For me Brixton was always the place to go for gigs in the early 90s. Two personal highlights were seeing Iggy play (supported by That Petrol Emotion), and The Sugarcubes. Anyway, whilst being out here in Japan, How Does It Feel To Be Loved an indie pop Club, has been quietly growing, right in Brixton.

The closest I can come to experiencing this wonderful "speakeasy for anyone who suspects that their life is one big Smiths song" is to listen to the rather ace record 'The Kids at the Club' produced and released by HDIF.



This is an 'indiepop compilation' of 19 so-called 'underground' bands. Much has been made of the label 'indiepop', including its demise. But the twee haven it provides for those tired of chart life (are we doing commercial indie?), is anything but over. Whatever the label given to this music; there is a definite feeling to it, a fluffy, joyous jangle of independent fun. I personally love it on a Sunday morning.

The thrill comes from its affecting melodies and the knowledge that these bands have something fresh yet vaguely nostalgic. Indiepop often showcases drole, well-formed lyrics with catchy hooks and dreamy guitars, whispers, handclaps and keyboard kitsch (Wintergreen 'The Magic Road'). That is where its power lies.

I'm uncertain as to how many plays you should give a record before judging it, or whether a first listen will tell you more. In this case, my standout favourite has remained unchanged. Language of Flowers' 'You're The One' has an intro reminiscent of 'Just Like Heaven' and vocals from Tara which are just heavenly. This track will have you melting through the cracks in your day. I also love the adrenalin-shot length of Irene's 'Stardust' and the ace pastiching (is that a word) of Suburban Kids With Biblical Names' 'Seems To Be On My Mind'.

There are only a couple of songs which I pass on every time I listen. The first is Sweden's much lauded 'We're from Barcelona'. It reminds me of a Disney song (It's a Small World) and is my personal reason for disliking it!!! Secondly, the slick 'Give Me Love' from Lucky Soul, I find somewhat lacking in indiesoul ( and in addition the vocal reminds me of The Beautiful South).

However, this is a great compilation. And perhaps most of all, I'm looking forward to the growth of 'The Gresham Flyers', whose swirly keyboard Pulp-esque slices of pure melody can only get bigger, catchier and better.

Please have a look at the compilation, go to the club and support these artists.

Buy it NOW!!