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Scottish Sunday Mail

King Tuts, Glasgow, Saturday 3rd January 2004 ****

This Glasgow five-piece's soft brand of rock boasts stunning intricate melodies, a distinct folk feel and some subtle eastern influences.

Moon delivered a tight and polished set with beautiful vocals from singer and guitarist Olivia. Highlights of their too-short-half-hour set included One On One and Happy Now.

They are not the most energetic live act, preferring to let their music carry the show. Luckily, the quality is good enough to do so.

Mike Larkin

One On One reviewed by ian sims for raw42.com

Summers here and it heralds the arrival of an excellent bluesy tune from Moon. One On One conjures up images of driving through American fields in a convertible with the one you love heading for nowhere in particular. Fantastic production and excellent vocal harmonies provide for a top tune. Lets hope we hear more like this before the winter comes!

Moon - "One On One" EP

La realistica

This is just lovely. Beautifully played and sung....kind of lost for words really. Moon kind of fill an area similar to Nelly Furtardo but are a just better. A sweet female voice floats over unobtrusive backing in a way that would usually have me runnning for the hills, however Moon pull the whole thing off with such aplomb that it would be very difficult not to like. There are two albums full of this stuff out there - you should buy them.
This is ace.

Go to www.moonsounds.co.uk and find out for yourselves.

La Realistica gives
Moon
10/10

Moon - Live at King Tut's, Glasgow

Sunday Mail

Moon light up gig ***

Moon shone in front of a small crowd in a seductive, half hour set.

With no drummer, they used programmed drum loops to give rhythm, leaving their tunes to be carried by the powerful lead vocals.

Moon are not about intricate tunes. Opting for a simple structure, based around deep grooves and sweet melodies, their sound recalls groups like zero 7 and Air.
Moon Live
King Tut's, Glasgow, Friday 4th January, 2002
i stand in melody heaven, in a king tuts specially packed for the occasion.
moon missed out on the head line spot by 7 tickets, which is disappointing in terms of the fact that they deserve that kind of credit - but which, in the actual scheme of things, makes very little difference. people are less drunk and more willing to listen than if they were playing last, which means events have taken a turn in their favour.
but if what the crowds are waiting for is rock music, they're going to be disappointed. if they're waiting for the "acoustic-y" music, as described by the metro, then they'll be disappointed too.
generic definitions baffle me, but perhaps part of moon's charm is that they have placed themselves beyond them. you can't fault moon's musicianship, their timing, their precision, the atmosphere they create.
indeed, having heard their (ambient) album, "living and learning," i am over-awed to see the music in the making, as if it were an easy process that they could do with their eyes shut, if they wanted to.
and you certainly can't fault the lady's voice - it is perfection itself. she's playing with it like a child with a toy, but makes no blunders: there'll be no tripping over the carpet and grazing her knees. she knows what she's doing with it, and does it well.
i hear a man say behind me say, "i think she can sing. she can really sing."
no shit, sherlock.
but moments later i hear him saying "this is too quiet and they're too good." and he has got a point. they are great, but there is something missing, some sort of "kick."
if they're that brilliant (which they almost are) then why aren't the folk up the back listening? why are they talking, and loudly at that? my suggestion is: it is not because they can't hear the music, but because there is nothing in particular making them stand up and listen to it.
there is no beat, no "life-force" (ponsey parallel: drum beat = heart-beat.) they are not playing out of time, but they are missing the energy and drive that drums would supply. or percussion of some sort, anyway.
on occasion some fantastic team work supplies this beat, in the form of pulsating rhythm guitar work. but it is not constant and nor could it be expected to be.
but having said all of that, the audience that are gathered in the front section are paying good attention, and there's a fair few of them up here - we're so chocka i can feel the man behind me breathing down my neck.
i gave the back a whirl because i'm told that's where you get the best sound, but it's more exciting down here.
the crowds are cheering, appreciating what is going on, not taking my cynic's stance and bemoaning what is lacking.
and they are right to do so, what is there is brilliant, and when mr. lead guitar suggests they can fit another tune in, they whistle and cheer still louder.
perhaps they know this is the best they'll hear all night, and maybe in a very long time.
despite the gaps that would make the performance perfect if filled, i'd say this is certainly true.
(c) 2001 ruth underwood | ruthie_u@hotmail.com

