EOIN BUTLER'sguide to downloads, singles and free audiostreams

THE STROKES

One Way Trigger ***

Rough Trade

It’s been a mixed week for Strokes fans. The good news: the band finally confirmed that they are recording a

fifth album at Electric Lady Studios in New York. However, the first track to emerge from those sessions is a synthpop workout, with falsetto vocals, that sounds like nothing the band have ever attempted before. Sub-AHa fiasco or stroke of genius? Both! I say! Somewhat indecisively!

MY BLOODY VALENTINE

Rough Song (Live at the Electric Brixton) ***

By the time this comes to press, MBV may already have released their first new album in 22 years. Or they may not have bothered. Or a pigeon riding a skateboard might just have been elected president of Hungary. Life is unpredictable like that.

THE KNIFE

Full of Fire Mute ****

The first taster from the Swedish duo’s forthcoming Shaking the Habitual album is a nine-minute short film by Marit Osberg. I don’t know who that is either, but there are lots of motorbikes and a woman pees on the street. For what that’s worth.

DAUGHTER

Still ***

Glassnote Records

Hot on the heels of a sold-out show at Dublin’s Button Factory last week, the London folk trio unveil the first video from their debut album, If You Leave. They return here on February 10th for a performance at Other Voices Derry.

NICK CAVE & THE BAD SEEDS

Jubilee Street Bad Seed Ltd *****

When Nick Cave comes “pushing his wheel of love”, obviously, it’s going to be down the most debauched and elegant street in town. A thrilling, terrifying place where a man might wear a tie and tails and carry a foetus on a leash. The understated accompaniment here recalls Pavement’s Strings of Nashville. But it builds to a slow crescendo that makes Jubilee Street one of the most astonishing places you’re likely to visit this year.