Gig Photos: Bear's Den at Melkweg, Amsterdam

Hey guys!

Chatting to friends is such a wonderful way to discover music you haven't heard before.
I just think it's so cool to hear people talk about music they enjoy.

As soon as you listen to the recommended music, it sort of feels more personal because you know your friend enjoys it.

Typing this, I'm really wondering, whether more people can relate to that or if it's just me being a weirdo.
Please let me know, I need to know.

Enough of my random blabbering!
Today we have gig photos of Bear's Den for you! A band I got to know through our photographer Saar who covered the gig for HITS.

Find out more below!

Bear's Den are a two piece from London, UK.
They combine the songwriting elements of Folk music with the rawness and energy of Indie-Rock.

The duo consisting of Andrew David and Kev Jones have recently toured Europe & the UK with a backing band which allowed them to deliver the full band sound you can hear on their albums.

Formed in 2012, Bear's Den so released two EPs:
- "Agape" (2013)
- "Without/Within" (2014)

and two albums:
- "Islands" (2014)
- "Red Earth & Pouring Rain" (2016)

Our wonderful Holland based photographer Saar went to see the band at Melkweg in Amsterdam on November 12th 2016.

You can get to know Saar here, please also support her on Twitter and Instagram.


Check out the photos below!
Let us know if you went to the gig and share your experience with us!


















Make sure to check out Bear's Den recent music video for their fantastic song "Dew On The Vine" below.





Bear's Den online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram





Thank you for your visit!

&

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Photography: Saar de Graaf | a ticket and photo pass were kindly provided

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Ticket Giveaway: Wrabel in Berlin [ended]

Hey guys!

The wonderful people of Sony Music GER have just introduced me to one of my new favourite artists.
And because we know a lot of you will understand my excitement once you hear the music,
they're also letting me host a giveaway for you!

You'll be able to win tickets to Wrabel's show and I honestly envy you.
I wish I could go!

The artist is Wrabel and whilst I can't wait for you to learn more about him,
we'll save that for the upcoming interview.

Make sure you listen to the song below and let the music make the noise.
(beautiful noise, that is)


GIVEAWAY


We're giving away 2 (two) tickets for Wrabel's showcase in Berlin.
Wrabel is one of those artists who soak you in with their unique approach of creating art.


Date: 23th November 2016
Venue: Maze
Address: Mehringdamm 61, 10961 Kreuzberg - Berlin (GER)

Note: travel expenses will not be paid, tickets cannot be cashed out


Here's how you can enter the giveaway:
Option 1: Twitter
- tweet us (@houseinthesand) and tell us whether you need 1 ticket or 2 tickets

Option 2: Facebook
- message us (www.facebook.com/houseinthesand) and let us know whether you need 1 ticket or 2 tickets

Option 3: email
- send an email to houseinthesand@web.de and tell us whether you need 1 ticket or 2 tickets


DEADLINE: 20th November 2016 - 10am UK time
- winners will be announced and contacted shortly after that -

Winners will be picked out randomly.
We will either give 1 ticket to two winners, or give the pair to one winner so you can bring a friend.


Listen to the piano version of Wrabel's recent single "11 Blocks" and prepare to be swept away.




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




With special thanks to Sony Music GER for the tickets.

Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Eliot Lee Hazel

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Access All Areas: Hyena on tour

Hey guys! 

I remember the first time I got one of the well known "AAA" passes.
AAA is the cool sounding short form of "Access All Areas" - it means you can go wherever you please at a gig.

The first time I got to do that was at a Martin and James gig where I got to photograph soundcheck, film backstage and then go on stage to photograph the band.
It all felt super special and new back then.

Nowadays I get to do that very often and also have "earned" many AAA's by being a member of the band's crew.

Because I like sharing experiences (not food, though), I've created the "Access All Areas" feature, where I share some impressions of the gigs.

Previous AAAs: Ciaran Lavery & Tommy Reilly | Chris Pate | Hudson Taylor

Last month I spent a few days with the talented dudes of Hyena.

The Alt-Rock trio just got back from their first tour through Germany & Switzerland.
With gripping rhythms, powerful vocals and a lot of energy, the band from Liverpool, UK is taking over by storm and has already made it very clear that they belong on stage.

Hyena are:
Chris Pate (vocals, guitar)
Daz Mangan (bass)
Adam Rooney (drums, cajon)

Last month the band played at the best venue in Germany - Riffelhof in Burgrieden.
On their way to the venue, they picked me up and stuffed me into the car.

Now, get ready to jump into the car with us and take a look behind the scenes.

You'll find photos from the car journey, the backstage area, the room I got to stay in, and of course, photos from the show.

Enjoy!

Hyena online: Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Bandcamp | Instagram




Thank you for your visit!

Credits // Text & Photography: Vanessa Jertschewske

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Song Of The Day: "Miss You" by Gabrielle Aplin

Hey guys!

As a music blogger, you know, somebody to writes about music, it's such an interesting thing to watch artists develop as they go.

I enjoy it when artists have a so called "signature sound", but I find it way more interesting and exciting when with every release, you get something new. Even if it's just slightly different, it's still a sign of progress and growth.

