June 19, 2013

Chuffed to Bits: British Music Artist on the Rise – Michael Kiwanuka

Several months ago, I ordered a copy of the acclaimed British music magazine, MOJO, to be sent to me in the post.  The particular issue I ordered also came with a compilation CD featuring artists on the London music label, Communion.  Communion is of great interest to me, not only because the label was co-founded by Ben Lovett, a member of … [Read more...]

British Music: Mumford & Sons’ “Sigh No More” Album Review

For Londoners, this band has been around for a while. Recently I started to hear a few of their songs on the radio. I found myself humming the tunes. I could not get the songs out of my head. I didn't know who they were for the longest time, but I found their sound refreshing and happy. Yesterday, I finally found out the name of the band that I … [Read more...]

Chuffed to Bits: A Love Song for Bobby Long

Bobby Long at Club Congress, 5 February 2011.  Photo by DeAnna Soth.

When I recently mentioned to a dear friend of mine that I’d named this column Chuffed to Bits, she looked a bit perplexed.  After I explained to her what that particular saying means, she suggested that perhaps I offer up a brief explanation for those who may not be familiar with the term.  So here goes.  As any English person will tell you, … [Read more...]

Dispatches From The North: Top Ten UK Chart Toppers

I am not the resident British music expert, I have to confess I was never into the whole British Invasion thing. I think  bands like The Beatles, Oasis and Coldplay are great in their own right, but there are some great music acts that are hugely successful here in the UK but haven't bridged the gap to mainstream fame in America and deserve a … [Read more...]

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