Song Premiere: "This Feeling" by Dylan Cassin

Hey guys!

Well, this is exciting!

Today we're not only premiering a brilliant tune for you, we're premiering a tune by an artist who has been trapped in the HITS gang for six years.

Jokes aside, I am really happy to be surrounded by people who create. Some are videographers, some photographers and others constantly deliver brilliant music.
I believe that having a creative friend group is super important for being creative and staying inspired.

Needless to say, (but I'll say it anyways), I'm excited that we get to collab with those friends all the time and get to be a part of their creative journeys - just like they are a part of ours.

So ladies and gentlemen, here's your exclusive premiere!
You're gonna love it!


- Song Premiere -
"This Feeling" by Dylan Cassin


Dylan Cassin is singer/songwriter from Liverpool, UK.
His sound is walking on the fine line between Acoustic and Pop-Rock before settling down for Alternative.

Dylan used to play lead guitar and sing backing vocals in The Arkanes.
After the band split up, Dylan just couldn't stop making music and soon headed out into the industry on his own.
He has been gigging in and around Liverpool, appeared on a radio show and is constantly writing new material. 

In April 2018, Dylan made his solo-debut in Germany - at our house in the sand birthday show.
He had the difficult task of being the first act to go on stage that night and he killed it.
If you would like to see for yourself, here's the video proof.


"This Feeling" is electrifying.
It's one of those tracks that just makes you wanna get up and move.

The song greets you with a catchy guitar riff which you'll keep hearing throughout the song. Bassline and rhythm guitar bring a funky and lively feeling to the song, while the drums showcase Dylan's ability to craft a song from start to finish, all while also playing with different dynamics in the second chorus.

Every element of the track has its own job to do and they all work together so well, letting the song come to life.

The song also reveals Dylan's talent as a lyricist, allowing his listeners to find relatable words and vivid storytelling.

It's only the start of many more releases to come - but we're already ready for more!


And now it's time for all of you to listen to Dylan's new single before the official release tomorrow.
That's right, Team HITS gets the exclusive listen! Whoop!


Listen to "This Feeling" right here:




Dylan Cassin online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram






Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image: John Latham

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7 songs: Jalen N'Gonda

Hey guys!

I think learning about a musicians personal music taste is such a fascinating experience.

Little did I know our "7 songs" feature would be such an insightful one, but it really is.
You get to pinpoint their influences, find out which songs they have a personal connection with and you might even find songs you'll add to your own playlist.

That said, we're thrilled to present you another round of our guest-playlist feature right now.


But first, let's get to know the DJ!


Jalen N'Gonda is a musician originally from Maryland (US), now based in Liverpool (UK).

He got into music at the age of 11, inspired by his father's record collection which mainly consisted of Jazz, Hip-Hop, Soul and Classics.

Jalen moved to Liverpool in 2014 and made the city his music home of choice.
He's been gigging through the country and various other places ever since and has played sold out headline shows in London and Geneva.

The musician has also supported acts such as Laura Mvula, Martha Reeves and Lauryn Hill at the Montreal Jazz Festival.

His single releases have been well received by his loyal fanbase and the excitement for his upcoming songs is growing.


Check out his live piano version of "I Need You" right here:




Jalen N'Gonda online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram


Let's check out Jalen's selection!

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1) a song which makes you dance
"Dancing In The Street" by Martha Reeves & the Vandellas

A song that definitely makes me move is "Dancing In The Street". I never fail to request this song on a night out.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2) a song that calms you down
"They Really Don't Know You" by Joni James

Joni James' "They Really Don't Know You" helps me relax.
From the strings to the melody and right down to Joni's voice, it's a definite soother.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3) a song with a deep meaning
"Blowin' In The Wind" by Bob Dylan

There are so many songs with a deep meaning, so this is a tough one.
But if I had to pick one, it would be "Blowin' In The Wind" by Bob Dylan.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4) a song that makes you feel nostalgic
"I Went To Sleep" by The Beach Boys

