GEM Magazine, London (2024)

30/08/2024

Second albums are always different from the debut. Some might say they come with a heightened level of pressure – if the first one did well, the public and industry both expect the sophomore record to be just as good, if not better; if the debut didn’t gather a lot of attention, you’ve got to make it this time, otherwise, the odds for future success may not be in your favour. 🎶

When it came to creating their second studio album, the German indie group Giant Rooks knew they had a formidable challenge waiting for them – but they mastered it just as its predecessor. Over the course of fourteen tracks, the eclectic ‘How Have You Been?’ invites listeners into a sonic journey that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, marking yet another milestone in the five-piece’s journey on their way to global stardom. 🧡

Check out our exclusive interview with the indie quintet via the link below. 🌟

Second albums are always different from the debut. Some might say they come with a heightened level of pressure – if the first one did well, the public and industry both expect the sophomore record…

09/08/2024

”Taylor Swift’s power in the music industry as well as in popular culture, along with everything she stands for, whether it be women’s independence, women’s rights or equality, is a threat to men who carry traits of toxic masculinity and bigoted misogyny. To those men, ALL women are targets. Always. Whenever. Wherever. It doesn’t matter if they are a 34-year-old pop star or a 6-year-old girl in a dance class. It doesn’t matter what they look like, where they come from, what they wear, what their ethnicity or religion are, if they are cis or trans. Women experience unwanted attention, fear, harassment, abuse and threats to their lives in any social setting or environment and any social class, all over the world. This is the frightening truth, and it is alarming.“ 🖤

Read our full opinion piece on Taylor Swift, the ongoing threat against female safe spaces, the riots in the UK and cancellations of her shows in Austria via the link below. 💫

Today, August 9th 2024, should’ve been one of the happiest days of my life that I’ve been looking forward to for over a year, ever since I somehow was lucky enough to secure two tickets…

16/07/2024

In the vast expanse of new and exciting music, there are some artist’s stories that defy convention and stick out more than others. MyKey’s journey is one such tale – a narrative of resilience, creativity, and unyielding love for music that has brought the California-based independent musician from the humble beginnings in his bedroom to the electrifying bustle of Los Angeles and the world. 🗺️

Check out the link below to read the full conversation with the upcoming indie star where we chat all about ’Big Hat Music‘, building cars and trusting your gut. 💫

📸: Jade Sadler

In the vast expanse of new and exciting music, there are some artist’s stories which defy convention and stick out more than others. MyKey’s journey is one such tale – a narrative of resilience, cr…

01/07/2024

Just over a year ago, American singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams released her debut album ‘Good Riddance’. Since then, she has kept busy touring the world as both a headliner and an opener for none other than Taylor Swift on her ‘The Eras Tour’. Still, that wasn’t enough to keep Abrams away from the studio. 💛

Check out the link below to read our full review of Abrams‘ latest spectacular full-length release ‘The Secret of Us‘. 👀

Just over a year ago, American singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams released her debut album ‘Good Riddance’. Since then, she has kept busy touring the world as both a headliner and an opene…

25/06/2024

In the electrifying realm of new music, where trends often shift like colourful kaleidoscopic patterns, one band stands out like a beacon of raw authenticity: modernlove. Hailing from the emerald shores of Drogheda in Ireland, the dynamic quartet has been championing nostalgia and unfiltered passion through their infectious melodies since their formation in 2016. From there on, it’s been a wild ride, as lead singer Barry Lally and guitarist Graham Fagan explore the highs, the lows, and the exhilarating crescendos that define their musical journey as well as the essence of their craft. 🫶🏻🖤

Read our full interview via the link below. 👀

In the electrifying realm of new music, where trends often shift like colourful kaleidoscopic patterns, one band stands out like a beacon of raw authenticity: Modernlove. Hailing from the…

14/06/2024

It was a gloomy spring evening when Ethel Cain and her fanbase took over Camden Town. Thousands of Gen-Zers and Millennials queued to see the American icon, who famously brought Amish dresses right into the limelight of today’s pop culture, live in London for the first time in a long while. 🤍

Follow the link below to read our full review of Cain‘s sold-out headline show at London‘s Roundhouse. 🌹

It was a gloomy spring evening when Ethel Cain and her fanbase took over Camden Town. Thousands of Gen-Zers and Millennials queued to see the American icon, who famously brought Amish dresses right…

07/06/2024

Ever since emerging from TikTok throughout the pandemic years, Caity Baser has become a pop staple to the UK music scene. Her ‘say it how it is’ approach to songwriting, together with her bubbly persona and recognisable Y2K fashion sense, has gained her an adoring Gen-Z fanbase and an ever-growing audience, on and offline. 🌹

