Monthly Archives: August 2022

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Wider Than Pictures Concert Series With ALT-J and Just Mustard At The National Museum of Ireland

Alt-J and their fans know how to party. Originally planned as a seated show, Wider Than Pictures concert series kicked off on Thursday at the National Museum of Ireland with Alt-J and Just Mustard. However, being seated was not what the audience had in mind and before long the fans grew tired of bopping in their seats and flooded to the front of the stage to dance and sing along with Alt-J while others stood on their seats to get a better view of the band’s mesmerising performance. This sight would make you think the show was total anarchy however the gentle attitude of the fans and well-structured organisation of the event meant this little rebellion was good-natured fun against the backdrop of Alt-J’s compelling set. 

This is Wider Than Pictures’ inaugural year, presented by Singular Artists and last night was one not to miss. Nestled in the beautiful grounds of The National Museum of Ireland eager fans sat comfortably with refreshments nearby awaiting the stellar lineup. I was surprised by how relaxed and pleasant the atmosphere was as I entered the grounds and found my seat.

Alt-J’s performance was brilliant. An enchanting blend of captivating visuals, hypnotic lights display and eargasmic music marked the night as a memorable event. It was easy to notice how much the fans treasure this band, every tune on the set list was met by cheers, screams of joy and mass sing-alongs. ‘Bane’, ‘Matilda’ and ‘Deadcrush’ all went down a treat with the crowd as they embraced and danced with friends and strangers. Throughout the night there was a communal sense of togetherness that was so unique and special. 

Joe Newman [vocals, guitar], Gus Unger-Hamilton [vocals, keyboards, bass] and Thom Sonny Green [drums, percussion] have a captivating stage presence. At times their figures were shrouded in darkness with gripping visual effects behind them while strobe lighting bathed their silhouettes in prismatic colours; it added an exciting visual element to the set and had the audience enamoured from start to finish. With little effort Alt-J proved why they are one of the most successful British bands of the millennium. Their impressive repertoire has seen them release four studio albums that, between them, have sold in excess of two million copies and their songs have been streamed over two and a half billion times. However, it’s their live shows where they truly shine. Alt-J and Just Mustard put on a phenomenal performance and made the first night in the new exciting series, Wider Than Pictures a hit. With acts like Simply Red with special guest Ryan Sheridan tonight,  RTE Concert Orchestra performing the music of Thin Lizzy and Fleet Foxes with special guest Uwade in the coming days there is something for every music lover. 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jim McHugh ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’

Jim McHugh has released his new single ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’.This is the second single from Jim’s upcoming fourth album ‘I Whisper to the Dawn’.  ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ was recorded, produced and mixed by Alex Borwick (Niamh Reagan, James Vincent McMorrow) at Transmission Rooms Studios, Drumlish, Longford and The Stables Studio, Castleblayney, Monaghan. It was mastered by Fergal Davis (Sinéad O’Connor/Muse). ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ features Jim McHugh on Vocals/Backing Vocals, Electric Guitar, Paul McCabe on Bass/ Backing Vocals, Paul Sherry on Electric Guitar, James ‘Butch’ McNeill on Drums, Alex Borwick on Trombone and Ronan Morgan on Backing Vocals.

Riding on a relentless buzz of biting guitars and punchy rhythms, ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ is a fiery anthem from Jim McHugh. Showcasing the artist’s powerful indie rock in all its glory the track discusses social media influencers and the artist’s disdain for the power they yield and their negative influence on society, “Do your followers conform?Oh yeah, they’re all under control with a flick of my hand, But your selling lies online, Oh yeah, I’m an influencer and I’m influencing you”.With swaggering rock bravado, infectious melodies and invigorating soundscapes ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ is a catchy musical delight from Jim McHugh.

Stream ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music

Skinner ‘Dog Daze’

Photo Credit- Niamh Barry

24-year-old, DIY slouch rock musician Skinner (Aaron Corcoran) has released his second single ‘Dog Daze’ on Faction Records. Previous singles ‘Dislocation’, ‘Beer Me, Jim’, ‘Sometimes My Brain is Goo’, ‘Slouch’ and ‘Headroom’ were compiled on the Gunge EP, a 2021 vinyl release. The songs have received airplay from KCRW, BBC Across the Line, RTÈ 2FM and 98FM’s John Barker. Skinner was also featured on Fred Perry Subculture. Spotify chose Skinner as the main cover art for their popular An Alternative Eire playlist and has featured Skinner songs in playlists such as Fresh Finds Rock: Best Of 2021, Post Punk 2K and Hot New Bands.

Filled with intricate melodies and oodles of groove-infested instrumentation,‘Dog Daze’ boasts the swaggering sound of Skinner. The track pivots around a funky guitar riff that weaves its way between buoyant rhythms, brass bursts and wriggling bass lines while hard-hitting lyrics express annoyance at the tedious struggles of life at the moment. “I’m just a good guy that got sick of the rules. “

Skinner’s musicianship is on point and each release shows his talent for production. His ability to take chic retro sounds and blur them with indie rock/grunge elements is impressive and makes for one thrilling listening experience. Skinner is a talented artist that everyone should know about. 