Moon - Live at King Tut's, Glasgow

Bjorn Sandberg

Missing the first band, preferring my choice of songs on the downstairs bar jukebox, I arrived upstairs just as Moon set off. After seeing them play at Caledonian Union, I wasn't going to miss this gig! Moon are a Glasgow west end based four piece. Two guitars, one acoustic, one electric, bass and two vocals. Oh, and their very handy computer which gives us the drums! Their vocalist has a stunning voice, never losing a note, she gives Moon a very unique sound. In particular, 'A Little Time' for me, is the best example of her subtle, but spin tingling vocal range. A very appreciative crowd, every song has an amazing reception. And when the stage manager indicates to the bass player to call it a day, the crowd make their feelings known, and Moon play one more tune! 'Catch a Fox' has a very poppy feel to it, and the last number they played which was from their first album, is in a similar vein. Moon are in a league of their own, as far as originality goes. Their reggae tinged guitar sound and a singer who wouldn't look out of place singing celtic ballads, you have to see it for yourself, and believe me... i'll be there the next time.

Bjorn Sandberg.

Moon EP

Andy Fraser

Mention to anyone a band who sound a bit like Massive Attack, but with Scottish vocals, and you'd be forgiven for fearing a 21st century Enya. Yikes. Scary thought, eh? Just as well Moon steer completely clear of these waters, instead opting to mellow you so much you melt into your sofa. The female vocalist (sorry, i forget her name, is it Katie?) has a voice like smooth whisky, flowing over the lazy beat and minimalist throbs of guitar. "Slide Away", the second song, sees a return to the wah-wah-tastic spliff-core that Moon showed themselves so incredibly capable of at the Caledonion Uni Battle of the Bands. It's little wonder they have been played on MTV and various radio stations, as well as attracting interest from record companies bigger than Robbie Williams' ego. That's real big. The third track is somewhat reminiscent (ooh...fancy!) of Air, and that kind of stuff, which I know very little about, but now wish I did. That particular genre of music has always bored me, but Moon really know how to get and keep your attention, rather than just sulking behind the decks at a party while everyone else skins up, as could be said of many acts in this vein. They seem to take all the good points of spliff-core, but are equally adept at avoiding the pitfalls that grab everyone else. Nice one! I just hope I get to see them live again before they attain the super-stardom they deserve.

Caledonian Battle of the bands

Caledonian University Student Magazine

Thanfully Moon restored my faith back in live music. Their mystical wahwah grooves, funky Eastern leanings and, frankly, extremely foxy singer was a breath of fresh air.

They really are quite impressive. They were a confident bunch too.

A band to look out for.

Caledonian student union Barman Steve said of moon:

"Mystical and groovy- a lot more mature sounding than all the other bands. Possibly a bit like Clannad with a drum machine? By far the best band of the night."

Bulaka.com wrote...

"how would you like your coffee, sir?"

" mellow," replies the man. "oh, and throw in a dash of moon while you're there..."

if moon were coffee, they would be the sweetest, strongest, yet still mellow blend that money could buy. think of the best capuccino. or maybe a mocha. whatever your preference, moon are sure to please.

hailing from glasgow, moon were formed in 1999 and released their first album in june 2000. they have made band of the week on a national radio station, and their music is a regular feature on mtv's the real world.

the band have been receiving rave reviews in the press (and on bulaka!!) for their unique blend of groove, folk, rock, indie, power pop and reggae, and have now completed their new album.

