7 songs: Liam McClair

8th January 2020 //

Hey everyone!

With this post we welcome you to 2020 at house in the sand.

We are excited to have another 12 months of music discovery ahead of us.
Just imagining how much fantastic music we will be hearing this year is getting us all giddy - and we hope you feel the same.

We promise you to find even more unique and exciting ways to showcase music for you this year, so all we ask is that you stay tuned and enjoy the process with us.

To kick off the year, we are thrilled to share Liam McClair's selection of seven songs.

We've featured Liam multiple times and always get excited to hear new music. With his at times calming, at times rumbling folk pop sound, Liam has found his signature sound with ease.

Hailing in from Manchester, UK, it's no surprise he has been a big part of the music scene up there. But he's not only an essential in the local giging scene, Liam has also won over fans all over Europe with his thoughtful lyrics, warm vocals and comforting instrumentals. He also played support slots for Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen, showcasing his talents to bigger audiences.

To share his latest single, "Nice Guy" with you, we've asked Liam to talk us through seven songs he enjoys for different reasons and at the end of this post he even told us more about the new single.

Let's check out Liam's selection!

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1) a song which makes you dance

"Superstition" by Stevie Wonder

When I was a student in Liverpool, I'm sure I annoyed a lot of the DJs in the bars I'd go to by asking them to play this, then forgetting when they said no as I was a little drunk and asking them again!
I love it and it always makes me want to dance.


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2) a song that calms you down
"Something So Right" by Paul Simon

This song is really soothing and we used to listen to it in the car when my mum was driving.
There is something about the feel of the song I find so relaxing and the older I get, the more I can relate with the lyrics.


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3) a song that means a lot to you
"American Pie" by Don McLean

I think I'll go with "American Pie" by Don McLean.
Every Easter as a kid or as many I can remember, my family and I would visit the Isle Of Arran of the coast of Scotland and this would be our song we would all sing along to as we winded our way around the island via the narrow country lanes. It always makes me smile.


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4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"Bongo Bong" by Manu Chao

When I was 19, I travelled around Asia, Australia and America with four friends from home.
We had an amazing time and this song always reminds me of that trip. One of my friends made a photo slideshow and used the song as the soundtrack, so I've always been transported to the freedom of travelling whenever I hear it.


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5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"So Fresh" by Will Smith, Biz Markie, Slick Rick

When I was 10 or 11 I borrowed "Willenium" by Will Smith from my sister and I don't think I ever gave it back!
This track is one that I always find myself singing and I just loved it so much as a kid. I'd never heard four or five artists on one track before and I thought it was amazing.


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6) a song from your favourite genre
"The Man In Me" by Bob Dylan

I love singer/songwriter music. If that counts as a genre, I'm not sure.
But Bob Dylan is one of my favourites and this is one of my favourites of his.


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7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"Teeth White" by The Staves

I'd heard The Staves doing acoustic music and their harmonies blew me away, but I always thought they were predominately folky, when Spotify sent me "Teeth White" I loved it pretty much from the start and then the video just confirmed it's one of my favourite songs!


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What do you hope listeners will feel when listening to your new single "Nice Guy"?

Hopefully they can relate to the sense of wanting to feel like you have to be liked all the time and that being nice is a pressure that is prevalent in society.

Liam McClair online: Website | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram

And that was Liam's selection!
What did you think? Did he feature any tracks you love?



Previous 7 songs features: The Rose Affair | Ava Rae Heatley | John Thacker | Racoon Racoon







Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (intro + outro): Vanessa Jetwash | Image + Words (about songs): Liam McClair

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Performance Of The Day: "Fix It" by Liam McClair

Hey guys!

I don't know about you, but I love a good series.

Whether that's a TV series (highly recommend "How To Get Away With Murder"),
a creative photo series,
or a series of music performances.

I just appreciate the idea of creating something cohesive, yet diversified.
You sort of get to see the creative process behind a project as you get to see how a series develops.

Today we're chatting about a video that is part of a series, so check it out!


- Performance Of The Day -
"Fix It" by Liam McClair


Liam McClair is a singer/songwriter from Manchester, UK.
His sound can be classified as acoustic/folk with raw pop elements.

Most of Liam's recordings are guitar based and vocals focused.
 But you'll still find piano ballads and harmonica instrumentals paired with supportive percussions whilst listening to Liam's repertory.

