James Holt – Come Out To Play

Artist: James Holt

Title: Come Out To Play

Label: 63 Steps Records

Impact date: 1 March 2019

It’s probably the catchiest chorus I’ve written to date, and it’s become a crowd favourite at gigs,” says singer/songwriter James Holt of his new single ‘Come Out to Play’.

‘Come Out to Play’ bridges the gap between his previous two singles, combining the pad soundscape of ‘Whispers’ with the angular unpredictability of ‘Alone Again’ but with a far more upbeat musical and lyrical theme.

The song draws inspiration from the classic songwriters of the 60/70s and also nods to Crowded House, Aztec Camera and The Smiths. One review commented that it sounded like Johnny Marr had joined the Beatles and the Beach Boys in the studio for a day.

James said, “Lyrically, the song is a journey through the life of a shy, introverted person, and their struggle to socialise – though at its core it’s an uplifting story about overcoming anxieties. There’s never an explicit reason why, but there are hints that they’re hoping for something more. (‘But I just keep holding on, for a day to reminisce on…’).

Each verse is a different stage of his life, represented with references to different seasons, but it’s in the last verse where our character sees himself in his son and tells him not to make the same mistakes he has made.

James provides lead vocals, backing vocals and plays all instruments apart from drums on ‘Come Out To Play’ and has – once again – brought in the production wizardry of Jim Spencer (Johnny Marr, The Charlatans). The release coincides with James’ headline show at Night People, Manchester on Saturday 1 March and then on Saturday 23 March at Academy 2, Manchester (supporting Prose and Manchester Camerata).

Quotes
“Feels fresh and exciting to listen to.” – Brian Eno

“Love James’ voice on that new single. Sounding great”. John Kennedy Radio X

BBC Introducing Manchester have been huge supporters of James. Co-presenter/producer, and Michelle Hussey commented, “It’s beautiful with definite echoes of Cherry Ghost.

Another radio champion, Jim Salveson from XS Manchestersaid, “It sounds very Beatles-esque and – here’s a massive compliment – vocally it sounds very John Lennon.”


“Very talented, very wonderful – absolutely love his voice.”  Natalie BBC Introducing Manchester.

“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.” Louise Dodgson, The Unsigned Guide.

Daystar – Sleeper

Impact Date: 11.06.12

daystarband.com

twitter.com/Daystarband

‘Great Stuff, and very Manchester, too’ ED O’BRIEN (RADIOHEAD) 

Daystar is a band I’ve been listening to a lot lately’ CLINT BOON (INSPIRAL CARPETS / XFM)

‘Wonderfully melancholy…already sounds classic’ THE SUN

 Manchester indie/rock five-piece Daystar is set to release their latest single ‘Sleeper’ on 11th June. Their rise over recent months has been impressive to say the least. With a sound drawing expertly from contemporary influences like The Smiths and The Stone Roses and with song craft reminiscent of legendary groups like R.E.M. and The Beach Boys, the band have rapidly developed a reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting up-and-coming indie acts while supporting the likes of The Rifles and The Twang on tour.

Captured by legendary Liverpool producer Ronnie Stone (the man behind Mansun’s hit album ‘Attack of The Grey Lantern’), ‘Sleeper’ is a beautifully hypnotic and mellow song boasting chiming, shimmering guitars with front man Simon Monaghan’s sweet melodies soaring above. It’s an indie lullaby of real quality and, lyrically, a poignant rallying call to the lost souls who drift through life without ever fulfilling their potential. ‘Sleeper’ will be available on iTunes a week ahead of the release of the eagerly anticipated album ‘Daystar’ on the 18th June.

There’s evidence aplenty of the band’s respect and admiration for the work of Syd Barrett from Pink Floyd and perhaps more than a passing nod to the classic harmonies of Brit-pop heroes such as Mansun and The Charlatans.

Lead singer Simon has a voice that exudes distinction and class, delivered amidst a sound that, while unashamedly steeped in familiarity, resonates with a fresh urgency and vitality that has won the band many high profile fans, including Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien, Clint Boon (XFM/Inspiral Carpets), BBC Radio 2’s Janice Long (‘They Said I’d like this, they were right’), presenter Terry Christian and BBC DJ Gary Crowley (‘I’m absolutely loving this, I can certainly hear the Syd Barrett and Brian Wilson influences’).

Catch Daystar live at:

CLUB NME @ KOKO LONDON 1st JUNE 

THIS FEELING @ FAC251 MANCHESTER 16th JUNE

Happy New Year From Ask Me PR!

Building on the success of their much lauded debut single ‘Live and Live Lonely’, My Albatross release their new single ‘Rich Man’s Daughter’ early in 2010. This time the boys couple their trademark alt rock guitars with Beach Boys-esque rock and roll harmonies. The haunting B-side ‘I Don’t Love You’ features a different arrangement of band members ,and is sure to surprise and amaze you in equal measure.
 
Fresh from recording their new single with The Earlies, Blind Atlas look set to make waves with Take a While. Expect to hear lots more from the Anglo/ American alt-rockers early in the year.
 
 
 Also… prepare yourself for some exceptional and unique bands from the Ask Me roster. We are thrilled to be working with Ben Heyworth AKA This Morning Call, Singer/ songwriter Twin Thea and the band Sheffield is literally ‘buzzing’ about…  All The Damn Kids! Definitely a big year at Ask Me PR!