IPO Liverpool 2022
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Artists From Liverpool
Reid Anderson – He’s played IPO Liverpool with his band, Revenge Tragedies, but now he’s on his own and still most excellent! A singer-songwriter from the North West coast of England who delivers dark mesmerising sweeping sounds: lyrical vessels reminiscent of sea-shanties, traveller’s songs and folk myth.
Euan Blackman – Blackman’s “…music is an offshoot of indie/alternative folk, incorporating various electronic elements into the core backbone of his warm, raw vocals and vivid guitar playing” (Mitch Mosk, Atwood Magazine). His third single, last year’s “HIGHHIGHHIGH,” was highly praised by BBC Radio 1 DJ Jack Saunders and received over 10,000 streams. His brand new one, “I’m Not Scared” is a fine example of introspective, yet catchy and compelling folk pop. Fans of Paul Simon and Ed Sheeran should check him out!
The Gentle Scars – Merseyside’s sleazy-punk dirty rock band re-emerge post COVID with new lineup additions. Cool, quirky, inventive, and hard not to like! Their latest release is Songs For The Loveless; catch their IPO showcase as they are an amazing live band as well!
Sue Hedges – If it isn’t remarkable enough that she has met Prince Charles and has performed on bills with Steve Earle and Emmylou Harris, this Liverpool lass has been blind almost since birth! But there are many sides to the prolific Miss Hedges – she’s been known to display her rock diva persona, throw in a jangle-pop song, a bit of country twang, a heartfelt ballad, and then belt out some soul all in the space of a single set! The title of her recent album, Strong, typifies both the woman and her work: “…catchy, feminine, full of beat, scorn and promise in one all-consuming package” (Ian Hall, Liverpool Sound and Vision). Her latest album, Songs In A Different Light, shows off her many moods, styles, and emotions, as well as her love of expressing them through song. Her powerful vocals have earned some well-deserved comparisons to greats such as Barbara Streisand and Carly Simon!
Hijinx – Hijinx are back at the IPO again with their fizzy mix of power pop and big chords. Built on a foundation of strong bass lines, sweet lead guitar licks, and a whole lotta energy, they serve up killer hooks and three-part harmonies worthy of their influences – Kiss, Cheap Trick, Nick Gilder and The Sweet!
John Jenkins & The James St. Band – From his early years in bands The Persuaders and Come in Tokio (both of which made waves in the ‘80s with support on BBC Radio 1) to his recent success in the roots scene, Jenkins has developed an engaged audience of fans in the rock, country, and Americana formats. He has established himself as a live touring act, both solo and collaboratively, sharing stages with the likes of Elvis Costello, Chris Difford (Squeeze), Echo and The Bunnymen, The Beat and Jarrod Dickenson. Jenkins’ latest body of work, 2021’s If You Can’t Forgive You Can’t Love, gained critical acclaim in the likes of RnR, Folk Radio UK and Americana UK, and earned him an accolade as “One To Watch” from the Nashville Songwriters Association International.
KingFast – It is very apparent on listening to KingFast’s music that there is a fusion of several genres but seemingly most prominent is a cross between soul and pop. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in Belfast (which is where the name comes from) before settling in Liverpool, KingFast melds all of his influences from this varied upbringing on his debut EP, Dream World. His spine-chilling vocal range and tone has been stunning audiences regularly throughout the UK since 2012. Fans of Michael Jackson, Prince, and Stevie Wonder should definitely check him out!
Mark Pountney – Having previously led various musical projects, such as The Mojave Collection and Mark Delaney & Friends, Pountney is now performing under his own name, shedding the restrictions of a “band” format and working with no fixed musical style and with an extended family of musicians to have fun and make music. His songs are influenced by everything from The Beatles to The Move to Cat Stevens to Howlin’ Wolf, and a whole lot in between! His latest album, Love Luck and Time, also channels influences from The Byrds, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, and The Las – and it really rocks!
The Real People – Influenced by Mersey Beat and psychedelia, as well as by groups like Stone Roses and Inspiral Carpets, The Real People were formed in the late ‘80s by brothers Chris and Tony Griffiths. Their debut 1991 self-titled album charted at #59 in the UK, and their single “One By One” became a top 10 hit for Cher in 1996. Noel Gallagher has been a fan since well before anyone had heard of Oasis, and in fact Tony Griffiths helped Gallagher record the demo that got Oasis their first record deal! The Real People’s latest album, Monday Morning Breakdown, shows they keep getting better, with songs that range from pop to anthemic rock, highlighted by sweeping symphonic touches and strong, yet poignant, vocals. IPO is honored to have this iconic local Liverpool band play the festival!
Cal Ruddy – A dynamic young singer/songwriter with an old school rockabilly/country/Americana style that will put a smile on your face and set your toes tappin.’ Fans of Chuck Berry, Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, and The Everly Brothers will dig his debut full length album, Elliston Place, and his recently released The Edenhust Session EP.
The Shipbuilders – Since releasing their first EP, Something in the Water, in 2016, the band have continuously expanded their sound and scope of influences to create a world where sparkling pop wonders are nestled between Spanish Civil War laments, gypsy arias, and chaotic, shambolic odes to drinking, death and everything in between, and have been described as “Spaghetti Western with a Liverpool jangle… great surf-noir-shanty” (Chris Hawkins, BBC 6 Music). Their much-anticipated debut full-length, Spring Tide, releases digitally on May 6, and (with any luck) may also be available on CD and vinyl just in time for their IPO Liverpool performance.
The Suns – Though perhaps best known for their modern indie/alt rock take on influences from ’60 folk, psychedelia, and harmony pop, their musical output also delves into post-punk, prog, and ‘80s Brit pop, with an impressive collection of singles, EPs, and albums available through a variety of physical and digital platforms.
Joe Symes and the Loving Kind – Before lockdown, this three-piece band had finished a two-and-a-half-year tour across the UK and parts of Europe in promotion of their critically acclaimed second album Phase II: an album that gained airplay on radio stations all over the world and UK, as well as reviews, magazine interviews, and endorsements by celebrities from around the world and the UK. The band has also currently finished a four track EP entitled A Place to Call Our Own, which is the follow up to Phase II, and was released in March 2022. The title track recently reached number 8 in the national 365 Radio Top 30 charts, climbing higher than such artists as Florence and the Machine, Liam Gallagher, Jack White, White Lies, and Ed Sheeran to name several, and remained in the top 20 for five weeks…all as an unsigned band!
