Tag Archives: indie pop

Jack Rua ‘Isolation’

Irish glam-pop artist Jack Rua has released his new single ‘Isolation’. Writing music at the age of 15, first for a rock band and then as a soloist, he renamed himself Jackal in 2013. Backed by an 8 piece band, his theatrical and energetic stage show saw him perform at venues such as Whelans, The Academy, The Mercantile and Vicar Street. Graduating with a BA in Commercial Modern Music from BIMM Dublin, Jack took a hiatus from performing in 2017 and moved to New York City where he immersed himself in the cultural scenes of drag, burlesque and theatre – shaping his sound around these creative concepts.

‘Isolation’ is a glorious display of Jack Rua’s shimmering pop as he takes an emotive theme and shrouds it in infectious glittering electronics and bubbling rhythms.The song is glowing with Rua’s refined musicianship and impressive songwriting prowess as light verses simmer while entwining synths and ethereal elements contrast the thematically darker undertone. The track has invigorating bursts of release between the coiling beats while Rua’s smooth warm vocals ooze swagger and charm.

‘Isolation’ is a richly textured track exuding finger clicking elements and catchy soundscapes. Rua’s ability to provide a danceable catchy tune with relatable lyrics and conflicting sonic twists is masterful. Jack Rua is an artist to keep an eye on. 

About the track Jack Rua said : “It was written about how I was separated from my boyfriend for 2 months because of the COVID pandemic. We had only just gotten into a relationship and were enjoying the throws of the infamous honeymoon period, so to be separated from each other for such a period of time for reasons beyond our control was very difficult.I love this song because it really captures what I was experiencing. I was trying to remain positive and remind myself that things were only temporary, but still feeling a sense of hopelessness and a complete lack of control of the situation. I knew what I was doing was right morally in the context of a pandemic, but it felt so incorrect personally and all of these conflicting emotions and ideas were driving me crazy.”

Stream ‘Isolation’ below 


Author : Danu

SODAPOP ‘Edge Of The Night’

SODAPOP has released his new single ‘Edge Of The Night’.This bright upbeat tune oozes feel good vibes as SODAPOP uses his radiant indie pop to provide that much needed pick me up. With bubbling synths, glistening guitars and shimming beats this track struts in ready to take you to the dancefloor. It’s a fresh, sweet guzzle of indie pop as SODAPOP creates a glucose-filled, luscious soundscape with shimmering electronics while adding a dash of zest through the sharp guitar lines. There is a tropical carefree tone to this song that is just irresistible. The smooth vocals drift over the dreamy melody while the chic disco vibes and indie pop subtly blend to create an infectious refreshing number that encapsulates summer.

About the track SOADPOP said: “I had been working on this song on and off for over two years, constantly rewriting it and trying to get it sounding like I wanted. One day I was out in the shed singing it and a little girl called from the other side of the fence, “Hey nice song!” There’s a school there, although it wasn’t in session. We couldn’t see each other at all.Thanks I said. We talked for a bit, then she asked me to sing the song again. I hadn’t quite worked all the parts out but I started playing it. I improvised the melody parts I still needed. I think knowing she was listening made me sort of simplify it towards something she’d wanna hear? Idk. But what I played there ended up being the version I went with for the record. Anyway, I’m stoked to have finally figured this one out.”

Stream ‘Edge Of The Night’ below


Author : Danu

Thrillhouse ‘If It’s Important’

Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their new single ‘If It’s Important’. Laced in the retro charm of Thrillhouse ‘If It’s Important’ is a sweet, airy tune exuding an irresistible concoction of danceable beats and perky guitar lines. The band subtly slip the track into your head with a laid back attitude while the catchy chorus hooks you firmly within the bands grasp. A warm guitar refrain and shimmying rhythm drive the track to its infectious chorus creating a melodic and almost hypnotic breadcrumb trail for the listener to indulge in. With jaunty keys and soft vocals teamed with a building wall of sound, this luscious track is a fine example of the meticulous crafting and attention to detail Thrillhouse possess. ‘If It’s Important’ is a wonder to treasure. 

