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Review: In moves resembling cultural "levelling up", Liverpool label Modern Sky has done the UK scene the world of good by being largely dedicated to supporting the very best local talent in the north of the UK. One of their more recent signings, Delights, are from Manchester and write guitar music inspired by bedroom pop and 70s psychedelia. This album, their debut, is lush with chorus-laden guitar and a languid vocal style that's bringing a much-needed dose of chill to the UK indie landscape. In addition to orchestrating some stunning guitar-led soundscapes, the band's strength lies in singer Adam Maxwell having some serious musical chops and melodies to spare. Ones to watch for sure.

Review: Michael Head debuted his Red Elastic Band back in 2017 with the Adios SeNor Pussycat album on Violette Records, following in the wake of his earlier success with bands like Shack. The Liverpudlian singer-songwriter is back with a new long player called Dear Scott, which finds him and his stretchy backing band on stellar form as they run through the likes of lead single 'Newby Street'. It's breezy, jangly indie with acoustic guitar upfront and all the sentimental compositional chops you could wish for - an album to hold close to your heart and songs to carry through your life.

Review: Michael Head's latest album, Loophole, is a poignant and introspective journey through six decades of life, love, and loss, masterfully captured in twelve evocative tracks. Backed by his loyal ensemble, The Red Elastic Band, Head weaves a tapestry of memories and emotions, inviting listeners to reminisce alongside him. The album's lead single, 'Shirl's Ghost,' sets the tone with its enchanting Spanish horns, a signature element of Head's musical style. As the opening track, it immediately draws listeners into Head's world, where flickering scenes from his life unfold with vivid clarity. 'Toxteth Ghost Story,' another standout track, showcases Head's storytelling strength as he delves into the haunting echoes of his past. Throughout the album, Head's lyrics are imbued with nostalgia and reflection, painting a rich portrait of his experiences and influences. Produced by Bill Ryder-Jones, co-founder of The Coral, Loophole boasts a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. The Red Elastic Band's instrumentation is lush and dynamic, providing the perfect backdrop for Head's emotive vocals. As Head prepares to release his 11th studio album, it's clear that his creative fire burns brighter than ever. With Loophole, he proves once again why he's regarded as one of the greatest living songwriters, captivating listeners with his timeless melodies and heartfelt storytelling.

Review: After their first two albums topped the UK album charts, the Wigan rock band are now onto their third album and first on Liverpool label Modern Sky. Taking things back to where it all began, they went into the album with their former college mentor John Kettle, who recorded their first official single 'Crying Out', which was released in 2019. Putting their trust in someone close to them and not being tempted by a big-name producer has paid dividends as they sound more themselves. Album opener 'Leave No Stone Unturned' is very Coral-esque with its wall of sound harmonies and 'Stellar Cast' is a viscerally enthralling number, conveying a sense of chaos. If there's a lyrical theme that stands out, it's a subtle anti-war message and it will take a lot of beating for a song in 2025 with pacifist themes to topple 'Reflections Of Lessons Left' - it's a corker.

Review: Jamie Webster's 10 For The People perfectly encapsulates the Liverpool singer-songwriter's heartfelt narratives and soulful melodies. Released in 2021, the album is a poignant exploration of working-class tales and social commentary, blending folk and rock influences. Known for his association with football culture, Webster's tracks like 'This Place' and 'Living for Yesterday' resonate with authenticity meaning that 10 For The People not only showcases the artist's lyrical prowess but also solidifies his place as a voice for the people. His album is a sincere and evocative musical offering that speaks to the experiences and struggles of us all.