome Loving Forty-Four (l-r Charlie, Alex, Jamie), making their third appearance on the show. Since they were last with us in May
Read More »Curveballs 29th January 2014
Listen back to this week’s show here: Deadmau5 – I Remember www.deadmau5.com Boy – Skin www.listentoboy.com The Tomorrow Men – Independent… Yeah Right www.soundcloud.com/thetomorrowmen Aeromancy – Triangles www.soundcloud.com/aeromancy Def Leppard – Rocket www.defleppard.com
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Curveballs 22nd January 2014 (with Freya & Matt from The Hermit)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Freya Lees and Matt Davey from Brentwood youth venue The Hermit. The venue, which features gigs, recording and music tuition for 13-19-year-olds, reopened a year
Read More »Curveballs 15th January 2014
Tonight we continued our look through bands we hope to be hearing more from this year. They may not be having number 1 hits by the end of the year (although that’d be awesome!),
Read More »Curveballs 8th January 2014
After last week’s look at the year gone by, this week we were looking at the year ahead on Curveballs with a look at the bands and singers we hope to be hearing more
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Curveballs 1st January 2014 – As much cool stuff from 2013 as we can fit into 3 hours
Happy new year one and all! Following on from our Christmas Day covers special, New Year’s Day Curveballs consisted of as many session tracks and top tunes from 2013 as we could fit into
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Curveballs 18th December – Curveballs Christmas Special with Lady Grey & The Earls
Lady Grey & the Earls (l-r): Paul (guitar), Justin (guitar), Mark (drums), Amy (vocals), Graham (bass). I think it’s fair to say that Christmas just isn’t Christmas here at Phoenix FM until we’ve had
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Curveballs 11th December 2013 (with Minerva Falls)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Minerva Falls (l-r Tom, Aaron, Ad, Ross, Ben) for a chat and live session. The Southend-based fivesome are marking the release of their debut album, Death
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Curveballs 4th December 2013 (with Lace & Whiskey and The Folkwitz)
To listen back to this week’s show, including chats with The Folkwitz and Lace & Whiskey, click below: Tonight I was joined in the studio by Andy, Melissa and Aaron from Lace &
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Curveballs 27th November 2013 (with Chapter 9)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by new local trio Chapter 9 (l-r Paul, Ben, Richard). The trio formed earlier this year by singer/guitarist Paul and drummer Richard (both formerly of Pleasure Dead
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Curveballs 20th November 2013 (with Black Cherry Pop Tart)
Tonight I was joined by local covers duo Black Cherry Pop Tart. Lisa and Tom are regulars at The Swan in Brentwood, where they can be seen at the pub’s Open Mic Night every
Read More »Curveballs 13th November 2013
Happy birthday to my mum who was born on this day. Which means she could well have been conceived on Valentine’s Day… Listen back to the show here! Camera Obscura – French Navy
Read More »Curveballs 6th November 2013
Listen back to this week’s show here: Incubus – Pardon Me www.enjoyincubus.com 4 Hero – Star Chaser www.4hero.co.uk The Dalloways – Hooked www.facebook.com/thedalloways The Seagulls – Nobody Here www.facebook.com/theseagullsband Lazy Habits (ft Miss Baby
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Curveballs 30th October 2013 – Curveballs Halloween Special
A night of spooky Curveballs tunage tonight, and not a Monster Mash in sight. Click below to listen again! Colours of Melancholia – Bottom www.coloursofmelancholia.com Reuben – Freddy Krueger www.wordsfromreuben.com Ladytron – Ghosts www.ladytron.com
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Curveballs 23rd October 2013 (with The Seagulls)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by The Seagulls (l-r Patrick, DJ, Lewis, Adam [held up], Jack) for a chat and live session. The local fivesome recently released two singles available for download
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Curveballs 16th October 2013 (with The Ends and Olaf Stando)
Listen back to the show here: Another busy one tonight. First up was Olaf Stando, back for his third appearance on Curveballs, this time with tracks from his new EP Horizons in tow,
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Curveballs 9th October 2013 (with Queensburys and Dregs Of Society)
Listen back to the show here: First up tonight, I was joined by Southend’s Dregs Of Society (l-r Gary, Jason, Jasmine, Robb). Originally formed in 2001, the foursome recently released a compilation of
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Curveballs 2nd October 2013 (with Optional Rubber Duck and Longy)
Listen back to the show here: Another busy Curveballs started with our most enigmatic guest to date, singer-songwriter Longy (above with trumpeter Adam AKA Feralchild), who was in the middle of a very busy
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Curveballs 25th September 2013 (with Elysium)
Elysium (l-r): Charlie (bass), Dan (guitar), Warren (drums), Floyd (vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Romford blues-rock foursome Elysium, just ahead of their latest gig at the Essex Arms. The next
Read More »Curveballs 18th September 2013
Listen back to the show here: Funeral For A Friend – Escape Artists Never Die www.funeralforafriend.com King Prawn – The Dominant View www.facebook.com/officialkingprawn Ben Folds Five – Brick www.benfolds.com Lazy Habits – Starting Fires
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Curveballs 11th September 2013 (with The Dalloways)
The Dalloways (l-r): James (drums), Holly (vocals), Ollie (guitar), Rhys (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by local quartet The Dalloways. The foursome formed at the beginning of this year and recently
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Curveballs 4th September 2013 (with Any Colour You Like)
Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by Ray and Alan from local Pink Floyd tribute act Any Colour You Like, along with their fundraising organiser Lynn. Since they last joined us
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Curveballs 28th August 2013 – Festival Special with Rockzilla’s Danny & Adrian