we have to admit we are big fans of the mellow sounds that come from moon, and the almost floaty melodies that seem to have you drifting off spacewards..

moon - living and learning

Pete Cockburn

thanks to a very surprise visit by alan mitchell who personally delivered the new moon album, living and learning, we've had the chance to see what all the fuss surrounding moon is about first hand.

the album kicks off with the mighty title track living and learning, which sets the scene for the rest of the album. what sounds like a journey of discovery, this track has the trademark moon funky basslines, wispy accoustic guitar sound, and olivia ennemoser's vocals just lift the song to new heights.

somehow managing to blend reggae with hank marvin-like guitar, easy now bounces out of the speakers. funky, bluesy sounds are something which moon are experts in. and bitten kicks off with nothing less than an excellent bass groove - this is one track which could really take off with some decent airplay. a trancy-dub concoction with floating vocals by olivia.

just when you think you're going to be hit with another dub track, out of the blue comes just a lie, something which the eagles would have killed for. olivia shows us her vocal range with delicious vocal harmonies.

an album which demonstrates the diverse musical influences of the band, do you like it kicks off with a gentle accoustic melody remeniscent of crowded house before ending all to quick.

change is the first track where you could actually say there is a guitar solo. moon don't do guitar "solos" however. not in the sense of the "how many notes can you play in the shortest time". with an excellent buildup we just wished this song would carry on and on.

lyrically, to a friend is probably the hardest hitting track on the album. olivia displays her softer, haunting side: "it's an empty kind, not a tempting kind of day".

to lighten things up, catch my thoughts flies in with yet another groovy rhythm and one of our favourite (but again too short!) guitar breaks. if we didn't know better we would have said larry gott from james had just walked in to play.

if by this point you are not floating somewhere in the ether, then blowing it all away will take you there. haunting. dreamy.

floating out of the speakers like a peaceful dream comes the final track, tonight. a fitting end to an excellent album which manages to uplift you, make you look inside yourself, and then leave you flying somewhere in the clouds.