Baser’s latest and highly acclaimed mixtape ‘Still Learning’ was released in March, and we sat down with her to discuss all things music, girlhood, situationships and what she might indeed still be learning. 🎵

Click the link below to read the full interview. 👀

📸: Lily Craigen Photography

Ever since emerging from TikTok throughout the pandemic years, Caity Baser has become a pop staple to the UK music scene. Her ‘say it how it is’ approach to songwriting, together with her bubbly pe…

27/05/2024

Step into the world of Buster and The Pigeons, a new musical solo project, whose emotionally charged debut album, ‘Fictional Things to Worry About’, serves as an adventurous exploration of life’s complexities. 💎

With candour and introspection, Buster Meaney, the man behind it all, opens up about the album’s genesis, from the inspiration behind his evocative artist name to the deeply personal process of translating thoughts and feelings into music. As we journey through his creative landscape, we uncover not only the stories behind the songs but also the indie artist’s perspective on sharing life’s highs and lows online, his aspirations for the future, and his reflections on the evolving music industry. 🤍

Check out the link below to read the full conversation. ✨

📸: Paul Tait

Step into the world of Buster and the Pigeons, a new musical solo project whose emotionally charged debut album, ‘Fictional Things to Worry About’, serves as an adventurous exploration of life& #821…

22/05/2024

The first Monday of May has come around and gone again, which means designers and celebrities, influencers and socialites once more gathered at the Metropolitan Museum in New York to celebrate extravagant art in the form of fashion, displayed at MET’s Costume Institute and on this year’s green-beige carpet. But while this was going on, the rest of the world was looking somewhere else - to Palestine. 🌹

Check out our full review of this year‘s MET Gala via the link below. 👀

🖼️: Hope Kensall

The first Monday of May has come around and gone again, which means designers and celebrities, influencers and socialites once more gathered at the Metropolitan Museum in New York to celebrate extr…

26/04/2024

Welcome to the special tenth issue of GEM. The music mag a cut above the rest. 💎

As the world awakens from its winter slumber, we couldn’t be more thrilled to present to you our vibrant tenth edition. And just as spring has arrived, this new issue is bringing a fresh wave of musical discoveries. 🌸

Gracing our cover this season are the mesmerising Palace, followed by the latest rising star on the starry night sky of pop music, Caity Baser, and the American artist and producer S. Holden Jaffe with his striking solo project Del Water Gap.

As always, we are proud to present yet another host of burgeoning stars in our Hidden Gems section. From the enchanting vocals of indie-riser Sophia Mohan, the infectious rays of musical sunshine from California-based singer-songwriter MyKey, the infectious energy of the Irish alt-pop group modernlove., and the rough guitar lines from the UK rockers Indoor Pets, prepare to be swept away by the latest wave of emerging artists. 🌟

Additionally, we sit down with the indie pop giants Giant Rooks, English rock band CRAWLERS, Ireland’s newest break-out quartet Picture This, and Scotland’s freshest funk and disco offering, High Fade.

And lastly, we invite you to explore a thought-provoking piece on the intersection of music and politics, with a spotlight on the insightful perspectives of Solana Lord-Baptiste, and an opinion piece that seeks to uncover the true essence of musical appreciation in an era dominated by fandom culture and social media.

As the world around us bursts into new life, we welcome you to immerse yourself in the stories, sounds, and soul-stirring melodies that define this extraordinary journey we call life. Welcome to our tenth edition – may it inspire you and fill your spring days with music’s infinite magic. 💖

Click the link below to read our free digital version or to support us by getting your hands on your own print copy - also on sale at our launch party next month. 🎊

BUY PRINT – READ DIGITAL

25/03/2024

Hailing from Australia and now rooted in Los Angeles, singer-songwriter Blake Rose has been captivating audiences with his music over the last few years, amassing a dedicated following on social media along the way. Drawing inspiration from the dual forces of love and heartbreak, he unveiled his latest EP, ‘Suddenly Okay,’ on March 22nd. 🤎

In a candid conversation on a bleak Wednesday afternoon, Blake shared insights into how his mother’s passion for Elvis Presley subtly influenced his musical style, his approach to songwriting that intertwines real-life experiences with imagined tragic tales, and the ongoing journey to balance his music career, social media presence, and mental health. 💫

Check out the link below to read the full interview. 👉🏻

Hailing from Australia and now rooted in Los Angeles, singer-songwriter Blake Rose has been captivating audiences with his music over the last few years, amassing a dedicated following on social me…

