Irish, Cork-based progressive art rock artist Shane O Leary, also known as Harlow Lake has released his new single ‘Bell and Jewel’. No stranger to the stage, O Leary has toured extensively throughout Ireland over the last 15 years, as well as the UK and Sicily, with prog-rock outfits, Jezery and Lamp. Supporting such acts as Three Trapped Tigers, Adebisi Shank, Diane And The Shell and Ten Past Seven.
‘Bell and Jewel’ is an intricately weaved psychedelic-hued progressive rock track that displays the refined and deft musicianship of Harlow Lake. The track takes you down a meandering traditional folk rabbit hole of obscurity as mystical guitars merge into a backdrop of rhythmic pulses and slaps that unfold into a sinister melodic soundscape. O Leary builds and crafts the track meticulously adding textured beats and infectious bass grooves to lure you further into his enthralling sound. Blending bright guitars and pop sensibilities into darker tones, the song ventures into psychedelic territory with Celtic folk embellishments before bursting with alternative pop/R&B flirtations.
Utilising rich and varied sounds from percussive shakes to chimes and drum machines ‘Bell and Jewel’ is a vibrant new single from Harlow Lake.
About the track O Leary said, “I wrote this during a time I was doing a lot of intensive meditation practices, and having very intense weird experiences throughout my normal day as a result of it. The chorus part’s a funny one, because I originally wrote it about someone I felt was such a prick, yet cunning, that they’d be the type to get away with murder. And even though I didn’t end up writing the rest of the song about this person I decided to keep this section in, cause I felt what I saw in them must also be in me too. If you spot it you got it kind of thing. The shadow side of myself. So in a nutshell the song’s about learning to be aware of the all the different parts of myself. The good, the bad and the ugly.”
Dublin-based electronic band, Pecking Party have released their latest single ‘Descendant’. The track is accompanied by a stylised sci-fi-influenced video directed by Richard Harvey (winner of First Cut Youth Film Festival Music Video competition).
Luring, dark and superbly composed ‘Descendant’ displays the raw electronic rock of Pecking Party in all its glory. This sinister concoction blends swirling electronics with heavy, gritty rock and acute trip-hop to create an enthralling listening experience. The sheer terror and assault provided on bass and drums is masterful as the band create a harrowing coarse wall of sound for the shadowy, almost futuristic toned electronics to ricochet and swirl around.
The band balance their harrowing heavy sound with ethereal elements allowing glimmers of lightness and innocence to flicker within the muggy atmosphere. As harsh guitars gnaw through the track’s intoxicating soundscape, the delicate melody and soft vocals provide a refreshing contrast.
Ciara Ryan’s smoky lulling tone carries the track’s lighter moments – with sweet haunting coos on backing vocals she discusses themes of intergenerational dread and fear for the future. Ciara Ryan ventures into a menacing tone as growling backing vocals howl before the striking perilous chorus.
Pecking Party have crafted their sound masterfully creating an enticing and frenzied sound sure to ignite the senses and leave you craving for more.
London-based indie rock band Halloween Jack have released their new single ‘Musica Da “Giallo In Albion”’.After a hiatus of a few years following the release of their first album back in 2015, band members Adam Camm and Ian McEwan have sustained Halloween Jack’s strong industry position and rock’n’roll identity, whilst also progressing its sound through heavier production and undercurrents of pop music. In preparation for the return of live music, the duo are set to release a wealth of new music in the year ahead.
‘Musica Da “Giallo In Albion”’ is a thrilling display of rock n roll as Halloween Jack mix their swagger-drenched sound through dark soundscapes to create quite the infectious bop. With shredding guitar slicing through a strutting bass and punchy drums, the track stomps in full of energy. This dynamic wall of sound soars over a wave of 70’s chic panache while smooth melodies and rich percussion layer the track in vibrancy. The rasped vocals coo through the building backdrop as the song becomes more intoxicating and psychedelic. With swirling synths injecting an ominous tone into the track while the resounding rhythmic thumps drive the infectious disco tones, ‘Musica Da “Giallo In Albion”’ is a well-crafted sultry banger from Halloween Jack.
Taking influence from the nostalgic, paperback thriller aesthetic of 70s Italian ‘Giallo’ movies, ‘Musica Da “Giallo in Albion”‘ sees the band take the unease and malevolence of these early cult films and mirror it both instrumentally and melodically in the track’s eerie music box chime, strange backing vocal, and highly crafted lyrics to create a tantalizing listening experience.
Star Comedy Democrats have released their debut EP ‘Imitation Road.’ A catchy and powerful modern rock band, Star Comedy Democrats, is a tight three-piece outfit based in Kilkenny, fronted by Mark Bolger with Briain Casey on Bass and Rory Cooper on Drums.