Tonight was the annual Curveballs Festival Special, featuring some of the bands we discovered and tracks we sang along to at this year’s Reading, Standon Calling, Latitude and Brentwood Festivals, as well as the
Read More »Curveballs 14th August 2013
Listen back to the show here: Dub Pistols – Official Chemical www.dubpistolsmusic.co.uk Rachel Stamp – I Got the Worm www.facebook.com/rachelstamppage Bettie Seveert – Shake Her www.bettieserveert.com Blood Red Shoes – Black Distractions www.bloodredshoes.co.uk Robert
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Curveballs 7th August 2013 (with Dead Baby Birds)
Dead Baby Birds (l-r): Matt (guitar/vocals), Tristan (vocals/bass), Andy (guitar/vocals). Absent drummer Sam represented by iPad photo. Tonight I was joined in the studio by three-quarters of Dead Baby Birds. Since their first appearance
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Curveballs 31st July 2013 (with Art of Rebellion)
Art of Rebellion (l-r): Lee (drums/vocals), Russ (bass/vocals), Nathan (vocals/guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio for a second time by Art of Rebellion – their first Phoenix FM appearance since way
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Curveballs July 24th 2013 (with Soma Rising)
Click here to listen to the show on Mixcloud - Scroll down for interview & live vids. Soma Rising (l-r): Sam (bass), Mike (vocals/drums/melodica/synth/etc), Rob (vocals/guitar), Andrew (vocals), Paul (drums). Tonight I
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Curveballs July 17th 2013 (with High Flying Wolves and Olaf Stando)
Listen back to the entire show here on Mixcloud or scroll down for individual interviews and videos! First up tonight I was joined in the studio for a second time by Chelmsford-based singer-songwriter
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Curveballs 10th July 2013 (with The Lunar Pilots and Ten A Penny)
Click here to listen back to the show on Mixcloud! Scroll down for individual interviews and videos. First up tonight I was joined in the studio by Romford-based quartet Ten A Penny, who have just
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The Ends at Brentwood Festival
Click below to hear the band chatting to Nick Field after their set about their favourite new song to cover during their set as well as their plans for the coming months. Phoenix
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Interview with Rajiv at Brentwood Festival
Singer-songwriter Rajiv was one of the winners of Phoenix FM’s Battle Stage event in June, and played on the main stage at Brentwood Festival on Sunday to a sun-drenched crowd. Nick Field caught up
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Curveballs 3rd July 2013 (with Sabiba and Any Colour You Like)
Listen back to the show here or scroll down for interviews & videos! Busy one tonight. First up I was joined in the studio by (some of) Pink Floyd tribute act Any Colour You
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Curveballs 26th June 2013 (with The Tomorrow Men)
Click here to listen back to the show The Tomorrow Men (l-r): Jake (bass), Riley (drums/vocals), Jonny (vocals/guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by The Tomorrow Men, their second appearance on Curveballs
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Curveballs 19th June 2013 (with Learn to Swim)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Matt and Molly from Learn to Swim, their fourth appearance on the show. Since the band (also featuring guitarist Mark and a drum machine called Dave)
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Curveballs 12th June 2013 (with Paolo Morena)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Chelmsford-based singer-songwriter Paolo Morena, just ahead of his set at The Bull in Colchester. Paolo releases his new EP, simply entitled Is, on July 7th, and
Read More »Curveballs 5th June 2013
Listen online to this week’s show on the new Curveballs Mixcloud page: http://www.mixcloud.com/nickfield2/curveballs-5th-june-2013/ The Primitives – Who Are You Trying to Fool? www.the-primitives.co.uk Wilt – Radio Disco http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilt_(band) The Features – The Idea of
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Curveballs 29th May 2013 (with The Harry Palmer Band)
The Harry Palmer Band (l-r): Graeme (guitar/vocals), Kuba (bass), Harry (vocals/guitar), Jessica (drums). Tonight I was joined in the studio by the Harry Palmer Band. Formed a year ago, the foursome have been gigging
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Curveballs 22nd May 2013 (with Porcupine Kiss)
Porcupine Kiss (l-r): Jules (guitar), Russ (drums), Dave (vocals), Jack (bass), Paul (keyboards). Tonight Porcupine Kiss joined me in the studio for their third Curveballs appearance. Since they last joined us in September last
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Curveballs 15th May 2013 (with FallPath)
FallPath (l-r): Alex (vocals), Luke (guitars), Ben (drums), Jay (bass). Tonight saw the return of Brentwood’s own FallPath to the studio, their second appearance of the year following a session in February. The foursome
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Curveballs 8th May 2013 (with Point Inaudible)
Point Inaudible (l-r): Alex (bass), George (drums), Dean (vocals/guitar), Mark (guitar) Tonight I was joined in the studio by Basildon-based foursome Point Inaudible. Their current line-up was established at the start of the year
Read More »Curveballs 1st May 2013
Pinch punch first of the month, tonight’s show went out with a big team meeting in the background. Normal service resumes next week! Minus the Bear – Dr L’Ling www.minusthebear.com Houdini – Into
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Curveballs 24th April 2013 (with Olaf Stando and George Henry King)
First up tonight I was joined in the studio by George King (pictured above with bassist Alan). Since we last heard from George in November last year, he’s written a host of new tracks
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Curveballs 17th April 2013 (with Last Superheroes)
Last Superheroes (l-r): Rusty (bass), Sam (drums), Gabriel (vocals/guitar), Andrew (guitar/BVs). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Last Superheroes for a chat and live session (worth watching for the drum skin alone!).
