Alternative Sounds

 Alternative Sounds

by Pete Clemons

Alternative Sounds is back with a brand new compilation and, given the year we have all had, it is indeed a remarkable feat. The statistics around this series of releases are equally impressive. 4 CDs released over the last three to four years, containing 84 tracks by 82 different acts. And incredibly work is continuing on further releases that include a fifth volume along with one dedicated to Ska and reggae.

The original idea for the Alternative Sounds fanzines was the brainchild of Martin Bowes who has himself, over the last 40 years, regularly released records with his own Attrition project. And the spirit of that fanzine has been revived and faithfully restored in the modern digital age. In fact AS4, and the previous release AS3, came complete with a souped up version of the AS fanzine last seen during the very early 1980s.

Together, the Alternative Sounds team, have collected some exclusive tracks from their favourite artists and talent that Coventry and Warwickshire is well known for nurturing.

The CDs are instantly recognisable by their distinctive sleeves that feature full colour images of different music venues around the city.  And the contents are totally dedicated to what the county and city has to offer past and present. For me, AS4 had a couple of big hitters to draw you in, but those tracks were only a pre curser to what follows. And, as you move through the album, you cannot fail to be impressed by the talent and skill of these artists.

It doesn't take long before all of the tracks make themselves known. And despite the different styles and genres there are no fillers, and no intervals. So this whole compilation is perfectly designed to keep your interest throughout.

Alternative Sounds is without doubt a series of releases that continues to push the distinctive sound that has made the Coventry and Warwickshire music scene what it is today. It also reflects the huge steps that the team, who have clearly worked so hard to keep the releases coming, have taken over the years. AS4 follows the philosophy of previous releases in that it gives new talent a platform, alongside some of the more established names.

Over four glorious packed to the brim CDs, several now fully sold out, Alternative Sounds investigates the sounds of Coventry and Warwickshire. Whether it be rock, punk, acoustic or even electro along with a plethora of sub-genres. Its all here.

This limited run of releases is available from the 2 tone village, Vinyl Destination in the market and other outlets.