The Barnum Meserve, a three piece pop/rock band from Nottingham, have kept their latest album release very close to their chests of late - so when I was given exclusive access to their new album, I jumped at the chance to review it.
The Barnum Meserve consist of Leon Wiley, Dylan Griffiths and Paul Moss-Pearce and, whilst I can probably make several comparisons to rock/pop and tuneful metal acts of the past; they have a very distinct and haunting sound that certainly wouldn't sound out of place in a stadium or arena. I, however, had the pleasure of catching them live last year when they shared the bill in a small Derby venue with my beau. I really enjoyed their performance, but the album brings their songs to life with beautiful use of orchestra accompaniment, soaring introductions (War Games was an instant favourite of mine) and the musical fullness of each song was something to really take in.
The tracks 'Open Up Your Eyes' and 'Colours' were real stand out tracks for me. Wiley's strong and definite vocals really tear at the piano melodies whilst the subtle harmonies and quiet moments weave in seamlessly. The Barnum Meserve hit you with the power and passion of musical outfits like Dry The River (my faves) and combine Wiley's full throttle angry vocals and haunting melodies like very early Evanescence or later, more commercial Nine Inch Nails. If you like your metal with melody, your rock with rhythm and your punk with passion, The Barnum Meserve are for you.
All in all, the entire album has been carefully crafted to showcase The Barnum Meserve in their very best and most comfortable light. There are moments where you feel as if you are listening to an epic film sountrack, others where you could be kicking back at Download festival. Either way, these guys are crying out to be heard in a stadium and this album may just bring them the international acclaim they so long for.
You can catch the Barnum Meserve, if you're lucky enough to live in Nottingham, tomorrow night (July 12th) performing at The Rescue Rooms. Information on the gig is here --> https://www.facebook.com/events/133552126843724/
For more information on The Barnum Meserve, check out their website here --> http://www.thebarnummeserve.com/
Every once in a while, I stumble across a truly unique crafter, who has taken an entirely different approach to their designs. Since Father's Day was yesterday, I just had to share the gift I chose for my beau's first Father's Day, designed and made by the wonderful Owlish Grey.
CRAFT MEETS SCIENCE
I stumbled across Nottingham-based Owlish Grey quite by accident, when she gave a friendly 'like' to my other business' Facebook page. Intrigued, I looked a little closer at Owlish's Etsy shop, and was so pleasantly surprised by what I found, I simply had to order one of her unique 'Soundwave Prints' ready for the Big Day!
Owlish Grey's products stem from an interest in crafting accessories, whilst taking inspiration from science and nature. Some of her latest products include cards and prints with famous scientist's quotes and also cards featuring symbols from the periodic table. A truly different design approach, which make for some lovely keepsake pieces.
A first Father's Day is always going to be very special, so I decided to opt for a unique 'Soundwave Print'. Should you decide to purchase one (which I thoroughly recommend you do); they come in two different sizes and, once you have placed your order, you are required to send a short recording of a message you would like to give to the receiver of your gift. There are several options you can choose from in terms of colour, a borderline etc and you are asked to clearly state your options when sending your order across. What is then posted to you, 48 hours from completing the order, is a unique soundwave print of your voice and your message.
I chose a red soundwave to match the red theme running through our abode, I also chose a grey background to add depth to the piece and recorded myself saying 'Daisy Loves Daddy'. A simple, but perfect and very personal gift for Mr Peachy to treasure.
Aside from the originality in Owlish Grey's designs, her attention to detail in each step of the process really inspires me. Her packaging is personal, even her envelope stamp is named and she provides you with a barcode so that you can scan and hear your message!
Needless to say, the OH was chuffed with his gift, a lovely memoir of his first Father's Day celebrations and something so personal to him. I would like to thank Gemma, of Owlish Grey, for her wonderful product, incredible service and for her part in making Mr Peachy's day so very special! Owlish Grey gets the official 'Peachy Seal of Approval'!
Check out Owlish Grey's wonderful designs on her Facebook page and Etsy shop: https://www.facebook.com/owlishgrey/app_259525164100619
Coming soon...my first foray into the world of Paper Cutting
The Barnum Meserve consist of Leon Wiley, Dylan Griffiths and Paul Moss-Pearce and, whilst I can probably make several comparisons to rock/pop and tuneful metal acts of the past; they have a very distinct and haunting sound that certainly wouldn't sound out of place in a stadium or arena. I, however, had the pleasure of catching them live last year when they shared the bill in a small Derby venue with my beau. I really enjoyed their performance, but the album brings their songs to life with beautiful use of orchestra accompaniment, soaring introductions (War Games was an instant favourite of mine) and the musical fullness of each song was something to really take in.
