New year, new music

My Lastfm account and I have quite a close bond, in fact, according to my profile page Lastfm has played me over 1729 songs! What a mate. I’ve discovered lots of indie rock bands, budding solo artists, and emo ballets, but my latest finds have not been through Lastfm, but through Facebook.

Andrew Schär

The first artist I’d like to bring to your attention is Andrew Schär. Andrew and I were mates at the university of Cape Town, we both studied Information Systems. Andrew Schär is now known better as:

“a singer/songwriter from South Africa, known for his informal gigs, and ability to make up songs on the fly. He has spent time recording in London, but returned home to South Africa, where his heart is. With somewhat of a Jack Johnson/John Mayer style, and lyrics that tell a story of broken hearts and idealistic hopes, his music will hit home with a resounding glow.”

If you visit Andrew’s facebook page and become a “fan” you can listen to some of his great, catchy tunes, or even download his entire album via a link. Not only can you can hear him regularly being played on KFM, but he also recently wrote a great track for the new US Kia “Frames” commercial. With a catchy Jack Johnson meets Johnny Clegg sound the song is bound to get him some attention abroad.

Civil Twilight

I discovered Civil Twilight through a link from a friend’s facebook profile. Also reigning from Cape Town these guys have taken the brave step and headed to the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles.

“Civil Twilight is a three piece rock band that originates from Cape Town, South Africa. They moved to Los Angeles, California, three years ago to further their career as an exciting live act. After building a small following within the Hollywood club scene and finding a worthy manager, they decided to move east to record their debut album, ‘Human’. Civil Twilight plan to take their record on the road in 2008 and continue to grow their enthusiastic fan base through their dynamic live show.”

Take a listen on their facebook page and if you like their tunes buy the album. It looks like they have adopted a similar sales technique to Radiohead, offering their album at whatever price you are willing to pay. They definitely have a distinct U2 sound about them.

Shameless boasting

No that is not the name of a band. It summarises what i am about to do. One of my New Year’s resolutions is to get to see more live gigs whilst I am here in London. Of course I will be trying to get a ticket to Glastonbury 2008, after an awesome experience in the mud at last year’s festival, but that is still ages away.

Tickets I spontaneously bought yesterday were:

2 X tickets to see The Twang on 9th February with my girlfriend at the Shepherd Bush Empire. Cannot wait!

4 X tickets to see Dashboard Confessional on 2nd April at Kings College. I shall be one of the groupies singing along to their solo acoustic set. God help the people around me.

The Twang – Wide Awake