You often find people who don't enjoy changes in an artist's music, and of course, it's okay wanting to hear a similar sound - but before you tell the musician that, think of how you've changed over the years.
We all change and so does our way of expressing ourselves.
So let those artists do their thing.

I hope you're excited to dive into today's "Song Of The Day" with me.

- "Miss You" by Gabrielle Aplin -

Gabrielle Aplin is a singer/songwriter based in Brighton, UK originally hailing in from Bath, UK.

Her music is heavily inspired by the Laurel Canyon music area and combines the beauty of folk with the vibes of  pop/rock.
After uploading covers and originals on YouTube the British musician founded her own label Never Fade Records to release her first few EPs.

Then being signed to Parlophone Records Miss Aplin released her debut album "English Rain" in 2013, which is now certified Gold in the UK.
Her second album "Light Up The Dark" presented a more mature and confident sound.

Whilst touring the world, the musician is also hosting the Never Fade Sessions in London, where Gabrielle gives unsigned artists the chance to perform in an intimate and friendly setting.

After a year without new releases, Gabrielle just announced the release of her upcoming EP "Miss You" and already shared the title track with her fans.

"Miss You" is mid-tempo track which confidentally marches into Pop-star town.
The first few notes welcome you in the Aplin manner, before the song takes a turn and breaks into a danceable and lively beat.

Said beat and the recogniseable piano base effortlessly collide into one and allow the vocals to lead you through the track.
Which is great, because Gabrielle's storytelling way of writing lyrics is definitely an important element of the song. It's the main element that lets you connect with the song and gives you the chance to relate to the song.

If "Miss You" were a drink, it would probably be a Pina Colada, served in a fancy glass and topped off with one of those glittery cocktail umbrellas.

Ready to boogie through your room?
Listen to "Miss You" below.




Gabrielle Aplin online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram

Thank you for your visit! 

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Gabrielle Aplin via KLUTCH

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HITS exclusive: "Where My House Hit The Ground" by Hyena

Hey guys!

There are some artists I just won't ever shut up about on here.
I do feel very lucky that I have this platform to showcase the music I enjoy.

Within the years I've been able to see so many artists grow and constantly work on new things for the audience to enjoy.
Being friends with a mad man from England is not only very entertaining, but also very insightful. I get to go behind the scenes, hear demos and watch the band grow.
It's actually pretty cool, especially because I have this blog where I can share things with you.

Today I'm super excited to have a premiere for you!
Just two weeks ago I put a brand new band on my balcony and made them play a song for you!

Those of you who either came here because the band sent you and those of you who've read this blog for a while, will all know my good friend Chris Pate. His old band The Arkanes was the most blogged band on HITS and I've also featured his solo music multiple times.
(Remember the time we went on a gig adventure?)

Just a few months ago, Chris formed a new band - called Hyena.
The Alt-Rock trio just got back from their first tour through Germany & Switzerland.
With gripping rhythms, powerful vocals and a lot of energy, the band from Liverpool, UK is taking over by storm and has already made it very clear that they belong on stage.

Hyena are:
Chris Pate (vocals, guitar)
Daz Mangan (bass)
Adam Rooney (drums, cajon)

I'm very excited to be the first person to share an exclusive session with you.

Please check out Hyena's performance of their song "Where My House Hit The Ground" and share it if you enjoyed it.





Hyena online: Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Bandcamp | Instagram




Thank you for your visit! 

Credits // Text, Image & Video: Vanessa Jertschewske

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Audio Interview: dePresno

Hey guys!

Over the past 4.5 years I've had the pleasure to work with so many incredibly talented people.
Conversations with artists, producers and other creatives in this industry, are my favourite things.

I just find it so fascinating how everyone has a slightly different opinion, mentions different points when it comes to certain topics and has a great story to tell.

Those of you, who read the website regularly, will know interviews are my favourite way of bringing you closer to the artists.

Today I'm thrilled to have you listen to a conversation I had with dePresno the other day, I hope you enjoy! 

dePresno is a Pop solo artist from Bergen, Norway.

He was gifted his first ever guitar at the young age of four. Ever since dePresno has been growing a huge love for singing and playing music. Under the influence of his family, the young musician grew up listening to Dylan, Cohen, Marley and co.

His shyness made dePresno keep his love for performing to himself most of the time.
However, one of his brothers gifted him a day in a recording studio.
That day he recorded a cover version of Donovan's "Catch The Wind".

Soon things snowballed and dePresno played at festivals, got airplay from multiple radio stations and signed a deal with Sony Music Columbia Germany, which just celebrated the release of his latest EP "Forever". 


Last week I called dePresno and we had a lovely conversation about how he randomly, travelling to over 50 countries, his recent obsession with Honne, listening to music on vinyl and a lot more.

Have a listen to our conversation below!



Curious what dePresno's music sounds like?
Listen to our favourite track "Hide and Seek":




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





With special thanks to Steffi from Sony Music Germany and dePresno himself.

Thank you for your visit! 

Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Image: Bent Rene Synnevåg

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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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