Stream ‘If It’s Important’ below 


Author : Danu

Lost Boys ‘Sunrise’

Lost Boys have released their new single ‘Sunrise’ featuring UPPBEAT. Lost Boys are a 4 piece indie pop outfit from Limerick, Ireland. Following their formation 2 years ago they have gained a huge following with their most recent singles “Obvious”and “Sadie” getting featured on the New Music Friday UK Spotify playlist. Selling out multiple shows in Limerick the boys were all but ready to start exhibiting their music on a national basis before COVID 19 forced them to cancel. ’Sunrise’ has also reached No.1 in the Irish charts.

‘Sunrise’ is a breezy sun-soaked delight as Lost Boys glaze their indie pop in R&B hues and feel good summer vibes. With sharp mellow guitar lines weaving between sticky beats and smooth laid back soundscapes, the track drifts effortlessly into the ears. The velvety vocals glide over the dreamy buoyant melody while the band injects tropical elements into the tracks relaxed atmosphere. This song is catchy and charming with a rhythmic pulse that is irresistible. UPPBEAT’s raps fluidly flow over the songs bouncy groove, oozing swagger and R&B hues into the song. The punchy raps and bubbling rhythm provide a wonderful contrast to the nostalgic, wispy soundscape which the instrumental backdrop provides. Lost Boys have captured summer in a tune and it’s the perfect go to track to just chill and relax to. These guys have got something special, I’m looking forward to hearing more from them.

About the track the band said “We initially started writing the song about that summer feeling where you want to run away to the coast with your friends for a weekend, going camping and just escaping from everyday city life. Although it started off like that it grew into so much more when summer came and no-one was able to do any of those things. We weren’t able to go on spontaneous trips, we weren’t able to leave our room feeling safe and we weren’t able to see our friends and loved ones.It made the song bittersweet as we were experiencing the exact opposite of how we wanted to feel when listening to it.That’s why we decided to delay the release until after summer. It didn’t need to be summer for us to have that summer feeling. It bottled up the exciting, crazy, mad trips we had last year and gave us the chance to experience the feeling in a little way. We want people to listen to this driving in the lashing rain with the windows down – if it makes one person feel like they’re sitting at Lahinch with a can in their hand then it was 100% worth making.”

Stream ‘Sunrise’ below 


Author : Danu

The Loft Club ‘Dreaming The Impossible’ Album

U.K. indie band The Loft Club have released their full-length debut ‘Dreaming The Impossible’, released by Lightyear Entertainment, through Caroline/UMG, in association with UK label So Let’s Talk. The Exeter-based quintet consists of Daniel Schamroth (guitar/vocals), Jamie Whyte (bass/vocals), Kieran Chalmers (drums), Josie Stoneman (vocals) and Sam Piper (lead guitar). Schamroth wrote the first 11 songs on Dreaming The Impossible and co-wrote the album closer, “Flicker,” with Lisa Loeb and the album was produced by James Bragg (Jack Steadman, The Skints).

Melding and weaving indie rock with warm folk hues and flashes of psychedelia, ‘Dreaming The Impossible’ is a compelling collection of tracks.The tunes are hearty and powerful with a driving rhythmic section, jangly guitars and irresistible vocal hooks adorning each song, especially in the dynamic opener and title track ‘Dreaming The Impossible’. There is no shortage of energetic bangers on this album as each track infuses the bands alternative pop sensibilities with their rich wall of sound and instrumental prowess. With elements of Oasis Brit pop, the band surge sweet melodies and lush harmonies into ‘Heard Her Say’ and ‘True Love’. There are sublime bass grooves throughout the album ‘I’m Just A Man’’ displays a nimble and mysterious bass with a shimmying beat, dousing the song in finesse.

