Category Archives: Indie Pop

Album Release, Album Review, Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Power Pop, Synth-pop

Jack Rua ‘Narcissus’ Album

Photo Credit : PureGrand

Jack Rua, the ambitiously bold and innovative Irish Glam-pop artist, is set to release his debut eight-track mini-album, ‘Narcissus’ on June 26th. ‘Narcissus’ sees Jack Rua team up with producers Porridge, LOGUOS, Mattu, Tenderhook. and Rouleaux. Following the internationally-praised releases of ‘Scarlet A’, ‘Ego’, ‘Rise’, ‘Curious’, and the albums fifth and final single ‘Reflection’ released earlier this month the album charts the singer-songwriter’s journey after he graduated from college, moved away from home to New York City and broke up from a long-term relationship.

‘Narcissus’ wraps, contorts and dazzles as Jack Rua brings a vivid array of influences from glam rock, house and pop to create a full bodied, shimmering and utterly infectious collection of tracks. There is much vibrancy within as Rua entices the listener right into the album’s dark epicentre while keeping the danceable infectiousness alive throughout with wild dance explosions and slick glam rock swagger. It’s quite the enjoyable power pop gem. 

‘Narcissus’ sets the Jack Rua experience in motion. He doesn’t do anything in half measures and his debut album is a sublime example of how Rua has mastered his craft through meticulous attention to detail and layering. Luring dark and eerie, Rua entices with flashing beat pulses before erupting into an implosive, tense EDM soundscape. ‘Narcissus’ is an intriguing start to the album and a fine display of Rua’s musicianship. He superbly teases and builds tension in his tracks, fermenting thrilling electronics to create bubbling coiling soundscapes of fragmented synths and dramatic electronic progressions. The talented Darce joins Rua for the sultry ‘Rise’.Well placed risqué lyrics are cooled by Rua’s soft vocals while the sticky electronics smother the backdrop in a humid haze. Darce’s raps punch through the sensual electronics as the track simmers and smoulders in a bubbling pop vapour. 

Lyrically ‘Narcissus’ is a coming-of-age album which juxtaposes the joys of self-discovery with the personal and global anxieties you feel when you get a bit older.‘Curious’ playfully challenges binary thinking in terms of sexuality, beckoning you to “stop paying so much attention to your labels” and embrace “a new world” while ‘Ego (with LOGUOS)’ expresses a newfound appreciation that the artist began to feel for himself. The theatrical finger clicking and sultry ‘Scarlet A’ marks a turning point in the tracklist where Rua dives beneath his ego and explores the deeper and darker parts of himself. All this is set to an invigorating backdrop of dubstep elements, punchy rhythms and intoxicating electronics.

LOGUOS and Rua are quite the musical dream team, creating a shimmering summer pop anthem with crisp, infectious production and the passionate, euphoric musicianship of ‘Ego’ is quite the radio ready summer bop.

The artist’s scramble to be remembered in ‘Forget Me Not’ is deftly expressed through gripping, intense, intricate layering embellished only by the incomparable musical flair of Jack Rua. Each song exudes vibrancy and expressive musicianship to create the ultimate dance pop album ready to tantalize the listeners ears. 

The album takes a turn with the melodious ‘Reckless Abandon’, however rather than brooding through a moody ballad Rua whacks out a dance infused 80’s anthemic number with lamenting guitar strides and power pop gusto. The harsher guitar elements slice through the pop mirages as the song spirals into a disco hued swirl of confusion. There is still composure within the track which is impressive. It’s a song about the despair that can occur in a situation wherein one can suddenly lose complete control. Rua displays passion through the coiling entwinement of this music. His vocals remain emotive yet composed.

The beautiful ‘Reflection’ brings the album to an end. Rua cools the tone for his finale ruminating on who he is and whether or not he likes what he sees in the mirror. With wispy electronics and a heavy thumping beat he closes the album after a whirlwind of acceptance, experimentation and self doubt to almost start it all again. Rua’s vocal delivery is simple with as little fuss as possible allowing the lyrics and his soft tone drift over the ethereal backdrop. It’s a powerful thought-provoking song to close a frantic and colourful album. 