‘Imitation Road’ is a bright and raw collection of alternative rock from Star Comedy Democrats. The band create an EP of lush melodies and refined instrumentation that becomes more radiant and exciting with each subsequent listen.
With clean jangly guitars driving the radiant energy between the punchy and rhythmic ‘Ghost’ and title track ‘Imitation Road’ Star Comedy Democrats display their tight and slick sound in all its glory. The songs are well-paced and brimming with intricate guitar embellishments, elastic flirtation on bass, and infectious alternative rock-esque melodies. Each song flows fluidly into the next with ease as Bolger’s warm, rasped vocals inject a dash of grit into the band’s energetic aesthetic.
Star Comedy Democrats have crafted a melody-rich EP that you can croon along to as well as mosh manically to. They build laid-back tunes like ‘Fire and Teeth’ with brooding lush harmonies and sullen verses while vibrant biting choruses and heartfelt air-punching crescendos drive the trio’s dynamic sound with vigor. However, the grunge-hued ‘Happy Valley’ is perhaps the EP’s pinnacle moment. A dark luring bass rumbles alongside a resounding drum while a steamy guitar pines, stings, and crashes throughout. This meticulous layering creates a sound that is fresh and intoxicating.
Star Comedy Democrats have created a tight well rounded, and enjoyable EP. For a debut, the EP showcases the growing talent and raw, authentic sound of Star Comedy Democrats. Love it.
‘He Knows’ is the debut single from Kilkenny-based singer and multi-instrumentalist Ali Comerford. Having toured the world performing viola in classical ensembles for 14 years, Ali moved back to Kilkenny in 2020 and has recorded her debut album of original folk-based but classical influenced songs.
‘He Knows’ is a luscious piece of rich musicianship as Ali Comerford creates a delicate tune wrapped in intricate instrumentation and sweet tones. Comerford’s lulling vocal caress a dreamy melody while a blossoming string arrangement, provides a pristine and innocent atmosphere. As the instrumentation grows in volume, the song becomes more vulnerable and expressive.
Lyrically the track oozes sincerity and heartfelt emotion “Oh but there must be a way out, Of this maize that I’ve been working on, But I’ve built the walls so high with doubt, Do I keep on building ’till he’s gone”. ‘He Knows’ is a stunning listening experience. Filled with intriguing folk tones and pop appeal. Comerford’s compelling musicianship and deft lyrical ability is impressive and a joy to listen to.
About the song Ali says “He knows’ is a lilting song about leaving an unfulfilling relationship, the ups and downs of seeking support elsewhere and the resignation that the truth will always come out.”
Bio : Jonny Starkes is a singer/songwriter from Hare Bay, Newfoundland who now resides in Toronto, Ontario. Jonny released a single in July 2020 “These Four Walls” which reached the International market, including Ireland and the UK
Track: Lay It On
Why We Like It: Passionate and utterly moving ‘Lay It On’ displays the earnest, poetic and beautiful musicianship of Jonny Starkes. As warm acoustic guitar coats the backdrop in soothing laments the steady beat holds a strong and steady pace allowing Starkes emotive vocals to carry the heartfelt atmosphere. His rasped country tone exudes a smoky quality as he croons “broken telephone distorted lines.” His powerful lyrics capture the tug of war of a relationship.These evocative and vivid lyrics are doused in a moving and heartfelt melody while pining electric guitar whines in the background. It’s a fantastic and compelling single that marks Jonny Starkes as an outstanding artist to keep an eye on.
Bio : Dublin-based singer/songwriter Apollo Monroe has released his debut single, ‘soda pop’. Monroe solely wrote the song, and co-produced it with artist/producer Viscose. During the COVID lockdown, Monroe built a home studio and self-recorded, so that the collaboration could continue long-distance – essentially becoming a bedroom pop artist.
Track: soda pop
Why We Like It: It’s a vibrant electronic pop hybrid with EDM, dance, and trap, all melded into an infectious earworm. Blending sweet melodies with biting 808’s machine beats, and dizzying electronics, the track has a chaotic yet refined soundscape. The EDM beats and trap elements drive the song forward while the smooth vocals and bright melody make the track easy on the ears. With cheeky lyrics, reverb vocals, and sleek production, ‘soda pop’ is an infectious well-crafted debut. This experimental concoction surges with fun upbeat vibes, attitude, and sun-soaked tones to create a satisfying listening experience.
