Newtonheath

Genre: Pop/rock

Matthew Ho and Rachel Warburton have performed side by side for over a decade. Finding their feet in art rock trio Hone, this duo went on to consolidate their sound in Adelaide's iconic Edison Music. After two successful releases, a string of tours and radio support, the band ended prematurely, but Ho and Warburton's passion to create inspiring music is far from over and is now taking shape in Newtonheath.

Having spent 2006 overseas (with time in Canada, UK, US, Europe & Asia) performing and writing for their debut album, Newtonheath returned to its Adelaide base in early 2007, with recruits, Daniel Gaskin (Sumi) on guitar & vocals and Shaun Reilly (Before It All Ends) on drums, completing a strong and passionate line-up.

With the band now complete, Newtonheath set out to build on the reputation and loyal fan base of their previous efforts. Hitting the Australian live scene in April 2007 saw a warm welcome, playing to sell out crowds with the likes of Blueline Medic, Liam Finn, Horsell Common and Mere Theory, before withdrawing to the studio to record their debut album “Come Together and Unite”.

Sound

With particular attention to polished song writing and vocal melody, Newtonheath are not so much a departure from its predecessors as a progression, drawing on diverse influences such as the Cure, Bloc Party, Brand New, Bjork and Thrice.

Come Together and Unite

“Come Together and Unite” is the end result of two years travelling and collaboration with other musicians. Co-produced with Darren Thompson (In Fiction, The Hot Lies, Blueline Medic), “Come Together and Unite” was predominately written in a small apartment in Calgary, Canada, which Ho and Warburton shared with former band mate Joshua Arcus (Edison Music) and his wife Raya. Tragically, Josh and Raya passed away earlier this year in a fatal car accident travelling across Canada, which has given the album new importance and meaning.

Capturing energetic vocal performances, dynamic guitars, and reinforced by a driving rhythm section, “Come Together and Unite” demands the listener’s attention from the outset. Additional instrumentation highlights colour and deepens contrast, while personal reflections touching on subjects such as past regrets, home sickness and the importance of friendship, underscore a musical maturity seldom associated with a debut release.

Newtonheath has produced a significant release, showcasing a determination and song writing that is world class.

“Come Together and Unite” is scheduled for release nationally in November 2007 through Green Media.

www.newtonheathband.com
www.myspace.com/newtonheath