Johnny5thWheel&theCowards
Underground Sounds
by Tim Osbourne
Tim Osbourne is a Music writer in the UK.
He covers emerging artists for rslblog.com
He covers emerging artists for rslblog.com
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Johnny5thWheelandthecowards have an interesting name, incredible energy and some fantastic tunes to go with it. It's almost cabaret pop-rock, and sounds wonderfully weird. This Preston, Lancashire-based collective are able to seamlessly turn their obscure influences into something wholly innovative and very accessible; stick The Dresden Dolls, Tom Waits, Elbow and erm... David Bowie in a blender and you might come up with a sound that is somewhat similar. It's very peaceful, and yet still challenging for the listener. [Editor's Note: This band could be the long lost sister-band to Boston's own Walter Sickert & the Army of Broken Toys. (Sensational!) I may make it my life's ambition to get these two acts together on stage... ]
Tracks like 'O My Soul' from the band's début 2010 release 'Tales Of' (a tune that, FYI, has a cracking animated video that you should check out) and the more recent single, 'Spike' both showcase the band's passionate and delightfully innovative take on progressive jazz and steampunk rock.
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Through strong live showcases (supporting credible international acts including Thomas Truax) and a dedicated work ethic, J5W are set to keep things exciting this year as they continue to release new material in raw and entertaining ways...
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