Stories

A lot has been written and said about Mogwai in the last 25 years, even though Mogwai has never been a band of many words. NBHAP author Abhilash Arackal had the chance to talk to Barry Burns of Mogwai, who gave us an insight into the band’s architecture making it easier to understand why after 25 years, this band is still eager to release records at all and why they always sound as you want them to sound.

Singer and songwriter Claud went from making indie pop songs in their bedroom to recording their debut LP "Super Monster" at the iconic Electric Lady Studio. Exploring themes of love, isolation, and coming-of-age, the record communicates a wide range of emotions through lyrics and instrumental arrangements. We caught up with the musician to explore the background of their music making.

So far, the promised “better 2021” looks an awful lot like 2020, right? Will it give the live music industry a chance to return or is that option already off the table? Time to address a few of the most burning questions: Is it safe to go to a concert in 2021? How can we best protect ourselves? Why should we head outdoors? NBHAP editor Igor Franjić did some research to give us answers.

Almost ten years after their first joint album, the two songwriters return with a follow-up that is once again fuelled by the joyful energy of their companionship. NBHAP head Norman phoned up the two buddies in the middle of the harsh lockdown reality to get a better understanding of their musical union and kind friendship.

A much needed fresh approach for guitar music is happening in the UK right now, freed from any hit single expectations and conventional genre limitations. With the furious energy of their debut album "For The First Time" the seven-piece from London is leading this new movement with stubborn determination. NBHAP author Tamsin Paternoster spoke with the band and took a closer look at the Black Country, New Road microcosm.

Bridging the past of soul music into a bright new future is the London-based singer Celeste Waite. She just released her highly anticipated debut "Not Your Muse" spanning from catchy pop choruses to soulful depth. NBHAP author Liv spoke to the musician about what moves her and the pressure of putting out a record in the public eye.

For NBHAP head Norman that weird 21st century take on early 80s soft rock became one of the most important albums in his life over the past decade. Just in time for its tenth anniversary he tries to narrow down his fascination for it and got a bit help from the man who is responsible for it.

Waiting to enter breakout sessions instead of standing in the queue at the bar is the new reality of festivals at the moment. NOTHING BUT HOPE AND PASSION editor Natálie Zehnalová attended the virtual version of the beloved Eurosonic Noorderslag Conference and Showcase. Here is a little tour through the obstacles and opportunities of online events.

Malmö-based two piece Wy have been love at first listen for us at NBHAP ever since they first showed up on our musical radar four years ago. Following two hauntingly beautiful albums Ebba and Michel Gustafsson Ågren are now returning with a third full-length in May, shaped by the Covid crisis but also their own relationship. "Marriage" appears to be a fitting title for it. Today, we're debuting a first track from it exclusively on NBHAP and also took a moment to catch up with the duo.

The new year is barely two weeks old and we're already pretty tired by it, maybe because we all still carry the luggage from 2020 with us. What a weird couple of months it has been but there's still hope for the future right. Shame, for a example, are finally back with their second studio album this week. So, we thought maybe they could help us to put this new year in perspective.