Irish indie-rock outfit modernlove. have released their soaring new single ‘Us’ through Akira Records (Phoria, Henry Green, Mt. Wolf, Rosie Carney, Shura).’Us’ follows on from the enormous success of their recently released EP ‘monochrome blue in September this year, which found support across countless tastemakers both here and abroad. Featuring the singles ‘Liquorice’, ‘2 Missed Calls’ and ‘lmk (if you wanna see me)’, they received strong playlist support, landing on New Music Friday UK, Fresh Finds, Alt-Pop and The Pop List amongst others on Spotify, as well as New Music Daily, New in Alternative and Breaking Alternative on Apple Music. They have also received strong radio support with 2FM, BBC R1, BBC R6, BBC Ulster, XS Manchester, Across the Line and Radio X giving them regular airtime and live sessions with BBC Introducing and Seconds Away with Gemma Bradley
With its immense euphoric pop soundscapes and irresistible jangly guitar hooks, ‘Us’ triumphantly continues modernlove.’s run of knock-out tracks. This song is shamelessly catchy. With lofty soundscapes expanding the track’s sonic sound while elevated synths weave sugar-coated melodies between hyper beats, the track offers perhaps the greatest endorphin release you’ll find this year. Barry Larry’s expressive vocal flexes from heartfelt suspended notes to warm velvety croons allowing the relatable vulnerability to creep through the lyrics “love, what have we done to us”. Boasting glittering guitar, rushing rhythms and heart-racing melodies ‘Us’ displays modernlove.’s refined musicianship and sleek instrumental prowess in all its glory. This band just get better with each release.
Tipperary artist Culleton has released her debut single ‘Control Freak’. Culleton has created a tight, punchy and immersive tune that showcases her refined and compelling musicianship. She spreads brisk rhymes over dark murky electronics while icy keys haunt in the backdrop. A standout aspect in the track is Culleton’s vocals; her unique voice creates a refreshing listening experience that effortlessly drifts between choir-like tendencies, sweet falsetto and acute raps. ‘Control Freak’ is a joy to listen to and an excellent debut from this intriguing artist.
Savonarola have released their new single ‘Byrds Gone Bad’.Formed in 2017, Savonarola knew that they had found something special from the get-go. Defined by a delicious blend of alternative rock and psychedelia, writing and recording oozed out of them, and they effortlessly created seven songs in less than a year. Since then, they have released their critically-acclaimed single, ‘Might Be Bad’, and 2020 EP, ‘Dischordant’.
‘Byrds Gone Bad’ showcases Savonarola’s swagger driven music as they delve deep into a psychedelic 60’s/70’s -esque sound to create a blistering tune for listeners to enjoy. Driving on a pounding rhythm, resounding bass and scorching guitars the track warps to become a mind-melting psychedelic listening experience. The track oozes a dynamic rock persona while a dark ominous atmosphere seeps in for the instrumental as the band introduce a Danish monologue executed by their bass player. Well crafted and brimming with vigour ‘Byrds Gone Bad’ is an energising new tune from Savonarola.
The Zen Arcade have released their new single ‘Alone in Monochrome’.The Zen Arcade is a garage rock band from Ireland, composed of three ex-members of The Strypes. Their debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ was the flagship release on their own label Dental Records and gained a number 1 spot on the iTunes Singles Chart on the day of release and entered the National Singles Chart at No.12. Extensive radio support across Ireland, the UK, the USA, and European radio stations followed.
‘Alone in Monochrome’ is a breath of fresh air that presents The Zen Arcade’s exciting sound in all its glory. The track reels the listener in with a deep bass refrain and bright indie backdrop while jagged guitar jabs ricochet off punchy drums before breaking into a tropical pedal steel- esque guitar lament. Melodically the track is a tasty slice of indie rock, full of wonderful dreamy tones and vibrant layers, however, a melancholic uneasy undertone expressed through dark lyrics adds a bitter aftertaste, “I left a world that was technicolour, for a plane of existence that was your shade duller.” With each subsequent listen, the track reveals new, exhilarating sounds and melodies that are simply a joy to discover as the band balance edgy garage rock elements with bittersweet nostalgia and a deep sense of loneliness to create a contrasting jolt between the catchy hooks. ‘Alone in Monochrome’ is an absolute delight to listeners ears. Press play and enjoy.
Fya Fox has released her new single ‘Numb’.Fya Fox is the exciting new prospect from Ireland. A classically trained vocalist straying beyond Ireland’s traditional country/folk scene, Fya’s previous singles ‘Body’, ‘Lies’ and ‘Sunset’ have already been supported by BBC Radio 1, 2fm, Today FM and many more.
