Black Honey arrived on the scene about five years ago full of swagger and energy, and their second album, ‘Written & Directed’ does exactly the same. The record bursts into action from the very start with ‘I Like The Way You Die’ and ‘Run For Cover’ packing a huge punch.
If their 2018 self-titled debut album was a statement of intent, then ‘Written & Directed’ is the band delivering on their promise. The band manages to maintain their unique throwback sound that has been their trademark since their 2014 inception, whilst ensuring that there is demonstrable progression.
That is achieved through adding a grandness to songs such as ‘Beeches’ and ‘Believer’. While much of the bands early work managed to sound huge in small venues, you sense on this album that many of these songs are born to engulf much larger spaces.
What is great to see here is a band that refuses to compromise. They are also a band that are hard to pigeonhole by any particular genre. They produce a distinctive sound that can only be classed as Black Honey. Thankfully that identity is embraced fully here as they navigate that sometimes troublesome second album.
‘Disinfect’ is fantastic example of a song that could have gone various routes. Instead it manages to merge these elements to great effect, creating a sonic blast to your ears!
Black Honey – ‘Disinfect’
Black Honey are a rare talent that have now reinforced their passion and ability to create great music for anybody who wants to listen but without concession on their vision. ‘Fire’ and ‘Gabrielle’ close ‘Written & Directed’ out perfectly and bookend this short but powerful release from a band growing in confidence.
We roundup the best music news from the past week!
Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week in our News Report. To stay up to date with the biggest news be sure to follow us on our social channels:
Wolf Alice prepare to launch third album campaign?
Wolf Alice returning?
We have plenty of news to get through this week, and we start with a tease! Are Wolf Alice preparing to release their hotly anticipated third album? The band has this week teased social media with a number of posts. Fans are encouraged to sign-up for their mailing list here.
The date teased for more information on ‘The Last Man On Earth’ is this Wednesday (24th). Keep an eye on our social media, and be sure to check our next News Report for that information!
Myles Kennedy unveils second solo album ‘The Ides Of March’
Myles Kennedy – ‘In Stride’
We have all struggled with boredom during the various pandemic lockdowns. You can imagine Myles Kennedy would be particularly perturbed given his high work ethic. Kennedy is usually found fronting Alter Bridge or Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators. During any downtime he also has a successful solo career to focus on!
It should be no surprise to anyone therefore that Kennedy this week announced the upcoming release of his second solo album! ‘The Ides Of March’ is set for release on May 14th, and has been preceded by the single ‘In Stride’.
Another famous band leader returning with new music is Linkin Park icon Mike Shinoda. ‘Happy Endings’ featuring the talents of both iann dior and UPSAHL is out now here.
Papa Roach unveil Danny Worsnop featuring ‘Broken As Me’
Papa Roach – ‘Broken As Me’
Next up, as we stick with iconic bands from the early noughties, we get to Papa Roach. The band are preparing for the March 19th release of their second greatest hits record. ‘Greatest Hits Vol. 2: The Better Noise Years’ focuses on tracks from between 2010 and 2020. You can pre-order your copy here.
With the release day creeping up, the band this week unveiled a new version of ‘Broken As Me’ featuring Asking Alexandria frontman Danny Worsnop. You can check the single out here.
Whilst we have the attention of fans of early noughties rock and metal… how about some Andrew W.K.! The enigmatic musician returned this week with a fantastic new single ‘Babalon’. Check out the track here.
Black Honey unveil video for ‘Disinfect’
Black Honey – ‘Disinfect’
This week has also seen new music arrive from some fantastic newer acts. One such act is the incredible Black Honey who continue to build anticipation for their second album ‘Written & Directed’. That album finally arrives on March 19th, pre-order your copy here.
We really hope that live music is able to safely return later this year. Giving us something to look forward to is Ghost Road Fest. The event will take place across two days in London and Leeds.
The London line-up this week saw the addition of the amazing The Pearl Harts. With the London line-up also featuring the incredible The Virginmarys, this is one not to miss. Pick up your tickets here.
MarthaGunn announce livestream event
MarthaGunn livestream poster
Until live music can return, we are making do with livestreams. Tonight (Sunday 21st) the brilliant MarthaGunn will be playing a full band livestream on their Instagram page here.
Rockers Massive Wagons are another band that have this week announced details of a special livestream event. Taking place on March 20th, the band have promised a new single, request songs and prizes. To pick up your ticket head over here.