With strong live performances Liam has convinced crowds all over the UK and even made it to Belgium, Holland and Germany to play his music.
 Music fans from all over the world are drawn to his sound. He has supported acts like Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen.

Once you're familiar with Liam's sound, you'll find yourself coming back to it again and again - it's timeless.

 In the last few months, Liam's online following has been gifted with the "Unplugged Originals" series.

Liam and videographer Rich Williams filmed 10 fantastic unplugged performances, which are all available to download for free on Liam's website.
We've already blogged about the first video, remember?

But all good things must come to an end, and so "Fix It", video number 10, is the last one of the series.

"Fix It" features the Chorlton Ladies Singing Group and is "a song about giving a relationship time and working together to iron out the creases. In our very immediate and instant world where we get what we want so quickly in commerce and entertainment I wanted to write about working hard at something and seeing the fruits of your efforts", as Liam writes on his website.

Liam's warm and comforting vocals are the focus of the track, they tell the story so vividly and carefully. 
 
Accompanied by soft finger picking on the acoustic guitar, you'll quickly realise that Liam can win you over with simplicity.
The Chorlton Ladies Singing Group provides the song with subtle, yet gorgeous harmonies and adds to the depth of the lyrics.

The atmosphere is hopeful, it's positive and it's caring - and it leaves you hitting that replay button immediately.


Watch the performance of "Fix It" below:



- you can find a free download of the song here -


Catch Liam live at Manchester's Whiskey Jar on November 3rd for his "We Should Talk" Launch.



Liam McClair online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image & Video: Liam McClair

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Song Of The Day: "Fame" by Liam McClair

Hey guys!

I'm sure a lot of you know that music bloggers usually get to hear songs before they are out.
It's a logical part of the industry - it gives us enough time to get to know a song/an EP/an album properly and lets us schedule our reviews.

Usually it's super helpful and of course, as we're all music lovers, it's great to hear new tracks before they are released.

But sometimes it's torture.
Hearing a track before it's released also means that you can't share it with anyone just yet.
And when a song is so good that you just want to share it, that's quite frustrating.

I had that "ughhh" moment when I got to listen to Liam McClair's newest single,
but hey - the torture is over - the song is out today! Hooray!


- Song Of The Day -
"Fame" by Liam McClair


Liam McClair is a singer/songwriter from Manchester, UK.
His sound can be classified as acoustic/folk with raw pop elements.

Most of Liam's recordings are guitar based and vocals focused.
 But you'll still find piano ballads and harmonica instrumentals paired with supportive percussions whilst listening to Liam's repertory.

With strong live performances Liam has convinced crowds all over the UK and even made it to Belgium, Holland and Germany to play his music.
 Music fans from all over the world are drawn to his sound. He has supported acts like Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen.

Once you're familiar with Liam's sound, you'll find yourself coming back to it all the time - it's timeless.

Now he's here with his brand new song, "Fame" - and it's SO GOOD.

The song starts off in a calm way, just a soft acoustic guitar, paired with a few moody e-guitar notes.
Soon Liam's voice joins the party and demands your full attention - warm, expressive & inviting vocals are what you get from the singer/songwriter.

Taking an interesting and different approach with this lyrics, Liam tells a story of being a famous person and being overwhelmed with said fame. It makes you think you're listening to a celebrities diary being read out loud.

Full instrumentation kicks in and gives the song more depth and grip - both, drums and bass work together in a powerful, yet subtle way.
The howling e-guitar returns from time to time and plays an important part in the song.

Even though the song has a slower pace to it, it's anything but dull.
Liam McClair has managed to record yet another fantastic track, which is going to turn you into a huge fan.
Embrace it!

Listen to "Fame" below:



- buy the song -
- stream it -



Liam McClair online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram






Thank you for your visit! 

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Liam McClair

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Song Of The Day: "Wherever We Like" by Liam McClair

Hey guys!

I usually try to come up with a new intro for every post that I write.
But I think today will mark that day that I repeat myself.

So if you've read a slightly different version of the following intro before, I apologise.
Sometimes things are worth repeating though!

I am in constant awe of watching my friends release fantastic music, write incredible articles, take amazing photographs - all by working really hard.
It's such a wonderful feeling to see people follow their passion and creating amazing things.

Because I do think every hard working artist should be supported, HITS is definitely the place where I'll make as much noise for them, as I can.

Today you get to hear a gorgeous song by our wonderful friend Liam.

Liam McClair is a singer/songwriter from Manchester, UK.

