Monthly Archives: March 2018

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Indie Buddie Introducing : Kios

Kios is an indie rock band based in Nashville, TN. The three piece is made up of Cole Suddarth (vocals/guitar), Aaron Krak (drums), and Mitch Wollenberg (bass). Cole and Aaron met through a previous band that formed at Belmont University – Aaron and Mitch grew up together in Newark, Ohio; all three moved to Nashville in 2014 to pursue music. They have now released their debut single ‘Be Loved’ with an EP planed for the end of the summer.

‘Be Loved’ is a sugar rush of sweet luscious indie pop filled with infectious melodies glazed on top of vibrant sparkling instrumentation. Smooth laid back vocals glide upon the melty melody while a snappy clap along feature and buoyant drums add a peppy lift and energetic urgency to the track. Ethereal guitars swirl around flashing bright scintillation throughout the dreamy candied soundscapes. The bassline rumbles and slaps creating a fluctuant foundation to this wispy joyous tune while providing a hint of edgy grit. It’s a sublime refreshing, chilled, fruity cocktail on a hot day that is summer ready and an absolute joy to listen to.

Stream ‘Be Loved’ below


Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Sam Brockington ‘Fool’

Indie singer-songwriter Sam Brockington is set to release his newest single ‘Fool’ on April 6th. After gaining support from BBC Introducing and BBC 6Music upon the release of his debut EP ‘Peace of Mind’, his newest release takes us in a new direction, showing Sam’s growth as an artist and marking what is set to come.Hailing from Devon, Sam began his solo career as a busker in Melbourne, Australia, where he was able to develop a distinctive folk inspired singer-songwriter style influenced by the likes of Matt Corby. Upon returning to the UK and relocating to Bristol, Sam began to focus on shaping his sound and became a regular in the festival circuit, with highlights including Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds. Inspired by the pace and diversity of the city, Sam’s music has now matured into a fusion of alternative indie whilst still preserving that earnest and warming singer-songwriter edge.

His newest single ‘Fool’ was written about the feeling of being held back in life by his own personal hurdles, with the aim of connecting with the listener on a more emotional level. Produced by Bat For Lashes bassist TJ Allen, the track holds an underlying profoundness while still appealing to listeners as an upbeat indie release. With his warm distinctive vocal adding a celestial quality, this track glows with a heart warming purity and comfort that is beautifully uplifting and vibrant. The melodic bass grooves and weaves between a driving drum beat and ethereal guitar. This track pulses, throbs and soars with adrenaline rushing emotion. Lyrically the song is a burst of expression and clear anguish, making your heart skip a beat and yearn to listen to it again. Richly layered and simply sweet ‘Fool’ is a fine example of the pure honest musicianship that consumes the listener in a whirlpool of luscious sounds and leaves them dancing around the room entirely captivated.

‘Fool’ is due for official release via all major digital platforms on 6th April and is set to be supported by a video release the following week and a B-side single release in May.

While you wait to hear the track have a listen to ‘Peace of Mind’ below

 


Funk, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Gorilla Troubadour ‘The Apple Truck’

Dublin based Gorilla Troubadour have released their new single ‘The Apple Truck’. Gorilla Troubadour are an emerging energetic funk rock band that consists of Dylan Kearns (Lead Vocals/Rhythm guitar), Eamon Ganley (lead guitar), Eric Walsh (drums) and James O Connor (Bass). The group take inspiration from bands such as ‘The Red Hot Chilli Peppers’ and ‘Arctic Monkeys’ to create heart pumping grooves and atmospheric tunes. In summer 2017 they played venues across Ireland including Limerick, Waterford and Mullingar. Later that year the band headlined Whelan’s on the 10th of October to a full house. A launch gig is set for the 4th of April 2018 in Whelan’s along with multiple dates across the country including Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Wicklow with more to be confirmed.

‘The Apple Truck’ is an impressive swagger-soaked blast of funk rock at its best. This young band display a mature sharp sound that exudes strutting panache smeared on top of ballsy gritty rock. From the start of that opening riff this track steams and blisters with gritty red-hot charisma. With vaporous stings on guitar teamed with a meaty flexible drum beat and sensual bass lines Gorilla Troubadour belt out a thrilling wild beast. This track takes its time unraveling its lush sound slowly as it coolly cruises in on a funky carpet of chicness.  It’s all about the groove, this four piece keep it tight as the guitars follow the rhythm neatly then find their spaces to shine with a sultry whine or shredding solo. The melody and simple vocals dance on top of the infectious groove for the verses while the chorus explodes in true rock and roll manner. It’s catchy well-crafted and definitely makes these guys ones to watch out for.

