Playlist: HITS magazine

To celebrate the release of our first print issues, here's a playlist featuring all artists involved.

HITS x Berlin

We hosted our very first live gig in Berlin - and this is what it looked like.

Cover The HITS

Our latest video series - covers performed by our favourite acts, exclusively for us.

Video Interview: Scenic Route To Alaska

Melting away in front of Stuttgart's castle, we had a chat about touring, band names, Toy Story and a lot more.

Find us on YouTube!

Visit us on the 'tubes for interviews, exclusive performances and outtakes.

Video Interview: Noah Guthrie




Hey guys!

There are a few things I won't ever shut up about.
One of them are cats. I mean... I don't have to explain that, do I?

Other than interviews, I also love talking about interviews.
Not job interviews, phew, who enjoys those?

But those interviews where I get to be nosey and ask questions that not only I want to be answered, but also the viewers can enjoy.
And on top of that, it's a nice platform for talented musicians who deserve an even bigger audience.

Whenever I get to film an interview, I try to create a casual and relaxed enviroment for everyone to feel comfortable.
For house in the sand it just feels more suitable to have an enjoyable interview rather than those where everyone feels a little intimidated.

Today I've got another lovely and relaxed interview for you, so let me invite you to check it out.
The artist who is in the spotlight today is Noah Guthrie.

Noah Guthrie is a singer/songwriter based in Greer, South Carolina, USA.
His music combines the key elements of Americana, Soul and Acoustic.

Noah grew up in household filled with music, so he naturally discovered his love for it at an early age.
He has been covering songs on YouTube for almost 6 years now.
His most famous cover of LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It" has reached almost 25 million views. This soulful rendition of the pop track obviously got a lot of well deserved attention.

Noah's talent also caught the attention of US hit series Glee's staff who asked him to audition for the role of Roderick Meeks, which he successfully did.

But Noah Guthrie is capable of way more than just covering songs. And his debut album "Among The Wildest Things" proved just that.

Over the years he opened concerts for Ed Sheeran, Neon Trees, Selena Gomez and many more.

During his second Germany tour this year, Noah stopped by in Stuttgart to play a gig at Stuttgart's most rock'n'roll venue, Kellerklub.

Just before he went on stage, we sat down in the world's most glamorous backstage area and had a little chat about the crowds at gigs, Glee, social media, his next album and more!
Enjoy!



If you want to hear more from Noah, make sure to check out this performance of his song "Death Of Me".





Noah Guthrie online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram



Many thanks to Noah for this lovely chat!
And, of course, thank you to David for the special appearance and arranging the interview.




Thank you for your visit!












Credits // Text, Image & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

Album Review: "Wild World" by Bastille



Hey guys!

Every now and then some friends ask me, if I prefer working with new and unknown acts or famous acts.
And all I can say is, I don't have a preference.

I enjoy working with people who are passionate about their art and that's something that both kinds of artists can be. Doing what I do makes me feel very lucky because I get to meet and work with all these different kinds of people.

And the same counts for what I listen to: just because a band is signed to a major label, doesn't mean I'll love their music.
But it also doesn't mean that I'll hate it.

In my opinion, you have to be open to everything and just love music. 
That's the best way to discover new tunes!

So, let's be open to new music and find out what we think about Bastille's newest album!

Band: Bastille
Title: Wild World
Genre: Alternative
Label: Virgin Records
Release date: 9th September 2016
HITS rating: 7.5/10

Bastille are a four piece band from London, UK.
They play a mixture of Alternative and Indie-Rock with Electronic elements.

Bastille, named after Bastille Day which France celebrates on July 14th, started as singer Dan's solo project back in 2010. It soon turned into the band outfit which consists of:
Dan Smith
Kyle Simmons
Will Farquason
Chris Wood

After releasing their debut single and EP themselves, the band got signed by EMI.
The attention they got from their releases, soon led to support slot, as well as slots at festivals such as England's Glastonbury.

To say they're doing well as a band, would be an understatement.

With their second album, "Wild World", Bastille are ready to do even more.

Here's our review!

Tracklist:
1) Good Grief
2) The Currents
3) An Act Of Kindness
4) Warmth
5) Glory
6) Power
7) Two Evils
8) Send Them Off!
9) Lethargy
10) Four Walls (The Ballad Of Perry Smith)
11) Blame
12) Fake It
13) Snakes
14) Winter Of Our Youth

Opener "Good Grief" is also the first single the band released off of the album.
It's one of those songs you just know is performed by Bastille. The signature elements are so very present; singer Dan Smith's unique vocals, harmonies, electronic drum pads, groovy basslines and catchy melodies.
An element you'll notice a couple of times throughout the album are dialogue samples from movies.