Each track is diverse and unique in its own right, flowing effortlessly into the next to create a cohesive listening experience. From the country twang of ‘Baby You’ll Be Fine’ to the soothing laid back psychedelic tones in ‘Waves’, the band blend genres superbly. With tight harmonies, melty melodies and euphoric atmospheres in tracks like ‘You Are The Sun’ teamed with shredding guitar lines and punchy drums there is something for everyone to enjoy within this album. The Loft Club balance their mellow tracks with more vibrant anthems allowing songs such as the dreamy ‘Made In England’ and ‘Flat Broke’ sit next to the brisk uplifting ‘Flicker’ which features sweet vocals from Lisa Loeb.

‘Dreaming The Impossible’ defies your average indie rock band cliché as The Loft Club explore and expand their music and intricate genre knowledge to create a light, heartfelt and enjoyable album which showcases their promise and talent. 

Stream ‘Dreaming The Impossible’ below 


Author : Danu

Elina Filice And Claudia Crampton’s New Single ‘Lying’

Singer/songwriter Elina Filice and spoken word artist/rapper Claudia Crampton have teamed up to release a new single ‘Lying’. This laid black alternative R&B tune drifts upon a mellow guitar hook and warm bass while the intricate hip-hop beats provide texture and buoyancy. Jazz laced guitar delicately weaves between the dreamy sweet melody, catchy chorus and lush vocal harmonies creating a soothing tone. The brisk raps roll over the verses with a sleek fluid flow while charming keys and the relaxing instrumental backdrop provide a breezy chilled contrast. ‘Lying’ is a well crafted tune which boasts the talent, sleek musicianship and deft songwriting of both Elina Filice and Claudia Crampton.

About the track Elina says, “Fascination with the concept of Lying inspired the song. So much of our lives, on a small and large scale, with how we relate to ourselves and each other, is based on lies. The lies we tell ourselves to get by, the lies we tell to either harm or protect each other.”

Claudia says, “My verses narrate the story of a relationship that has had its many ups and downs but has ultimately reached its end. The verses reflect the turmoil and hardship that come with an unfaithful partner and the difficulties in coping with the heartache.”

Stream ‘Lying’ below


Author : Danu

Bobbi Arlo ‘Signs’

22 year old pop rap artist Bobbi Arlo has released her new single ‘Signs’.This dynamic electronic pop track surges with pulsing beats, exhilarating synths and floor rippling bass grooves. Arlo’s sweet vocals venture from soft coos for the haunting verses and build for the powerful chorus. Arlo has a knack with ear worm melodies and ‘Signs’ is another prime example of this. The track meanders into slightly new territory for Arlo taking the R&B style of her debut radio smash ‘Berries’ and dropping some cinematic production and electronic flourishments to create quite the expressive hair raising number. Arlo spreads a catchy melody over this explosive progressive backdrop while subtle twinkles and passionate vocals exude emotive sweetness. With themes of longing blended with exhilaration ( provided by the darker sultry beat fluctuations and synth swirls ) the track has a gripping and wholly satisfying soundscape that is impressive and irresistible. ‘Signs’ is a musically rich, well crafted piece of electronic pop and another fine example of why Bobbi Arlo is an artist to keep an eye on.

Speaking about the song Bobbi Arlo says: “I’m so excited to release ‘Signs’. It’s a completely new sound for me which is exciting because I have no idea how it’s going to be received. I hope it doesn’t disappoint”.

Stream ‘Signs’ below


Author : Danu

Noah Elliott ’Selling Out’

Noah Elliott has released his new single ’Selling Out’. Noah Elliott is a 23-year-old artist based in Los Angeles. In 2018, Noah released a stream of self-produced singles resulting in over 700k listens on Spotify. In fall 2019, he joined forces with producers Dylan Bauld (Halsey, Bea Miller), Rune Westberg (Colbie Caillat, Daughtry) and Jon Santana (SuperM) to finalize his first record. The 7-song project titled Songs for the Optimist will debut as singles over the next 6 months. Along with his artist project, he is putting the finishing touches on a 5-song EP for sync (co-produced by Jordan Frye of Position Music), and writes for other artists such as Mackenzie Bourg (American Idol), Stela Cole and Ben Hon.