Stream ‘The Apple Truck’ below


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Psychedelic, New Music, Psych-Pop, psychedelic

Mono Club ‘Sky High And Submarine’ Album

London six-piece, Mono Club have released their eagerly anticipated debut album ‘Sky High And Submarine’ on LGM Records. The album was recorded and self-produced in their London studio and then mixed by Dave Eringa (Manic Street Preachers).Featuring a stunning set of ten songs, including the current single ‘Best Laid Plans’, the new album will more than confirm their early promise as one of the most exciting new bands around right now. Formed just over two years ago after the break up of Goldheart Assembly, the Mono Club line up of John Herbert, Dan Bell, Jake Bowser, Nicky Francis and Kyle Hall have recently recruited singer / musician Lyla Foy (Sub Pop / Rough Trade Records). They released the aforementioned debut single ‘Sky High And Submarine’ last year and it quickly became a big favourite of Steve Lamacq’s and was subsequently play listed on BBC 6 Music.

‘Sky High And Submarine’ is a ten track collection of melodious, psychedelic swirled pop that is so soothing and luscious you will be craving for more. Each track brings a new level of mellowness while packing in delicious melodies and intricately layered instrumentation. ‘Sour Mash’ begins our journey into this beautiful honey caressed world created by Mono Club. Luscious velvety vocals serenade over twinkling, subtly psychedelic instrumentation while a steady soothing beat adds a flexible foundation for its euphoric soundscapes to rebound off. Their knack for mouthwatering melodies and tight blissful instrumentation creates the most glorious tunes and each track on this album is flooding with marvelous dreamy sounds. ‘Sky High And Submarine’ is angel delight wrapped in buoyant rhythms and golden guitar jingles. The harmonies are lush and teamed with the honey drizzled melody create the most tranquilizing atmosphere. The swirling trippy soundscapes never become overwhelming or too heavy they balance them sublimely with the laid back sun kissed vibes and vibrant guitars to create a wholly satisfying and mesmerising listen. ‘Memory Critical’ and ‘Place Called Home’ add a little more bounce and funk into the album. They are joyful with sweet, narcotic, dreamy tones. If you’ve ever wanted to lay back, relax and let the world go by ‘Memory Critical’ is the song for you. It will take every worry from you during the duration of the song and leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. I have fallen in love with Mono Club’s melodies – the sweetness and tender emotion in tracks such as ‘Other Peoples Worlds’ exude passion and beautiful delicacy while still packing in some hefty instrumentation. It’s anthemic and powerful yet elegant and emotional,the perfect blend to get hearts racing everywhere. The album is filled with soothing swoony moments between peppy pop sprinkled melodies with a delightful swoosh of dizzying psychedelia mixed in. It’s an impressive collection of tracks that calm and sedate with enough edge to keep you on your toes. From the catchy vibrant ‘Best Laid Plans’ to the brooding yearning ‘Over The Moon’ with its funky bassline and eerie piano feature which chills and cools the track down, creating a darker side to the wispy dreamy atmosphere, these guy blend their contrasting elements perfectly. The album winds down delicately. The twinkling ‘Venus Rising’ and warm cosy ‘Sleeping’ ease us to the end with the gritty ‘Heaven Was Her Heart’ resting between them.

‘Sky High And Submarine’ is a mesmerising listen. There is something special sprinkled on top that leaves you captivated and wanting to hear more. Listening to this album I yearned to sit back with sun on my face, a drink in my hand soaking up the good times. With those satisfying mouth-watering melodies teamed with zesty guitars and mystical, psychedelic soundscapes it’s a superbly crafted collection of tracks. The harmonies are heavenly, and each track brings something exciting and juicy to the table.

Stream ‘Sky High And Submarine’ below

 


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Isaac Gracie

Isaac Gracie has released his new track ‘That Was Then’, from his eponymous debut album which is due out 13th April via Virgin EMI. Another deeply soul touching track from the singer songwriter ‘That Was Then’ swoons and sweeps with a delicate heartfelt melody caressed by Gracie’s passionate vocals. A soft beat holds a steady foundation while guitar strums provide an edged, ethereal quality to this dainty track. Lush backing vocals coo behind the sublime tear-jerking melody which swishes and elegantly glides between the beautiful sweet instrumentation. Maturely composed and tightly layered Gracie showcases his sophisticated, deeply moving musicianship that places him as one of the finest new singer songwriters out there at the moment. His ability to make you feel every painful, sorrowful note is masterful yet, his pure, honest rawness hits you hard in the chest. It’s a pristine creation – timeless and beautifully crafted. There is no need for over production or flashiness, ‘That Was Then’ exudes emotion and is another gem to add to the treasure of tracks Gracie provides for us to hold dear.