Les Wooltone and His Accordion – Whether solo, duo, or full band, on guitar or accordion (or both), a Les Wooltone (aka Rob Clarke) gig is sure to be tons of fun! The latest Wooltones album, Putting the L in Wooltones, was rated in the top 10 albums of 2020 by Pop The Beat Bubble for its mixture of Merseybeat/Psych/and ‘60s-style West Coast influences. Goldmine Magazine also rated the album in the Top 50 for the year, noting that “…words cannot express how much fun this album is.”
UK Artists From Outside of Liverpool
Amoeba Teen – Founded by critically acclaimed songwriting team, Mark Britton and Mike Turner in the dying embers of the last century, Amoeba Teen meld lush harmonies, hooky melodies, the odd sample and overdriven guitars. Hints of power pop can be heard: Teenage Fanclub, Jellyfish and Big Star spring to mind, but Turner’s raucous guitar and reverb soundscapes keeps the vibe punky and a little dirtier. They reformed in 2016 after a three-year hiatus, and are better than ever! Their brand new self-titled album (their 2nd on Big Stir Records) adds a touch of glam and is their rockin’-est/poppin’-est piece of catchy ear-candy yet! One of Stourbridge’s finest!
Ian M. Bailey – Bailey’s latest album, Songs To Dream Along To, on which he teamed up with Glasgow’s Daniel Wylie (of the Cosmic Rough Riders), “…contains tunes warmed more by an imaginary Californian sun than being blighted by the grey skies of Britain. Recorded in Bailey’s home studio (‘Small Space Studios’), the focus is squarely on hopeful harmonies and uplifting melodies” (Martin Raybould, Whisperinandhollerin). Released by the good folks at Kool Kat Musik, the album is sure to appeal to fans of all forms of psychedelia and folk, along with harmony and jangle.
The Beat Movement – A guitar driven outfit from Greenock, Scotland, who build on the influences of many, many bands, ranging from the great London acts of the ‘60s and infusing those influences with soul, R&B and the greatest Britpop and indie bands of the modern music era. With jangling ‘60s style guitars, contagious melodies and an upbeat swagger, The Beat Movement made some waves with their latest EP,Another Piece Of The Puzzle, and continue to do so with their foot stomping sets! We can hardly wait to see and hear these guys do their thing again at IPO Liverpool!
Michaela Betts – A singer/songwriter from Malton, Yorkshire whose new EP, Ripe Fruit, has been described as a suite of twisting stories about growing up, the loss of innocence and the getting of wisdom set against a backdrop of romantic & baroque piano, harpsichord, accordion, electronica and Dark Disney beats.
Blake – A prolific singer-songwriter and DIY musician based in Melksham. Proudly signed to the Subjangle record label, and filed under “eclectic,” his songs run the gamut from quirky bouncy pop ditties to psych and new wave inspired Brit pop to heart-felt folk-edged ballads and pure power pop. His brand-new album, The Book On Love, featuring eleven new songs about love, faith and hope, drops this May, possibly even in time for his IPO showcase!
The Jim Bower Situation / The Jim Bower Dilemma – Bower is a Leeds-based song bloke, purveyor of shimmering guitar pop and scintillating chord changes, and frontperson of the band Shatner, now producing solo work with legendary producer Will Jackson (Kaiser Chiefs, Cribs, The Music etc). His debut solo album, Life Support, was released in the middle of 2021, and includes rich orchestral undertones – a feast for the ears!
Captain Wilberforce – Fronted by Leeds-based songwriter /singer Si Bristoll, Captain Wilberforce create instantly memorable melodies chock full of hooks and harmonies, taking influence from the last 50 years of pop. The band have had airplay on BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio Leeds and Radio Aire, and their songs have been synched to programmes on HBO, ITV and The Fashion Channel! The latest Captain Wilberforce album, When The Dust Just Won’t Settle, seamlessly shifts from angular post punk to softly orchestrated pastoral pop to anthemic rock.
The Coronations – A five-piece band from Belfast, Northern Ireland, each of whom contribute their various musical tastes from The Stones through to SLF, and create pure and original material that will catch your ear. They’ve launched several singles on YouTube over the past few months, and are looking forward to sharing even more new material with us during their IPO Liverpool showcase…so get ready to get out on the dance floor and bop to the power of their rock-ness!
Dlugokecki – Sometimes a trio, sometimes a band, sometimes just the man himself, Dlugokecki (pronounced Der-Loo-Go-Ken-Ski) is, and has for over 15 years been, the outlet of singer/songwriter Ben Dlugokecki of Southampton, whose musical influences include David Gray, Paul Simon, Elbow, Tom McRae & Ed Harcourt. They’ve supported million-selling artists David Gray, Snow Patrol, Corinne-Bailey Rae, The Proclaimers and Lu Lu on their world tours, and performed at Stonehenge and atop the 3,200 foot summit of Mt. Snowden in Wales, and are always a joy to hear and see when they play IPO Liverpool. They make their return this year with their latest album, Come Find Us, in hand and a new one, No Time For A Novice, due out later in 2022, so watch for it!
The Dolly Shakes – IPO loves girls who rock and love to have fun, so we’re thrilled to welcome this trio from Manchester to their first IPO Liverpool! They write songs about cult TV & movies, books, and other pop culture – for instance, their latest EP, Haunted Radio, is a horror-themed collection of songs about vampire slayers, evil hands, YouTube stars and fictional asylums.
The Dream Factory – Some may remember this Tamworth-based combo (which includes Mark Mortimer of DC Fontana and The Know Escape – see below) from their heyday in the mid-‘80s, but alas, their trajectory to international stardom was blown off-course by the rise of the Manchester scene. Despite their “almost-made-it” status, they were the archetypal proto-indie group of that time, releasing two records on staunchly independent northern soul label, Inferno, and building up a huge and loyal fan base of scooterists and mods. The band’s first ever demo recording – “The Haze” appears on Another Splash of Colour, a Cherry Red compilation of ‘80s psychedelic music, alongside other songs from artists as diverse as The Cure, Julian Cope, The Prisoners, Robyn Hitchcock, the Monochrome Set, and The Barracudas, to name but a few!
