CMJ Showcase

Speech Debelle / The Temper Trap / Mumford & Sons / Goldhawks / Golden Silvers

The first thing about Speech Debelle that strikes the ear is a contrast. Her voice is warm, youthful and listenable, and if you heard her in the background you might assume that her lyrics were the same. You'd be better placed tuning into them. In common with her new label-mate Roots Manuva, she's astoundingly honest in her music, detailing and exorcising some very personal demons. That isn't to say she's another run of the mill rapper with more complaints than insights. Quite the opposite. Like all musicians worth listening to, she draws you into her universe and makes you glad you visited. There's always a thaw to the chillier moments. 'Searching' is her debut single, and a perfect example of the offbeat, folky production that will litter the forthcoming album, as well as the whisper-in-the-ear quality of her vocals. One thing is certain, hip-hop has never been done in quite this way before. 'Searching' makes you wonder why not.

On the strength of their self titled debut EP in 2006, Melbourne band The Temper Trap emerged as an endearing story packed full of irresistible promise An arrangement of atmospheric grooves, crowned by the vocal powers of singer Dougie's captivating voice led to the single 'My Sun' receiving rotation airplay on Triple J and the band being compared favorably with the likes of TV on the Radio, Radiohead and early U2

Intense and energetic live shows ensured an impressive tour roster with the band gracing the stage with prestigious international acts including Modest Mouse, Kasabian, Cold War Kids, Omar Rodriguez, The Dears, Damo Suzuki, and Spank Rock. Complimenting this were spots on multiple major festivals including V Festival, The Great Escape and The Laneway Festival.

Since the quartet’s formation in December 2007 through to their introductory debut EP in July, Mumford & Sons have finely chiseled out their status as one of Britain’s most assured new acts of the year.

When it comes to making music, there is a time to take it slowly and keep things unhurried. And then there’s a time to go ballistic, let it all out. Happily, rabble-rousing West Londoners Mumford & Sons have a knack for doing both.

Catch the band live and you’ll see four young men playing with a lusty, let-rip fervour. Mumford & Sons divulge warmth, immaculate musicianship, and a ‘join in!’ spirit, and mix it with a heart-on-sleeve honesty and directness. Sprawling, bold, and yet touchingly intimate, there are few, if any, acts today that have that unique ability to truly enrapture in their live performances, where each show becomes a cherished memory.