About the song, Skinner says “The song was inspired by the movie ‘Dog Day Afternoon’.  The main character of Sonny was someone that really resonated with me. Nearly everyone my age is stuck between a rock and a hard place where everyday the news just gets worse and worse.  The police want to do you over, the landlords want to rip you off and the government wants to crucify you. It’s at a point where everyone’s just like “I’m tired man” and when you’re tired you’re in no mood to put up with bullshit so you tell it like it is. That’s what I wanted to do with this song, tell it like it is.”

Stream ‘Dog Daze’ below 


Author: Danu

Electronic, Indie, New Music

Columbia Mills ‘Momentum’

Columbia Mills have released their new single ‘Momentum’. Columbia Mills are regulars at festivals such as Indiependence, Longitude, and Electric Picnic and have supported world-class acts like Ride, Public Service Broadcasting, and Palace. On top of this, they have also toured Ireland & the UK with a string of headline shows at venues such as Whelans, King Tuts, and Sebright Arms. On the band’s previous tracks ‘Heart Of A Nation’, ‘Addiction’ and ‘Nevada’  they have garnered huge support from the UK and Irish radio such as BBC Radio 6, Radio X, Amazing Radio, Radio Nova, 8 Radio, Indie Rocks, RTÉ 2FM, Today FM and RTÉ 2XM. 

Dripping in hypnotic electronics and infectious grooves ‘Momentum’ is a euphoric number from Columbia Mills. In true Columbia Mills manner, the song is richly textured and contains numerous musical treats that are revealed with each subsequent listen. Eerie, dark undertones brood throughout the track contradicting the upbeat dance soundscapes that effortlessly draw the listener further into the song’s expressive immersive sound. As ‘Momentum’ builds the band release lush sounds and textures into the soundscape that is simply goosebump-inducing; pulsing bass lines, chiming keys and intricate guitar melodies are just the tip of the iceberg of the musical delights that await the listener as the band’s deft musical prowess leaves much to be admired. Columbia Mills have knocked it out of the park once again with ‘Momentum’ the track is irresistible and leaves the listener craving to hear more.

Speaking about the track, ‘Momentum’, Fiachra Treacy said: “Momentum is all about keeping the mind occupied and avoiding the traps that an idle mind can set for us.  Sometimes it just takes one person to come along and lift us from that deluge, but there are dangers in having your happiness dependent on one person.  The music is upbeat to represent that momentary feeling you are hoping will last forever, gaining momentum as we go.”

Stream ‘Momentum’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Pop Punk

Cuecliché ‘The Last Dance’

London three-piece pop-punk band Cuecliché have released their new single ‘The Last Dance’. This dynamic pop-punk tune bursts with the energetic and emotive sound of Cuecliché as they spread a heartfelt melody over a blustering backdrop of punchy drums and shredding guitars. Teaming slick riffs with buoyant basslines, the song is upbeat and travels at a brisk pace and is an exciting glimpse into the band’s musical talents. Filled with a shredding solo, a suspense-filled crescendo and anthemic tones ‘The Last Dance’ boasts a powerful wall of sound throughout.

Stream ‘Last Dance’below


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Hawke The Band ‘Miracles’

Hawke The Band have released their new single, ‘Miracles’. Hawke The Band 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.

Propelling at an exciting pace ‘Miracles’ is a highly charged shot of adrenaline from Hawke The Band. The jubilant tune showcases Hawke The Band’s distinctive melodic prowess and anthemic, infectious sound in all its glory. The song starts off unhurried with just guitar accompaniment and warm vocals before springing into motion with driving rhythms and a vibrant wall of sound that is sure to have listeners dancing and singing along in no time. The charm of this band’s sound is irresistible and ‘Miracles’ is a fine display of this. The track is a joy to listen to and beckons repeat plays. Turn it up loud and enjoy.

Stream ‘Miracles’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Shane Beirne ‘Anymore’

Shane Beirne has recently released his new single ‘Anymore’. Beirne is a rising 21-year-old singer/songwriter who is signed to Hasard records in Zürich, Switzerland. ‘Anymore’ is a beautifully emotive and compelling tune that boasts the earnest songwriting and powerful sound of Beirne. This piano-led tune is laced with supple soundscapes and delicate melodies as Beirne uses his warm tender vocals to convey the heartfelt lyrics. He croons “ I’m tired all the time it’s like I don’t even feel what I see. Maybe because it’s not real “ over minimalist arrangements while the sweet melody swoons with bitter-sweet tones. Well-crafted and timeless ‘Anymore’ is an enjoyable new single from Beirne. 