Emperor Penguin – Rising from their own ashes after a 16-year hiatus like a penguin shaped phoenix, Emperor Penguin reformed and revived themselves in 2017, and have been going strong ever since. Their aim: to bring their pure power pop to the ear candy deprived masses! “One of the most clever bands you’ll have heard in a while…whimsical power pop with unusual, unexpected chord changes…as catchy as a cold in December…” (Shindig! Magazine). Their 2018 Walnut Fascia album was hailed by Powerpopaholic.com as “the coolest psych-pop album of the year” and earned an impressive – and very well deserved – four stars from Shindig! Magazine. On their latest, and recent release on Kool Kat Musik, Sunday Carvery, they really toughen up their sound, borrowing a few shillings from late ‘60s UK psych and ‘90s Britpop, all the while retaining, and perhaps even bettering, their well-honed contemporary melodic sensibilities. Just WOW! If you don’t believe these Londoners could possibly be that good, then come to their IPO showcase and hear for yourself!
The Fast Camels – Glasgow is a veritable fountain of psychedelic garage music, and these guys are quintessential purveyors of that sound. Their trippy, ‘60s-inspired sounds bring to mind such bands as early Pink Floyd, Love and The Byrds. They’ve been scarfing up airplay and fans in the UK, US, and Europe since the release of their 2007 debut album, The Magic Optician. Their latest album, Full Of Strange, adds just a touch of early ‘70s-inflected experimental prog-rock, all while kicking the psychedelic jangle and harmonies up to 11! If you don’t already know them and love them, you must come to their shows at IPO Liverpool to see and hear for yourself why they’ve become a perennial favorite at the festival of both fans and fellow performers alike!
Nick Frater – A Croyden-based singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist (and sometimes producer and label – under the name Great Shieks), Frater’s music lives in a land of ‘60s and ‘70s sophisticated pop, a nerdy interest in old keyboards/recording, and a “more is more” approach to production. In other words, he’s a perfect fit for IPO!! His newest release, the EP, Nick Frater Presents The Rebutles: Ron, Dirk, Stig and Barry The Solo Years, Vol 1, is a “what if” sequel soundtrack to the cult-hit film, The Rutles. His latest “original” music album, Earworms, was released last year on Big Stir Records and is exactly as advertised by the title. With special guest contributions from the likes of Roger Joseph Manning Jr (Jellyfish/Beck), Darian Sahanaja (Brian Wilson Band/Wondermints), and Mike Randle (Love/Baby Lemonade), the album has a bit of something for everyone: if you like any of the aforementioned artists, as well as Jason Falkner, Paul McCartney, or David Myhr (and who reading this doesn’t?!), you need to check him out!
The Gold Needles – Hard to pigeonhole, The Gold Needles wear their eclecticism on their sleeves – fusing power pop with psych and prog. They’re sometimes compared to The Church or Be Bop Deluxe with hints of The Byrds, Crowded House and XTC. Their 3rd album, What’s Tomorrow Ever Done For You?, was released last year on Jem Records, and consists of 12 originals and three covers: a bit harder and darker than their previous work, but still full of melody and rocking from first to last. One of our favorite bands from Hull!
The Hector Collectors – Comedic indie-pop legends from Glasgow, they recently celebrated their 20th anniversary as a band with the release of Numbers By Hectors, a 12-track compilation, drawing on songs spanning their career from their debut LP, the John Peel playlisted Straight Outta Comprehensive (originally released in 2000), all the way through their current work. The band’s current lineup features front-man Adam J Smith and guitarist Iain Smith, aided and abetted by Cal Murray (ex- of The Plimptons), and Joseph Greatorex, recently live guitarist for The Supernaturals and now fronting Brontosaurus. IPO Liverpool marks their first live performance in two years and their first in England since 2004, and we can’t wait to see and hear their zany and melodic antics!
James Holt – Bolton-born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, James Holt has long been championed by music industry giants, such as legendary producer Brian Eno, and the listening public alike. “With an arresting voice that is reminiscent of John Lennon or early Bob Dylan, wily lyrics and an upbeat weave of rock, prog and blues, it’s obvious to see why his remarkable music is turning heads” (Manchester Evening News). He’s got several fine EPs and recently released YouTube singles that leave us eagerly awaiting both his IPO appearance and – we hope – a full length album.
Scott Howells – Since his days as the main man of Cardiff’s The Broken Vinyl Club (who were signed to Acid Jazz and played on stages supporting such groups as The Stereophonics, The Animals, and The Pretty Things), Howells has displayed a knack for writing punchy tunes with a psychedelic flair. Whether playing solo or with a full band (as he will at IPO), Howells builds on this foundation in his own music, but mixes in dramatic mod, folk and world music touches. Fans of his prior work, as well as devotees of The Beatles, The Creation and The Monkees will dig his 2018 self-titled album.
It’s Karma It’s Cool – Any band led by James Styring is gonna be good, but It’s Karma It’s Cool is – pun fully intended – his coolest project yet! Like both of his prior bands (Postcards From Places That Don’t Exist and The Pop Dogs), the focus is on melody. Their latest album, Homesick For Our Future Destinations, retains the catchy power pop song structures and shimmering guitars of their debut, Woke Up In Hollywood, but weaves in a wistful edge that enhances the beauty of the songs. One of our favorite bands from Lincoln!
Jacoby – We’re looking forward to welcome this new Southampton-based psychedelic rock band to their first IPO Liverpool. They’re led by Tommy Overington, former main man of The Rising, who’s recent CD, Are You Ready To Fly? was one of our faves of 2019. Jacoby is a little less mod and a bit more rock, which fans of artists such as The Who and The Move, as well The Rising, will enjoy. In addition to their singles, which you can hear of Spotify or YouTube, they’ve got a debut full-length album all recorded, and we can hardly wait to hear it!
Jody & The Jerms – Formed in Oxford in the Summer of 2019, Jody & The Jerms have been writing, recording and playing their blend of melodic and uplifting indie/alt rock ever since – with national airtime on Radio X (UK), Sirius XM (USA), RTVE (Spain) and multiple BBC-affiliated outlets. Their brand-new album, Flicker, is like “…resurfacing a lost reel of Super-8 from days long forgotten…as warmly nostalgic as it is endearingly pure. Nestling neatly somewhere between the pristine catalogues of Blondie, The Bangles and The Darling Buds, the Jerms deliver 13 fuzz-driven, lovelorn jangle-pop gems of the most classic kind” (FindYourSounds.com). Sure to become a new favorite of many an IPO Liverpool attendee!
John Street Revival – The new name of the band formerly known as Field Manual, who played IPO Liverpool a few years ago. They still have those Alt-Americana influences from the likes of The Band, Springsteen, Wilco and Tom Petty, their latest album, Souvenirs, is a rollicking, harmony-filled road trip straight from Macclesfield, UK, through the American heartland and up the California coastline (never mind that there’s an ocean in between). They spent much of the enforced hiatus during the pandemic writing, recording, and mixing, so a brand-new album is nearly ready for release – watch for it!
