Category Archives: Indie Pop

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

Indian Queens ‘Shoot for Sexy’

London/Irish band Indian Queens have released their new single ‘Shoot for Sexy’.The band are fronted by sisters Jen and Kat O’Neill and were personally invited by Robert Smith of The Cure to play his Meltdown Festival in 2019. They also have fans in Tim Wheeler of Ash and Theresa Wayman of Warpaint, both of whom have taken the band out as tour support. This track is taken from their debut album ‘God Is A Woman’ which is set for release on 3rd April via Cool Thing Records.

‘Shoot for Sexy’ is a luring number as Indian Queens present an almost upbeat track warped through a rich concoction of bewitching musicianship. A sultry, rumble on bass grooves and seduces through warm toned guitar embellishments and steamy shrills against the danceable hip moving beat.The harmonies haunt, enticing you into the darker elements of the track while the sweet falsetto lulls the listener into a trance-like daydream. The band swirl psychedelic elements into the track to create a meticulously layered, thrilling listening experience. The song ripples and twinkles like a mesmerising bottomless lake, flickering prismatic speckles of scintillation to draw you into its beautifully created yet eerie abyss. Another sublime track from Indian Queens.

Stream ‘Shoot for Sexy’ below


Author : Danu

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

Koala Club ‘No Surprise’

Brighton’s indie quartet Koala Club have released their newest offering ‘No Surprise’ on 13th March. The release of ‘No Surprise’ follows the January release of single ‘360’,which garnered support from the likes of BBC Introducing, and is the first in a series of new singles that will be released this year.Koala Club consists of James Grimsdale (Vocals, Guitar), Doug Stokes (Guitar), Lewis Phenix (Bass) & Toby Jones (Drums, percussion).

‘No Surprise’ is a jaunty indie track laced in sprightly zealous guitar lines as the band create an upbeat infectious delight that is sure to have you bopping and dancing around the room. With an animated beat, wiggling rooted bass and infectious melody teamed with witty lyrics these guys hook you from the start. Well crafted with an energetic wall of sound blistering around the velvety vocals and eargasmic melodies Koala Club have an exhilarating, charming sound that is crisp and polished with enough edge to keep you craving for more. 

Frontman James Grimsdale said of the track: “It’s about seeking truth and honesty. About losing the lies that are spoken to make you feel better momentarily, moving on and getting rid of toxic relationships in your life.”

Stream ‘No Surprise’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Cassia ‘Do Right’

Macclesfield Indie trio Cassia have returned with their new single ‘Do Right’. ‘Do Right’ is their first release since their debut album ‘Replica’ last year. Laced in laid back summer vibes the track follows the bands infectious mellow melty sound as they sprinkle sweet balmy guitar melodies over a rich buoyant rhythm and suave bass. It’s good times and sunshine as the band’s upbeat chorus drifts in like a cold drink on a scorching day ready to quench with juicy freshness. Lush backing vocals lull over a subtle tropical backdrop while Rob Ellis’ easy going vocals coo at a leisurely pace. For me the intricate guitar lines are the most sublime feature on the track. They majestically weave and entwine with zesty flourishes and sweet tones adding a wonderful warm element to the track with a playful undertone and Caribbean Island quality. Cassia have returned with another smashing, polished and catchy number.

Watch the video for ‘Do Right’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – Dizzy

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Dizzy

Photo Credit: Pooneh Ghana

Produced by Dizzy and mixed by Craig Silvey (Arcade Fire, Florence & The Machine), ‘Sunflower’ is the first release from the Canadian four-piece since last year’s Heavy / Twist EP, which followed their 2018 debut album, Baby Teeth which won the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year in 2019.The band have toured with the likes of Death Cab for Cutie and Tokyo Police Club and appeared at London’s All Points East Festival in 2019. 

‘Sunflower’ is a laid back sun-kissed number that drifts beautifully on infectious, ethereal soundscapes. Katie Munshaw’s sweet vocals caress the dreamy melody with a tender, comforting ease while the lush rhythm maintains a peppy foundation. The track holds a vibrant, airy poise as twinkling guitars wobble and weave gloriously between a groovy bass creating a hazy psych hued tone to the radiant indie sonics. There are wonderful lush textures and layers to the track creating blossoming moments as the track unfolds with bursts of sweet scintillation. The lyrics contrast the blooming effervescent instrumentation superbly as they meander between self-loathing and tender self-talk, depicting raw sensitivity and sweet, self-deprecating humour. ‘Sunflower’ is a glowing track intricate in its composition but beautifully luminous and delightful to the ears. 

Speaking about the track, frontwoman Katie Munshaw says, “‘Sunflower’ is a three and a half minute ‘snap out of it!’ to myself when I’m feeling low, unconfident or not myself.” 