Earnest, tender and strikingly emotive, ‘Numb’ is a moving display of alternative pop. An intriguing aspect of Fya’s music is her vocals. Her rich tones have the power to ignite emotion within the listener and create a wonderfully hair-raising listening experience. ‘Numb’ is a fine example of this; Fya displays raw emotion within this powerful tune, her immaculate vocals convey a crippling sense of loss “paralysed now that I’m alone should feel more, but I’m scared I don’t” that is enhanced by a lamenting piano feature. The track is an absolute gem to treasure and a wonderful display of Fya Fox’s eloquent songwriting and exquisite musicianship.
Speaking about her latest track ‘Numb’, Fya said: “I was standing there singing at this funeral watching from the gallery and just couldn’t understand why I was so numb. I kept my composure the entire ceremony but as the coffin was being carried out I suddenly got this feeling, this is it, this is the last time I see you. My Granny who was a major inspiration in my life passed away. A few days later I had a zoom session with an artist in the US who I’d never written with before so didn’t want to cancel. Brompton the legend didn’t know what he had himself in for, we wrote NUMB and 5 days later I went into the studio with the incredible Matt Weir to record a rough demo. NUMB is very different from my previous tracks, it’s the most honest! I really didn’t think I was going to release it but I feel so many people can connect and relate with it especially after the year we’ve had!”
Critically acclaimed American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Ryan Egan has released his new single ‘Alone For the Last Time’.The song is the second single off Ryan Egan’s debut LP Soft Power which is due out April 8, 2022. The song was produced by Egan and Kevin Basko (Foxygen, Rubber Band Gun). This arrives shortly after the album’s debut single ‘Weeknights’ generated immense buzz, with features including Spotify’s New Music Friday.
‘Alone For the Last Time’ is a brooding slow-burner that boasts the silken, chic sound of Eagan. The song builds superbly, its laid back atmosphere and lush swooning soundscapes are filled with saxophone pines, washes of synths and sharp guitars while Eagan’s soft croons create a tender and soothing tone throughout. The track is a joy to listen to and is a fine example of Ryan Egan’s exquisite musicianship. Blending elements of psychedelia with lo-fi indie, dream pop and 70’s embellishments ‘Alone For the Last Time’ is a bittersweet anthem to immerse yourself in and enjoy.
Indie group Thrillhouse have released their new single, ‘It’ll All Be Alright In The End’, ahead of their upcoming EP ‘Wedding Disco’.Thrillhouse are a Brighton based alt-indie band. Sam Strawberry and Jackie B Nielsen met in 2018 and quickly formed a friendship based on coffee and mutual failure. Naturally, talk led to the formation of yet another band. In walks Tash and Alistair, and thus, Thrillhouse was born.
‘It’ll All Be Alright In The End’ is a soothing nostalgic tune that pivots around hypnotic guitar, synths, bubbling beats and 80’s pop hues to create a sweet and engaging listening experience. A deep vocal delivery anchors the listener within the track’s immersive sound as the song gradually builds becoming more uplifting and radiant with each note. Thrillhouse are masters of their craft. Their music is engaging, emotive and oozes passion from every note. ‘It’ll All Be Alright In The End’ is an excellent example of this.
About the lead single, lead singer Sam said,“’It’ll All Be Alright In The End’ is me looking back at all the rubbish choices I’ve made in the past and then singing about them publicly. Kinda regret that now. In fact, that could be considered my most recent rubbish choice. All my fears and anxieties come out in the shower for some reason, which is very annoying because I like showering. I usually end one of these showers by comforting myself saying ‘It’ll All Be Alright In The End’. I’m not entirely sure what I mean when I say it but it seems to make me feel better.”
The Assist have released their new single, ‘Irrational Movements’. Prior to the global pandemic the band released their debut EP ‘Lost’ which charted at #10 in the iTunes alternative chart. The Assist toured the EP thoroughly, which saw them play their biggest festival performance to date at Ural Music Night in Russia to over 10,000 people. Over the last few years they have also played Reading & Leeds festival, Isle of Wight, Y-Not, TRNSMT and Kendall Calling.
‘Irrational Movements’ is a funk peppered irresistible anthem that showcases The Assists’ groove rooted musicianship. The band spread a catchy melody over effervescent indie rock and shimmying rhythm while disco drenched synths create the tracks danceable backbone. The lyrics touch on how the band struggle to acclimatize to a modern-day society that prioritizes materialistic possessions over life itself, while the swagger-dipped backdrop ensures the song will stay in your head for days. With sleek guitars prancing through punchy drums and sensual basslines, this infectious bop is a blazing example of The Assists’ dynamic, full-bodied, upbeat sound in all its glory.