04/03/2024

Filled with subtle text painting, sonic as well lyrical call-backs to their past and an open ending which leaves a definite urge for more, ‘Overcompensate’ stands as a rip-roaring first taste of twenty one pilots’ new era and their upcoming record ‘Clancy’ - and for many fans, it is all they could have ever wished for. ❤️‍🔥

Click the link below to read our full deep-dive review of the US duo‘s comeback single, everything we know about the story of Clancy, Trench, Dema, The Bishops and more so far, and what it all may mean for the future of this epic tale. ✨

📸: Ashley Osborn

Well, people, the time has come. Twenty One Pilots have returned! When I first sat down to write this review, I thought to myself, what kind of article do I want to write? Usually, we like to keep …

24/02/2024

Featuring vibrant guitar sounds and mesmerizing vocals, Manchester’s alternative pop outfit Better Joy is on the brink of a major industry breakthrough. Founded and fronted by Bria Keely, the band draws inspiration from a diverse group of musicians, ranging from The Jesus & Mary Chain and Phoebe Bridgers to The Cure and Fazerdaze. With their latest release, the beautiful ‘Dead Plants’, Better Joy masterfully blends traditional and modern alt vibes into an invigorating mix that champions unconditional love and the ups and downs of relationships of all kinds. 🤍

We sat down with Keely to chat about their new single, how they got to where they are now, exciting plans for the future, and much more. Click the link below to read the full chat.🌟

https://read-gem.com/2024/02/23/better-joy-interview/

Featuring vibrant guitar sounds and mesmerizing vocals, Manchester’s alternative pop outfit Better Joy is on the brink of a major industry breakthrough. Founded and fronted by Bria Keely, the…

17/02/2024

The lights go down as the speakers come on. Channel-surfing through various radio stations, a series of songs by some of the greatest musicians of the 1950s play one after the other when finally, an announcement is being made: “Ladies and gentlemen, the tale you’re about to hear is one that happened a long, long time ago. The characters in the story are no longer with us but they live on as apparitions haunting these very rooms to share their never-ending tale of love. Sit back, relax. You’re listening to WWLD ‘What Would Love Do?’ Radio. Now playing: The Troubadours.” ✴️

Follow the link below to read our full review of Stephen Sanchez‘s cinematic sold-out headline show at London‘s . 🪩

📸: Mattia Ghisolfi

“No, it’s cool, come through! Come to the front!” – the words of encouragement are spoken by a thirty-something woman, wine glass in her hand, best friend on her side. The person she’s addres…

09/02/2024

In the fantastical realm of indie music, where authenticity reigns supreme, California-based artist David Marinelli, also known as Marinelli, stands as a testament to the power of raw talent and unwavering determination. As we dive into the world of his unique soundscape, we unravel the journey of a young artist who emerged from humble beginnings and carved his path in the industry as both a stellar producer and solo performer. 🎼

Check out the link below to read the full interview with the talented artist. 🫶🏻

📸: Wesley Goodrich

In the fantastical realm of indie music, where authenticity reigns supreme, California-based artist Marinelli, also known as David Marinelli, stands as a testament to the power of raw talent and un…

04/02/2024

If Electric Ballroom had a marquee, on one night not too long ago, it would have spelt out Del Water Gap in bold capital letters. Known for working with artists such as Claud and Maggie Rogers, Brooklyn-based producer and songwriter Holden Jaffe started releasing his own music as Del Water Gap back in 2015. 🖤

Now, nearly a decade later, a pink neon horse with a bowl cut shines solo on stage as the fog slowly takes over, the crowd screaming in anticipation inside the sold-out Camden venue. 🔥

Follow the link below to read our full review of the live triumph. 👀

📸: Erica Snyder

If Electric Ballroom had a marquee, on Tuesday night it would have spelt out Del Water Gap in bold capital letters. Known for working with artists such as Claud and Maggie Rogers, Brooklyn-based pr…

26/01/2024

As the past year slowly gets whisked away by January’s wintery breeze, British punk masters Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes boldly shatter expectations and defy the status quo with their latest release ‘Dark Rainbow’. 🌈

Known for their rock-heavy roots and unapologetic energy, the talented duo presents their newest masterpiece, marking a pivotal point in their musical history and embarking on a journey of self-love, rediscovery and a handful of surprisingly raw power ballads. 🎸

Check out our full review of the stellar new record via the link below. 👀

📸: Brian Rankin

As the past year slowly gets whisked away by January’s wintery breeze, British punk masters Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes boldly shatter expectations and defy the status quo with their …