Stream ‘Anymore’ Below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

KLDD Live at The Workman’s Cellar With Support From TroyOkay and Kathryn Stewart

On Sunday night Dublin-based band KLDD played their headline show in The Workman’s Cellar with support from TroyOkay and Kathryn Stewart. This band set the bar high with their musically lush tunes and compelling stage presence. They tore the roof off the venue and marked themselves as a band to keep an eye on.

Kathryn Stewart and band set the night of fantastic tunes in motion with a sleek set of soul, R&B-infused originals and covers. From a velvety rendition of Tyrone by Erykah Badu to some classy and emotive originals such as the sombre ‘Weather’, Stewart’s compelling vocal ability was on full display. Her rich depths added power to the choruses while her soft coo’s oozed soulful tones within the verses. Enhanced by the magnificent Grace Jacobs on backing vocals and a tight and polished sound by her band the set exuded an effortless chicness throughout. With an enjoyable set featuring a sing-along rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Dreams’ Stewart put on a compelling performance and had the audience eating out of the palm of her hand. 

After a witty and brave impromptu introduction from Conor Eiffe, indie artist TroyOkay followed. His dreamy guitar-driven indie sound wafted throughout the venue as bopping heads in the crowd became immersed in his sunkissed riffs and buoyant rhythms. His vocals have a nonchalant grunge element that exudes tones of aggression and frustration over the sometimes heavy instrumentation providing an intriguing edge to his tracks. With his first-rate band in tow showcasing catchy riffs, ebullient rhythms and a jazzy injection on keys it was a satisfying and tight set from start to finish. There is no pompousness or fluff with TroyOkay’s performance just good honest indie rock tunes riddled with dark undertones and moody vocal outbursts. Very enjoyable.

KLDD wasted no time and got straight into their well-executed dynamic set. The room immediately erupted as the crowd fell under KLDD’s spell. For a young band, their sound is tight, unblemished and full of indie rock goodness. With the efficiency of a well-oiled machine, they went through their original tunes with a suave and chilled bravado that had the audience captivated. The crowd danced, punched the air and even attempted air guitar throughout the frenzied set while the four-piece remained composed on stage ready to execute slick guitar refrains and thrilling bass rumbles with a cool demeanour. Each member of the band Kilian Callegari on bass, Liam Bennati on drums, David Bradford on lead and Davy O’Toole on vocals and rhythm exuded effortless charm and their precise, polished tunes filled the venue with musical ecstasy. The crowd sang every word, cheered and danced without fail, not even a temperamental mic could sour the atmosphere. O’Toole, like a pro, laughed off its resistance to stay at the correct height and stood on his tippy toes to finish ‘Tastes Like Tragedy’ while the crowd shouted the lyrics back to him. 

Impressively composed and musically rich, KLDD’s songs sound mature and refined beyond their years. This band have some bangers in their repertoire and they put on an impressive show from start to finish. Judging from the unreleased tracks, the soaring melodies and the energy in the room KLDD are a band to get excited about.


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

Amoodi ‘Give You My Love’

Amoodi has released his debut single ‘Give You My Love’.Amoodi is the new solo project by Irish singer, songwriter and producer Michael Hopkins. Hopkins has spent 20 years writing music and playing in bands including Planet Parade, Too Fools and Tropolis. More recently he has been focusing on writing and producing for fellow Irish singer and actor Slaney. He has spent the last few years hibernating in his home studio working long hours everyday to improve his songwriting and production skills. He has built up a massive collection of work that is now ready to be released.

‘Give You My Love’ is a glorious sultry tune. Hopkins blends bubbling rhythms with dreamy melodies and lush soft vocals to create an easy-listening musical delight. Vapourous electronics wisp atop layered rhythms, R&B tones and indie flirtations while cooing backing vocals chime throughout. ‘Give You My Love’ is a joy to listen to and an exciting glimpse into the musical world of Hopkins. Looking forward to hearing more from this artist.

About the track, Hopkins says: ” I’ve written so much music over the years that I haven’t released and thought it would be such a shame to just leave all these songs on a dusty hardrive forever, so I decided to set up Amoodi and finally get them out to the world. Revisiting these songs has inspired me to rewrite and produce them to a whole new level I never thought possible at the time”

Stream ‘Give You My Love’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

RUE ‘Call on Me’

Upcoming indie/pop singer-songwriter RUE has released her new single ‘Call on Me’. This shimmering pop tune displays the invigorating sound of RUE. The track is an absolute gem to listen to as RUE mixes subtle contrasting elements of electronic beats, swirling synths and dark undertones to create a dynamic wall of sound. RUE’s smooth vocals coo a sweet melody as the song bubbles and builds in the background. With clap-along rhythms, spacious electronics and irresistible pop hooks ‘Call on Me’ is a compelling tune from start to finish. Keep an eye on this exciting artist.

Stream ‘Call on Me’ below 


Author: Danu