I had a chat with Bricknasty, Amelia DeCarteret and Korey Thomas from DeCarteret after their set supporting modernlove. in The Workman’s Dublin last week. We discussed how they craft their sound, their compelling stage presence and how Amelia developed her fantastic voice.
Bio: Having just completed a superb run of festivals and headline shows, including a sold-out show at Glasgow’s 1300 capacity SWG3, Retro Video Club return with their new song, ‘Boys Like Me’.Retro Video Club burst onto the scene in 2017 with a series of high-octane single releases and a sell-out hometown show. Just a few months later, they were selling out 1,000 capacity venues (Edinburgh Assembly Rooms), and sharing stages with The Libertines among others.
Track: Boys Like Me
Why We Like It: It’s an instant shot of adrenaline as Retro Video Club rush a blitz of sharp guitars through a brisk rhythmic foundation to create an arena-worthy tune. The band flesh out their driving sound with resounding drums and hook-filled melodies while raspy vocals add an edge-like quality to the track. It’s a catchy banger laced in earworm melodies, tight production and an exhilarating indie rock wall of sound that evokes images of live crowds bellowing back the lyrics at the top of their lungs.
Bio: Irish Alt-rockers, Paper Tigers have released the first single, ‘Blue Light Trails’ taken from their upcoming debut EP ‘Graceless’. Formed in 2018 by Michael Smyth with Hayley Norton on vocals, Emma Rose on bass and joined by Matt Milner on drums. 2019 saw Paper Tigers come out swinging, gigging incessantly and releasing debut single ‘Gucci Smiles’ which earned them a nomination for Best Single at the NI Music Prize. To date the band have had plays on iHeartRadio, John Bakers Totally Irish show on 98fm, Dan Hegarty on RTE2fm, BBC Radio Ulster Across the Line as well as a number of other local and international radio stations.
Track: Blue Light Trails
Why We Like It: This dynamic anthem erupts with Paper Tigers’ vigorous and illustrious sound as they take a catchy sing-along chorus and back it with raw and powerful alternative rock. With clashing guitars, acute bass and pummeling drums, the band create the perfect mosh pit frenzy while the cooler more chilled verses balance the energy with an undertone of melancholy. Love it.
Bio: Having recently signed her song ‘Savage’ to Sony US & Babygrande records, Tana is an artist and songwriter with charge and unique flair for lyrics and melody. Her tracks have been championed by Sean Kingston on Instagram, played on BBC introducing, and featured in numerous publications – as well as writing for artists such as ‘Jike Junyi’.
Track: Fake Friends
Why We Like It: It’s a punchy attitude-soaked gem. Tana spreads honest lyrics over an effervescent electronic backdrop and beat progression to create a groovy and compelling tune for listeners to immerse themselves in. As the swirling synths brew beneath Tana’s smooth vocals the catchy melody ensures the tune stays in your head all day. It’s well crafted, with lush soundscapes melting into a zesty epic guitar embellishment for the hair-raising crescendo.
Bio: In 2019, after backpacking through Asia for six months, Noah Elliott teamed up with Dylan Bauld to create his EP ‘End of Summer’. In August of 2020, he began releasing singles off the EP, garnering over 250k Spotify listens and praise from Live Nation’s Ones To Watch. ‘Undone’ is the last single off the record.
Track: Undone
Why We Like It: It’s a moving R&B pop ballad that ripples with soft electronics and pulsing beats while a delicate piano glides throughout. Finely layered and boasting Elliott’s infectious musicianship the track is ready for repeat plays and an absolute joy to listen to. ‘Undone’ is a beautiful piece of music.
Bio: Darkroom Data follow up their Hype Machine top ten favourite ‘Hydrogen’ with their new single ‘Fall With You’. Darkroom Data are an indie electro-pop duo, comprising Irish vocalist Gillian NoVa and Brazilian composer Márcio Paz.
Track: Fall With You
Why We Like It: It’s an enticing song that floats on vaporous soundscapes and silken R&B flirtations. With a sensual bassline weaving between soft synths and elastic beats, the track has a lucid and ethereal texture that is reined in by the tightly knit groovy rhythm. Gillian NoVa’s lulling vocals drift over the dreamy melody with ease delivering a lush and luring listening experience. Darkroom Data display their masterful musicianship as they craft a song that is simply glorious to listen to again and again.