You can catch Isaac Gracie Live at :

11th April – Gorilla, Manchester

12th April – Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen, Leeds

13th April – The Mash House, Edinburgh

15th April – King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow

16th April – The Crescent, York

17th April – Leadmill 2, Sheffield

18th April – The Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

20th April – O2 Institute2, Birmingham

21st April – O2 Academy2, Oxford

22nd April – Arts Centre, Norwich

23th April – Thekla, Bristol

25th April – The Haunt, Brighton

26th April – Hackney Empire, London

Watch the video for ‘That Was Then’ (Live at Konk Studios) below


Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Down The Middle ‘Green Eyed’

Down The Middle have released their new single ‘Green Eyed’.Brought together from countries across the globe – Australia, South Africa and Ireland – the four members of Down The Middle bonded over a series of productive jams and an appreciation for indie rock. Their diverse upbringings and musical backgrounds have helped create a melting pot for creativity, developing a tight driving sound. Down the Middle are Sydney-based and were formed in 2016 when guitarists Tiernan and Rudi started writing music together. It was quite a struggle to find the perfect line-up, but when new members: Zach, a local DJ/drummer, and Matt, the bass player joined in 2017, the final formation of the band was complete. The band have played 16 shows to date that include headlining iconic Sydney venues such as The Chippendale Hotel, The Marlborough Hotel, and Vic On The Park. Their music is a sonic journey that falls somewhere between We Are Scientists and Pixies. They have interstate gigs included on the list, and an upcoming four state tour in April to promote the release of their debut single ‘Green Eyed’

‘Green Eyed’ is a playful light slice of indie pop brimming with zippy guitars and a snappy rhythm that will have feet tapping and bodies dancing in no time. This bubbly sun kissed track is infectious, tidy and compact with a warm melodic bass running along the sweet melody as dynamic vocals lament with a heart warming dose of passion. The post-revival up-tempo drums will have hips wiggling uncontrollably as this charming catchy track glows with a glorious soothing nostalgic warmth. Its steady “does exactly what it says on the tin” indie that will put a smile on your face and add a little beam of sunshine into your day.

The accompanying music video is a charming throwback to 90s and 2000s indie rock, with a beta/VHS feel to the clip, and a simplicity that allows the song itself to take the lead.

Watch the video for ‘Green Eyed’ below

 


Event News

Event News: Gallops at The Grand Social, Dublin

Gallops at The Grand Social on March 30th for a LATE SHOW!

Math trio Gallops, will be hitting The Grand Social on March 30th for a LATE SHOW!. Gallops bring industrious composition to the “post” scene. Meandering through noises that bring you a digital Tron esc sound that has been smoothened out with your mothers brand new iron but upholds everything digitalising drool-worthy of 8 Bit sound. These guys have tracks that are so electronically charged and sci-fi tinged it will have you in seizures frothing from the mouth yet craving for more.

Support on the night comes from local post-punk noisemakers Tribal Dance. They come packing a strange concoction of math, aggression, punk, noise and manage to keep it all danceable. Alongside CHANCER who are a cinematic post-rock band made up of some of Dublin’s finest musicians from an array of bands which include Overhead, The Albatross, Val Normal, Punch Face Champions and Not Monsters. And So I Watch You From Afar will also be joining them on the night for a DJ set.

It’s a jam-packed night of brain melting ear crushing sounds that’s sure to make it one dizzing swirling Good Friday to remember. Its going to be heavy and rowdy with some sweetness blended in. One not to be missed.