‘Narcissus’ is a fabulously fun and deeply personal album. Jack Rua announces his debut album with musical flair, prowess and compelling dance pop. This talented artist is fearless. He is not afraid to express his vulnerability and that is a quality to be admired. He is certainly an artist to keep an eye on. His tunes are a rebellious, catchy and wholly satisfying listening experience. I’ve witnessed Jack Rua blossom as an artist. Each track he has released to date has grown and built his rich, bold and intriguing sound to create a moving and unique collection of tracks that is polished and refined. He has become quite the dance pop connoisseur. 

‘Narcissus’ will be released on June 26th until then you can stream Jack Rua’s recent single ‘Curious’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Soul, New Music, Soul

Miles Graham ‘Give It Up Now’

Miles Graham Photo by Colin Gillen

Miles Graham has announced the title of the new single ‘Give It Up Now’ which is set for release on 10th July, along with his EP ‘All the Right Things’. Graham’s latest track ‘Don’t Change’ resulted in him performing the single live on BBC Radio 5 and a stunning version of Dido’s Thank You, and picking up further airplay from BBC Introducing. It accelerated a fresh stage in the Irish singer-songwriter’s career, having previously scored international dance hits alongside Don Diablo and L’Tric, as well as being playlisted on BBC Radio 2 for his breakthrough moment ‘I Can’t Love You Again’.

‘Give it up now’ showcases Miles Graham’s rich soulful sound as he uses passionate emotive songwriting, intricate arrangements and crisp production to create a hair raising listening experience. It’s an earnest piano led ballad as Graham’s velvety soulful vocals melt upon an elegant backdrop of R&B beats and timeless retro tones. It’s a bittersweet number complete with lush harmonies and graceful laments on strings while the strength, emotion and drive is provided by the wonderfully sweet and soothing tones of Graham’s vocals.

Graham builds the song superbly offering his retro soul pop with oodles of power and gusto however he is by no means overpowering. Graham weaves subtle layers within this track to create intrigue. Each verse provides movement and a sultry fluidity that takes this ballad to more dynamic and powerful heights. A great listen.

About the track Graham explains, “’Give it up now’ is about being free of the turmoil that comes with antagonism. It has conversational lyrics that give a fly on the wall incite to break-up, the EP is an emotional narrative within my very dynamic journey . The freedom of letting go ‘It could be better for all you know..’ is perhaps a teasing lyric in the song to some kind of better life ahead, but is ironically ambiguous in it’s positive/negative balance. “

‘Give It Up Now’ is set for release on 10th July, along with his EP ‘All the Right Things’. For more you can follow Miles Graham on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/MilesGrahammusic/


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Johnny Bourke ‘Can’t Do Without’

Photo Credit: Paudie Bourke

Tipperary singer-songwriter Johnny Bourke is set to release his new single ‘Can’t Do Without’ on the 3rd July. This summer number drifts coolly on smooth pop hooks and zesty spurts on guitar. Bourke adds a dash of edge into this radio friendly gem with a jangly guitar riff between the dreamy melody. Though the song has a simple smooth coating there is a decent amount of intricate sonic elements weaving through the tracks underbelly.The song has a groovy R&B funk flavour that complements the charm of Bourke’s warm country- esque vocals. With a buoyant drum beat creating wiggle ready infectiousness, catchy chorus and a steamy solo weaved between the humid crescendo, ‘Can’t Do Without’ is an impressive sweet as pie indie pop bop. 

‘Can’t Do Without’ is set for release on 3rd of July for more you can follow Johnny Bourke on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/JohnnyBourkeOfficial/


Author : Danu

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

Five Days North ‘Take Me Higher’

Indie-pop band Five Days North are set to release their new single ‘Take Me Higher’ on the 26th June.Having spent the last few years touring festivals such as Dot2Dot and Kendal Calling, as well as venues such as Manchester’s Academy 3 and Gorilla, the nation being in lockdown finally gave Five Days North enough space to craft their new smash single.