A track which stands out is "Lethargy".
 It marches straight forward without being too bold. It's a song that offers you twists and turns, yet it flows naturally. It's an up tempo track with a great and determined energy. The instrumentation on this song is so well arranged, you can tell that the band has worked very carefully to make all elements work together.

"Fake It" has a rather dark and mysterious feeling to it.
The synths and the drum pad give it a very electronic vibe which also keep the energy and dynamic of the album alive. It seems to represent Bastille's calmer and more serious side.

To sum it up: With singer Dan's voice being stronger and more flexible than ever, a big part of the record is carried by the fantastic lead and backing vocals the singer and the band have to offer.
But let's not forget about the clever arrangements, the storytelling and relatable lyrics, as well as the fantastic production of the record. 


You should listen to these tracks: Good Grief, Lethargy, Fake It, Snakes





Fancy catching Bastille live?
Check out the tour dates here.



Bastille online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!













Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Bastille (official album artwork)

Gig Photos: Noah Guthrie at Kellerklub, Stuttgart




Hey guys!

One thing I've always loved about the music community I'm in, is that there's this honest appreciation and support for one another's work.
Everyone is grown up and aware of the fact that there are so many talented people out there.

Which is why I've decided that I only want to support people like that.
What's the point in back-stabbing others?
What's the point in thinking you're the only one good at your craft?

I certainly don't have time for that and I want to cheer for everyone who doesn't either.

Noah Guthrie is one of those artists who support others, who seem to be in awe with the work that other artists put out there.
And I seriously can't clap loud enough to show how great I think that is!

On Monday, September 19th, I went to his show in Stuttgart. We filmed an interview beforehand which you'll be able to watch super soon. Subscribe to us on YouTube so you won't miss it.



Noah Guthrie is a singer/songwriter based in Greer, South Carolina, USA.
His music combines the key elements of Americana, Soul and Acoustic.

Noah grew up in household filled with music, so he naturally discovered his love for it at an early age.
He has been covering songs on YouTube for almost 6 years now.
His most famous cover of LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It" has reached almost 25 million views. This soulful rendition of the pop track obviously got a lot of well deserved attention.

Noah's talent also caught the attention of US hit series Glee's staff who asked him to audition for the role of Roderick Meeks, which he successfully did.

But Noah Guthrie is capable of way more than just covering songs. And his debut album "Among The Wildest Things" proved just that.

Over the years he opened concerts for Ed Sheeran, Neon Trees, Selena Gomez and many more.

During his second Germany tour this year, Noah stopped by in Stuttgart to play a gig at Stuttgart's most rock'n'roll venue, Kellerklub.

Below are impressions from the gig.







Noah was accompanied by his brother Ian on the drums. The two of them played new songs which will be on Noah's next album, as well as tracks from a his debut album.

Joking how he only seems to write sad songs and love songs, he sure knew how to keep the audience all happy.
Overall he was very happy to tell the stories behind the songs which the fans really enjoyed.

It was very obvious that the music Noah plays, is exactly the music he wants to play. The honesty in the songs and the passion in the way he delivered them just proved that this guy loves his job.

Between his original songs, Noah also decided to play a few covers.
George Michael's "Father Figure", which Noah performed on Glee was one of many great covers.
With his version of Amy Winehouse's "Valerie" he got the crowd to dance and sing along. (Myself included!)

Of course his very own version of "Sexy and I Know It" was another highlight and the audience made it very obvious they enjoyed it.













I had a fantastic evening watching the gig.
I love those evenings where it's just one or two people on stage playing heartfelt music.

Also really enjoyed the very lovely audience who was very kind to me as a photographer.
















Watch the music video for Noah's latest single "Pardon Me" below!





Noah Guthrie online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram



Massive thank you to David for arranging the evening and to Noah and Ian for the lovely chats.





Thank you for your visit!













Credits // Text & Photography: Vanessa Jertschewske

EP Review: "Ultraviolet" by Dagny



Hey guys!

I don't know about you, but I enjoy Summer.
That stereotypical carelessness, the feeling of the sun warming you up, the flowers all being in their best state, looking absolutely beautiful.

Of course there are things about Summer that aren't that great, but let's romanticize the season because it's almost over anyway.

To hold onto Summer 2016 a little longer, I'm super happy to review an EP for you today, that I think sums up the season perfectly.