Although I never knew this song as a child, The Beach Boys' "I Went To Sleep" always puts me in thoughts when I was 5, playing with my cousins and brothers for some strange reason.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

5) a song which has accompanied you for a while
"Where Did Our Love Go" by The Surpremes

The Surpremes' "Where Did Our Love Go" is one of the earliest Motown tracks that I heard, and wherever I go, I always wind up hearing this song.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6) a song from your favourite genre
"Deception" by Miles Davis

I don't have a favourite genre, but I love Jazz, so here's a random Jazz track I love.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7) a song by an artist / a band which has surprised you
"I Just Want To Be Your Friend" by The Millennium

The Millennium's "I Just Want To Be Your Friend" was very much to my surprise.
I thought the song was just gonna be a standard boss nova pop song, then I heard the middle 8.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________


And that was Jalen's playlist - let us know what you think!



Previous 7 songs features: Hannah Slavin | Violetta Zironi | Saint Alto | Chris Stringer





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words (Intro): Vanessa Jertschewske | Words (about songs): Jalen N'Gonda | Photography: Liz Gander Photography

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Video Interview: Jalen N'Gonda

Hey guys!

Whenever we get the chance to talk to interesting people, we usually grab it.
Even if that means turning a day off into a work day.

You know how they say "if you love your job, you won't have to work a day in your life" - well, we can't completely agree with that. Work is work, whether you love it or not.

But, if you really love your job, there will be times in which work doesn't feel like work at all.

For us it's when we get to interview artists and chat to them about their music and plans for the future.

In January I got to film my first interview of the year in Liverpool with Jalen N'Gonda - which was definitely a great place to kick it off.


Jalen N'Gonda is a musician originally from Maryland (US), now based in Liverpool (UK).

He got into music at the age of 11, inspired by his father's record collection which mainly consisted of Jazz, Hip-Hop, Soul and Classics.

Jalen moved to Liverpool in 2014 and made the city his music home of choice.
He's been gigging through the country and various other places ever since and has played sold out headline shows in London and Geneva.

The musician has also supported acts such as Laura Mvula, Martha Reeves and Lauryn Hill at the Montreal Jazz Festival.

His single releases have been well received by his loyal fanbase and the excitement for his upcoming songs is growing.

In case you are Berlin based, you can catch Jalen live on February 28th at Barkett - click here for the event.


During my day trip to Liverpool I got to meet up with Jalen and we had a chat about moving to Liverpool, what inspires him to write, where he would build a house given the chance and a lot more.


You can watch the interview below:




I would like to say a massive thank you to Jalen for taking the time to have this lovely chat and for providing the location to film at.

Also a huge thank you to Christian and Beate for setting up the interview.


Check out Jalen's latest single "I Need You":




Jalen N'Gonda online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram






Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Words, Image & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

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Day 11: The Ragamuffins | #HITSBC17

Hey guys!

Hey hey hey - how's it going?
I really hope you're in the mood for something upbeat today!

The variety of this countdown is growing even further today and my excitement level has officially gone through the roof.
It's such an honour to bring some of the finest acts into your home by sharing these fantastic exclusive performances with you.
These videos have been recorded for the house in the sand audience and I feel so cool every time I think about that fact.

Alright, enough of my blabbering, let's check out day 11!


What is #HITSBC17?
HITSBC17 stands for house in the sand's Birthday Countdown 2017.
Throughout the entire month of February, we are going to celebrate house in the sand's fifth birthday.
(Because why celebrate on one day, if you can celebrate for an entire month, right?)
With the support from some of the finest artists and bands around, each day in February will be filled with an exclusive performance just for us.

Who is performing today?
The Ragamuffins.
They are a band from Liverpool, UK.

To describe the band's sound, you'd use words such as 'soulful', 'indie-pop' and 'groovy'.