‘Take Me Higher’ is a luscious guzzle of the vibrant and refreshing indie pop Five Days North do so well. A rhythmic bounce shuffles through shimmering synths while intricate guitars and a peppy beat keep the song light, fresh and fruity. The deep infectious tones within the bass ground the track while the ethereal breezy electronics add a cool icy feel. Five Days North are known for their rich, expressive and dynamic sound and they have now turned it up a notch, strutting in with this dance-infused sleek number. There are disco tones glimmering between the vibrant indie while the velvety vocals drift and slide over the melty melody with panache and charm. Saturated in summer tones, tasty instrumentation and heart racing musicianship ‘Take Me Higher’ is an exhilarating rush of indie pop at its best. 

Darryl Messer, lead singer of Five Days North, comments: “Take Me Higher is our most collaborative song from a writing perspective as everyone had a tangible impact on the final track. When it’s safe to return to the gig scene, we’re really excited to see hear our fans sing along to what we think is a big step forward for us.’’

‘Take Me Higher’ is set for release on Friday the 26th of June for more follow Five Days North on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/fivedaysnorth


Author: Danu

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

Heir ‘Fear of Falling’

80s throwback, groove-pop band, Heir have released their new single ‘Fear of Falling’ which was recorded at Abbey Road Studios with producer Ken Scott and is part of a two track collection called ‘Heir At Abbey Road’.

‘Fear of Falling’ is a radiant, catchy and well-executed tune. With bouncy rhythms rebounding with spring-like resilience through the sugar pop shimmers on keys this song is an instant rush of joy. The chiming guitars sprinkle glimmers of scintillation through the elastic bass while the smooth chilled vocals drift upon the dreamy melody creating a relaxed yet intricately weaved track. It’s the rhythm where the band present their musically rich expertise as they entwine a foot tapping effervescent labyrinth of grooves through blistering guitar lines.There is an 80’s pop sheen over the track which adds a dash of glamour and panache especially with the zealous guitar solo however the band rein this in allowing it to only decorate the track and not consume it. Heir have a knack with cheery luscious melodies and the buoyant indie pop production on ‘Fear of Falling’ makes this track quite the golden little gem. 

Stream ‘Fear of Falling’ below

 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Indie Pop, New Music

Butler ‘Colours Of Love’

Dublin based dance/pop artist Butler has released his eagerly awaited second single, ‘Colours Of Love’, with Afro/Irish singer J Bols. Butler is the brainchild of award winning singer/performer Luke Thomas, whose electrifying new project has allowed him to explore his more commercially creative side.

Wrapped in tropical tones, vibrant pop soundscapes and fun Afrobeat elements ‘Colours Of Love’ is a glorious slice of radio ready summer pop. This track is bursting from the seams with feel good tones, lush instrumentation and rich musicianship. It is sure to become a dance floor hit. Rushing with vigor and adrenaline this prismatic track flashes with dazzling scintillation as Butler seamlessly blends groovy elements with dance infused electronics and catchy hooks to make for a satisfying and fun listening experience. The sharp guitar injections add a dash of zest into the fruity sugar-rushing electronics and buoyant rhythmic beat creating a delicious guzzle of summer soaked delight while the smooth vocals and infectious chorus ensure this ear worm will be stuck in your head for days. 

Speaking of “Colours Of Love” Butler said: “This song will instantly make you smile, I think it’s infectious and made for the summertime. I can’t wait for people to hear it.”

