‘Diamond Hard’ is another straight up slice of hard electro from Southampton duo Capital X. Following on from ‘Teeth’, Julz B (vocals/keys/programming) and Ruby C (keys/art/backing vocals) deliver more signature earworm basslines and barbed vocal hooks, juxtaposed with sparkling chimes and a lush wash of arpeggiators befitting images conjured by the song’s title.

The song’s James Bond theme-esque intro quickly gives way to a swampy bassline, grimey leads and multi-toned vocal layers. Capital X’s punk attitude still shines through in their witty one-liners and Julz’s face-on delivery, while the smoother bassline grooves into the punching drums keeping them firmly entrenched in the world of electronics.

Audio and visual artists M.I.A., Sleaford Mods, Georgia, Shaltmira, Laura Callaghan and Frank Kozik all serve as inspiration for Capital X and their self-produced music & art. They continue to replicate their musical content in strong and bold imagery, with all ‘Diamond Hard’ art by Ruby C.

Listen to ‘Diamond Hard’ here

South London based neo-rockabilly upcomers, The Sly Persuaders have announced the release of their long-awaited debut album, out via Roadkill Records on February 24.

The Sly Persuaders make raucous garage rock soaked in heavily-effected, searing guitars. Their brand of Bad Seeds’ energy meets The Gun Club’s rockabilly psychosis oozes from their singles and surf-pop beats merge with layers of gypsy-psych percussion to create something totally new.

Recorded at the Music Complex in Deptford, it was frontman Chris Blake and engineer Chris Mansell that had the tough job of capturing such a precise sound to record. The self-titled result is made up of nine gloriously produced garage-pop gems that not only convey the band’s live energy, but also refine and direct it into a concise and vital collection.

In the past year, the band have seen their upwards trajectory spike, with sell-out headline shows and a limited edition split 7” with fellow Londoners Dedwardians before signing to respected DIY label Roadkill Records. Now, with the vinyl release of their epic debut, The Slys are ready to take their rightful place as one of the UK’s finest breakout acts. And it’s about time.

The Sly Persuaders will play their official album launch with blues-rock heavyweights Saint Agnes and Bridport Dagger at Nambucca on February 24, hosted by Roadkill Records and promoters Some Weird Sin.

Pre-order The Sly Persuaders here