Whilst mindlessly procrastinating over some work this morning, I stumbled across an utterly amazing band called Animal Kingdom. They make alternative rock-infused ballads reminiscient of Coldplay and Travis, and are playing Latitude Festival (Suffolk) and Monmouth Festival (Wales) among their other tour dates this summer. You can check them out here.
Let me know what you reckon!
-Lauren Razavi

Undoubtedly in preparation for a tour that will accompany the release of his eighth studio album later this year, musical sensation David Gray will be taking part in the Foresty Commission’s Live Music programme this summer, a much-anticipated set of gigs in stunning woodland locations across the country.
In addition to David Gray’s date, a myriad of other artists have joined the brace, including Paul Weller, Doves, Simply Red, James Morrison and more.  The Forestry Commission is dedicated to making woodlands relevant for people in new ways and to bringing them …

White Lies (Jack) – Obelisk Arena – London
1. Who are you most looking forward to seeing at this year’s Latitude festival across the Arenas (Obelisk, Uncut, Comedy, Theatre, Literary and Poetry, Film & Music) and why?
Wow, so many acts I would love to see this year. Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Grace Jones, Spiritualized and Bat For Lashes are the big names for me. Also, there’s a few acts who I have close ties with through my Chess Club record label and promotions, who are brilliant, and they are …

Olly The Octopus has been up to his musically political tricks again, this time playing a new song to the grumpy police outside the American Embassy in London. Definitely worth a look, even if only to admire the daring nature of this passionate man:
Olly The Octopus – American Embassy
Don’t forget to check Olly out on MySpace if you haven’t already: www.myspace.com/ollytheoctopus.
-Lauren Razavi

THE CHAKRAS – ROCKY (VOCALS) OBELISK ARENA
1. Who are you most looking forward to seeing at this year’s Latitude festival across the Arenas (Obelisk, Uncut, Comedy, Theatre, Literary and Poetry, Film & Music) and why?
Saw Nick Cave in Dublin Castle and was ridiculously impressed with the performance, he’s not a small man, really looking forward to Spiritualised, Editors and Doves as well but probably looking forward most to wandering around and finding new bands.
2. What aspect of Latitude Festival interests you the most and why?
Place to find interesting new music …

The global recession has taken its toll on Paste Magazine, a fantastic non-profit print publication which houses articles about music, film and culture, as advertisers have slashed their spending. They are turning to art enthusiasts to help bridge the gap. Even a small contribution can make a big difference to them, so anything you give would be a help.
Join 75+ of Paste’s favorite artists in the campaign to save the magazine and get rare and exclusive tracks as a thank you.
Artists include The Decemberists, Neko Case, She & Him, Cowboy …