Ryan's Gig Guide - August 2018

www.ryansgigguide.com 10 rgg Aug 2018 The Verdict Reviews by Nick J. Townsend Birmingham based singer songwriter Lauren Marie re- leases her 2018 debut acoustic EP titled 2002; named as such probably because it's an anthology of selected demos written from that particular year to present day. Highlights include the beautifully haunting 'I can't Sleep' with its superb moody message of praying for a better day and 'I went on holiday and it was awful' arguably touching upon dark subject matter including alco- holism; hardly a drinking song as it tells a story of deal- ing with hurt 3000 miles away from home; overall a truly powerful tune and highly recommended. Lauren Marie is active on the live gig circuit and it's worth mentioning that she's previously supported artists such as Mumford and Sons, Biffy Clyro, Paramore and Ed Sheeran which explains the high standard of musician- ship demonstrated throughout her EP.Whilst she con- siders this a collection of (in her own words) "sad songs" it's more accurate to describe this as a deep and meaningful acoustic release which you'll warm closer to with each listen; it confidently displays how exceptional Lauren Marie is as a songwriter. Compelling, thought provoking and she has an ability to draw you into her tender universe filled with natural sinister beauty.Yes, perhaps the songs are full of sadness but you'd actually enjoy crying to this; tears need a soundtrack too. Excellent work. www.laurenmarieuk.bandcamp.com EP of the month 2002 by Lauren Marie Five piece Birmingham doom n' roll band Three Knuckle Shuffle release their debut single 'I've Been Away From The World' which is a tune packed full of Sabbath-esque flare and style but as a whole it's also quite a varied mixture of 90's rock and metal influences too.You can taste early Alice In Chain style vocals, feel a touch of the Metallica Black album groove, hear slowed down Megadeth angst, detect the frenzy of White Zombie and Rage Against The Machine ascend- ing and descending tower riffs; all of which were bands totally nailed to the pioneering metal flag planted by Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. So Three Knuckle Shuffle have arguably brought us full circle again and we're back to the original early doom rock sound but polished with some familiar 90's chums. The debut is available now for free download with an optional char- ity donation to Mind the mental health charity. Expect to hear more from this band and follow them today. www.facebook.com/TKShuffle SINGLE of the month I ’ ve Been Away From The World by Three Knuckle Shuffle