The Ragamuffins are:
David John Jaggs  (vocals, guitars)
Will Graham (drums, percussion)
Sam Parry (keyboards, piano, baritone saxophone, backing vocals)
Florin Ciurariu (trumpet, flugel horn, backing vocals)
Xavier Winton (drums, percussion, "trumpet")
Thomas Fripp (trumpet, guitar)
Alex Pearson (bass guitar)

So far the band has released two EPs ("Telling Tales" & "The Benefits Of A Downhill Paper Round) and two albums ("Irony Curtain" & "Over On The Shipping Forecast").
Those releases and countless gigs have gotten the band a lot of love from the BBC Network, as well as from their fans.

What needs to be said about this performance?
It will get you moving and grooving!
No matter how many times I watch it, I always end up dancing in my seat - it's really magical. (The affect it has on me is magical, not my dance moves.)
It's the perfect track for your Saturday noon, so just let lose and have fun!

Grab your dancing shoes and let's have a boogie whilst listening to The Ragamuffins play their song "Paint By Numbers".





Where can we find The Ragamuffins online?
Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram

Who deserves a thank you?
David, who recorded the video and is fabulous fun to hang out with whenever I'm back in Manchester town!
Big thank you to Thomas and Will for the fantastic performance!

What can we do now?
If you enjoyed this video and post, please help us reach more people.
Share it online along with the hashtag #HITSBC17.
We would love to hear what you think, so please feel free to comment.


I hope you didn't sprain your ankle whilst dancing around!
Make sure to come back tomorrow for a relaxed Sunday on HITS!



Day 10:                                                                                                 Day 12:
                                                                        

Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: The Ragamuffins | Video: The Ragamuffins for house in the sand

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Day 1: Hyena | #HITSBC17

Hey guys!

Welcome to our Birthday Countdown 2017!
To say I'm excited is an absolute understatement - I'm almost bursting with excitement and I cannot wait to spend this month of music with you.

Hosting this online event is probably my favourite thing and I'm very proud to see how the little house in the sand community is coming together to celebrate every year.

I highly recommend you get a drink and a snack of your choice and dive into day 1!


What is #HITSBC17?
HITSBC17 stands for house in the sand's Birthday Countdown 2017.
Throughout the entire month of February, we are going to celebrate house in the sand's fifth birthday.
(Because why celebrate on one day, if you can celebrate an entire month, right?)
With the support from some of the finest artists and bands around, each day in February will be filled with an exclusive performance just for us.

Who is performing today?
Hyena.
They are a trio from Liverpool, UK.
Roaring riffs, heavy drum beats and grooving basslines paired with smokey vocals all create Hyena's refreshing alt-rock sound.

Formed in 2016, the band has already toured Germany and Switzerland whilst rapidly growing their fanbase from all over the world.
So far they've released a limited edition EP to give their fans a taster of what is yet to come. Four acoustic tracks and two demos were all it took to get their supporters excited.

What needs to be said about this performance?
It was filmed on my balcony whilst the band was touring Germany and Switzerland. 

The song is my favourite song of theirs and that just makes it even more exciting for me. With the lads being good friends of mine, I'm delighted to have them open our month-long party.


So, ladies and gentlemen - here are Hyena performing their original song "Second Chances" for us!





Where can we find Hyena online?
Twitter | Facebook | Bandcamp | YouTube | Instagram

Who deserves a thank you?
Of course I would like to thank the boys for being a ridiculous amount of fun to tour with and for the continued support. You're quite alright.

What can we do now?
If you enjoyed this video and post, please help us reach more people. Share it online along with the hashtag #HITSBC17.
We would love to hear what you think, so please feel free to comment.


So that's it for day 1!
I seriously hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Please make sure to come back tomorrow for day 2.
And then come back for day 3! 
And so on. :)

             Day 2:              

Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text, Photography & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

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EP Review: "The Last First One" by Neil Noa

Hey guys!