Kim and Lee – Otherwise known as the husband-and-wife dynamic duo of Kimberley Rew (of Katrina and the Waves and The Soft Boys) and bass player extraordinaire Lee Cave Berry, Kim and Lee play classic folk-edged blues rock with a pop sensibility. Their latest album, Purple Kittens, “…is an analog tour de force of songwriting and expert musicianship, delivered in numerous styles encompassing ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s rock and roll, folk and even jazz. Every song is an infectious ear worm that will compete for space in your cranium. When you get to the end, you’ll play it again” (Eric Sandberg, Knock and Knowall). Their IPO showcase is sure to put a smile on your face!
The Know Escape – The post-DC Fontana project of Mark Mortimer and Donald Ross Skinner, with songs that display a vivacious desire for freedom, and speak of love and loss in a frank way. The Know Escape promise songs that are more lysergic than before, that will blister and soothe in equal amounts. The songs for their forthcoming debut album include a veritable “who’s who” of indie pop persona guest contributors from across the globe, including Peter Daltrey (Kaleidoscope), Rick Reil (The Left Banke/The Grip Weeds), Luke Smith (Ulysses), and many more. Their IPO showcase promises to be a pop extravaganza not to be missed!
Last Breath – A band from Blackpool including brothers James and Tom Parkinson, who specialize in intense modern rock influenced by Nickelback, 3 Doors Down, Black Stone Cherry, All Time Low, Paramore, Volbeat, Blink 182, Green Day, et al…but more melodic than any of them. The songs on their Heads Or Tails album are instantly addictive, and have us really looking forward to seeing them back again at IPO Liverpool to do their thing live!
The Last Hurrah – A Leeds-based combo who make music that is jangly, noisy, alt country, rock, all mashed up with some three-part harmonies. Their new full-length album, The Complete Last Hurrah, is as advertised, pulling together songs from both of their prior EPs and a variety of singles in between. If you love Telecasters, you’ll love this!!
Little Wonder – The new project of James Jeffries, who previously played IPO Liverpool as the main man of Birmingham’s Sunshine Bloom, who brought a sonic pallet of progressive power pop in the fine tradition of artists such as Jellyfish, Big Star, and Wings, woven with rich textures, harmonies and melodies, that also drew comparisons to The Knack and ELO! Little Wonder promises to be just as good, if not better, and we can hardly wait to see and hear them!
Lucille – Taking influence from the likes of Foo Fighters and Biffy Clyro and Paramore, these Highlanders from Inverness focus on addictive foot-tapping pop songs with driving beats and sing-along melodies. Their just-released single, “Rise”, is dark indie anthemic power pop with the emphasis on power. They take great pride in their energetic live shows and their ability to get the masses out on the floor and dancing, so their IPO showcase should be something truly special!
Maze – A psychedelic jangle/dream-pop band from London, whose 2020 EP, Montrose Way, was recorded and released from home during the pandemic. The EP and their more recent singles evoke Beatle-esque Britpop mixed liberally with California sunshine pop and a dash of Northwest fuzz, and leave us eagerly awaiting their brand-new full-length album, Chaos Interrupted, due out by the time you read this!
Daniel McGeever – Some at IPO may recognize McGeever as a member of Edinburgh-based harmony/folk-pop greats, Dropkick, who have graced the stages of IPO Liverpool several times. McGeever is an excellent singer/songwriter in his own right, with a fine album, Cross The Water, released under his own name. If you like soft pop and folk ballads with tricky chord changes, this is the album and artist for you!
Midland Railway – All aboard! Arriving as scheduled on a stage near you at IPO is Midland Railway, on track with a carriage full of noisy guitars, three-part vocal harmonies, quirky lyrics and barrel-scraping train related metaphors. This three-guys-and-a-gal quartet originally departing from Manchester play a form of nerdy folk-punk, influenced by the likes of Weezer, Bright Eyes, and The Smiths, and have timetabled a back catalogue of tunes on varied topics ranging from online football management, Pokémon, exes, currents, never-weres and punk clichés. One of the most fun and fun-loving bands we’ve had at the festival, and we’re excited to welcome them back!
Mr. Magpie – Is it a time-travelling mystic? A talking bird? No, thankfully for IPO, Mr. Magpie is the name of a fabulous new band from Sheffield who blend pretty 12-string jangle with pastoral pop whimsy and unexpected chord and tempo changes. Their debut album, The Magical World of Mr. Magpie, was kicked off with a bicycle tour from Sheffield to Liverpool, where the band strapped their guitars on their backs and stopped to gig along the way. Fans of The Byrds and Fairport Convention will dig them!
Multinut Butter – A psychedelic pop band born in Nottingham, but now based in Leeds, who bring you some of the finest in excessive reverb and difficult to decipher vocals, and are quickly gaining some media attention. “Cool, drifting dream pop with jazz and psych elements reminiscent of John Lennon and Tame Impala.” (HOT WAXX) Their leader, George Hattersley, is a 2nd generation IPO artist, being the son of Richard (Snow) Hattersley of Richard Snow & The Inlaws, and proves the songwriting talent apple does not fall far from the tree! Check out their single, “Paperweight”, and their IPO Showcase!
The Newds – An alt-pop sextet from Bolton whose passion for what they do is evident in their songs. “It’s as if The Newds have stumbled across a musical jumble sale, and they’ve picked up the threads of melody dropped off by the obvious greats like Harry Nilsson, Simon & Garfunkel, Lennon and Heather Mills’ ex-husband…” (Austin Collings). If this sounds too good to be true, just pick up a copy of their Drawing A Line album, which also pulls in influences from LOVE and Squeeze, and you too will understand why they’ve recently been getting lots of attention from the pop radio underground all over the world wide web!
Nine Violets – The hooks and harmonies of this Yorkshire-based sextet will instantly embed themselves in your brain! Their latest album, The Crazy Trilogy, will appeal to fans of The Beatles, ELO and Zappa! A big IPO favourite!
The Occasional Orchestra – Purveyors of fine indie folk pop songs, this band of five men and one woman are making new friends at venues and festivals up and down the country, releasing critically acclaimed albums bulging with stories of humanity and joy, rooted in the UK past and present from the Sussex Downs to Peckham Rye. The combination of compelling hooks, sweet harmonies, insightful lyrics and accomplished musicianship on their latest release, Urban Foxes, has led them to be described as “The Mumford and Sons you don’t want to punch”, by Richard O’Hagan of RNR Magazine. Not that The Occasional Orchestra would hold with punching fellow musicians of course.
