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The Niche Reference

The Niche Reference

A new name, inspired by all influences…

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Category: 2025

Album Review: Olly Murs (@ollymurs) – “Knees Up”

Nov 24, 2025Nov 25, 2025 ~ Alex the Pensmith ~ Leave a comment

If there is one trope in the music writer's handbook that is too often viewed as a subtext heavy shorthand for "Their last album wasn't much cop", then it is - or a variation thereof - "a real return to form". Except, in the case of our long time fave, Olly Murs, it absolutely applies … Continue reading Album Review: Olly Murs (@ollymurs) – “Knees Up”

Alexis Strum: Britain’s best popstar you don’t yet know

May 27, 2025May 28, 2025 ~ Alex the Pensmith ~ Leave a comment

Alexis Strum was one of my best kept music secrets for many years. Hopefully, with a new album on the way, she can be yours to discover too...

On the eve of his 15 Years of Hits Tour, a definitive ranking of all of Olly Murs’ singles.

Apr 22, 2025Apr 22, 2025 ~ Alex the Pensmith ~ Leave a comment

We take a look back and offer our hand-picked ranking of all 31 of the Essex pop legend and all round good one's singles from 2010 to today. Good news for "Oh My Goodness", bad news for practically all the singles off Marry Me...

It Starts (again)…

Apr 6, 2025Apr 6, 2025 ~ Alex the Pensmith ~ Leave a comment

August 2024: Allow us to reintroduce ourselves...April 2025: It starts in the head and it beginsIt starts and it changes everythingIt starts and it never fades awayCan I lay my head down, will you say,"Every little thing's gonna be okay"?- 'It Starts', Nerina Pallot, 2009. Well hello there. Hope you're all keeping out of mischief … Continue reading It Starts (again)…

Recent Posts

  • Album Review: Olly Murs (@ollymurs) – “Knees Up”
  • Pop Essays #64: Girls Aloud, ‘Swinging London Town’
  • Pop Essays #63: Daniel Powter, ‘Free Loop’
  • Pop Essays #62: Nelly Furtado, ‘Powerless (Say What You Want)’
  • Pop Essays #61: Victoria Beckham, ‘I Wish’

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