18/12/2023

After having toured the world in the past few years, with Camila Cabello, Ed Sheeran, Lorde and more, New Zealand-born four-piece Drax Project recently released their sophomore album ‘Upside’ this November, which blends elements of pop, RnB and jazz-inspired sounds. Their creativity and attention to detail led them to become one of the biggest bands to ever come out of NZ and into the worldwide mainstream. 🎶

We spoke to members Ben O’Leary and Sam Thomson about the potentially awkward first impressions they left on other bandmates, their superstitious pre-show ritual, their songwriting process, live shows for 2024, and much more. ❤️‍🔥

Check out the link below for the full interview. 👌🏻

📸: Giulia Giannini McGauran

After having toured the world in the past few years, with Camila Cabello, Ed Sheeran, Lorde and more, New Zealand-born four-piece Drax Project recently released their sophomore album ‘Upside’ this …

27/11/2023

Peach PRC, aka Sharlee Jade Curnow, Australia’s new pop sweetheart is on her way to take over the world with her sparkling pink fairy universe. The singer, whose artist name is a homage to Nintendo’s Princess Peach, first rose to fame on TikTok, captivating her audience with her quirky persona and her outspoken approach to mental health and q***r sexuality, later on introducing them to her talent. 💗

We sat down with Peach over a long-distance Zoom call from her Australian home to find out more about her songwriting beginnings, her love for Pink – which is so much more than just a colour – and her admiration for female pop icons that led her to become one herself. 🦋

Check out the link below to read the full interview. 🌸

📸: Jess Gleeson

Peach PRC, aka Sharlee Jade Curnow, Australia’s new pop sweetheart is on her way to take over the world with her sparkling pink fairy universe. The singer, whose artist name is a homage to Nintendo…

22/11/2023

Miya Folick has been taking over the alternative indie scene as a queen of authenticity, whose music makes people feel understood through her vulnerable and pensive lyricism. Her rich and breathy mid-range vocals paired with a feisty pop-punk style create a cathartic feeling that makes you want to dance around your room and feel every emotion, whether it’s good or bad. Folick’s music has lifted so many hearts through deep, intimate writing about her uncomfortable battles throughout life. Her inspiring visions of spirituality, communal support, and both personal and universal empowerment push listeners to look inward, see themselves in a natural light, and face their battles from a place of love. ♥️

We spoke with Miya and discussed her early days as a musician and the powerfully intimate lessons she has learned along the way. 🎵

Check out the link below to read the full interview with the indie starlet. 🥀

📸: Jonny Marlow

Miya Folick has been taking over the alternative indie scene as a queen of authenticity, whose music makes people feel understood through her vulnerable and pensive lyricism. Her rich and brea…

17/11/2023

Last weekend, London’s famous OVO Arena in Wembley witnessed the return of Southend-born rock phenomenon Nothing But Thieves for two sold-out nights of musical extravaganza. The crowd, numbering 12,500 each time, eagerly embraced the cordial invitation to join the group at Dead Club City as the cold November air lingered outside and a warm atmosphere took over the arena, setting the stage for two unforgettable shows. 🔥

Read our review of the group‘s brilliant Saturday show via the link below. 💫

📸: Harris Tomlinson-Spence

Last weekend, London’s famous OVO Arena at Wembley witnessed the return of Southend-born rock phenomenon Nothing But Thieves for two sold-out nights of musical extravaganza. The crowd, numbering 12…

06/11/2023

London’s famous Scala was the place to be on a brisk Wednesday evening as rising indie rock sensation Briston Maroney took the stage in front of his eager, sold-out crowd. More than a year had passed since his last visit to the UK capital, but Maroney returned with unbridled enthusiasm and a fresh musical offering, the mesmerising ‘Ultrapure,’ poised to astonish his fans. And to nobody’s surprise, as soon as the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted into cheers, it was clear that this was going to be a special night. 🎶

Check out the link below to read the full review of the stellar show. 💖

📸: Muriel Margaret

London’s famous Scala was the place to be on a brisk Wednesday evening as rising indie rock sensation Briston Maroney took the stage in front of his eager, sold-out crowd. More than a year ha…

27/10/2023

After the release of his debut single, ‘you were there for me’, in 2022, it’s only been going up for 19-year- old newcomer Henry Moodie. This year, the young artist supported The Vamps, Busted, Mimi Webb and Lauren Spencer Smith on tour across Europe and the UK, while releasing three more original songs and growing an adoring fanbase on social media. 💃

