Holy Fire

I've had a thing for Foals ever since an intoxicated Jimmy Smith told me that they had "the biggest dicks on tour" in a 2010 interview for Pages Digital. The Oxford boys have just dropped their third album 'Holy Fire'. It's more of what you'd expect - and by that I mean they've changed tack again and presented something you probably weren't expecting. The album opens with a pretty amazing prelude and continues to defy pigeon holing from there. Second track Inhaler seems to be a bit of a throwback to the rock era, while third track My Number is a D-Floor burner. Highly original, and as always, highly listenable. Get in.

The Friday

Oh Lord Jesus it's a fahr FRIDAY. 

There are big things happening at the Sydney Daily HQ this weekend, mainly a painting party (a.k.a giant piss-up with rollers) so we can get our new studio space ready for action. Then hopefully we'll be able to show a bunch of stuff not just tell you about it (brilliant as I've no doubt your imagination is).

Sydney is primed for a great weekend and it's all about Rock & Roll. Venues on our hitlist this weekend:

Frankie's Pizza, the newest in a line of CBD basement bars that have been enjoying a lot of attention lately.

Why go:

• Open late
• Serve Pizza
• Have pinball machines 
• Chet Fakers Beard was there last week

Bulletin Place, another CBD gem in the Quay getting rave reviews all round. From what we hear this place is all about the drinks - they have a menu that changes daily and quantities are limited.

Why go:

• Intimate
• Creative drinks menu
• Hype

Vasco, new rock & roll bar in Surry Hills. My source tells me (don't sue) they hit a cymbal every time someone walks in the door. I'm going - you can't stop me

Why go:

• Fender bar stools
• Smoking area
• Hot dogs
• Cymbolic fanfare

If you've not punched anyone in the face by that stage check out the Cake Wines pop up bar at 77 George St (til midnight).

Venue Alert: The Soda Factory

Making up for my proverbial dropping of the Alt-J ball I'm hitting you with this one ahead of time (cheer cheer). The Soda Factory is opening in Surry Hills on the 23rd of February - a cocktail bar serving up old school drinks and gourmet hotdogs (in line with the current Americana trend).

The drinks menu contains a Vodka Raspberry Float (yum) and a Kosher hot dog called 'The Barbara Streisand' which in itself is fabulous enough to warrant a visit. DJ Spinna (NYC) will be heading up the launch party and Grandmaster Flash making an appearance on Friday 22nd March. One to watch! Venue review forthcoming.