Pecker – A talented bunch of waifs and strays from Cockermouth in the wilds of Cumbria, where the wind bites your cheek and ghosts hang in the trees, they gather together to create original music filled with hooks and harmonies that you can dance to! Their EPs demonstrate their chameleon-like ability to shift from quirky spoken word numbers to sounding like a more soulful Partridge Family with balls!
Pelikan Rogue – Another of the new breed of Scottish rock bands, Ayr’s Pelikan Rogue blend searing guitars and arena rock intensity with bouncy catchy pop hooks that we dare you to try to forget! Check out their “Feel The Pain” single and their IPO showcase to see and hear what we mean!
The President Lincoln – A transatlantic band named after a transatlantic ocean liner, specifically, the early 20th century ship which once transported lead singer/songwriter Alex Maws’ Polish-Jewish ancestors from the old world to the new. Fittingly, The President Lincoln’s lyrics often deal with themes of migration and seeking refuge, issues which have become all too relevant today. The band’s latest album, Pilgrims and Aliens, was written and recorded with Maws dividing his time between New York and London, and is “…a little bit folk-y, a little bit indie, a touch arty, a lot wordy, with a seam of REM and an easily misunderstood first impression, but also odd and meticulously crafted…” (Scott Baxter, AmericanaUK).
The Reeds – Hailing from Northampton, The Reeds have a shared love of music with influences ranging from The Beatles to Gomez and Radiohead to Blur. Their music has a distinctly British quality, incorporating close harmonies, stick-in-your-head choruses and intricate instrumental arrangements. Their third full length album, What You Will, is due out on May 16, just in time for their IPO Liverpool appearance!
Michael Roberts – A Swansea-based artist who merits a listen (or two, or three…) by any self-respecting fan of ‘70s pop! His debut album, Suspended In This Space, features dynamic hooks garnished with dreamy lyrics that will take you to a magical place of Utopia, fantastically produced into a joyous experience, and his latest, There Is No Blue, picks up right where the debut left off. He and the band have a new album in the works, and have become one of our favorites that we look forward to seeing each year in Liverpool!
Rogue Frequency – Stockport-based IPO veterans, Rogue Frequency are a three-piece with classic, prog and alt rock influences who generally write music that appeals to the darker side of the human psyche. Their latest album, Ray’s Unearthly Hour, is a mixture of prog/pop/rock opera in the grand tradition of the Jesus Christ Superstar and Tommy soundtracks mixed with angular indie rock, with a few pop hooks thrown in for good measure. Original, big sounding classic rock influenced anthemic songs that sound greater than the sum of their parts.
The Ronains – A filthy breed of classic rock, glam and grunge with a controversial twist has the music world talking about Glasgow’s The Ronains, who have toured all over the country supporting Jake Bugg and Gerry Cinnamon, and have even taken their show across the pond to the east coast of the US. Their latest album, Love, Drugs & On The Dole, and recent single, “The Flower Of Scotland”, will appeal to fans of Heart, No Doubt, and The Clash to name but a few!
Searching For Sylvia – This South Yorkshire-based band has evolved from its folk/country/indie roots to create a body of work which can be best described as an eclectic mix of guitar-driven rock with true pop sensibilities. Their sets include all manner of frothy pop tunes; a well observed mix of ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s pop/rock which echoes American acts such as Big Star, Gigolo Aunts and The Gin Blossoms, UK bands such as Teenage Fanclub and Be-bop Deluxe, and takes in newer influences along the way. Melody is king in both their live set and their recent Play That Song EP, and whether it’s a ‘dumb as you like’ rocker or a jangle pop ballad, you’re never more than a few seconds away from a tasty hook!
Senior Class – An Essex-based band with a focus on unearthing the beautiful sounds of the ‘60s and beyond, tipping the hat off to influences as diverse as garage, surf, beat, and pretty much everything in between…in other words, they were born to play IPO Liverpool! Whether breathing new life into classic ‘60s covers or performing their original tunes, they are sure to get the crowd up and dancing. Just check out their debut single, “Fit Thighs & Pretty Eyes” (on 7” vinyl, of course!), and their sets at IPO Liverpool!
Sheena Shine – Many at IPO may remember Shine as the exuberant front-woman of Cheshire’s Venus Rising, who played IPO Liverpool in 2019. Their debut album, Happy Daze, received BBC 6 Music and Radio Caroline airplay, and support from Tom Robinson, Kim Wilde and Mark Radcliffe. With Venus Rising, Shine shared stages with the likes of Ed Sheeran, Paul Carrack, Midge Ure, Paul Young and many more; whether fronting a band or doin’ it solo, Shine’s brand of folky upbeat pop-rock is sure to put a smile on your face!
Shoulder The Sky – A Skelmersdale three-piece who, like any self-respecting blues/psych influenced rock band, play down & dirty rock n’ roll, and play it loud! But don’t be fooled…as the songs on their EP, Good Thing Going On, prove, they can also shift in a heartbeat to mix it up with a bit of dreamy alt pop and soul.
The Shudders – With energy, driving rhythm and heartfelt melodies, The Shudders combine their melee of musical influences to produce a refreshing brand of indie-country-rock on their latest CD, No Angels in the Slipstream. Vocal harmonies, screaming guitar, warm acoustic and a commanding rhythm section weave a rich tapestry of noise cut from a cloth made up of Crazy Horse, Bright Eyes, and Wilco! One of Swindon’s finest!
The Side – An infectious rock band from the Scottish Highlands, The Side draws influences from the likes of The Beatles, Ben Folds Five, and Ocean Colour Scene, and have been garnering great praise from press and fans alike: “A Great band from the highlands, The Stone Roses meets Ben Folds Five with dazzling results” (Daily Record). They’ve got a brand-new single, “Are You Ready?”, up on multiple fine digital platforms, and we are definitely ready (and eagerly waiting) to see and hear them again at IPO!
Spygenius – Inspired by bands like The Beach Boys, The Beatles and Robyn Hitchcock, Spygenius offer ultra-melodic music with a light ‘60s influence. The Canterbury-based four-piece play original guitar-based pop for people with an appreciation for harmonies and clever wordplay….and who among us can’t appreciate that!? You can experience their unique brand of jangle pop madness on Man On The Sea, an ambitious double-album that earned several year-end best-of list mentions in 2020, including “Album of the Year” from Here Comes The Flood, or on their 2021 album, Blows Their Covers, which pays homage to their wide variety of influences, both classic and contemporary. A brand-new original album, Jabbernowl, is due out imminently on Big Stir Records, and promises to be a heady brew of deep emotional themes with their free-wheeling spirit, resplendent love of language, hooks and harmonies for which they are beloved. As good as they are on record, they are truly at their best when live, so don’t miss their IPO showcase!