Over a long-distance Zoom call from Paris to London, Moodie shared his experiences of attending the music university BIMM, discussed his admiration for Taylor Swift and her ‘Eras’ tour, shed light on the importance of vulnerability in songwriting – and even offered some insight into his own exciting upcoming era. ✨

Read the full interview via the link below. 🤎

After the release of his debut single, ‘you were there for me’, in 2022, it’s only been going up for 19-year- old newcomer Henry Moodie. This year, the young artist supported The Vamps, Busted, Mim…

12/10/2023

What does it mean to live life to the fullest? For some, it’s building a family and owning a pretty house in a quaint little town. To others, making one’s career dreams become reality is exactly what life should be like. 💖

For Briston Maroney, a young indie singer-songwriter from Nashville, who, over the years, has become famous for his deeply personal and consistently relatable musical endeavours, it’s what he spends his day-to-day with – music. His newly released sophomore album has not only become a testament to his evolution as an artist, but it has moreover helped him heal from the things hidden in the darkest corners of his soul and come to a place of self-discovery and forgiveness. It tells the story of how he found the “ultrapure” essence of life. ✨

Check out our exclusive cover interview with the uber-talented artist via the link below. 🌻

📸: Muriel Margaret

What does it mean to live life to the fullest? For some, it’s building a family and owning a pretty house in a quaint little town. To others, making one’s career dreams become reality is exactly wh…

06/10/2023

Welcome to the ninth issue of GEM. The music mag a cut above the rest. 💎

As the sun-kissed days of summer slowly (and sadly) fade into memory, and the first leaves of autumn begin to paint the world in shades of gold and crimson, we at GEM want to welcome you to a new season of music discoveries. 🍂

For our ninth issue, we sit down with none other than the sensational Briston Maroney, who talks us through his soul-stirring sophomore record ‘Ultrapure’, while rising talent Reneé Rapp takes her well-deserved spotlight, revealing the spirited depths of her lyrical talent, and pop prince Henry Moodie invites us into his exhilarating musical world.

As always, our favourite Hidden GEMs all get their time to shine – for this issue, we couldn’t be more thrilled to share our never-ending love for the American musical prodigy Marinelli, Australian indie mega-group Vacations, as well as emerging singer-songwriter Sophie May. 💫

Additionally, California-based artist Miya Folick takes us on a ride through the intricate sonic landscapes of her compositions, while 21-year-old Braden Bales showcases his unique musical prowess and shares his artistic journey in a riveting Q&A session. And lastly, the chart-topping sensation New Rules provide a glimpse into their meteoric rise in the music industry.

In addition to many captivating interviews, riveting reviews, and more, this ninth issue of GEM also delves into compelling topics such as the Writers Guild of America Strikes, as well as an opinion piece on the ever-important theme of Girlhood. It’s an issue full of stories and the people behind them, one that sets out to catch the essence of this unique juncture in time when we move from one season to the next. We hope that it can be your guide through this musical transition – and maybe even become the soundtrack to your autumn adventures.

Click the link below to read our free digital version or to support us by getting your hands on your own print copy. 💖

📸: Muriel Margaret

READ DIGITAL – BUY PRINT

30/06/2023

Welcome to the new era of Nothing But Thieves. The Essex-born group’s return with their fourth album, ‘Dead Club City’, marks a thrilling new chapter for the band and sees them dive into the serene depths of a conceptual album for the very first time. With socially insightful lyrics, fearless experimentation, and a sound that defies genre boundaries, the record showcases Nothing But Thieves’ enormous talents and further cements their position as one of the most innovative and captivating rock bands of our time. ⭐️

Check out the link below to read the full in-depth review of the quintet‘s stellar fourth LP. 🔥

Welcome to the new era of Nothing But Thieves. The Essex-born group’s return with their fourth album, ‘Dead Club City’, marks a thrilling new chapter for the band and sees them dive into the serene…

19/05/2023

After a pandemic-induced four-year wait, the German quartet Tokio Hotel returned to London to kick off the European leg of their Beyond The World tour. Throughout the entire set, the O2 Indigo was filled with a sense of familiarity and appreciation that could only be achieved by a band that accompanied their fans for most of their lives, and fans that in return unwaveringly supported the band during their own growth and evolution of sound. ❤️‍🔥

Read our full review of the German band’s takeover of the UK capital via the link below. 👀

After a pandemic-induced four-year wait, the German quartet Tokio Hotel returned to London to kick off the European leg of their Beyond The World tour. Jaws dropped when frontman and lead singer Bi…