Happy New Year!
I hope you've all had a great start and are feeling well.

With today's post we're officially kicking off 2017 on house in the sand. Here's to another year of presenting some of the finest music to you!

I personally cannot wait to see how many artists we are going to discover this year. Last year we got to introduce you to some incredible artists who quickly made it onto our favourites list.

Over here, we have a feeling that 2017 is going to be filled with fantastic releases and debuts.

Today we are going to tell you more about Neil Noa's debut EP.
Yep, we're kicking it off in style!

Artist: Neil Noa
Title: The Last First One
Genre: Electronic, R'n'B, Soul
Label: Independent
Release Date: 8th December 2016

Neil Noa is a solo artist from Liverpool, England.

The first piece of music the musician has uploaded was his song "Forever Gone".
Out of 6000 entries for the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Contest, Neil Noa made it onto the shortlist with the song, which is also featured on the EP.

His debut EP "The Last First One" has already gotten Neil the support of the BBC.

Tracklist:

1) On Repeat

2) Forever Gone

3) Same Placed Heart

Opener "On Repeat" sets the scene for the EP in a very graceful manner.
The very sensual beats give the song a lot of grip but still leave room for the artist's voice in order to lead you through the track.
As the listener, you get to take a very calming vibe away from the song. The production of the instrumental is so well done, it allows you to discover all the details.
Neil Noa's soulful and enjoyable vocals alone are reason enough to listen to this release.
However, his writing skills should not be overlooked.

"Same Placed Heart" just broadens the variety of the EP.
Even though it sticks to the laid back atmosphere of the EP, it still stands out.
The relaxed and soothingly played guitar duets with the vocals and therefore creates a depth that gently dives into the world of R'n'B elements.
You can easily find yourself lost in the song, as it is enchantingly hypnoticing. Neil's voice deepens the intensity in a passionate, yet smooth way.

To sum it up: "The Last First One" is a fantastic debut EP.
It gives you a great idea of what to expect from Neil Noa, yet it still leaves you wanting more. By achieving that effect, the musician has created a brilliant way of introducing himself to the public.


You should listen to these tracks: give the entire EP a spin!





--> Get the EP here. <--


Neil Noa online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Neil Noa

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Cover Of The Day: "Chandelier" by Stephen Langstaff (Sia)

 

Hey guys!

The mainstream charts are a tricky thing for me. I never really know how to feel about them.

There are songs where I totally get the hype that's being made about them (hello James Bay!) and there are songs that are hyped but just don't get me.

The very popular song "Chadelier" by Sia didn't quite catch me to be honest. I'm in no way saying it's a bad song, I just didn't find it very special.

Not, until I've heard a brilliant cover version by the very talented Stephen Langstaff.

Stephen Langstaff is a singer/songwriter from Liverpool, England. 

He writes songs which are genrefied as acoustic pop. They convince with soothing yet expressive vocals, honest and storytelling lyrics and well arranged instrumentals.

His talent speaks for itself, nonetheless some of Stephen's achievements should be mentioned: so far he's supported acts like Lightening Seeds and China Crisis, sold out multiple shows and released his single "Sirens" along with some acoustic versions.
Even BBC Merseyside approves Stephen's sound.

Now, let's speak about his cover of "Chandelier" by Sia.
Stephen recently shared a video of him covering the song. It's an all acoustic version which means it's only Stephen's voice accompanied by light guitar work.

I think it's the simplicity and honesty of his version that absolutely grabbed my attention.
It's the way Stephen made this song his own in such beautiful way.

Have a listen yourself!

 

Stephen Langstaff online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

 
More of Stephen on house in the sand: music video | exclusive performance

Thank you for reading!

 

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image & Video: Stephen Langstaff

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Day 26: The Arkanes | #HITSBC15

 

Hey guys!