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Curveballs 10th April 2013 (with Dead Foxxes)
Dead Foxxes (l-r): Craig (vocals/guitar), Mark (guitar), Tommi (bass), George (drums). Tonight I was joined in the studio by locals Dead Foxxes. The foursome first came to our attention with their set at Phoenix
Read More »Curveballs 3rd April 2013 (Stockton Calling, anyone?)
Tonight I played a few musical discoveries I had made at the weekend up north at Stockton Calling, an all-day music event held at 7 venues across Stockton-on-Tees town centre. Indie, metal, experimental, folk,
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Curveballs March 27th 2013 (with IRIS)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by James, Adam and Ross from IRIS. Based in Kent, the alternative rock / post-hardcore quartet (also featuring Rich) originally formed back in 2009 and have released
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Curveballs 20th March 2013 (with Drive Through Therapy and Scarlet Echo)
First up tonight I was joined in the studio for a second time by Scarlet Echo (l-r Hannah, Paul, Thom, Mitch). The foursome have just released their latest EP, Parallel Worlds, which they launched
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Curveballs 13th March 2013 (with Gereint Vickery and Queensburys)
Queensburys (l-r) George (guitar), Tom (vocals/guitar), Dan (bass), Archie (drums). Another busy one tonight. First up I was joined in the studio by Queensburys – their second visit to the studio after making an
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Curveballs March 6th 2013 (with Abodes and The Victories)
Another busy one tonight. First up I was joined in the studio by The Victories (l-r Aaron, Chris, Luke). The local threesome recently released a new EP, We Are the Victories, which is available
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Curveballs 27th February 2013 (with The Lightworker)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Dan (above left, guitar/vocals) and Matt (drums/vocals) from The Lightworker. Based in Maidstone, the duo have played all over the east of England, with more dates
Read More »Curveballs February 20th 2013
This week there was another chance to hear my chat with House Party Massacre – click here to listen again and watch the video. Skunk Anansie – Twisted (Everyday Hurts) www.skunkanansie.net Candyskins – Somewhere
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17th February 2013 with House Party Massacre
Tonight I sat in for Matt Jolley on what was unofficially named “The Jolley Curveballs Selection”. Thankfully, it got better… …As I was joined in the studio by Londoners House Party Massacre. (l-r Rock
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Curveballs 13th February 2013 (with FallPath and The Tax)
First up tonight I was joined in the studio by Stevie Watts from London’s The Tax. Since we first spoke to the band in November, they’ve released the single Motorway and are releasing another
Read More »Curveballs 6th February 2013
Happy February everyone! Another January survived. Plenty of tunes tonight in celebration. Don’t forget you can keep up with Curveballs on Facebook and watch tracks from Curveballs session guests on our YouTube channel! The
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Curveballs 30th January 2013 (with The Ends)
The Ends (l-r): James (guitar), Liam (bass), Mike (vocals/guitar), Joe (drums). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Canvey Island quartet The Ends, just ahead of their first gig of 2013 at Chinnerys
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Curveballs 23rd January 2013 (with Lisa Wright on the phone)
This week I chatted on the phone to local country singer Lisa Wright. Since her performance at our last Phoenix In The Foyer event in November (from which you can see a live track
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Curveballs 16th January 2013 (with Black Cherry Pop Tart’s Tom on the phone)
Tonight I chatted to Tom from local acoustic duo Black Cherry Pop Tart. Tom and singer Lisa have become regulars in Brentwood with their appearances at The Swan’s open mic nights, and can be
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Curveballs January 9th 2013 (with The Lites)
The Lites (l-r): Greg (vocals/guitar), Ross (bass), Tim (guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by The Lites, their second appearance on the show. The band, also featuring drummer Josh, released their debut
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Curveballs 2nd January 2013 (with Matt Broadbent from Harper)
For the first show of 2013, I was joined in the studio by a good friend of Curveballs, Matt Broadbent. Formerly of the FiftyFours, Matt recently formed Harper alongside Daniel (guitar) and Andy (drums).
Read More »Best of Curveballs 2012 (2 shows available to listen)
Merry Christmas to all Phoenix FM listeners, and thank you all for your support in 2012. Click below to hear our 2 ‘Best of 2012′ specials: Show 1 (Broadcast Boxing Day) Show 2 (Broadcast
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Curveballs Christmas Special 20th December 2012 (with Lady Grey & The Earls)
Lady Grey & The Earls (l-r): Justin (rhythm guitar/vocals), Amy (vocals), Paul (lead guitar), Mark (drums), Graham (bass). It’s that time of year again – the Curveballs Christmas Special with, as is traditional, an
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Curveballs 12th December 2012 (Christmas warm-up with Lace & Whiskey)
Click here to listen again to the interview: Lace & Whiskey (l-r): Ben (stand-in bass), Andy (guitar/vocals), Melissa (guitar/vocals), Aaron (drums/vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by Lace & Whiskey.