His sound can be classified as acoustic/folk with raw pop elements.
Most of Liam's recordings are guitar based and vocals focused. But you'll still find piano ballads and harmonica instrumentals paired with supportive percussions whilst listening to Liam's repertory.

With strong live performances Liam has convinced crowds all over the UK and even made it to Belgium, Germany and Holland to play his music.
 Music fans from all over the world are drawn to his sound. He has supported acts like Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen.

Liam released three EPs so far, "How", "Honey" and "Honest".

Keep your eyes on his social media accounts for new releases and gig announcements soon.
Show this fantastic artist some support.

Liam's new song "Wherever We Like" is a beautiful ballad.
With his vocals only being accompanied by the majestic and powerful piano, the song pratically glows.

It's the intimate and honest atmosphere which really underlines the main components of "Wherever We Like".

If you haven't listened to Liam's music before, you'll be enchanted by his warm and soothing voice.
If you already know Liam, you'll quietly enjoy the song until you've heard it enough times in order to belt out the lyrics.
(And you'll then receive weird looks from your cat. #beenthere #donethat)

Please check out the song below and share it with your friends, followers and pets.





Liam McClair online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image & Video: Liam McClair

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Song Of The Day: "Hunted" by Liam McClair

 

Hey guys!

It's probably pretty obvious that HITS loves supporting talented musicians.
We aim to be more than just your average music reviewing website - we want to be a platform which supports artists in a cheerful and passionate way.

And without being super selfloving, I think we're doing a great job cheering for the HITS crew!

Today I'm happy to introduce you to our writer Liam's newest song!

Liam McClair is a singer/songwriter from Manchester, UK.
His sound can be classified as acoustic/folk with raw pop elements.
Most of Liam's recordings are guitar based and vocals focused. But you'll still find piano ballads and harmonica instrumentals paired with supportive percussions whilst listening to Liam's repertory.

With strong live performances Liam has convinced crowds all over the UK and even made it to Belgium, Germany and Holland to play his music.
 Music fans from all over the world are drawn to his sound. He has supported acts like Newton Faulkner and Echo & The Bunnymen.

Liam released three EPs so far, "How", "Honey" and "Honest".

Keep your eyes on his social media accounts for new releases and gig announcements soon.

Liam McClair's new single, "Hunted", is a very relatable track about love.
The song bursts into the atmosphere and represents the upbeat, full band arrangement that Liam uses oh so very precisely and carefully.
A howling e-guitar, a confident acoustic guitar, an energetic rhythm section.

In the main spotlight is the musician's warm voice; his welcoming timbre guides you through the song.
Accompanied by delicate backing vocals which highlight the intensity of the song, "Hunted" proves to be one of McClair's greatest tracks this far.

Listen to "Hunted" now and get it on iTunes.

Liam McClair online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram

Thank you for your visit! 

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Liam McClair

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Album Review: "Call The Waves" by Mike Benecke

Hey guys!

Before I got a few writers to help me out with the content on HITS, I was wondering what it would be like to have a little team.
Now, that I do have that little team, I know that it's absolutely brillaint to work with some talented minds.

Our writer Liam is on a roll and already finished his second piece for HITS, so please go and read this fabulous review of Mike Benecke's latest record! 

Liam online: Music Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | Instagram

Artist: Mike Benecke
Title: Call The Waves
Genre: Folk Label: Independent
Release: 1st February 2016
HITS rating: 8/10

Mike Benecke is an experienced musician; initially plying his trade in "punk" and "indie" bands, he discovered that he wished to explore a more rudimental form of performance and arrangements.
Having left behind music that relied on its sound and reliance on huge noise, Mike began writing solo with just an acoustic guitar as accompaniment.

The results have been met with great adulation, his debut EP "mike benecke" was widely praised throughout Los Angeles and made the finals of NPR's 2012 Mountain Stage song writing contest. This response gave Benecke the impetus to make his debut album "Call The Waves" a fuller sound with complex accompaniment that flows throughout what sounds like an incredibly organic process- with some tracks being recorded with just one single take.Here is a track by track review of "Call The Waves":

July Fires
A crisp plicked guitar opens "July Fires", Mike Benecke's vocals enter with a soft brimming voice of honesty and wonder. The accompaniment on the song is perfectly placed; used to accent sections of interest and create dynamic contrasts throughout. The vocal harmonies are on point and rich; I really enjoyed the way "July Fires" progressed from a candid and humble beginning, to hits of the potential that the added instruments bring.The song is full of intrigue and has an air of magic about it through its serene and swaying rhythm.