Here's to Dagny's "Ultraviolet". 

Artist: Dagny
Title: Ultraviolet
Genre: Alternative, Pop
Label: Republic Records
Release date: 2nd September 2016
HITS rating: 8/10

Dagny is a singer/songwriter originally from Tromsø, Norway. Her sound has developed into alt-pop over the years.
She is now based in London, UK to write and record more music.

The last few years have seen Dagny play countless gigs and festivals which has gotten her a lot of attention and a loyal fanbase.


The talented and charming lady just released her debut EP and we're delighted to share it with you.


Tracklist:
1) Fight Sleep
2) Ultraviolet
3) Too Young
4) Backbeat
5) Fool's Gold (feat. BØRNS)

Opener "Fight Sleep" sets the scene for the EP; it's a track that gives you the perfect impression of what the rest of the EP is going to sound like.
It starts off atmospheric but quickly develops a bouncy rhythm that makes you want to dance around in your room. (Or on the tube, depending wherever you might be at the time you're listening.)
The chorus has an anthem-like vibe to it; the layered backing vocals underline the carefree attitude of the song.

You're already up on your feet and ready to dance? Good!
Here comes title track "Ultraviolet" to make you shake those hips.
The track is carried by an up-tempo beat, sassy electric guitar chords and, of course, Dagny's stirring vocals that just transport the energy of the music so well.

Let's chat about the song I would totally call a Summer soundtrack, "Backbeat".
It's one of those tracks you didn't know you needed until you heard it.
This song has everything you need in a song when you just want to drive around in the countryside and enjoy the last few days of Summer.
The electric guitar is the heart of the song, sheltered by the infectious beats and carried by the sass in the singer's voice.

To sum it up: This EP is the perfect listen for those late Summer days in September which are those precious days we often use to reflect the season. 
All of the songs will make you want to wear a dress and a flowercrown and dance around in your room like you're at a festival. There's no reason why one wouldn't enjoy the bubbly, sassy and energetic tracks.
Dagny, thank you for giving us an EP that sounds just like Summer.



You should listen to these tracks: Ultraviolet, Backbeat





Dagny online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Thank you for your visit!











Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Dagny

Gig Photos: Ryan Vail at Weltcafé, Stuttgart




Hey guys!

You know how a lot of musicians say that making music is like a drug?
When you start doing it, you kind of want to carry on for as long as possible?

I'm pretty sure that's not just the case with music but also with other activities.
For me it would be photography. I love the entire process from charging the camera battery to uploading the final image.

It's something I thoroughly enjoy and don't think I'll grow tired of any time soon.

Last Tuesday I went to Stuttgart to watch Ryan Vail play a gig.
Before the gig we filmed a little interview with you can check out here.

Now, my number one gig essential is my camera- therefore I obviously wanted to photograph and capture the evening.

Ryan Vail is a singer/songwriter and producer from Derry, Ireland.
He blends electronica, folk and classical elements and adds his very own spices to the mixture, creating the unique, dark and mysterious sound that has gotten him a loyal fanbase.

His refreshing sounds has opened many doors for Ryan and so far he's played sessions for BBC Introducing and received radio play from multiple DJs such as Annie Mac and Zane Lowe.

In the past few years, Ryan has supported acts such as Nils Frahm, Jamie XX, Orbital and many more.

So far the musician has released three EPs, a collaborative album with Ciaran Lavery and his debut album "For Every Silence".

The first week of September 2016 has seen Ryan on his first Germany tour and it's safe to say that it's been a success.


Ryan's show in Stuttgart was an open air gig at Weltcafé.

It was a perfect late-Summer evening which started out relaxed but soon turned into an energetic dance party.
The one thing I kept noticing was how everybody just enjoyed themselves and seemed so chilled.


It's not every gig that around 500 people have a relaxed and carefree evening in the centre of a busy city such as Stuttgart.


Below are some photos of the evening which I hope you enjoy!






































Listen to Ryan's track "1927" below.




Ryan Vail online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Big thanks to Ryan and Lyndon for the lovely evening.
And to Reiner for supporting great music and putting on great gigs!




Thank you for your visit!













Credits // Text & Photography: Vanessa Jertschewske

Video Interview: Ryan Vail




Hey guys!

For as much as I love creating any kind of content for house in the sand,
I always discover that video interviews and gig coverage are my two favourites.

Being able to step away from the computer and chat to people face to face is just more personal and more exciting.

Every interview is unique and different in certain ways and I think that's one of many reasons, why I adore the entire interview process; from research to uploading the final product.