‘Selling Out’ is a lush electronic pop tune which showcases Noah Elliott’s emotive songwriting, crisp production and grand musicianship. With deep grooves wriggling through ethereal synths, subtle tropical hues and intricate percussive shuffles the track has a bubbling backdrop which exudes an upbeat tone while the melancholic dreamy melody and velvety vocals create an addictive bittersweet sonic contrast. The breathtaking production and warm guitar refrains ensure the track hits you to the core while the electronic soundscapes glide into the ears with an effortless lo fi tone that is utterly soothing. The earnest lyrics deal with themes of love, manipulation and how harmful it can be to give up who one is for romance. This is what makes Elliott stand out as an artist – his ability to create a musically vibrant track that reaches out and touches the listeners soul through wonderful melodies and relatable themes. 

About the track Elliott said : “ Themes of love, manipulation, and shame all come to mind when I think back to writing Selling Out. It’s about realizing how much of myself I was willing to give up for romance and how harmful that was for my own mental health.”

Stream ‘Selling Out’ below


Author : Danu

Rowlette ‘Cucumber & Ice’

Mayo indie pop artist Rowlette has released her new single ‘Cucumber & Ice’. The single is her third release of 2020 and marks what has been a very impressive breakthrough in her music career with her previous singles being added to Spotify editorial playlists (including Fresh Pop, Pop Right Now and New Music Friday), performing alongside Jack L, being RTE Culture Tune of The Day twice and packing out her first headline show.

‘Cucumber & Ice’ is a shimmering pop anthem that drifts on the fun, clean and dynamic songwriting of Rowlette. This track radiates sunny vibes through a warm guitar refrain, buoyant rhythmic drive and a vibrant bubbly melody. Rowlette’s soothing vocals ooze character and charm while the freeing catchy melody ensures the song will stay in your head for days. This upbeat track is an instant ray of sunshine as the twinkle on guitar saturates the verse in a luminous glow before leading the song into its blossoming earworm chorus. ‘Cucumber & Ice’ is that catchy pick me ready to put a smile on your face when you need it. 

About the song’s creation Rowlette says “I was with Graham and Rob in the studio and we were writing a very serious/sad song when we decided to just switch it up. Graham started messing with a riff on guitar and I had the Cucumber and Ice idea in my notepad and we went from there. It was a lot of fun writing it.” The song was later mixed by Vasileios Gourgourinis and mastered by Fergal Davis to add the final gloss to an already sparkling tune.”

Stream ‘Cucumber & Ice’ below 


Author : Danu

Wild Youth ‘Next to You’

Wild Youth have released their new single ‘Next to You’.Already making a major impact across streaming services with pop gems like “Can’t Move On” and “Making Me Dance” racking up millions of plays, the band’s blood-pounding choruses, heart-stompingly gorgeous melodies, and deft lyricism have seen them share the stage with the likes of Mumford and Sons, Niall Horan, The Script, Kodaline and Zara Larsson on arena-sized shows.The Irish quartet is comprised of lead vocalist David Whelan, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Conor O’Donohoe, lead guitarist Ed Porter and drummer Callum McAdam.

Steeped in funky indie pop and an 80’s pop sheen ‘Next to You’ is the glitzy new addition to Wild Youth’s charming repertoire. With a dreamy euphoric melody drifting over a bubbling backdrop the band create another foot-tapping, get up and strut delight. Shimmering guitar hooks entwine a glitter-ball soundscape of scintillating pop as this chic smooth number oozes the panache and passion Wild Youth have become known for. It’s easy to get lost in the lush intricacies of ‘Next to You’ as the track builds into a sing along delight. The band embellish and craft this track beautifully creating a light indie pop number boasting an irresistible funky bass line which will entice you to the dance floor. Wild Youth have knocked it out of the park once again.

Speaking on the track, Wild Youth shared: “Next to You’ is about an immediate connection with somebody; that overwhelming feeling of meeting “the one”, and wanting to spend every single minute by their side. Regardless of whatever that involves, you’ll literally do anything.”

Watch the video for ‘Next to You’ below 


Author : Danu