Doors 11pm till late

You can get tickets here https://secure.tickets.ie/Listing/EventInformation/37627/gallops-the-grand-social-3-March-2018


Indie Soul, New Music, Singer/Songwriter, Soul

Leon Bridges ‘Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand’ and ‘Bad Bad News’

Leon Bridges, the double Grammy Award nominated R&B artist, has announced details of his second album, ‘Good Thing’. The album will be available both digitally and physically on the 4th May. ‘Good Thing’, the follow up to Leon’s critically acclaimed, award winning, Certified Gold debut album ‘Coming Home’, was Executive Produced by Ricky Reed and Niles City Sound, and produced by Ricky Reed. Leon and his long-time collaborators and ‘Coming Home’ producers, Niles City Sound, headed out west to work with Reed with the goal of taking Leon’s music in a more modern R&B direction while staying true to his signature style. Leon has released two tracks from the album ‘Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand’ and ‘Bad Bad News’.

‘Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand’ is your tender soulful slow burner. Leon’s falsetto vocals cruise and sweetly coo through this delicately passionate track. With swoony strings and twinkling piano its a candle lit romantically smooth charmer that oozes emotion. With a soft orchestral arrangement flickering around his warm vocals- it’s evening chill time bliss.

‘Bad Bad News’ is the funkier number. Its swagger soaked and peppy with a groovy bassline that is strut ready. Leon’s vocals exude sass and an effortlessly cool panache. It’s a swish fluid track that seeps swanky chicness with flickers of slick glossy guitar while holding an air of laid back flamboyance. It’s an alluring track that swoops in with charisma and a slicked back funky style.

Both tracks display Leon’s sophisticated richly passionate musicianship and deeply soulful sound with a funky twist thrown in.

When asked about the album Leon said, “I loved my experience with Coming Home. Good Thing however allows me to showcase more of my influences and artistry. I’m excited for the world to hear it and perform this diverse group of songs live.”

Stream ‘Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand’ and ‘Bad Bad News’ Below

 

 


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Wolves of Youth ‘Start Again’

Donegal indie rock four piece Wolves of Youth have released their new single ‘Start Again’ – a vibrantly vivacious guzzle of indie rock that leaves you buzzing for more. Edgy guitar stings introduce the track with anticipation before it explodes into that radio ready infectious tune you expect from these guys. With punchy drums, strident guitars and rumble on bass it’s an anthemic belter. It’s flooding with nostalgic sweet tones embracing a luscious sun kissed sing along melody which is caressed by the warm raspy vocals. This track is another example of the fine infectious indie Wolves of Youth produce as they relentlessly steam roll through with an electrifying sound that stops you in your tracks. The song builds as guitars blaze and scorch into the mighty adrenaline rushing crescendo. It’s a soaring glistening number that grabs you right in the center of your chest makes you feel each and every passionate lyric, every intense golden note and every surge of emotion you have ever felt. It’s an impressive, heartfelt, dynamic track and one to put on repeat.

Watch the video for ‘Start Again’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Synth Rock

Brass Phantoms ‘Disciples’

Dublin indie rock/post-punk outfit Brass Phantoms have released their new single ‘Disciples’. Last year the bands track ‘Waiting Up’ garnered widespread airplay across Irish radio, as well as being featured on BBC Radio 6 and Spotify curated playlists, and last month their single ‘City Of Wolves’ was used across television campaigns to promote the UEFA Champions League.They have been part of festivals including Other Voices and Indiependence, as well as headlining sold-out shows in Dublin. Before heading on tour at the end of last year, the Metro in London listed the five piece as ‘Artist of the Week’ and have just signed a distribution deal with Believe Digital after their recent UK and US tour.

‘Disciples’ is an overwhelming whack of soaring indie. Swirling synth soundscapes and ethereal guitars create an immaculate celestial atmosphere which encapsulates the snappy dynamic rhythm in a whirlwind of rushing adrenaline. These together, crash and collide in a dramatic fashion to deliver a thrilling powerful sound. Brass Phantoms never create their tracks by half measures its all in and mighty and this track is no different. So many lush intricate components weave, rebound and flicker within this track creating a juicy rich full-bodied tune to completely immerse yourself in. It’s breezy with haunting dark tones folded tightly into its inner core. Ryan Cashell’s vocals are as powerful and expressive as ever with his rooted deep range surging ominous tones for the verses and exuding passion with compelling potency for the chorus. The guitars are just magnificent with sharp, stinging, jagged strides intertwining with curving intricate melodies. It’s superbly composed – majestic yet chilling and hair-raisingly glorious. Another knock out track from the five piece.

In support of the track Brass Phantoms will be touring across Ireland supporting Delorentos with MCD, as well as doing their own headline shows in London in The Finsbury on April 19th, and in the Workmans Club in Dublin on May 17th. Make sure to check them out.

Stream ‘Disciples’ below