Stream ‘Colours Of Love’ below


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Indie Buddie Introducing : Electric Skyline

Electric Skyline have released their new single ‘Hit Play’ which is part of their two track EP entitled ‘A Side / B Side’.Electric Skyline started putting out songs on their own in Spring of 2020. Long-time friends, Robby Walton and Blake Brock -both indie artists from the same town- joined forces with Nashville guitar player Jesse Walpole to form a band that knew what they were going for. The band’s process is a self-sustainable machine. Everything you see and hear was created by the band; no label or management. They’ve written, recorded and produced all of the material that’s been put out in 2020 as well as all of the business details that come with releasing music as an artist.It’s a very communicative process and with the members living in different cities, (Robby and Jesse in Nashville and Blake in Birmingham).All of the band’s songs could be considered, “recently released,” the most so being their fourth publication and first EP, “A Side / B Side,” that is a two-song, modern day representation of a cassette tape with a single song on each side. “Hit Play” was a song that Blake had half- written and “No Phones,” the same of one of Robby’s. Both songs were eventually co-written and feature both of the vocalists in the tracks. 

‘Hit Play’ is a dreamy electro-pop number as Electric Skyline entwine laid back melodies with luscious production and synths to create a mellow sweet gem. The gentle lilt of the vocals warmly hugs the soft synth-pop melodies while the track grooves through the backdrop with danceable rich rhythms and infectious diso hued grooves. There is a cool vibe drifting over the song as the delicate key twinkles float wistfully through the buoyant beats and infectious funk peppering provided by the guitars.With a nostalgic tone of longing, rippling undercurrents and laid back persona, the electro pop sound Electric Skyline embrace is magnetic. The trio’s sound reminds me of Troye Sivan’s debut ‘Blue Neighbourhood’ however their disco elements, funk zest and rich composition puts Electric Skyline’s stamp and unique twist on the electronic pop genre. Their tunes are enthralling, satisfying and sweet as honey to the ears. 

Stream ‘Hit Play’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Psych-Pop, psychedelic

Palmas ‘Bad Dream’

Photo credit: Simon Wernovsky

NYC/Philadelphia-based band, Palmas, comprised of Kurt Cain-Walther (vocals/keys), Matthew Young (guitars), and Andrew Torre (drums, percussion, programming), announce their self-produced, debut album, ‘Endless Season’, with the release of first single, ‘Bad Dream,’ via Lost Colony Music.This new track is the band’s first in two years. It follows their 2016 EP, To The Valley, as well as 2017 single ‘Flowers’ and ‘Floating in the Dark’ and 2018 single, ‘Where Are You Going?’ 

Immersed in chilled funk flavoured grooves, ‘Bad Dream’ announces Palmas’ return with new wave, psychedelic textures and ruminating lyrics. The band pivot the track around a funky bass line and rich percussion while the warm glistening guitars weave threads of sun kissed delight throughout.

Though the lyrics are melancholic the track’s sonics bubble and bounce throughout giving a laid back upbeat atmosphere to the song as the melody drifts freely over the beautifully evolving instrumentation and R&B elements. Kurt Cain-Walther’s passionate vocals saturate ‘Bad Dream’ in sweet, lush and warm tones. His soulful voice suits this track perfectly as his supple falsetto glides seamlessly over the sleek melody. 

The trio take a step away from the retro melodic sound we saw in ‘To The Valley’. They have refined the lush intricacies within their musicianship to create a new wave, indie pop gem coated in sombre R&B hues.This R&B element adds a night-time cool undertone to the song providing a wonderful contrast to the sultry, rich backdrop. There are musical residues of The Weeknd blended through the bands mature cultivated sound and clean production however ‘Bad Dream’ takes the band’s summer sound to a different level with darker undertones and a cooler approach.

Versatility is a key element to success in the music industry. Palmas have demonstrated they are more than adept at adjusting to various genre styles without losing their identity. Palmas keep getting better and better with each new release. Their ability to create rich tantalising music is mesmersing and a joy to listen to.

About the track The band said : “Bad Dream” is about realizing you’re in a place you never should have been. The protagonist is experiencing the same thing over and over again and it’s driving them insane. It could be a long winter, a relationship that has deteriorated, or a job that you hate going to day after day after day. The lyrics and the idea of an “Endless Season” became a focal point for the narrative and eventually went on to become the title of the entire record. At its roots, this track felt like an anthem to a period of depression and the self-realization of needing to confront it.”