So a few things changed during you guys were watching the countdown. There were meant to be 27 performances but due to some unforeseen reasons, day 26 will be the last one.
We still have two very special videos coming up though, so the official end of our party is still February 28th.

What is the Birthday Countdown though? Throughout the entire month of February, one artist/one band a day is going to wish house in the sand a happy birthday and then perform a song exclusively for us.

For this last performance we're having The Arkanes to celebrate with us.

The Arkanes are a quartet from Liverpool, UK.

The rock band seems to be taking over the world step by step. With an EP out ("Don't Act Like You Don't Know Me") they've already built a loyal and world wide fanbase. Debut album "W.A.R" took everything to another level - the first single off of it "Sharpshooter" even made its way into the top 20 of the German rock charts.

The Arkanes are:
Chris Pate (lead vocals, guitar)

Dylan Cassin (backing vocals, lead guitar)

Jake Hallam (backing vocals, bass)

Andy Long (drums)

2014 was a busy year for the Liverpudlians; they released their album, went a little lineup change and toured with Monster Truck, The Rifles, Blues Pills and The Temperance Movement.

Next month the lads will be playing their first headline tour in Germany.


It's no secret the band is one of the most featured bands on house in the sand. I'm happy to call this talented lot good friends of mine and couldn't be more excited to share their performance of Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir" with you.

Yeah, even though I've probably spammed them with thank yous, I'll just do it one more time: thank you Kanesies for your support and for almost always doing what I tell you to do. ;) I'll see you soon! 

Please go ahead and share this performance with your friends by using the hashtag #HITSBC15.

The Arkanes online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud

 

Day 25:                                                                                                                              Day 27:

Credits // Text & Image: Vanessa Jertschewske | Video performance & camera: The Arkanes | Video intro: Vanessa Jertschewske

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Video Interview: The Arkanes

Hey guys!

If you've been around for a while you have probably already noticed that you've read today's headline before.
Back in April I already video interviewed The Arkanes for you. Since then the band had a lineup change, released their debut album, went on several tours and filmed another music video.

The rock band from Liverpool, UK seems to be taking over the world step by step. Their debut album "W.A.R" did very well, especially over here in Germany where first single "Sharpshooter" got radio plays and even made its way into the rock music top 20!

The Arkanes are:
Chris Pate (lead vocals, guitar)

Dylan Cassin (backing vocals, lead guitar)

Andy Long (drums)

Jake Hallam (backing vocals, bass)

Watch the interview we taped just before their gig in Berlin now and find out more about their tour essentials, stalkers, new songs and a lot more!

The Arkanes online:  Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud

Thank you for reading!

More of The Arkanes on house in the sand: Stage Time With | Album Review | Behind The Scenes | Gig Impressions

Credits // Text & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

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Gig Impressions: The Arkanes in Berlin

 

Hey guys!

Sometimes things fall into place in such perfect ways it's almost scary.
I just got back from Berlin. I had this trip planned for quite a while when The Arkanes announced their tour dates supporting Blues Pills and The Vintage Caravan.
Faith would have it they were playing in B-Town the day I arrived.

So I took my camera (and my other camera, two tripods, mics,...) and went to see them. 

I am actually really happy with how the footage we produced turned out and can't wait to show you everything.
Whilst I'm still cutting and editing the video, you can already have a look at the photographs I took.

Hope you enjoy!

This was the fourth time I saw them live this year and it's actually amazing to see how they're getting better each time.
I had a little chat with Dylan about his backing vocals; at the beginning of the year he was just the second backing voice but now with a lineup change in the band he has to do most backings on his own. In my opinion his voice improved a lot and this is just an example of how the band is always working hard on their stage presence.

Even though it was just a 30 minutes set and I was really focused on taking pics and filming, I still took some time to watch the crowd. The Berlin crowd was really into it and had such a great time. 

Whilst walking through the crowd to take pics I had quite a hard time not getting crushed but let's just take this as passionate listeners.