Bio : Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra are back with punchy and honest new single ‘I didn’t love you when I said I did and I don’t now’.Recorded by Sean Montgomery Dietz at Annesley House, and mastered by Blanka at Kasablanka mastering, the song depicts the relatable experience of disappointing relationships.The Dublin-based three-piece consists of singer/guitarist Sarah Deegan, bassist Alice Grollero and drummer Danni Nolan, who came together about three years ago after meeting through gigging around the Dublin underground music circuit
Track: I didn’t love you when I said I did and I don’t now
Why We Like It: It’s a brooding and haunting indie rock track. The song simmers through the lonely verses with Sarah Deegan’s lulling vocals holding the main focus. She coos over the melody while soft guitars adorn the backdrop. The verses dissolve into the lush cinematic chorus as Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra’s intricate acute arrangement rushes to compliment Deegan’s nonchalant yet powerful vocals. With majestic guitars soaring through the punchy drums and rumble on bass Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra cultivate a thrilling and compelling soundscape. ‘I didn’t love you when I said I did and I don’t now’ is a gripping, powerful, and striking display of musicianship from Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra.
Stream ‘I didn’t love you when I said I did and I don’t now’ below
Lena Morris
Genre : Blues Rock
Bio : Lena Morris is a French (of Armenian/Russian descent) Blues-Rock singer-songwriter and bass player, born in Brussels, raised in Hong Kong and based in Brighton (UK). Lena Morris mixes Blues, Rock, Soul and Jazz. Massively influenced by The Beatles, Queen and David Bowie, Lena Morris adds a special ingredient to her blues in the English scene: a hint of French accent.
Track: Little Bird
Why We Like It: It’s a brisk catchy number boasting the tight and powerful sound of Lena Morris as she spreads dynamic blues over a gritty rock backdrop. A sharp trot on guitars dictates the pace leading the punchy drums and elastic bass to follow at a rapid jogging speed. Morris’ powerful, commanding vocals surge attitude over this energetic backdrop while the lyrics tell the story of a confident, dominant woman taking ownership of her body and sexuality.’Little Bird’ is a fiery well-crafted track sure to be stuck in your head for days
Bio : Seán Finn is a multi-instrumental songwriter grounded in pop and jazz. Seán is classically trained on piano, self-taught on guitar, and has been writing music for the last 6 years.
Track: Mexican Beauty in Red
Why We Like It: This quirky track floats on Seán Finn’s charming songwriting as he blends sweet melodies, samba rhythms and rich percussion through a jazz-infused retro atmosphere to create a fun and easy listening gem. His smooth vocals caress the melody with a velvety tone, while the lush backing vocals and jazzy piano inject a dash of finesse and chicness into the track. The joy of this tune is its clean, soft romantic arrangement and production. There is no fuss or fluff within the track, just beautiful piano, lush vocals, and shaking/clapping percussion to make an organic and retro soundscape that is simply divine. Love it.
Bio : Following on from an array of bright and euphoric singles including ‘Until I Fall’, ‘God Only Knows’, ‘Killing Me Softly’, ‘Midnight’, and ‘Almost The Same’ throughout last year, fast-rising Irish singer and songwriter Curtis Walsh has now returned teaming up with fellow vocalist Anna Pancaldi to deliver his first offering of 2021, ‘Bend’
Track: Bend
Why We Like It: ‘Bend’ oozes sweet emotion and lush soundscapes as Curtis Walsh and Anna Pancaldi douse the track in wispy synths, suspenseful tones, and heartfelt melodies. Soft piano twinkles between the ethereal electronics, exuding a delicate sense of innocence while the pulsing beat creates a tense atmosphere. The duo’s vocals blend superbly to create a heartfelt and warm tone to the song while the melancholic melody drifts upon the bubbling backdrop. With mature earnest songwriting and evocative musicianship, this sincere and beautiful ballad marks Curtis Walsh and Anna Pancaldi as artists to keep an eye on.
You Can Follow Curtis Walsh and Anna Pancaldi On Facebook Here
‘The Moon and the Sea’ is the new romantic ballad from Italian/Australian singer songwriter Carmine Torricella.Italian born Carmine Torricella has long had a love for music and singing. Drawing his influence from traditional Italian love songs,Carmine Torricella shares his music as a way of connecting with others whilst travelling around the Australian outback.
Within ‘The Moon and the Sea‘ Carmine Torricella spreads romantic soundscapes over a delicate instrumental backdrop. This easy listening serenade is brimming with heartfelt tones and melodies as warm plucked guitar creates a balmy glow between rich rhythms and lush swoon on strings. With smooth vocals and uplifting tones, ‘The Moon and the Sea’ is a satisfying and emotive listening experience from Carmine Torricella.
Following on from the success of their previous releases, ‘EP!C’ and ‘MASS!VE’, Birmingham anti-pop quartet Y!KES have released their new single ‘Long Gone Silver’.
‘Long Gone Silver’ is a shredding and tantalizing assault to the senses. The track bursts in on the raw, relentless alternative rock we have come to love from Y!KES. This rattling rock beast roars upon a bloodthirsty drum and bass foundation while kaleidoscopic shards on guitar splinter through the backdrop with sharp stings.