I'm very happy to share another, super lovely chat with you today.
On Tuesday, September 9th I had a little conversation with Ryan Vail.


Ryan Vail is a singer/songwriter and producer from Derry, Ireland.
He blends electronica, folk and classical elements and adds his very own spices to the mixture, creating the unique, dark and mysterious sound that has gotten him a loyal fanbase.

His refreshing sounds has opened many doors for Ryan and so far he's played sessions for BBC Introducing and received radio play from multiple DJs such as Annie Mac and Zane Lowe.

In the past few years, Ryan has supported acts such as Nils Frahm, Jamie XX, Orbital and many more.

So far the musician has released three EPs, a collaborative album with Ciaran Lavery and his debut album "For Every Silence".

The first week of September 2016 has seen Ryan on his first Germany tour and it's safe to say that it's been a success.

Just an hour before his open air gig in Stuttgart, we sat down and had a little chat about the tour, being sunburned in Germany, Stranger Things and a lot more.

Check it out!




Listen to Ryan Vail here:




Ryan Vail online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Many thanks to Ryan for arranging the interview and the lovely chat!
Also many thanks to Lyndon for the fabulous company before and during the gig!
(And to Reiner for the great gin!)



Thank you for your visit!











Credits // Text, Image & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

Album Review: "We Move" by James Vincent McMorrow



Hey guys!

I have no idea how many times I've told you that I think 2016 the year of fantastic releases.
But I'll tell you one more time today.

If you're a critical music fan, it can be easy for you to complain about the music industry.
It's true, there are a lot of songs out there that may not please your trained ear.
But there are also so many incredible records out there which deserve all the support they can get.

Here on house in the sand, we prefer to only speak about the music we really enjoy.
I've never seen a point in listening to an album I don't enjoy, only to write a review about it.

Today I get to continue sharing music I absolutely enjoy, by reviewing James Vincent McMorrow's newest LP!

Artist: James Vincent McMorrow
Title: We Move
Genre: Alternative
Label: Believe Recordings
Release date: 2nd September 2016
HITS rating: 8.5/10

James Vincent McMorrow is a singer/songwriter from Dublin, Ireland.
He started out as a drummer in different heavy metal bands, before he discovered the singer/songwriters from the 70s and picked up the guitar.

At the age of 19, the young musician started writing his own music which ties in the newly discovered folk elements as well as the edgier and modern sounds.
McMorrow's unique and rather high voice never fails to stand out.

Releases:
- The Sparrow And The Wolf (EP) (2008)
- Early In The Morning (LP) (2010)
- Post Tropical (LP) (2014)
- We Move (LP) (2016)

James Vincent's cover of Chris Isaak's "Wicked Game" was used in the trailer of Game Of Thrones' sixth season.

And now that "We Move" is out, I'd like to share my thoughts with you!

Tracklist:
1) Rising Water
2) I Lie Awake Every Night
3) Last Story
4)  One Thousand Times
5) Evil
6) Get Low
7) Killer Whales
8) Seek Another
9) Surreal
10) Lost Angles

Opener and first single off of the album "Rising Water" doesn't wait for you to get into the track; it's catchy, it's groovy and it will be stuck in your head for the next few days.
A strong and dominant bassline controls the dynamic of the song, whilst the synths give it a very modern vibe.
McMorrow's voice makes sure to create an intimate feeling which you'll gladly oblige to listen to. The soft backing vocals intensify the track ever so gently and prove that it doesn't need many elements to create a fantastic track.

The simplicity of the first track shall not give you any wrong impressions though;
James Vincent McMorrow is talented songwriter and knows how to use certain elements in order to make you swoon.
The bluesy "I Lie Awake Every Night" is one of those tracks which will make you want to lie awake for a while, just to listen to it.
The vocals on this track are on another level; warm, smooth and soothing vocals wrap you in a warm blanket to help you lie awake.

Another track I find really interesting is "Seek Another".
It greets you with some heavy beats only to then create a contrast by highlighting McMorrow's higher notes. The song presents the moody and edgy side of the album and again highlights the clever arrangements which James Vincent works oh so well.

To sum it up: You won't find a disappointing song on "We Move"; James Vincent McMorrow has created a record which demands you to dive into his world of music. Track 1-10 confirm that this album was worth the wait.

You should listen to these tracks: Rising Water, I Lie Awake Every Night,


To view the "Rising Water" music video in Germany, click here.




James Vincent McMorrow online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram




Thank you for your visit!













Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: James Vincent McMorrow (press kit) | **this review was requested via email**