Quite a few releases from local bands to enjoy this week amid a package of very good tunes.

Single of the Week: Ex-Vöid – Down the Drain

A great track from a phenomenal album. This really showcases the Ex-Vöid MO – lively, shimmering, jangling, guitars and a constant dual singing style from the two lead singers. I am watching them live tonight, expect a review in the next few days.

Luvcat – Love & Money

So much to enjoy here. The sound is warm, and the song captures the feel of being swept up in an intense romance.

The Lottery Winners – Turn Around

The Lottery Winners have started dominating a niche that I wasn’t even sure existed anymore. They specialise in feelgood indie pop that feels like it has been sorely in decline since the mid-90s. This has an easy groove with an almost Happy Monday’s-esque vibe to it. This got its first play on BBC Radio Two showing they are slowly reaching into the mainstream consciousness.

Slung – Collider

Fourth release from this Brighton based band and every release so far has been extremely high quality. The debut album lands in May, they will be at the Purple Turtle 5th May for a free gig that cannot be missed.

The Amazons – Love Is A Dog From Hell

Rollicking rock n’ roll and another strong release… Can we just have the new album today?

Glitch – Patience

This came out a month ago, but I have only just heard this very decent debut track from a local Maidenhead band. They are at The Purple Turtle this Sunday, if I wasn’t in Oxford for Fat Dog I would have been watching.

Olivia Dean – It Isn’t Perfect But It Might Be

On the new Bridget Jones film soundtrack but don’t hold that against it. The BRIT School graduate and former Rudimental backing singer is continuing to develop into one of the best soul artists in the UK.

Bon Iver – Everything is Peaceful Love

A 5th album from the Grammy Award winners lands in April. Following on from ‘Speyside’ this another great track.

Sam Smith – Love Is A Stillness

Finishes barely after it has started, but a gorgeous little warble from one of the most powerful and distinct voices in modern music.

Sam Fender – Remember My Name

The Sam Fender tracks are coming thick and first ahead of the new album. This is very much a change of pace, much slower and more contemplative than his normal fair, set over music almost entirely consisting of a soaring brass section.

Lens, Emily Makis – Danger Zone

Lively offering that recalls The Prodigy or Pendulum but really pushes the drum and bass angle.

Cheap Suits – Poster

Local lads Cheap Suits release their first single, look out for them around the local pub circuit. Should have been at the Purple Turtle this Sunday but have had to pull out.