Y!KES have a deft ability to balance the refinement of their craft and create a mind-blowing spectacle all at once, and ‘Long Gone Silver’ achieves this magnificently. The verses tease, wriggle and ferment through fuzzy suspenseful instrumentation while the band’s explosive chorus introduces the dramatic and theatrical affair of a mosh pit frenzy.
Displaying a sharp sense of understanding, the band capture a sense of youth through their wild tracks. Oli Long’s vocals spit and growl “All We Do Is Escape Ourselves and Call It Fun” with swagger and a sense of disdain, capturing the global frustration at the moment through witty and honest lyrics.
This frantic, energetic track is a sublime example of Y!KES’ fun and gloriously chaotic alternative rock. Sure to have you jumping and dancing around the room, ‘Long Gone Silver’ is one for repeat plays with the volume booming.
About the track Liam Howard, Guitarist explains, “Written in the heat of global frustration, Long Gone Silver smacks against the rage with massive guitars, bass hooks, punchy drums & sinister vocals to remind the world that music is alive, kicking & screaming”.
Adding to Liam’s comments, Vocalist Oli says “Excuse the pun, but I guess we are all somewhat in the same boat now. So what should we have done? Sat around twiddling our thumbs… or turn our shared frustration into something we can sing and dance to? I thought so. We wrote this as an almost sarcastic reminder that although tempting to rid one’s inhibitions daily through a chosen vice or activity. Sometimes it’s a good idea to check what day it is & ensure that you and your friends aren’t bleeding out.”
Oregon Pop-R&B artist Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Know,’ produced by Nashville hit-maker Jon Santana (Phangs, SuperM).
‘Never Know’ is a piece of softly glittering pop prowess as Elliott swirls sweet melodies through bubbling electronics to create an ethereal and tender number. With R&B elements weaved through fresh synths and spacious soundscapes, Elliott builds the track superbly. Weaving soft guitar between bubbling beats and a laid-back tempo, the song floats into a dreamy atmosphere allowing the electronics to unfold and create a soothing sense of nostalgia.
Elliott’s soulful vocals coo throughout, creating a melancholic and sweet tone to the track. His lush falsetto and velvety tone adds to the track’s overall sulky yet dreamy atmosphere. As Elliott builds the song, he layers bouncy synth elements into the catchy chorus and airy soundscape. Here the electronics become a little darker and sticky while the R&B elements kick in for the finger-clicking beat and the smooth vocals.
Elliott’s songwriting excels in setting vulnerable, personal themes and lyrics to his minimal radio-friendly pop. It’s this exposure of his heart that gives the track its power and beauty “Romeo and Juliet I envy what they had, thought we would have that or was it unrealistic “….. “But your doors are always closing when I keep mine cracked open waiting for you to walk in”. Elliott wears his heart on his sleeve for each song he releases, and ‘Never Know’ is a superb example of this.
Elliot’s spacious yet intricately weaved musicianship and heartfelt lyrics make each release engaging and utterly compelling. Within ‘Never Know,’ we see this through beautiful melodies, meaningful, honest lyrics, and a gripping wall of sound.
About the track, Noah Elliott said “The song is about the confusion and heartache that results from having no idea as to why someone left you.”
Hawke The Band have released their new single ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’. The young Dublin act was formed in 2018 by two friends in the shadow of the world-famous Guinness Brewery (in the south of the city) and features Richie Power (vocals/keyboards) and Eoghan MacMahon (vocals/guitar). Irish rock legends Aslan quickly declared themselves major fans, with frontman Christy Dignam proclaiming Hawke The Band “the next big thing” to emerge from a country that consistently punches above its weight in terms of quality music.
Anthemic and powerful ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a stunner as Hawke The Band present their refined and spirited sound through 90’s rock energy, a cinematic chorus and invigorating soundscapes. The band’s melodic mastery is something to be admired. A bright guitar refrain introduces the song. Twinkling throughout it becomes the main thread tying the vibrant instrumental embellishments together. Deep pulsing grooves anchor the listener within the ethereal atmosphere while a euphoric melody floats upon a lush soundscape filled with soaring guitars, accelerated drums, and chiming keys that continually expands as the song progresses. This lively assault on the senses is eargasmic and fills the listener with the sense of heart-rushing elation one feels at arena-worthy gigs. The duo showcase their deft lyrical abilities with this tantalizing number. They are honest, catchy, and powerfully moving “how could someone like me have you right by their side”. This is greatly enhanced by the warm emotive vocal delivery and sweet vocal harmony that coos the heart-felt lyrics.
‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a brilliant example of Hawke The Band’s breathtaking musicianship. This enthralling track boasts the duo’s sublime ability to pour heartwarming pop sensibilities over a dynamic indie rock backdrop to create a satisfying listening experience. The passion and youthful adrenaline surging through their sound is impressive and is equally as compelling. With each exciting release Hawke The Band are proving themselves ones to keep an eye on.
Stream ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
