NEW MUSIC: Former Utopia 'Collapsar' EP, and launch night preview

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Well I don't know about you guys, but this Friday evening I am going to be in the fine venue that is the Sebright Arms (it's here) for the launch of Former Utopia's debut EP 'Collapsar'.

Former Utopia, or FU as they sometimes known, are an London based trio who draw on a wide range of influences, from post-hardcore to alt-folk. This has enabled them to open up for varied people such as Bitch Magnet, Bottomless Pit, David Grubbs and Julie Doiron. Now they have got around to releasing their debut EP, 'Collapsar', which consists of five songs on 10" vinyl. I've embedded the lead track below so you can check it out for yourself. The rest of the EP is in the same vein; subtle melodies delivered in an understated baritone vocal coupled with edgy, occasionally heavy guitars. The way the songs creep up on you and develop is reminiscent of that great, often overlooked band Silkworm. By the way, the download comes with a cover of Kath Bloom's 'Come Here', the original of which is one of my favourite songs, so that was a brave move! Overall, this is a welcome slice of powerful and intelligent guitar music.



On the night they will be joined by the Austrian band Plaided, who are stopping off en route to SXSW to play only their second ever UK show. They released an acclaimed album last year, 'Playdate', which I've been meaning to feature properly for quite a while now. It's ace and you can hear a track from it below.



Possibly the most familiar band on the night though, is smallgang, who released a fine album called 'Trespasses' in 2011. They were great supporting Bitch Magnet just over a year ago and I'm looking forward to seeing them again. Here is the ultra lo-fi video of the title track from their album.



Early advance tickets are only £3 from HERE, and I think they'll be around £5 on the door. Oh yeah, and there are DJ sets until 12am from Andi from the Austrian label Fettkakao and Satomi Matsuzaki, aka Deerhoof's singer. See you there!

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