The Stayawakes – A south-coast power pop quartet delivering big-hearted jams and sweet harmonies with a visceral live energy, and more volume than is strictly necessary. Their latest album, Pop Dreamz, is available digitally, on CD, and on neon-pink 12” vinyl, and will appeal to fans of Weezer, Green Day, and past IPO artists, Farrah, Maroon 5 and Phantom Planet!
Lee Michael Stevens – An original indie-melodic acoustic act hailing from Hornsey, North London, best known as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of The Swagger. During his time with The Swagger, Stevens had the opportunity to work with top producers such as Mike Bennett (Ian Brown/The Specials/The Fall) and Graham Bonnar (The Brian Jonestown Massacre/Swervedriver), to release their debut EP recorded at the famous Konk studios in North London owned by brothers Ray & Dave Davies of The Kinks, and to play to a sell-out crowd at The O2 Academy Islington for the launch of their “Heart ‘N’ Soul” single. Now going the solo route, Stevens’ new sound on his recently released debut solo album, Part Time Rock ‘N’ Roll Star, combines a flavour of indie/alternative with a fusion of country/folk.
Stilton – The bastard love-child of Marco Rae of The Wellgreen (see below) and Lavinia Blackwall of Trembling Bells, Stilton combines ‘60s inflected harmony, sunshine, and soft pop influences with those of the late ‘60s/early ‘70s British pastoral folk movement, and a touch of whimsy, resulting in beautiful music you can dance to. Fans of artists like Burt Bacharach, Randy Newman, Brian Wilson, Sandy Denny, Kate Bush, The Wellgreen and Trembling Bells will not want to miss them!
The Stoke Barehills Town Band – IPO is thrilled to present live performances by this Basingstoke combo, led by pianist Dan Leese, who started the band primarily as a studio project. Their Heard The Word album is a sonic evocation to the lost intangible innocence of a traditional English life that may or may not have ever existed but one day still might…or not. Drenched with memories, sunshine chords and golden harmonies, musical influences including The Zombies, mid-to-late ‘60s Beach Boys and The Beatles are clearly, and abundantly in evidence.
The Vapour Trails – With a love for chiming guitars and pretty harmonies, Aberdeen’s The Vapour Trails are a jangle-pop band with tendencies toward the psychedelic. Not to be pigeon-holed to their ‘60s influences from the likes of The Byrds, Beatles, CSNY and Love, they also take cues from artists such as The La’s, The Stone Roses, The Smiths and The Rain Parade. The result is a heady, harmonious swirl of jangle that will tangle itself around your brain. Just one listen to their latest Futureman Records release, Underneath Tomorrow, will turn you into an instant fan (if you don’t already know and love them)!
Vix 20 – Their “Digital Age” single was described by Volatile Weekly as a “…fusion of The Rubinoos and The Records with the imaginative touch of Cheap Trick and the instinctive catchiness of a Tonight or The Knack involved…”, so (obviously!), we were bound to sit up and take notice, and we’re certainly glad we did! Led by industry veterans Gary Mills and CJ, joined by long-time conspirators Kill and Rich, these Londoners are quickly becoming a band to watch for, with The Vix20 Essentials podcast carried on over 20 stations. Their latest single, “Orla The Octopus”, adds a touch of ‘60s whimsy to their new wave sound and is utterly delightful. We can’t wait for a full-length album and to see them do their thing live at IPO!
The Vulz – If you love bands such as The Ramones, The Buzzcocks, and The Clash, you will love The Vulz, as they take their cues from all the great punk and new wave bands of the ‘70s and propel the art of the catchy high energy two-to-three-minute hooky punk pop song into the new millennium. Their recent Punk Apache Park West EP is a tasty preview of their long-awaited third album of the same name. One of Camden’s finest and most fun bands!
The Wellgreen – The Wellgreen combine classic ‘60s songwriting, early power pop and psychedelia on top of vintage recording techniques to create a familiar yet fresh and original sound. Written, recorded and produced by Marco Rea (also of Stilton, see above) and Stuart Kidd, in their spiritual home of The Barne on the outskirts of Glasgow, their latest album, Summer Rain, was released on Spanish label Pretty Olivia Records, and features both new and old Wellgreen songs. Fans of Neil Young, CCR, and George Harrison will dig ‘em!
Whelligan – A London-based band with Merseyside roots, Whelligan is the musical incarnation of singer/songwriter Jamie Whelligan, a pop troubadour in the classic late ‘60s mode: A busker on the London Underground, an actor in arthouse film, and a voice compared to Paul Heaton and Scott Walker. Whelligan’s songs mine that English vein of quirky, psychedelic guitar pop that Merseyside bands are famous for. With songs spinning effortlessly from one thing to another, fans of XTC, Syd Barrett, and Rutles won’t be disappointed. Check out his latest album, In The Mean Meantime, to hear for yourself!
International Artists
The Arcadeans – Take Phil Lynott’s energy, Eric Clapton’s melody and Keith Richard’s subtlety, blend for four minutes and add course helpings of Nic Cester’s (Jet) vocals, and you get The Arcadeans, a four-piece melodic rock and indie blues band from Cork, Ireland. Fans of KISS and AC/DC will also appreciate their Miles & Miles EP!
Barmudas – Conceived in Florence, Italy in 2017 to a punk rocker Bovver Boy father and an English glam rocker Wanton Lady mother, both born in the ‘70s, both boots equipped, both fucking crazy. The four (maybe unwanted) sons, after being kicked out from home, have finally succeeded in making their parents proud, playing a dirty glittered shiny cheap mixture of wild rock’n’roll and killer ass-shaking tunes. Delayed from playing their first IPO Liverpool for two years due to the COVID pandemic, the boys were not deterred, and used the enforced hiatus to great advantage, and now join us with their recently released Area Pirata Records debut full-length album, Every Day Is Saturday Night, in hand. Fans of The New York Dolls, The Sweet, and Slade will love it!
Paul Bond – The music of Bond is inspired by Iron & Wine, Judee Sill, Stephen Stills, Randy Newman and Paul Simon, and others. His recent EP, Sunset Blues, displays these influences proudly, highlighted by lush orchestration and the mellifluous tones of his voice. We’re glad to welcome this talented young man from Amsterdam to his first IPO!