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Curveballs 5th December 2012 (with My Heroine and Marbles)
My Heroine (l-r): Alex (drums), Giverny (guitar/vocals), Georgina (bass/vocals), Emma (vocals/guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by My Heroine. Since their appearance at Our Creative Sessions marathon in May, the
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Curveballs 28th November 2012 (with The Shermans and Rayne)
The Shermans (l-r): Callum (vocals), Sean (rhythm guitar), Alex (drums), Hamish (lead guitar), Jake (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Brentwood’s The Shermans, who can be seen this Sunday at the
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Curveballs 21st November 2012 (with InHiding)
Click here to listen again to the interview: InHiding (l-r): Jimmy (bass), Rob (vocals/guitar), Richard (vocals/guitar), Warren (drums). Tonight I welcomed InHiding into the Phoenix FM studio. I originally played a track by them
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Curveballs 14th November 2012 (with Southgate & Leigh)
Click here to listen again to the interview: Tonight I was joined in the studio by Southgate & Leigh, their second appearance on the show after joining us for a short session in September.
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Phoenix In The Foyer 3
On the first Saturday in November, Phoenix FM returned to the Brentwood Centre Foyer for our third showcase of some of Essex’s best new musical talent, this time with our good friends from Paulsgig.com
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Curveballs 7th November 2012 (with George King on the phone)
Tonight I chatted to local singer-songwriter George King, just ahead of his appearance at the Leftfield Retro Show Music Awards in Colchester, where his track Silhouette Trees was nominated. George is also the frontman
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Curveballs at Halloween – 31st October 2012 (with EastEnd Promises)
EastEnd Promises: (l-r) Lewis (vocals/bass), Iason (drums), Wayne (guitar). Other guitarist Jake joined us online in the chatroom! For this year’s Halloween show, we started out with half dozen fiendish-themed tracks, followed by the
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Curveballs 24th October 2012 (with George from The Tax on the phone)
Tonight I chatted to George Hill (second left) from upcoming London fivesome The Tax, who are gearing up to release their new EP, Somebody’s Watching You, on Ambicon Records very soon. Two tracks from
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Curveballs 10th October 2012 (with Joshy Connor)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by singer-songwriter Joshy Connor. Joshy grew up in Cambridge before moving back down to London a few years ago. His debut album Running is available now, with
Read More »Curveballs 3rd October 2012
In case you’re wondering when looking through tonight’s Curveballs Turbo, no, we are not related or the same person. OK Go – Get Over It www.okgo.net Shawn Lee – Happiness www.shawnlee.net The Foxes
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Curveballs 26th September 2012 (with Porupine Kiss, & HPM)
Porupine Kiss (l-r): Paul (keyboards), Jules (guitar), Dave (vocals), Russell (drums/congos) Tonight I was joined in the studio by Chelmsford’s Porcupine Kiss, just ahead of their headline appearance at Chelmsford Underground. The band have
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Curveballs 19th September 2012 (with Walk In Coma)
Walk In Coma (l-r): Alex (vocals), Tom (bass), Nick (drums), Mark (guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Southend’s Walk In Coma. The metal foursome first appeared on Phoenix FM during last
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Curveballs September 12th 2012 (with Lace & Whiskey, and Southgate & Leigh)
Lace & Whiskey (l-r): Aaron (drums/vocals), Melissa (vocals/guitar), Nick (bass), Rock ‘n’ Roll Andy (vocals/guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Lace & Whiskey, who have recently released their debut album Running
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Curveballs 5th September 2012 (with Forgotten Castaway)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by upcoming Hertfordshire rockers Forgotten Castaway, just ahead of their performance at Balstock Festival over the weekend. Since their formation at the beginning of the year, the
Read More »Curveballs August 29th – Festival Comedown Special
Home from another excellent Reading Festival, and tonight we were looking back at some of the great sing-alongs and new musical discoveries of the weekend. From Green Day’s impromptu Saturday morning set to some
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Curveballs August 15th 2012 (with Coburg’s Widow and Hollow Demise)
First up tonight I was joined in the studio by Andy B and Andy T from Hollow Demise. They’ll be headlining Chinnerys in Southend this Saturday alongside One Fell Down, Merciless Fail and Designs
Read More »Curveballs 8th August 2012
The Hives – Two-Timing Touch & Broken Bones www.thehivesbroadcastingservice.com Blood Red Shoes – Down Here in the Dark www.bloodredshoes.co.uk Boy – Skin www.listentoboy.com Black Circles – Escape www.facebook.com/blackcirclesband Minus the Bear – Steel &
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Interview with Tim Ten Yen at Latitude Festival
Nearly five years after he played a Phoenix FM gig at the Bitter End in Romford, singer-songwriter Tim Ten Yen chatted to Nick Field at Latitude Festival about what he’s been up to since
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Latitude Festival: Interview with Mark Olver
Nick Field caught up with stand-up comedian Mark Olver on Sunday morning at Latitude Festival. Mark, who was compering the Comedy Tent, is a regular on the UK comedy circuit and can also be
Read More »Curveballs 1st August 2012
Arctic Monkeys – Balaclava www.arcticmonkeys.com CSS – Off the Hook www.myspace.com/canseidesersexy Crashland – Standard Love Affair http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crashland_(band) Boy – Skin www.listentoboy.com DJ Shadow – High Noon www.djshdow.com Gaggle – Army of Birds www.myspace.com/gagglespace Kids
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Curveballs 25th July 2012 (with The Van Dams & a Creative Session from My Heroine)
The Van Dams (l-r): Arran (vocals), Luc (bass/vocals), Paul (guitar/vocals), Liam (guitar/vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio by The Van Dams. The fivesome (also featuring drummer Alex) formed late last year
Read More »Interview with Toni Ellis from Chelmsford Theatre Workshop’s ‘The Laramie Project’