All songs © 2000-2003 Moonsounds




Home / videos / mp3s / photos / links / contact

		Reviews Scottish Sunday Mail King Tuts, Glasgow, Saturday 3rd January 2004 ** This Glasgow five-piece's soft brand of rock boasts stunning intricate melodies, a distinct folk feel and some subtle eastern influences. Moon delivered a tight and polished set with beautiful vocals from singer and guitarist Olivia. Highlights of their too-short-half-hour set included One On One and Happy Now. They are not the most energetic live act, preferring to let their music carry the show. Luckily, the quality is good enough to do so. Mike Larkin One On One reviewed by ian sims for raw42.com Summers here and it heralds the arrival of an excellent bluesy tune from Moon. One On One conjures up images of driving through American fields in a convertible with the one you love heading for nowhere in particular. Fantastic production and excellent vocal harmonies provide for a top tune. Lets hope we hear more like this before the winter comes! Moon - "One On One" EP La realistica This is just lovely. Beautifully played and sung....kind of lost for words really. Moon kind of fill an area similar to Nelly Furtardo but are a just better. A sweet female voice floats over unobtrusive backing in a way that would usually have me runnning for the hills, however Moon pull the whole thing off with such aplomb that it would be very difficult not to like. There are two albums full of this stuff out there - you should buy them. This is ace. Go to www.moonsounds.co.uk and find out for yourselves. La Realistica gives Moon 10/10 Moon - Live at King Tut's, Glasgow Sunday Mail Moon light up gig * Moon shone in front of a small crowd in a seductive, half hour set. With no drummer, they used programmed drum loops to give rhythm, leaving their tunes to be carried by the powerful lead vocals. Moon are not about intricate tunes. Opting for a simple structure, based around deep grooves and sweet melodies, their sound recalls groups like zero 7 and Air. Moon Live King Tut's, Glasgow, Friday 4th January, 2002 i stand in melody heaven, in a king tuts specially packed for the occasion. moon missed out on the head line spot by 7 tickets, which is disappointing in terms of the fact that they deserve that kind of credit - but which, in the actual scheme of things, makes very little difference. people are less drunk and more willing to listen than if they were playing last, which means events have taken a turn in their favour. but if what the crowds are waiting for is rock music, they're going to be disappointed. if they're waiting for the "acoustic-y" music, as described by the metro, then they'll be disappointed too. generic definitions baffle me, but perhaps part of moon's charm is that they have placed themselves beyond them. you can't fault moon's musicianship, their timing, their precision, the atmosphere they create. indeed, having heard their (ambient) album, "living and learning," i am over-awed to see the music in the making, as if it were an easy process that they could do with their eyes shut, if they wanted to. and you certainly can't fault the lady's voice - it is perfection itself. she's playing with it like a child with a toy, but makes no blunders: there'll be no tripping over the carpet and grazing her knees. she knows what she's doing with it, and does it well. i hear a man say behind me say, "i think she can sing. she can really sing." no shit, sherlock. but moments later i hear him saying "this is too quiet and they're too good." and he has got a point. they are great, but there is something missing, some sort of "kick." if they're that brilliant (which they almost are) then why aren't the folk up the back listening? why are they talking, and loudly at that? my suggestion is: it is not because they can't hear the music, but because there is nothing in particular making them stand up and listen to it. there is no beat, no "life-force" (ponsey parallel: drum beat = heart-beat.) they are not playing out of time, but they are missing the energy and drive that drums would supply. or percussion of some sort, anyway. on occasion some fantastic team work supplies this beat, in the form of pulsating rhythm guitar work. but it is not constant and nor could it be expected to be. but having said all of that, the audience that are gathered in the front section are paying good attention, and there's a fair few of them up here - we're so chocka i can feel the man behind me breathing down my neck. i gave the back a whirl because i'm told that's where you get the best sound, but it's more exciting down here. the crowds are cheering, appreciating what is going on, not taking my cynic's stance and bemoaning what is lacking. and they are right to do so, what is there is brilliant, and when mr. lead guitar suggests they can fit another tune in, they whistle and cheer still louder. perhaps they know this is the best they'll hear all night, and maybe in a very long time. despite the gaps that would make the performance perfect if filled, i'd say this is certainly true. (c) 2001 ruth underwood \| ruthie_u@hotmail.com Moon - Live at King Tut's, Glasgow Bjorn Sandberg Missing the first band, preferring my choice of songs on the downstairs bar jukebox, I arrived upstairs just as Moon set off. After seeing them play at Caledonian Union, I wasn't going to miss this gig! Moon are a Glasgow west end based four piece. Two guitars, one acoustic, one electric, bass and two vocals. Oh, and their very handy computer which gives us the drums! Their vocalist has a stunning voice, never losing a note, she gives Moon a very unique sound. In particular, 'A Little Time' for me, is the best example of her subtle, but spin tingling vocal range. A very appreciative crowd, every song has an amazing reception. And when the stage manager indicates to the bass player to call it a day, the crowd make their feelings known, and Moon play one more tune! 