Brenyama – The brainchild and collaboration of Maki, from Miki City Japan, and Richard, of Highland Park, NJ, Brenyama has recently made Mesa, Arizona, their home, and New Jersey’s loss is definitely Mesa’s gain! They deliver ultra-fun power pop with a touch of ‘60s garage, ‘80s new wave and ‘90s alternative. Produced by Kurt Reil at The House of Vibes, their latest full-length album, Euphoria Love, includes 12 tracks aiming to capture the fun and simplicity of early rock ‘n roll with the buzzing raw energy of power pop. Check it out now!
Caper Clowns – A quintet of young Danes from Odense who made an immediate splash on Danish radio and the world-wide power pop blog underground with the release of their debut, The Buca Bus, late in 2016! The lead single, “Pockets”, was immediately chosen as the “weekly hit tip” on Danish national radio station DR P4, and received much airplay. Their follow up, A Salty Taste To The Lake, has been called “simply delicious indie power pop” and easily rose to the top of several 2018 “best of” lists. Their latest, Abdicate The Throne, “…not only hits the heights of previous offerings, but it reveals a lot of hidden depths” (I Don’t Hear A Single). With multiple comparisons to the likes of McCartney, Crowded House, ELO and Jellyfish, it’s understandable why they have quickly become a fan favorite fixture at IPO Liverpool!
The Chelsea Curve – “[A] mod-pop trio inspired by their home of Boston, USA, and British mod culture with clear intentions of breaking all the rules and playing by their own! The release of their debut album, All The Things, is 13 tracks of hard edged, infectious, energetic, tunes with clear references to punk and mod revival, layered with melodic harmonies sugar coated with ‘60s vibes” (Mods Of Your Generation). In other words, they were born to play IPO Liverpool!
Circles – A mod-punk-pop band from Chicago who were on their way to greatness, when college and the allure of pop stardom collided to end the band. Now they’re back, better than ever, and we’re all the better for it!
James Clark Institute – The musical outlet of Toronto-based singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist James Clark, their latest full-length release, The Colour of Happy, was produced by iconic Canadian musician/producer Moe Berg (The Pursuit Of Happiness). “James takes the power pop traditions of The Beatles, Jellyfish and Split Enz and combines them with the high IQ lyrics of Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson. The result makes him one of Canada’s greatest unsung songwriters” (Moe Berg). Need we say any more?
Clover – Formed in Cabramatta, Sydney, Australia in the early ‘90’s, Clover went on to win band comps (TAFE NSW), runner’s up in Sydney Uni Band Comp, and released an EP thru MDS in 1994 to great reviews. Clover reformed 25 years later, despite main man Matt Purcell now calling Dublin, Ireland home, released their long overdue full length, Over & Over, in 2020, and are now playing their first IPO Liverpool. Wistful jangle, gritty vocals, and power pop energy abound, and we can’t wait to see them perform these songs live!
Cornerstone – Austria may be known as the classical music centre of the world, but make no mistake, Cornerstone is here to rock. The press has been extremely favorable to the band’s blend of ‘80s rock mixed with the harder edge of today‘s alternative sounds. Their latest album, Reflections, was produced in Canada in collaboration with Harry Hess (Billy Talent, Muse, Harem Scarem) and is released on US-based ATOM Records. As a prelude, their power ballad, “Whatever”, participated in the pre-voting for the wildcard of the Eurovision Song Contest and placed fourth. The album and their latest single, “Private Eyes”, showcase their combination of made for radio alt-rock hooks, sparkling vocals, and irrepressible energy.
Erk – If you like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and ELO, meet Erk Weimer: a Berlin-based gent who clearly shares those same passions and expresses them via his own releases. His latest album, When Night Meets Day, is 12 intricately arranged and catchy as hell songs sure to put a smile on your face!
Lannie Flowers – Flowers, both with and without the band with whom he shares his name, has played IPO in many a city, from LA to Vancouver to Stockholm, including several previous appearances at IPO Liverpool, earning fans across the globe with their in-your-face guitars and equally in-your-face sweet vocal harmonies, delivered with punch and panache. Flowers returns to Liverpool with his brand-new album, Flavor of The Month, a joint release by his local label, SpyderPop, based in Arlington, Texas, and Burbank’s Big Stir Records. The album is a collection of tunes originally released as singles throughout the buildup to releasing his previous album, Home, all lovingly and expertly re-recorded. As long-time fans already know and new converts are sure to discover, Flowers consistently delivers. “Big Hooks, bigger choruses and melody at its core, Flavor Of The Month works as a stand-alone album. Pop Rock / Guitar Pop at its very best” (I Don’t Hear A Single).
The Greeting – One of the many projects of Richard Öhrn, guitarist for Uppsala jangle pop darlings, In Deed, who played the last two IPO Liverpools. Think big guitars, big melodies, and catchy choruses with a few surprising twists and turns.
Brady Harris – A wine bar troubadour & architect of the “NoHo Sound,” LA-based Harris also wears his Beatles and Liverpool street corner busker influences proudly on his sleeve and throughout his music. His latest EP, Yours For You, is “Beatlesy…but with shades of americana” (Americana UK), and most of the LA tracking was actually done at the former home of longtime Beatles assistant/roadie/bodyguard/handler Mal Evans. How’s that for a Beatles connection??
The Incurables – Headquartered right in the Heart of the Ann Arbor/Detroit Metropolitan Area, The Incurables provide guitar driven high energy harmonic indie garage rock, at your service! They host a weekly Power Hour on KB Radio, where each week they reveal a different side of their many influences, and their latest album, Live At The Tempermill, provides a taste of what you can expect to see and hear live from these motor city madmen! They’ve also recently displayed their humanitarian side, with the release of their latest single, “Stop The World”, from which all proceeds go to the Ukranian relief effort.
Christopher Leyva (Falling Doves) – A Mexican-American musician, producer, composer and promoter. Leyva is an active member of the Grammy Academy – As a musician Leyva is the lead singer of the world renowned touring band The Falling Doves. Leyva has recorded solo as well as with numerous groups. Early in his career he honed his skills with Steve Poltz ( Jewel) , Phil Solemn from The Rembrandts, and record producer Mark Hudson. He has shared the stage with Cheap Trick, Echo & The Bunny-men, Fastball, Pete Best and the late Scott Weiland (STP).
