The Charlatans-The Beta Band-The Shins-Clash Magazine

Plus the latest: ALBUM & LIVE REVIEWS / NEW FILM & DVD RELEASES

IN THIS ISSUE...

The Charlatans

From baggy to Britpop and back again

From Los Angeles to Bodmin Moor via Cheshire, the zen-like journey taken towards the completion of “Up At The Lake”, The Charlatans' eighth album, was a pilgrimage to rediscover roots, to strengthen old friendships, and to bequeath wisdom taught from lessons learnt.

The Beta Band

Scots indie weirdos "Dry The Rain"

Somewhere on the outskirts of Edinburgh is situated the secret workplace of The Beta Band. Learning the whereabouts of the studio, we felt it only appropriate to infiltrate their progress armed only with an inquisitive nature and a recording device.

The Shins

American cult act from Portland

With the whirrs of machinery in the background (“I've got electricians in”, he tells us), the brains behind the fantastic “Chutes Too Narrow” expounds on wooden awards, home recording and his transformation into Perry Como.

Miss Kittin

Feisty French electro feline
Miss Kittin has been working like a dog. Her debut album “I Com” is about to hit the shelves, and when she isn't gigging relentlessly, shooting videos, working for Mute as A&R consultant or writing a book she's trying to squeeze in a radio show.

Felix Da Housecat

Superstar DJ and toast of the dance world
Felix the Housecat needs to change his name. Felix the House Lion would be more fitting, as he stands at the top of the food chain as one of the most successful dance producers alive.

Phoenix

French dance act fly again
It's Paris in the Springtime, and somewhere in the vast city of romance, the members of Phoenix have gathered to check and double check they have perfected the live versions of their latest collection of songs in anticipation of the inevitable tour that lies ahead.

Phantom Planet

OC-approved cult quintet
The Californian Quintet first found cult success here with their debut album, “The Guest”. In the two years between that and new album “Phantom Planet”, the band suffered the loss of original drummer Jason Schwartzman.