TOP ACTS OF 2018: JAMIE OTSA

What a year it’s been for new music and what better way is there to celebrate than by spotlighting some of the brightest talent from up and down the country in one special festive feature.

We caught up with Wall Of Sound PR founder and freelance journalist (Drowned In Sound, The Metro, The 405) Jamie Otsa and asked for his top acts of 2018 – he’s picked some absolute corkers. Delve in below.

 

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itoldyouiwouldeatyou

A truly original, thematically brave and musically experimental album from one of the most politically charged and intellectual new voices on the UK underground music scene.

 

THE SPOOK SCHOOL

In a divided world where bigotry and fascism seem to be on the rise, bands like The Spook School are not just relevant, they’re absolutely vital. A rallying point for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, chock full of lo-fi indie punk bangers to boot.

 

HAPPY ACCIDENTS

A beautifully understated masterclass in indie-punk songwriting that forged ahead into new lyrical pastures, reflecting the often turbulent upward trajectory both of their experiences as a band and in their personal lives.

 

CURSIVE

Reuniting after a long period of absence with their most politically biting and satirical record for many years, Cursive returned to form with this seething indie rock masterwork.

 

POLY-MATH

Continuously pushing the envelope for heavy instrumental music, this double LP concept record about 11th Century Iraq does not disappoint in its excessive use of FX pedals, insane musicianship, crushing heaviness or bonkers themes.