Stream ‘Sunflower’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

TOYGIRL ‘Moonlight Velvet’

TOYGIRL have released their second single, ‘Moonlight Velvet’ which was recorded at the legendary Windmill Lane Studios, was produced by up and coming Irish sound engineer and producer Daniel de Burca and was mixed by in-demand producer Cormac Butler (The Academic, All Tvvins, Coronas, Gavin James, Kodaline) and mastered by Deadeye’s Billy Farrell.TOYGIRL was formed by friends Hannah Worrall (Vocals/Keys), Fiachra O’Mahony (Guitar) and Ciaran Whelband (Guitar) in March 2018 with bassist Aran Hopkinson and drummer Cian O’Leary Hegarty finalising the line up later the same year. TOYGIRL have already gained a reputation for their exciting, hypnotic live performances. Despite their relative newcomer status, the band has clocked up a lot of ‘gig-miles’ on the Irish circuit including stints at the Button Factory, Levis’ Ballydehob, the Workman’s, and Roisin Dubh, Galway, to name a few, as well as the much-coveted support slot to Alice Phoebe Lou on Whelan’s main stage.The group has already been named in the line ups for this year’s Indiependence, K- Fest and We’ve only Just Begun music festivals amongst others.

‘Moonlight Velvet’ is a swoony gem which floats on a vintage bed of lush arrangements. TOYGIRL are developing their irresistible sound superbly. With a delicate yet lush backdrop the band twinkle guitars through soft soundscapes, angelic hushed backing vocals and a supple beat as the track softly wisps into an ethereal cloud of dreamy bliss. There is a faint yet deep flourish of jazz as soothing saxophone surges with a sweet loneliness through the hazy backdrop. The band masterfully create a delicate track which has depth and exudes rich rhythms without becoming overpowering.Hannah Worrall’s soulful vocals melt upon the bitter sweet melody with a pacifying comfort. Her voice is longing, sincere yet hopeful all at once.

‘Moonlight Velvet’ is utterly tender and sweet. The band provide comfort through melodic and sultry moments blessed with intricate guitar lines, glistening keys and an overall whimsical romantic soundscape. Presented with class and elegance ‘Moonlight Velvet’ is an immaculate emotive number that totally consumes you in the undeniably lush musicianship of TOYGIRL. 

Stream ‘Moonlight Velvet’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music

Radio Mafia ‘Don’t Think About It’ EP

Multi-genre Irish Five Piece Radio Mafia recently released their debut EP ‘Don’t Think About It’. Radio Mafia are in the process of putting the finishing touches on what is to become their debut album, titled ‘Can Anybody Hear Me’ which the band is aiming to release this summer.

‘Don’t Think About It’ is a tight collection of tracks as Radio Mafia meld alternative gusto with some slinky funk and blues elements to create a satisfying debut EP. With infectious grooves, sleek guitar lines and a buoyant beat, title track ‘Don’t Think About It’ sets the EP in motion.

The band allow each track its own identity within the EP without compromising on the overall flow and smooth transition from track to track. ‘B.R.S’  and ‘Fit to Die’ provide the brawn and alternative rock on the EP with gritty guitar lines, meaty drums, soul creeping rumble on bass and an overall harsh mosh rock attitude while ‘Glass Soldier’ brings a dash of swing into the mix. The finger clicking, foot tapping beat teamed with chic guitars and jazzy keys create a delightful break between the more alternative tracks and showcases the band’s ability to create a sound that is more classy and vibrant while still maintaining the bands bite and rawness. The smooth vocals, lush harmonies and pop sprinkled melodies hold all these tracks together and provide the component parts that puts Radio Mafia’s stamp and style on them. 

Whether its a polished swing number or a rowdy alternative rock or punk influence Radio Mafia manage to create diverse and engaging tunes that have an instant likability and buoyancy. ‘Don’t Think About It’ is a solid debut EP.

Stream ‘Don’t Think About It’ below 


Author : Danu

A Chat With, Indie, Indie Pop, Interviews, New Music, Video Interviews

A Chat With : modernlove.

We sat down to have a chat with Cian McCluskey, Barry Lally , Daniel Rooney and Graham Fagan from modernlove. before their headline show in The Sound House Dublin. We talked about how they craft their tunes, live shows and the band gave some solid advice for bands starting a career in music

Watch the interview below


Author : Danu

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

modernlove. At The Sound house Dublin With Support From TOYGIRL and BRIDGES

Indie pop quartet modernlove. had their first headline show with Aiken Promotions last Friday with support from TOY GIRL and BRIDGES.The band presented a firecracker of a show filled with synth pop anthems, R&B elements and jazz flavourings. 

Dublin based alternative band TOY GIRL kick start the night.Wholly mesmerising this band provides a sound filled with delicate intricacies and rich rhythms that submerge the listener in an endless pool of psychedelic hues and rippling undercurrents.With fragmented guitar pines that venture between crashing moments and funk elements to sweet lush indie tones the band layer their set meticulously, gradually bringing you further into a lulled stage of trance.These guys are fine musicians, the gentle and harsh biting elements are perfectly blended to drift and elegantly slip into each other with a majestic tonality that is utterly compelling. Exuding oodles of passion in each track, Hannah Worrall’s emotive crisp vocals are perhaps the most fascinating constant throughout the set. She lulls and broods with soulful tones as the wispy soundscapes caress and flutter around her immaculate voice. With their extremely tight sound, fine musicianship and calming stage presence TOY GIRL are a must see. 