Tonight I chatted to Toni Ellis from Chelmsford Theatre Workshop, one of the directors of the theatre company’s new production of The Laramie Project, which is running at the Old Court Theatre on Springfield
Read More »Curveballs 18th July 2012
Fresh from Latitude Festival at the weekend, tonight we heard a few bands who played there as well as my chat with Tim Ten Yen who played there on the Friday – stay tuned
Read More »Curveballs 11th July 2012 (featuring Turtle Soup’s Creative Session & interview with Mark Morriss)
Tonight we featured the first exclusive play of Turtle Soup’s Creative Session, recorded at the Brentwood Centre back in May – video and photos from that can be found here. Following that was another
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Curveballs 4th July 2012 (including session vids from Dookie)
Earlier this week I was joined in the studio by Jay and Alan from local Green Day tribute act, Dookie, just ahead of their performance at this weekend’s Brentwood Festival at the Brentwood Centre
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Curveballs 27th June 2012 (with Three Day Weekend, and Carousel Circus)
Threee Day Weekend (clockwise from top): John aka Weller (vocals), Gary (drums), Jim (guitar), Dan (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by upcoming local rockers Three Day Weekend. The current line-up was
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Curveballs 20th June 2012 (with Daniel Parkin)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by singer-songwriter Daniel Parkin. Originally from Derby, now based in Harlow, Daniel has had several band projects previously but is now focused mainly on solo material
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Curveballs 13th June 2012 (with Graeme Campbell)
Tonight was a 3-hour special, kicking off with a random 90s hour we here at Curveballs call “Remembering Armageddon”. After that… …I was joined in the studio by singer-songwriter Graeme Campbell. Born in Scotland
Read More »Curveballs June 6th 2012
Skunk Anansie – Twisted (Everyday Hurts) www.skunkanansie.net Blood Red Shoes – One More Empty Chair www.bloodredshoes.co.uk Pleymo – New Wave www.pleymo.net Serafin – One More Way www.serafin.co.uk Heroes on Weekends – To Fall to
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Curveballs 30th May 2012 (with Loving Forty-Four, and Andy Bramley)
First up tonight I was joined in the studio by Andy Bramley, drummer with Hollow Demise and DJ at the local club night, Distorted. Andy was in to tell us about a series
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Curveballs May 23rd 2012 (with Lady Grey & The Earls, and The Scarlet Echo)
Busy one tonight! First up I was joined by Hannah and Thom from The Scarlet Echo, just ahead of their EP launch gig at the Essex Arms. The Billericay foursome’s new EP is entitled
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Curveballs 16th May 2012 (with Matt Lorentzen)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by rising electronica star Matt Lorentzen. Australian-born Matt relocated to the UK six years ago and has been in demand with his work as a singer, producer
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Curveballs 9th May 2012 (with Kids With Torches)
Kids With Torches (l-r): Matt (bass), Genine (keybords), Matt R (guitar/keyboards), Jon (vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Kids With Torches. The duo of Matt Royal and Jon Taylor recorded
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Curveballs 2nd May 2012 (with The Lites and HPM)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Greg and Tim from The Lites. The band (also featuring Ross on bass and Josh on drums) formed while at school and have released one EP,
Read More »Curveballs 25th April 2012
Tonight I chatted to Tony Humphries, frontman with Nylon Sky. Based in Guildford, the quartet recently released a new EP entitled Barbie Heads & Computer Rooms. They can be seen live at the Staines
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Curveballs 18th April 2012 (with The Cloudrunner, & talking Navestock Festival with Mark Oliff)
First up tonight, I was joined by good buddy of the show Mark Oliff. Mark is one of the organisers of the upcoming Navestock Festival, happening at Navestock Side on April 28th. Kicking off
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Curveballs 11th April 2012 (with Whiskey Chaser, & Weatherbird)
Whiskey Chaser (l-r): Bob (guitar), Jim (vocals/guitar), Chris (bass), Ben (drums). This week I was joined by upcoming London/Essex classic rock foursome Whiskey Chaser. Based in Brentwood, the current line-up was established last
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Curveballs 4th April 2012 (with Chase The Enemy)
After spending last month looking back at past sessions for Curveballs’ 5th anniversary, tonight we were focused very much on the present as I was joined in the studio by Thom, Tom and Jessica
Read More »Curveballs 28th March 2012 – 5th Anniversary Specials – Year 1
Tonight we arrived at the fifth and final show celebrating Curveballs’ 5th anniversary, with a look back at how it all began back in the spring of 2007. We had a brief listen to
Read More »Curveballs 21st March 2012 – 5th Anniversary Specials – Year 2
Tonight we looked back at the second year of Curveballs, including a totally random montage of banter I managed to put together of guests from 2008. I must have had a lot of time
Read More »Curveballs 14th March 2012 – 5th Anniversary Specials – Year 3
Tonight we were looking at year 3 of Curveballs, another year with no shortage of top sessions and there was even another chance to hear the night in August 2009 when I interviewed Bez
Read More »Curveballs 7th March 2012 – 5th Anniversary Specials – Year 4
Tonight in the second of our 5th anniversary shows, we looked back at year 4. Unfortunately we weren’t able to replay any of that death-threat-laden interview we had with a group of wrestlers that
Read More »Curveballs 29th February 2012 – 5th Annversary Specials – Year 5
Curveballs returned to its spiritual home of Wednesday nights and tonight was the first of 5 shows in honour of our 5th anniversary, coming up at the end of March. Each week we’ll be
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Curveballs 23rd February 2012 (with Andy & James from the Panic Awards)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by James Lapham and Andy Poole from the team behind the Panic Awards. Now in its fifth year, the Panic Awards aim to recognise musicians, event organisers,
Read More »Curveballs February 16th 2012 – “That room looks big.”