Bloodsong
Moody with an inquisitive tone, "Bloodsoong" has an undoubtable complex melody which gets more and more infections as it repeats. The electric guitar has a wonderfully clear tone that, combined with the shuffling drums, creates images of coastlines at dusk. Mike Benecke sings with truth and emotion, his words are considered and delicate. As a listener you feel part of something truly special each time you hear Benecke's carefully phrased lyrics.

Call The Waves
The open tuning on the acoustic guitar creates a great atmosphere in the origins of "Call The Waves" and allows a drone to be prevalent throughout.
The added pedal steel is hauntingly beautiful and the sentiment of the song is magnificently portayed through these two instruments.
Mike Benecke delivers his lyrics in such a natural way, that it feels as though he is in the room with you. No added effects needed on the vocal line due to its open and heartfelt delivery.
"Call The Waves" is soothing and charming in equal measure, it will bring a smile to your face as you softly relax under its enchanting embrace. 

Astral Line 
The melody for "Astral Line" is fantastic, a really raw track. Mike Benecke has an adept ability to draw you in, initially with the complexity of his plucking on the acoustic guitar. And then, even more with his laid back Sunday afternoon vocals that will caress you through the song.
Towards the end, there is ascending in the track. Repetition with delicate harmonies and staccato chords give a grand and euphoric raise to a climax on the song finishing. As an ending, I feel this works really well- it constrasts the rest of the song and shows Mike's understanding of song structure and how to lead the listening through the song.

Half Life
A swaying tuneful song, "Half Life" uses long strokes of the guitar to create a sombre mood and one that creates a caring tone. The chords are simple, yet effective. The bass line follows the same rhythm and gives a richer feel to the instrumentation. The subtle melody Mike uses, creates a dreamy atmosphere and provides a soft bed for the listener to sink into.
The song slowly builds throughout each bar with additional instruments allowing it to grow and delevop. It has a Radiohead feel to me, especially in the middle section, as it relys on the eerie Wurlitzer to keep the song alive. Its experimental nature and considered arrangement makes it truly outstanding.

My Brain
A contrast to previous tracks- "My Brain" has a Country Pop feel to it. Benecke manages to maintain his musical attitude even in this more mainstream avenue. It shows us just how versatile Benecke is as a writer; managing to span a variety of genres, but still keeping his artistic signature present throughout.The vocal melody is unique and reshfreshing.
In songs with more of a Pop/Country arrangement, it's easy to follow what has been done before- but Benecke releases himself into the songs and the result is a sweet mix of cheery Pop combined with his dulcet tones which create excellence.

Recall The Waves
Back to his honest best in this track, I feel that Mike Benecke creates his most constant connections when he is performing with just his acoustic guitar. It allows us to truly get an accurate portrayal of his writing process and we can hear just how adept a songwriter he is.
I feel he knows this with most songs opening with him and the guitar, and the progression into a fuller sound happening later in the track. The soft delivery on the vocals in "Recall The Waves" makes us all more attentive as a listener, as though the words being sang are secret and tender.

Chasing Constellations
A guitar melody and a vocal melody that create harmony and also follow one another, is a brilliant device in songwriting as it reinforces the song and its main melody.
In "Chasing Constellations" we get to hear the wide ranging abilities that Mike demonstrates on the guitar. As a careful player, his strums and plucks are very clear and concise- this makes the song sound very clean. I feel this is the best track on the album, it represents Benecke as a songwriter and as a solo performer.

Birds
"Birds" is a vocal expression and one which is delivered with raw emotion and tenacity. Opening with delicate harmonies, the thumping kick drum beings to drive us onwards. The fluctuating rhythm in the track is fantastic and shows an understanding of tension in music. It fades to a silence and then erupts with euphoria, warm chords and delicate 'Oos'. A masterpiece to end the album. 
 
To sum it up: "Call The Waves" is a brave album and one which succeeds in every area. The pure creativity surrounding it, is evident in every track and Mike Benecke expresses beautiful music. He has the reigns on his creativity and is steering it through a meandering path that encounters many styles and genres along the way. It is a controlled piece of pure musical expression and one, which you need to hear.



Mike Benecke online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bandcamp 



Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text intro: Vanessa Jertschewske | Text review: Liam McClair | Image: Mike Benecke

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