Ramona -- Listen Up!

We're constantly getting turned on to new music here at Spinner HQ. Between our Free MP3 of the Day and weekly Free CD Listening Party, we hope you are too. To help further the cause, we're gonna bring you our personal must-hear music picks with Listen Up! -- Spinner's weekly spotlight on staff-approved artists who rock our world.

Who: Ramona
Hail From: Brighton, England
Why We Love Them: Immediately reminiscent of punk royalty like Blondie and the Ramones, Ramona cut to the quick with uncomplicated arrangements and songs that focus on the all-too-familiar themes that waylaid us in our early 20s and, dare we admit it, beyond.
Essential Listening: 'Steve McQueen' (MP3 Download)
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Exclusive Q&A With Vocalist Karen Anne:

What's your favorite album right now and why?
I love the Girls album ['Album'] at the moment. It's full of fun, melodic, uplifting hooks, perfect for the fading summertime.

Tell us about the first concert you saw.
When I was about 10 my mum asked me if I wanted to go to Paris, the catch being that I would have to go to a Cliff Richard concert. I made the most of the city wearing myself out to the point that I fell asleep by the third song.

You remind us of the Undertones. They made John Peel cry. Tell us about the last song you heard that made you cry?
'Infinite Arms' by Band of Horses. The whole album is amazing but that song is particularly haunting and melancholy. I listened to it over and over.

What's the craziest thing that's happened to you on tour?
We played the Wireless festival in July, and the whole day was like a dream. Our dressing room was in between the Gossip and the Ting Tings. By the time I arrived, the whole band had gone and got free haircuts. We had an amazing crowd and had the rest of the day to soak up the sunshine and music. It was the moment you say to yourself, "this is the best job in the world!"

What's your favorite UK city and why?
I would have to say my hometown Brighton. It became a city while I was living in London, and it wasn't until I moved back here a year ago that I understood why it truly deserved the title. Imagine all the best parts of London, minus the stress and with great beaches.


Watch Ramona Perform 'How Long'


Download: 'How Long' (MP3)

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