“There’s a famous story with Lyle [Kennedy, vocalist], the first day we got into Chicago,” says Jordan McKee, drummer for Scottish four-piece Box of Trash, with a laugh when I ask if the guys have any memorable moments from writing or recording. “Joan [Velez], the guy that runs our label picked us up and we went into an IHOP for breakfast. He’d met us for maybe 2-3 hours the previous night. Lyle here thought the butter was a dollop of ice cream and ate a spoonful in front of Joan and then proceeded to try and swallow it, probably spit half of it out. Joan probably looked at us at that point and thought ‘why the fuck have I brought these guys over here on a plane?’.”

Get to know our October artist of the month even better! Don't forget to check out the Apollo Junction feature in the October issue of the magazine to learn about the band's journey from formation through to their official UK charting album, released Oct 20. Read on below as Jamie Williamson (vocals), Matt Wilson (guitar), Ben Hope (bass), Jonny Thornton (drums) and Sam Potter (keys) – share more about their individual and collective music journeys.

In the ever-evolving world of music, it's not just the melodies and lyrics that captivate us; it's the stories behind the bands and artists, the journey that led them to create the music we love. Today, we delve into the captivating origin story of Five Lines, a band whose beginnings are as unique and entertaining as their sound. We'll explore their collaborative songwriting process, the magic of their live performances, the inspiration behind their lyrics, and their candid approach to social media. Join us as we uncover the remarkable world of Five Lines, a band driven by authenticity and a deep connection with their fans.

It’s half past ten on Friday night and several members of the “AJ Family” (as Apollo Junction’s fervent followers are known) are at another band’s show in Leeds, UK, attempting to refresh the official charts page over and over again despite shoddy phone service in the basement venue. Forty some-odd miles away at yet another gig in Manchester, another contingent are anxiously doing the same. They’ve been at it for hours. The charts were due to update at 5:45 pm and everyone is dying to know how Apollo Junction fared in the quest for a top 75 album.

“Update on our rock band’s feud with the Premier of Saskatchewan,” the long-haired brunette began, standing above her phone, hair dangling toward the camera. I stopped swiping up on TikTok and listened with increasing mirth as she described how her band, Nameless Friends (who go about band business under the aliases of Number One through Number Seven), rigged their email list to send “citizen feedback” to Scott Moe, the Premier of Saskatchewan, each time someone new subscribed.

In the realm of independent pop music, a brilliant new star is emerging to captivate hearts and souls with her ethereal melodies and touching lyrics. MINOE, a talented and dynamic artist, has recently unveiled her first EP, "Bleeding Heart's Disco," on October 6th, 2023, and the music world is buzzing with excitement.

"I never planned on playing music.”

It’s one of the first things Motel Thieves bassist Zak Halimi tells me, matter-of-factly, when he joins the video call with me and his bandmates. Despite growing up with a dad who is a bassist in a band of his own, Zak says he didn’t play the instrument much growing up. He knew one of the band’s guitarists, Sam Ellis, from playing basketball together. Somehow, when the opportunity to join Motel Thieves came up right as he finished secondary school, it was just a case of the right people at the right time. Now, Zak says, “I think it was meant to be, to be honest.”

Halfway between London and Glasgow, in the West Yorkshire city that famously gave the world the Kaiser Chiefs and Mel B of the Spice Girls, the band Astoria is emerging as a standout player in a whole new field of guitar-driven rock hopefuls.

Step into the dynamic world of Valkyrie, where music isn't just a sound; it's a lifeline, a way of storytelling, and a journey of rediscovery. Her rap is more than beats and rhymes; it's a reflection of life's raw essence, an exploration of emotions, and a window into the human experience.

In the vibrant tapestry of Toronto's indie music scene, a new sensation has emerged, and they're here to turn your ordinary night out into an unforgettable party. Meet Mandatory Overtime, a four-piece band that's been making waves with their high-energy live performances and unpretentious approach to music. But before we delve into their electrifying journey, let's start with the origin story of their unique name.

In the vibrant tapestry of the music industry, where artists often strive to create their unique sonic identities, there emerges a star who defies convention and weaves a soundscape all their own. Imani Graham, a name that is poised to become a household one in the world of indie pop, is not just an up-and-coming singer, songwriter, and producer; she is a maverick whose artistry knows no boundaries.

Though the reference may be lost on many, it’s only fitting that the Great Leslie are named after a debonair mid-century daredevil. Dapper, delightfully defiant, and dripping with talent, the London-based four-piece consistently delivers bangers that hearken back to an era when the music scene was rife with exciting new formula-breaking artists creating and combining entirely new genres and styles. Truly, The Great Leslie embodies the pioneering spirit of the 60s musical revolution, with expressive lyrics and hard-hitting, dancey, genre-defying tracks.

Ed Sheeran's highly anticipated Mathematics Tour reached the Mile-High City, taking over Empower Field in Denver, Colorado. The event was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by unexpected weather challenges and remarkable musical performances. With opening acts by the talented Cat Burns and the celebrated Khalid, fans were treated to an unforgettable night of music and resilience.

In the heart of the indie music scene, a vibrant new force is emerging, ready to make its mark. Welcome to the world of Cruz—a four-piece band whose dedication and craft is as impressive in as their music. As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, Cruz is gearing up to release their highly anticipated debut EP, promising a sonic experience that will transport you to the realm of their live gigs.

After the anticipated release of his debut EP titled "Reconstruct," it becomes evident that independent artist Liam Ross has truly come into his own. Building upon his previous works, including songs released under the moniker Verona, this project solidifies Ross's identity and artistic vision, showcasing a musician who has found his authentic voice and musical direction.

In this engaging interview with the talented musician Colin Tracey, known as Comfort Club, we dive into his journey through the world of music. Hailing from Michigan, but now residing in California, Colin's artistic interests led him to pick up the guitar and delve into songwriting, ultimately falling in love with the creative process. His decision to rebrand as Comfort Club came from a desire to encapsulate his artistry symbolically, with a name that felt fitting and unique. The conversation delves into the role of social media in promoting his music and the excitement surrounding his upcoming album, which promises to be a collection of relatable heartbreak songs. Colin's authenticity shines through as he reflects on the significance of enjoying the little victories along his musical path.

Meet The Forensics - a dynamic quartet consisting of Liam, Jamie, Jordan, and Dan - burst onto the indie music scene, fueled by a shared passion for music and an unwavering drive. What began as Liam's solo endeavor soon evolved into a powerful foursome, with Dan and Jordan joining the ranks, breathing life into their sonic exploration.