Welcome to a new feature which will seek to broaden our coverage of certain genres through pithy, ‘catch-up’ reviews of recent records we may have only just discovered, or not managed to get to around the release date.

Jinjer have something unusual, in a world of one-dimensional metalcore acts they have a vocalist with an incredible vocal range backed by some talented musicians and the ability to create some interesting and complex music. – By Jody Dunstan

Jody Dunstan saw Cleft play one of their last ever gigs in Manchester last month, with support coming from Alpha Male Tea Party and Body hound. “Although a genre that will never make the mainstream it is good to see so many people crammed into a small space enjoying the evening. “

Black Foxxes are a refreshing alternative to the anodyne, ‘alternative’ music all too common at the moment. – By Jody Dunstan

‘Unsongs’ is a whirlwind journey through various styles, tempos and feeling. I get this won’t really hit the mainstream, but it’s a shame because it really is bloody good. – By Jody Dunstan

Solomon Grey are a pleasure to listen to, hard to categorize them as any one particular genre. SG’s output includes movie soundtracks and the cinematic and classical touches come across on this album. Wilson and Kingston are a talented pair creating varied and complex music whilst still remaining memorable. By Jody Dunstan

Jody Dunstan saw Puscifer in Manchester recently. “Experiencing Puscifer’s first show in Manchester and the UK was a privilege, far from being an ego trip or a distracting side-project Puscifer are an captivating and unique musical experience.”

“The atmosphere felt more like a house party than a gig – relaxed and intimate,” by Jody Dunstan

White Noise Radio are an exciting and dynamic band producing complex and interesting music. By Jody Dunstan

There are some great tracks on this record, but it doesn’t seem to work well as a whole. Some of the tracks feel rushed and the mood changes too fast. This may be a symptom of a band brimming with ideas, which may bode well for the future as they develop and mature. – By Jody Dunstan

Jody Dunstan saw North Carolina’s progressive metal band Between the Buried and Me in Manchester. “It’s just a shame that things didn’t seem to hang quite right.”

Man and the Echo do certainly have something about them, a catchy tune or two, a bit of indie charm and some meaningful lyrics. By Jody Dunstan

“This is a band at the top of their game, if there is a better live band at the moment please let me know,” by Jody Dunstan.

“A great set to finish a good evening entertainment, with a shed ton of variety and energy,” by Rob Batchelor.

This is a mature and confident sounding EP with well-crafted songs and that keep you hoping for more. It’s short and sharp, heavy while still remaining melodic. – By Jody Dunstan

Diversity, some real technical ability and creativity with the ability to build a track to a crescendo, this band evidently know each other well, but I think this will only grow and develop in the future. – By Jody Dunstan

This EP has some great and diverse musicality and shows the band’s wide influences well. The tracks are fantastically produced and mixed. The music is complex, but sections are drawn into the fore really well. Keep an eye out for these guys. – By Jody Dunstan