Like lemmings at cliff's edge, another bunch of hopefuls throw themselves at the mercy of the Music Fix judging panel. Who'll be first into the abyss?

The Boy Who Trapped The Sun - Watermark EP - BWTTS have been studying hard at Gentle Folk Uni, majoring in Nick Drake and Elliot Smith 101. No time for girls or getting drunk in the student union bar. Days are spent sat upon the grassy verge strumming an acoustic guitar, penning songs to the wallflowers whilst making daisy chains. Based upon this submission he's currently on target for a 2:2, but with a little more heart could get a 2:1. (AM)

Zenyth - Fall EP - Only two years ago, Zenyth were rubbing shoulders with the likes of The Killers and Muse after being nominated in the Best Unsigned Act category at the Vodafone Live Music Awards. However, if Fall is the best they can muster, you can't see them gracing another awards ceremony any time soon. It's unfortunate as they clearly have potential with some great grungy guitar riffs on 'Dirt' and a genuinely brilliant guitar solo at the end of 'Voices', they just seem to play it too safe and it becomes music that can fade out into the background, only to peek its head out every now and again. (IS)

Zico Chain - These Birds Will Kill Us All - A plethora of disparate styles collide here as this throbbing track veers from Seattle grunge through to violent, hardcore metal before alighting on a chorus which, were it not backed by soaring guitar, could be Tony Hadley on autopilot. The other tracks on the EP are less schizophrenic; ‘Bile N Blood’ is straightforward post grunge metal while ‘Daycase’ is disconcertingly like Green Day covering the Levellers. Interesting enough to keep en eye out for - I’d imagine they are a riot live. (SB)

Lucky Elephant - Reverend Tilsley & His Magic Lantern - Those who like their chords big (à la 'Mr Blue Skies') should enjoy this jolly pop song, although the singer's French accent means you'll have to listen hard to take in what is apparently a "fantastical tale of 19th Century East London character Reverend Tilsley". Fans of laid-back electronica may prefer bonus tracks 'When You Fall To Earth (Local League of Pacifists edit)' (very Air) and 'Neptune (Sunday Best remix)'. (JD)

Johnny Foreigner - Criminals - This is more like it: a band to rival the late, great Mohobishopi in their ability to make incendiary, unhinged pop music from the most basic of ingredients. Recorded in New York, the pro-production values from Alex Newport (At The Drive-In) give it a subtle kick up the arse without ever threatening to erode the DIY bedroom aesthetic. Definitely one of the most vital tracks of the year so far. Grab a copy now. (SB)



Alela Diane & Alina Hardin Alela & Alina EP - This is a real treat for the ears; a perfect ‘Sunday morning’ record which is a work of true unadulterated beauty. The two protagonists have been raised in the American folk tradition and have developed voices that have been honed to crystal clarity. Thankfully there are no annoying vocal affectations a la Joanna Newsome, which would serve only to detract from the traditional tale of ‘Matty Groves’ or the stunning cover of Townes Van Zandt’s ‘Rake’. Hunt this down and cherish it for its purity and simplicity. (SB)

Wolfmother - New Moon Rising - Wolfmother's first single from their new album is a classic blues-rock track that is surprisingly adventurous. Combines a decent chorus with a great sound to create what could be a song that brings the band even more fans. (CP)

The Raveonettes - Bang - A glorious blend of classic sixties influenced Americana with a sprinkling of nineties indie - Sune and Sharin's single is something of a perfect taster for those interested in picking up the band's recent, TMF-rated, album. Recommended. (CP)

Jo Hamilton - Pick Me Up - Jo Hamilton's new age sound was roundly dissed in TMF's Gary K penned album review, and while it certainly fails to set the world alight, her latest single, actually isn't that bad. A curious mix of Bjork and Enya kind of works, but tries to do too much and none of it noteworthy. Listenable, but instantly forgettable. (CP)

VV Brown - Game Over - Brown's powerful voice is about the only thing of note in what is a relatively mundane track. With little variation in sound, there is no stand out moment in the song to make it anything more than average R&B. (CP)

Charlotte Hatherley - Alexander - It's good to have Charlotte back. Her new album, New Worlds, will be given the full review treatment very soon, but in the mean time we have Alexander, her new single - and what a great track it is. Wonderful music, lyrics and vocals all combine to make a gorgeous song. Harking back to Charlotte's debut, Grey Will Fade, rather than her sophomore album, this is pure Hatherley and anyone who longs for the sound of Bastardo or Kim wilde will instantly be take by the track. Highly recommended. (CP)

The votes are in. Charlotte and Johnny are locked in a dead heat for the coveted TMF Single of the Week. They've asked for a re-count. No good. The casting vote goes to the Presiding Judge (me) who awards it to Miss Hatherley for her charming slice of AOR pop, aided in no small way by that super-cute middle eight thingy.

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