Lucky Blue – Four-piece indie rock band Lucky Blue blow the roof off on every stage. This bunch of Rotterdammers come with plenty of energy to go around, while making sure there’s some melancholia for the balance. They come to IPO Liverpool on the heels of their hometown release party for their debut album, Dog Days. They invite you to laugh, sing, jump and cry with them. Whatever it is you feel, don’t hide your emotions!
Packy Lundholm – A fixture on the Chicago scene for quite some time, Mr Lundholm has lent his talents to many local acts, such as I Fight Dragons, Kory Quinn, and Gold Coast All Stars, but is an accomplished power popper in his own right! His debut album under his own name, American Soccer, combines Americana and classic rock elements with that heartland power pop energy that we love! Fans of Springsteen and Lou Reed will dig it! His latest masterpiece, Track Sabbath, is an eclectic three-part opus closely following Lundholm’s stream of consciousness in creativity with a little bit of something for everyone!
Mansfield – The band makes their home in Copenhagen, but takes its name after Mansfield, a former coal mining town in the East Midlands of England. Both visually and musically, the quartet takes the audience on a journey back to the early ‘60s, with their trademark retro-cool mod-style suits and energetic performances. The music is honest, direct and instantly appealing, cleverly fusing contemporary rock with the legendary ‘60s Mersey sound, and elements of Motown, resulting in catchy and to-the-point songs that ooze of toe-tapping energy. So far, 7 out of 11 tracks from their debut album, Star-Crossed Lovers, have been played on Danish national radio, and the album itself was awarded “Album of the Week” on radio station P5 and has received 4 and 5 star reviews in which critics have compared the band to The Beatles, Oasis and The Kinks, as well as Danish rock band The Beatophonics. Pretty impressive, but also very well deserved – come see and hear them for yourself at their first IPO Liverpool!
Meadowlake – A young indie band from Groningen, The Netherlands who’s single, “Dead Man on the Payroll”, was number one in the Dutch Indie Chart, and was also chosen as the Best Song of 2018. The band’s latest album, Wait For Me, has been called “Tranquility and arrested beauty in one” by none other than The New York Times! Definitely not your average indie rock/dreampop/shoegazer band (although fans of all those forms of pop and rock will dig ‘em!)
Nuevos Hobbies – Longtime fans of the genre are well aware that Spain is home to many a great sparkling jangle pop band, and Nuevos Hobbies from Pamplona are no exception! They love melodies and rhythm, they like to create stories to get lost in, they like to make you sing and clap along…even if you don’t speak a single word of Spanish! (They are just that darn good!!) Check out their latest album, Palmeras, released via Pretty Olivia Records on 12” vinyl, and their entire back catalog. We’ve been fans of their music for years, so we’re especially glad to finally welcome them to their first IPO Liverpool!
Barry O’Brien (Slumberjet) – Dublin based singer/songwriter Barry O’Brien may be familiar to some IPO fans as the leader of Slumberjet, who’s debut CD earned some rather apt comparisons to the likes of Elvis Costello and XTC! He’s been doing the solo thing, but has also found time to record World of Sound, the second Slumberjet album, which was well worth the wait. Several tracks from World of Sound could have fit nicely on Jason Falkner’s Presents Author Unknown, which is about the best endorsement one could give a power pop album! Expect his acoustic set at IPO to include folked up versions of Slumberject classics from both of their albums, and possibly a preview or two of the power pop goodness of what may eventually be a third Slumberjet disc!
Picnic Republic – An ensemble from Aix en Provence, France, who characterize their music as a cross between The Beach Boys and The Pixies. True to their influences, their songs are pure sunshine pop with a hint of power pop and garage that fans of The Beatles will also love! Their latest EP, Are You Ready?, also adds a twist of new wave haze that in no way diminishes their bright sunshiney hooks. We love it!
Plasticsoul – Still collecting praise and fans around the world for their third and most rocking album, Therapy (on Big Stir Records), Central California-based Plasticsoul are a hook-propelled American spin on the history of British rock from The Beatles to the Bunnymen to Oasis, blessed with the powerful voice and sharp-edged tunes of front-man Steven Wilson. Their prior releases both won multiple Album of the Year awards and garnered rave reviews. With a formidable and propulsive live act that’s pure rock and roll energy and a deep catalogue of finely crafted and emotive songs, Plasticsoul is currently at the height of their considerable powers. Check them out and pick up a copy of the album!
Dave Rave – The venerable Mr. Dave Rave began popping very powerfully indeed a near quarter century ago as part of the legendary Canadian bands Teenage Head and The Shakers, has often been referred to as “The Canadian Nick Lowe,” and is now an inductee in the Canadian Indie Music Hall of Fame!! (Congratulations, Dave!!) A recent CD, Live With What You Know was nominated for a Grammy, as was one of its songs, “Anne Marie.” His latest album, Adventureland, is “… [j]am-packed with the melodic, catchy pop rock that Dave’s best known for, this ferocious recording captures the rambunctious, boundless energy he always displays on stage.” (Hamilton Blues Lovers) From 2010 to 2014 he played 50 IPO festivals in a row (yes, you read that right), and he still plays many of them…and we look forward to many more. Thank you, Dave!!
Scarlet Rose – A group of enthusiastic young men from Aalst, The Netherlands, who make catchy indie-rock you can dance to. Their trip to Liverpool and IPO comes on the heels of the release of their brand-new single, “Penelope” (which should be released by the time you read this) and is part of a UK Tour and build up to the release of their first EP. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for details on where you can download the single, pre-order the EP and come see them live at IPO!
Stay – IPO is thrilled to welcome these indie/psych rockers from Barcelona back to IPO Liverpool! They’ve been doing their thing since 2001, and their sixth and latest album, Old Sounds of Modern Music, proves they just keep getting better, mixing in new sounds with their classic psychedelic jangle, wrapped in just the right amount of swirling keyboards, upbeat folk rock, and bouncy indie-rock that can be soft and pretty or down and gritty as the mood requires. Fans of artists from The Byrds, The Grateful Dead and Cosmic Rough Riders to The Stones, The Charlatans, and Tame Impala, as well as devotees of their previous work, will all find something to love. One of our favorite Spanish psychedelic bands ever – come see and hear why for yourself!
Svenssen – A quintet from Bryne, Norway, but who have received internet radio airplay as far away as Chicago, USA…and with good reason! Both their earlier full-length albums, 2009’s self-titled debut and 2011’s Svenssation, as well as their recently released EP, Every Day Is A School Day, are chock full of their upbeat blend of ‘60s styled British Invasion and mod influences, topped off with a touch of ‘70s punk pop and glam…bring your dancing shoes!