Watch the video for ‘Bad Dream’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Liam Geddes ‘All I Need Is You’

Multi instrumentalist and singer songwriter Liam Geddes has recently released his new song ‘All I Need Is You’.Liam Geddes has had his fair share of experiences with the music industry and, over the years, has performed on live TV in Ireland for numerous singing competitions including ‘X Factor’, ‘Euro-song’ and ‘The Voice Of Ireland’.  After departing The Voice, he threw himself into the live music scene and has been very busy performing all over Ireland and parts of Europe with his acoustic guitar or his number one instrument – the piano. Since departing reality TV he has focused on writing and building his live shows, and in late 2019 while at a writing camp in Capitol Records in LA, Liam was scouted by multi grammy winning producer ‘Robert Cutarella’ and former head of Sony U.S, Warner Brothers and Virgin Records ‘Philip Quatarero’ to manage him and bring his music to the masses. 

‘All I Need Is You’ is lighthearted sun sprinkled pop as Liam Geddes coats the track in his passionate sweet song writing and catchy melodies. With shimmering production, soft twinkling keys and wispy heart fluttering soundscapes Geddes provides a clean slice of radio ready pop. The infectious chorus flows through a fruity refreshing atmosphere while the sweet upbeat melodies seep into the ears. There is a Lanny / Lauv residue about the track as Geddes hones in on the emotive and charming side to his musicianship. It’s a sweet and upbeat ditty that is heartwarming to the core. Geddes soft velvety vocals carry the track as his warm tones coo and caress the dreamy melody lifting the track to euphoric heights. ‘All I Need Is You’ is a laid back and gloriously melodic summer tune.

About the track Geddes says “it just makes so much sense to release this now. These last couple of months have put everything into perspective for me and really made me realise what are the most important things in my life. So hopefully it’s something many of you will be able to relate too”

Stream ‘All I Need Is You’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Hudson Taylor ‘Favourite Song’


Dublin duo Hudson Taylor have released ‘Favourite Song’, the new single from their number one album ‘Loving Everywhere I Go’. Following the chart-topping success of ‘Loving Everywhere I Go’, new single ‘Favourite Song’ takes up the baton from runaway radio smash ‘What Do You Mean?’, which has been an airwaves fixture since January. 

Hudson Taylor delve deep into their catchy pop musicianship with ‘Favourite Song’ creating a bright, bubbly, catchy number. With a pulsing beat and rock n roll bass that has a ‘Stand By Me’ residue, the track exudes foot tapping infectiousness. ‘Favourite Song’ is simple, fun-fair joy filled with shaky percussion, warm jangly guitar and a melty ice cream-sweet melody.

This duo have the deft ability to create pop tunes that are sure to put a spring in your step and a smile on your face. The twinkling guitar melodies chime in the effervescent backdrop creating refreshing bursts of scintillation to rejuvenate the listener. The clever, clean production emphasises velvety melodies teamed with tight harmonies. The track is a joy to listen to, the cheery pick me up we all need. It’s one of the more upbeat and danceable tracks which adds charm and radiance to Hudson Taylor’s rich, refined and beautifully crafted album ‘Loving Everywhere I Go’. Its a sublime choice for a single. 

Hudson Taylor have always had a knack for writing radio ready pop rock with infectious emotive melodies and ‘Favourite Song’ is no different. The heart racing adrenaline portrayed through the ebullient soundscape and glowing twangs provide a light hearted fun atmosphere. Lyrically its simple harkening the listener to memories of care free times but the track has a full bodied sound which oozes character, charm and summer vibes. So I’ll indulge happily, I need some vitamin D. 

About the track Harry and Alfie said:  “Sometimes things don’t need much explanation, ‘Favourite Song’ is simply about loving someone like you love your favourite song.”

Stream ‘Favourite Song’ below 


Author : Danu