First Curveballs from the new studio, with plenty of great tunes and not too much learning the hard way… Sugarcult – Bouncing Off the Walls www.sugarcult.com Django Django – Firewater www.djangodjango.co.uk Minus the Bear
Read More »Curveballs 9th February 2012
One last show at the Baytree Centre on the High Street then, which has housed Curveballs and Phoenix FM well over the past five years. Next week’s show will be coming from our new
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Curveballs 2nd February 2012 (with Follow My Lead)
Tonight I was joined in the studio for a second time by three-quarters of East London’s Follow My Lead. Previously known simply by the acronym FML, since their last appearance on the show in
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Curveballs – January 26th 2012 (with Tom Baitson)
Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by local singer-songwriter Tom Baitson. Since his debut appearance on the show just before Christmas, Tom has made more appearances at a number of acoustic
Read More »Curveballs 18th January 2012
Touching down on a Wednesday this week – and we’ll be returning to Wednesdays for good on February 29th. Don’t worry, we’ll remind you before then! And yes, this won’t be doing my indecisive
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Curveballs January 12th 2012 (with Dead Baby Birds)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by local trio Dead Baby Birds (l-r Tristan, Matt, Sam), just ahead of their gig at the Hermit on Friday night. Since forming three years ago they’ve
Read More »Curveballs January 5th 2012 – Highlights of 2011 Part 2
Tonight we concluded our look back at 2011 with tracks by the guests who joined us in the studio between July and December. Happy new year everyone and here’s a to a great 2012!
Read More »Curveballs 29th December 2011 – Highlights of 2011 Part 1
Tonight was the first of 2 shows looking back at the guests and sessions we’ve had on Curveballs over the past 12 months. We fitted January to June in tonight, with the second half
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Curveballs Christmas Special 22nd December 2011 (with Lady Grey & The Earls, & Alex Hoggett)
‘Twas the show before Christmas, and all through the studio, there were plenty of creatures stirring! First up, Lady Grey & the Earls (l-r Graham, Justin, Amy, Paul, Mark) were back for their
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Curveballs December 15th 2011 (with Atlantic Bullet, and Tom Baitson)
First up tonight, I was joined in the studio by local singer/songwriter Tom Baitson, just ahead of his performance at the Havering Well. Tom is a regular at acoustic nights in town and you
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Curveballs November 17th 2011 (with Deezil)
Deezil (l-r): Mike (drums), David (guitar), Iain (vocals/bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by rock ’n’ roll trio Deezil, the night before they played live at The Hermit in Brentwood. The
Read More »Curveballs November 10th 2011 (with Greg from Houdini)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Greg Webster, frontman with London/Kent rock trio Houdini. The band – also featuring Giles on bass and Tom on drums – have released 2 singles and,
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Learn to Swim – live on Curveballs
Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by Mark, Molly and Matt from Learn to Swim. Since they last joined us in the studio in March, the trio (and their drum
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Curveballs 20th October 2011 (with The John Baker Band, & Danny Apple)
Another busy show tonight. We started off with a chat with Mansfield singer-songwriter Danny Apple, who recently hit Amazon’s top 5 downloads chart with his double A-side Feelin’ / Ain’t Got No Time, released
Read More »Curveballs October 13th 2011 (with Secret Agenda)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Ben, Alex and George from Secret Agenda. Since their first appearance on the show back in June, the band have recorded a new EP, Play the
Read More »Curveballs October 6th 2011 (with My Heroine)
My Heroine (clockwise from bottom) Georgie (bass), Giverny (guitar), Emma (guitar), Eirini (vocals), Alex (drums). Joining me in the studio tonight was local quintet My Heroine. Since forming at the end of last year,
Read More »Curveballs September 29th 2011 (with Predicting the Fall, & Dave Livings)
Tonight was a busy one then… First up I was joined by local singer-songwriter Dave Livings. After becoming a familiar face on the pubs & clubs circuit, he’s set for a busy few weeks,
Read More »Curveballs September 22nd 2011 (With False Heads’ Luke on the phone)
Tonight I chatted to Luke from Upminster trio False-Heads on the phone. Since their last appearance on the show back in April, the band have recently released their new EP Animation Draining Needles, which
Read More »Curveballs – September 15th 2011 – Hello Thursday!