Bridgwater / London band BRIDGES follow. I have a lot of respect for these guys. They provided warm powerful tunes with vigor while battling some frustrating sound issues and rude feedback interruptions coming through the speakers on the night. A set brimming with earnestness and passion the band flood the room with warmth. Ethan Proctor’s vocals glide effortlessly over cosy melodies with a soft rasp and powerful drive as the band flesh out rich bass lines, sweet guitar twinkles and chiming keys between the meaty drum foundation.Members of the crowd dance and request songs as the band play their hearty tunes with charming smiles and a cheerful radiance.With ebullient sing along ready choruses and pretty slick guitar work BRIDGES put on one dynamic and enthusiastic set.

As the crowd rush forward modernlove. take to the stage.This young band is becoming known for their infectious mature indie pop and catchy songs. I wondered how they would hold up in the live setting. As it turns out … pretty damn well. Barry Lally’s vocals never falter through their longest set so far, his vocals manage to become stronger and more potent as the set progresses. The four piece feed off the crowds enthusiasm delivering a vibrant show of bubbling tunes, massive sing along moments and a little banter. ‘Us’ and ‘Bop’ have the audience dancing as the bands illustrious indie pop shimmers and sparkles into the crowd, igniting them almost instantly.The bands sound is at its best live- more edgy and punchy the music surges into the body compelling you to bop along. Cian McCluskey deftly belts those drums like his life depends on it and perhaps he is the puppeteer making us all dance. The wonderful contrast between the fruity sweet guitar jingles and brawny pull on drums creates the perfect fluctuant soundscape to pull anyone up to dance. Their fans are perhaps just as jubilant as the band’s songs pulling strangers from the side of the stage to dance with them as the venue’s floor becomes buoyant and spongy from all the jumping and dancing. The band glance at each other with cheeky smiles confirming the night’s success as Graham Fagan executes glossy guitar riffs and licks with ease while nodding in acknowledgement to members of the crowd shouting his name. Half-way through the set the dancing hasn’t faulted one iota and neither has the singing along. The crowd knew every word, even the rapid tongue twister in ‘Liquorice’ was shouted back to the band with such passion and excitement. Bassist Daniel Rooney lays down that all important fluid elasticity that truly moves the soul with the body. He injects funky elements into their tracks with fruity stings on guitar as the synth elements and honeyed melodies create a candy-floss sweetness that wisps the venue into an ethereal cloud of delight. With each chorus there is an eruption from the audience as their eyes glisten through the glitzy indie pop atmosphere. modernlove. end their set with new single ‘Hard to Tell You’ leaving the crowd shouting for one more tune to which due to curfew the band could not oblige but hey it left us all craving to see another modernlove. show.

For a young band, moderlove. have a compelling stage presence. Their heartfelt, infectious tunes exceed all expectations within the live setting. The Sound House witnessed something special last Friday. These guys have a bright future ahead.   


Author ; Danu

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Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Lavengro ‘I want your Girl’

Northern Irish Band Lavengro have just released their new single ‘I want your Girl’. The track has already been gaining momentum, becoming a fan favourite on the band’s current UK tour which has seen the lad’s play cities across the UK including Manchester, Glasgow and Newcastle.’‘I want your Girl’ has already been chosen by “BBC Across The Line” (Northern Ireland’s BBC introducing Show) to be their “Best Song in the World” with the Radio show giving the track an exclusive sneak play on their show on Monday 20th February. It bodes well for the boys who have also been chosen to represent ATL on their stage at this year’s Output Belfast Music Industry.

‘I want your Girl’ is an upbeat cheeky number that pulses with rich groove-filled rhythms and swirling soundscapes as Lavengro creates a lavish, pop-saturated gem. With zesty sting on guitar flickering through the refreshing electronics, it’s a charming infectious slice of indie pop. Smooth vocals glide effortlessly on a velvety melody as the track flows liquidly through the effervescent biting backdrop. The bubbling beat, fizzing atmosphere and sweet falsetto elements interplay with an electronic dance hued chorus beautifully. Lavengro have created a sun-kissed, radio friendly track that is a joy to listen too.

Stream ‘I want your Girl’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – Bad Love

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Bad Love

Stoke On Trent, Alt-Pop band Bad Love have released their debut single ‘More Than Friends’ which has already got support from BBC Introducing and BBC Radio 1. This fizzy guzzle of indie pop saturates zesty guitar jingles in effervescent swirls of synths while a spongy beat caresses the background in a buoyant bubble of jubilation. With a nostalgic sweet melody, shimmering indie pop soundscapes this passionate youthful track showcases Bad Love’s honest musicianship. The sun kissed, vibrant yet chilled soundscape as well as the bands meticulously layered arrangement makes for a satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.

About the track Frontman Andy Gannon says : “It’s a story a lot of people connect with I guess . After a break-up it all feels very melodramatic. Every nuance of your relationship gets analysed while you try and piece together what happened. Especially with socials the way they are ; nowadays you ’ re unfortunate enough to see every sun-kissed, party-going, ‘night with the girls’ moment of your ex getting over you.”

Stream ‘More Than Friends’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/thisisbadlove/bad-love-more-than-friends/s-8iIk1


Author : Danu