Alana Madden

Xiu Mutha Fuckin’ Xiu: Vol. 1 , is the latest album from the experimental, cult band, XIU XIU . A compilation of twelve eclectic covers, vividly described by the band as “a sonic self-portrait built from borrowed voices: post-punk anxiety, queer euphoria, industrial dread, tenderness, glamour and despair”. Due for release on the 16th of January, via Polyvinyl Records , the tracks provide not only an interesting exploration of the band's musical talents, but like a much beloved mixtape of...

About ten years ago, a legendary spit and sawdust pub and music venue, Nottingham’s Old Angel Inn, was bought up and reborn as   its moniker, The Angel. Initially unconvinced and slightly disgruntled, the city's scene was nevertheless delivered a polished up version of the old, with the addition of a micro-brewery…Hmmm. Eye rolls aside, The Angel today definitely still holds its weight amid the league of sticky floored venues and the IPA is actually pretty good. Branded, ‘The Chapel’, it’s...

Imagine the life of a 13th Century monk, channelling his spirituality in a draughty stone cell, candle flickering in permanent semi-shadow, the unearthly howling of wind through the cloisters. He’s probably been there for decades, living with his oath of silent communion. And then, what if, on returning to his cell one day, he finds an unusual object, it says ‘Korg’ on it, and by the same freakish act of the divine, it's somehow plugged in! Hark, a miracle! With no fear and his faith to guide...