Tonight, hot on the heels of last night’s farewell to Wednesdays with The Human Soundtrack in tow, Curveballs launched in its new (and original) home on Thursday nights. Catch us every Thursday at 8pm
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Curveballs September 14th 2011 (with The Human Soundtrack)
Tonight, for the final Wednesday night show*, I was joined by The Human Soundtrack’s Laurence (guitar/vocals), Adam (bass) and Natan (vocals). Since forming a few years ago, the band (also featuring Lynsey on guitar)
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Curveballs September 7th 2011 (with Houka Monks)
Tonight I was joined by Houka Monks’ Joe and Chris. Since their first appearance on the show just over a year ago, the band (also featuring guitarist Nick) have established themselves on the local
Read More »Curveballs August 31st 2011 – Festival round-up
Tonight it was the annual Curveballs Festival Special. Exploits ranged from the best sing-alongs of Reading to the top discoveries of Latitude, alongside the traditional rundown of top t-shirts, which this year ranged from
Read More »Curveballs August 17th 2011 (with Alleviate)
Tonight I had the pleasure of chatting to Renako and Nicolette from dance duo Alleviate. The pair originally met at Liverpool’s Institute for Performing Arts where they began choreographing their own dance routines, and
Read More »Curveballs August 10th 2011 (with Matt from the FiftyFours)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by The FiftyFours’ frontman Matt. The band currently have an EP entitled All Torn Down available for free download from their Bandcamp page, alongside the single Cowards
Read More »Curveballs August 3rd 2011 (with The Blog)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Rob “Woody” Burgess and Audrey Kelly from online comedy sketch show The Blog. Written by the trio (completed by Ross Gilbert), the show is said
Read More »Curveballs July 27th 2011 (with Rant ‘n’ Rave)
Rant ‘n’ Rave (l-r): Sandra (keyboards/vocals), Doug (vocals/acoustics/banjo), Stuart (guitar). Doug, Sandra and Stuart from Rant ‘n’ Rave were my studio guests tonight. The Americana-influenced band were originally formed around 20 years ago as
Read More »Curveballs July 20th 2011 (with Near Death Experiment)
Near Death Experiment (l-r): Lewis (guitar), Eric (bass), Dean (guitar), Gavin (vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by Near Death Experiment. The fivesome (also featuring drummer Jamie) have recently
Read More »Curveballs July 13th 2011
Ben Folds Five – The Battle of Who Could Care Less http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Folds_Five A – Summer on the Underground www.myspace.com/officiala Edwyn Collins – The Magic Piper (Of Love) www.edwyncollins.com Beulah – The Aristocratic Swells www.beulahmania.com
Read More »Curveballs July 6th 2011 (with Philippic Beatbox)
Joining me tonight was local beatboxer Philippic. We heard him do a live beatbox session in the studio as well as some of his production work with local artists. Philippic can next be seen
Read More »Curveballs June 29th 2011 (with Hollow Demise’s Andy on the phone)
Tonight I chatted to Andy from new local metallers Hollow Demise, just ahead of their debut gig at the Fleece, Chelmsford. Expect to hear plenty more from these guys in the coming months –
Read More »Curveballs June 22nd 2011 (with Whoremoan)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Si (left, drums) and Jon (right, guitar/vocals) from Canvey Island legends Whoremoan. Joined by Mark on bass and Tim on guitar, the foursome are still going
Read More »Curveballs June 15th 2011 (with Secret Agenda)
Secret Agenda (l-r): Ben (guitar/vocals), Alex (guitar/vocals), George (bass), Mason (drums). Tonight I was joined in the studio by new local foursome Secret Agenda, just ahead of their debut gig at the Bitter End
Read More »Curveballs June 8th – Nick’s birthday countdown with Filthy Revolution
Filthy Revolution (l-r): Andy (vocals), Elv (guitar/vocals), Tom (bass), Gavin (drums), David (guitar). Tonight we were counting down to the midnight hour which would signal the start of my birthday… and the end
Read More »Curveballs June 1st 2011 (with Super Charger)
(L-R) Matt (drums) and Maxx (vocals/guitar) from Super Charger. Tonight I was joined in the studio by Maxx and Matt from Chelmsford metallers Super Charger. The band (also featuring Simon on bass and Rob
Read More »Curveballs May 25th 2011 (with Heroes On Weekends)
Heroes on Weekends (l-r): Oliver (guitar/vocals), Aaron (lead vocals), James (drums), Louis (bass/vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio by new local band Heroes on Weekends. The foursome formed late last year and
Read More »Curveballs May 18th 2011 (with Hyper Blonde)
Hyper Blonde (l-r): Phil (drums), Sue (vocals), Matt (bass), Simon (guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by locals Hyper Blonde. Following their appearance at Phoenix FM’s Creative Sessions back in February, the
Read More »Curveballs May 11th 2011 (with Turtle Soup)
Turtle Soup (l-r): Phil (drums/vocals), Fran (vocals/keyboards/flute), Steve (guitar), Roger (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by locals Turtle Soup. Originally formed by Fran and Steve as a duo in 2003, they
Read More »Curveballs May 4th 2011 (with The Vanity Clause)
The Vanity Clause (l-r): Emma (synth/backing vocals), Lou (lead vocals), Darren (synth). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Southend’s The Vanity Clause. Originally formed a few years back under a different line-up,