'Catch a Fox' has a very poppy feel to it, and the last number they played which was from their first album, is in a similar vein. Moon are in a league of their own, as far as originality goes. Their reggae tinged guitar sound and a singer who wouldn't look out of place singing celtic ballads, you have to see it for yourself, and believe me... i'll be there the next time. Bjorn Sandberg. Moon EP Andy Fraser Mention to anyone a band who sound a bit like Massive Attack, but with Scottish vocals, and you'd be forgiven for fearing a 21st century Enya. Yikes. Scary thought, eh? Just as well Moon steer completely clear of these waters, instead opting to mellow you so much you melt into your sofa. The female vocalist (sorry, i forget her name, is it Katie?) has a voice like smooth whisky, flowing over the lazy beat and minimalist throbs of guitar. "Slide Away", the second song, sees a return to the wah-wah-tastic spliff-core that Moon showed themselves so incredibly capable of at the Caledonion Uni Battle of the Bands. It's little wonder they have been played on MTV and various radio stations, as well as attracting interest from record companies bigger than Robbie Williams' ego. That's real big. The third track is somewhat reminiscent (ooh...fancy!) of Air, and that kind of stuff, which I know very little about, but now wish I did. That particular genre of music has always bored me, but Moon really know how to get and keep your attention, rather than just sulking behind the decks at a party while everyone else skins up, as could be said of many acts in this vein. They seem to take all the good points of spliff-core, but are equally adept at avoiding the pitfalls that grab everyone else. Nice one! I just hope I get to see them live again before they attain the super-stardom they deserve. Caledonian Battle of the bands Caledonian University Student Magazine Thanfully Moon restored my faith back in live music. Their mystical wahwah grooves, funky Eastern leanings and, frankly, extremely foxy singer was a breath of fresh air. They really are quite impressive. They were a confident bunch too. A band to look out for. Caledonian student union Barman Steve said of moon: "Mystical and groovy- a lot more mature sounding than all the other bands. Possibly a bit like Clannad with a drum machine? By far the best band of the night." Bulaka.com wrote... "how would you like your coffee, sir?" " mellow," replies the man. "oh, and throw in a dash of moon while you're there..." if moon were coffee, they would be the sweetest, strongest, yet still mellow blend that money could buy. think of the best capuccino. or maybe a mocha. whatever your preference, moon are sure to please. hailing from glasgow, moon were formed in 1999 and released their first album in june 2000. they have made band of the week on a national radio station, and their music is a regular feature on mtv's the real world. the band have been receiving rave reviews in the press (and on bulaka!!) for their unique blend of groove, folk, rock, indie, power pop and reggae, and have now completed their new album. we have to admit we are big fans of the mellow sounds that come from moon, and the almost floaty melodies that seem to have you drifting off spacewards.. moon - living and learning Pete Cockburn thanks to a very surprise visit by alan mitchell who personally delivered the new moon album, living and learning, we've had the chance to see what all the fuss surrounding moon is about first hand. the album kicks off with the mighty title track living and learning, which sets the scene for the rest of the album. what sounds like a journey of discovery, this track has the trademark moon funky basslines, wispy accoustic guitar sound, and olivia ennemoser's vocals just lift the song to new heights. somehow managing to blend reggae with hank marvin-like guitar, easy now bounces out of the speakers. funky, bluesy sounds are something which moon are experts in. and bitten kicks off with nothing less than an excellent bass groove - this is one track which could really take off with some decent airplay. a trancy-dub concoction with floating vocals by olivia. just when you think you're going to be hit with another dub track, out of the blue comes just a lie, something which the eagles would have killed for. olivia shows us her vocal range with delicious vocal harmonies. an album which demonstrates the diverse musical influences of the band, do you like it kicks off with a gentle accoustic melody remeniscent of crowded house before ending all to quick. change is the first track where you could actually say there is a guitar solo. moon don't do guitar "solos" however. not in the sense of the "how many notes can you play in the shortest time". with an excellent buildup we just wished this song would carry on and on. lyrically, to a friend is probably the hardest hitting track on the album. olivia displays her softer, haunting side: "it's an empty kind, not a tempting kind of day". to lighten things up, catch my thoughts flies in with yet another groovy rhythm and one of our favourite (but again too short!) guitar breaks. if we didn't know better we would have said larry gott from james had just walked in to play. if by this point you are not floating somewhere in the ether, then blowing it all away will take you there. haunting. dreamy. floating out of the speakers like a peaceful dream comes the final track, tonight. a fitting end to an excellent album which manages to uplift you, make you look inside yourself, and then leave you flying somewhere in the clouds. All songs © 2000-2003 Moonsounds