As mentioned early, the band had a lineup change and are now with a new bassist, Jake Hallam.
I was really curious how they would manage it because it's obviously a new situation.
But all members play together so well and it's a lot of fun to watch them. Each of them is really into it and 100% passionate about what they're doing.

 

Kanes, once again - chapeau! Always good to see and hear you on stage.

I hope you all enjoyed those pics and that you're excited for what's yet to come. :)

The Arkanes online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud

Thank you for reading!

Credits // Text & Photography: Vanessa Jertschewske (aka V Jetwash)

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Song Of The Day: "Taped Off The Radio" by The Ragamuffins

 

Hey guys!

I have to admit, I really enjoy the "Song Of The Day" features; they are fun to write, they don't require loads of research and they spread the word about one good tune at a time.

Today's song of the day is "Taped Off The Radio" by The Ragamuffin, a six piece band from Liverpool, England. Founded in 2007 the band has been around for quite a while and has established a loyal fanbase as well as their very own indie-pop sound.

The Ragamuffins are: 

David John Jaggs (vocals, guitar)

Sam Parry (keyboards, piano, baritone saxophone, backing vocals)

Florin Ciurarin (trumpet, flugel horn, backing vocals)

Xavier Winton (drums, percussions, trumpet)

Ed Feery (trombone, backing vocals)

Alex Pearson (bass)

 "Taped Off The Radio" starts off as a rather calm and slightly groovy tune. The band's signature sound is very present yet there's still something new about the song.

The Ragamuffins know how to turn build up a song from a calm one to a hell of a groovy and catchy one. Vocals and the backings are on point, especially during the chorus.

A super catchy guitar riff burns itself into your brain, the bassline controls your movements and the wind instruments make you boogie. As usual the band's lyric game is strong.
This song is so good - it's addictive!

The Ragamuffins online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud

Thank you for reading! :)

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: The Ragamuffins

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EP Review: "The Benefits Of A Downhill Paper Round" by The Ragamuffins

Band: The Ragamuffins

Title: The Benefits Of A Downhill Paper Round
Genre: Indie pop

Label: 7L Recordings
Release: 16th December 2013

hits rating: 8/10
_____________________________________

Hey guys,

2013 has been a busy year for The Ragamuffins, a six piece band from Liverpool, England.
The indie pop band played lots of gigs, supported other Manchester bands, they even closed the Liverpool Music Awards launch night.

And they released an EP called "The Benefits Of A Downhill Paper Round", which I'm going to review today.

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Interview: The Arkanes

Hey guys,
the long time readers of you are probably already familar with The Arkanes.
The rock band from Liverpool, England has been featured a few times now because I really think they're good.

I got to know them when they supported Jim Kroft on tour and so I actually discovered their strongest side first - the live performance. 
But a live performance would not work without good (and handmade) songs, so I would definitely recommend listening to 2014's newcomer band.

They might be an insider tip now but let 2014 pass and see what happens.

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Interview: Joe Symes and the Loving Kind

Hey guys,
Interviews are always fun, right?

This time the acoustic rock band Joe Symes and the Loving Kind from Liverpool (UK).
Special about the interview is that not only one or two members but the whole band took time to answer the questions.

But who is the whole band?
Joe Symes (vocals, guitar, harmonica)
Colin White (drums, percussion)
Dave Skilling (keyboards, backing vocals)
Paul Hetherington (lead guitar, synth guitar)
Chris Giblin (bass guitar)

See what I asked the guys about acoustic rock, their debut album, tea & biscuits, their first gig and quite a lot more ...

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Interview: Thomas McConnell

Hey guys,

today the lovely Thomas McConnell is guest of the day on house in the sand.

Thomas, the singer/songwriter from Liverpool (UK), writes and records his own music and has supported China Crisis, Ian McNabb and a lot more.

See what he told me about those support tours, his love for The Beatles, pre-gig nerves and some other interesting things.

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