Read More »Curveballs April 27th 2011 (with Fall To Oblivion, & Near Death Experiment)
Fall to Oblivion (l-r): Adam (bass/vocals), Haydn (guitar), Sam (vocals), Liam (guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio by four-fifths of Thurrock metal band Fall to Oblivion. The fivesome, which also features Glen
Read More »Curveballs April 20th 2011 (with Los Salvadores’ Vicky & Marf)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Marf (guitar/vocals) and Vicky (French horn) from Sittingbourne’s Los Salvadores. The folk-inspired foursome (also featuring Gareth on vocals and Hannah on violin) have just recorded a
Read More »Curveballs April 13th 2011 (with False-Heads)
False-Heads (l-r): Luke (vocals/guitar), Konnaire (drums), George (bass). Joining me in the studio tonight were locals False-Heads. The trio have a busy summer ahead, when they will be looking to record a new
Read More »Curveballs April 6th 2011 (with Redeye)
Redeye (l-r): Neil (guitar), Dave aka Basha (drums), Iain (bass), Dave (vocals), Jim (guitar). Tonight I was joined in the studio once again by locals Redeye. Since their last appearance on the show back
Read More »Curveballs March 30th 2011 (with FML)
FML (clockwise from top): Benji (drums), Sam (guitar), Bobby (lead vocals/guitar), Louis (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by upcoming East London quartet FML. Despite being named after an acronym used to
Read More »Curveballs March 24th 2011 (with Stealing Signs)
Stealing Signs (l-r): Joe (guitar/xylophone), Will (drums/fruit shakers/lizard), Nick (vocals/guitar), Steve (bass/vocals). Tonight Curveballs celebrated its 4th anniversary on the airwaves with an evening in our original Thursday night slot – longtime listeners might
Read More »Curveballs March 16th 2011 (with Learn To Swim)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by Molly and Matt from Learn To Swim. Since their first appearance on the show a year ago, the band (also featuring Mark on guitar & vocals,
Read More »Curveballs March 9th 2011 (with Paul Lambert)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by local singer-songwriter Paul Lambert. Paul was originally a guest on the show back in 2007 as frontman with Pleasure Dead Cell. Since going solo a few
Read More »CB March 2nd 2011 (with The Felonie)
The Felonie (l-r): Greg (guitar), Ross (drums), Alex (vocals/guitar), Jamie (bass/vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio by locals The Felonie. Formed just over a year ago, the foursome have been gigging
Read More »CB February 23rd 2011 (with Alex Sherwin)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by local singer-songwriter Alex Sherwin. Outside his working life as an eye doctor, Alex writes and produces all his own material, and currently has one 3-track CD
Read More »CB February 16th 2011 (with EastEnd Promises)
EastEnd Promises (l-r): Wayne (guitar/vocals), Lewis (vocals/bass), Iason (drums), Fonzi (guitar). During tonight’s 3-hour special I was joined in the studio once again by EastEnd Promises, just ahead of their appearance at the Surface
Read More »CB February 9th 2011 (with Silent Voices Kill)
Silent Voices Kill (l-r): Milly (bass), Ben (guitar), Josh (vocals), Seb (guitar), James (drums). Tonight I was joined in the studio by upcoming local quintet Silent Voices Kill, just ahead of their first
Read More »CB February 2nd 2011 (with The Tomorrow Men)
The Tomorrow Men (l-r): Riley (drums/vocals), James (guitar/vocals), Jonny (vocals/guitar), Jake (bass). Tonight I was joined in the studio by Brentwood’s The Tomorrow Men. The foursome got together two years ago and recently
Read More »CB January 26th 2011 (with Bobby Brightside)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by London singer-songwriter Bobby Brightside. Bobby is currently balancing playing in his band FML with recording his debut EP, from which we heard a couple of tracks
Read More »CB January 19th 2011 (with The Felonie)
Tonight I also chatted to Jamie and Alex (above first and second left) from locals The Felonie, just ahead of their recent performance at Brentwood’s The Hermit venue. Formed a year ago, the band
Read More »CB January 19th 2011 (with Predicting The Fall)
Predicting The Fall (l-r): Ross (vocals), Lee (bass), Simon (guitar), Dan (drums), Steve (guitar/vocals). Tonight I was joined in the studio for a second time by Canterbury’s Predicting The Fall. Since their appearance on
Read More »CB January 12th 2011 (with Unnatural Selection)
Tonight I was joined in the studio by my first guests of 2011, local grindcore duo Unnatural Selection. Formed last summer, Tom and Martin have recently released their debut EP En Theos, which you
Read More »CB January 5th 2011
Happy new year all, here’s to 2011 – and some of the bands who may well be soundtracking it! Feeder – Call Out www.feederweb.com Blood Red Shoes – It is Happening Again www.bloodredshoes.co.uk
Read More »Mike from June Missing
Tonight we heard once again from June Missing frontman Mike (above left with drummer James and bassist Nathan). Since we last chatted to them in April, the band have recorded plenty of new material
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Dirty Royals live in session – 18 September 2008
The Dirty Royals (L-R): Keith (drums), Matt (guitar/vocals), Simon (guitar/lead vocals), Jimmy (bass/vocals). Tonight it was a pleasure to welcome the Dirty Royals into the studio. You may recognise Simon, Matt and
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