Category Archives: indie rock

Indie, indie rock, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

TiLT Live Event In The Button Factory With TOY GIRL, Bullet Girl, Synk and Munky

On Tuesday night TiLT began its debut showcase event in The Button Factory Dublin in association with Totally Irish 98FM, Sound Training Productions and The Button Factory. This first edition featured four exciting Irish acts – Bullet Girl, Synk, TOY GIRL and MUNKY.

Alternative five piece TOY GIRL kick started the event. Hannah Worrall’s mesmerising vocals echoed around the venue with powerful sweet tones and rich depths of captivating proportions. She punctures the rooms atmosphere with haunting crisp clarity leaving the crowd stunned in her presence. TOY GIRL’s chilled indie fluidly oozes with an R&B quality as the band, unnerved, command the stage. Their darkly coated tracks create a smoky atmosphere as Worrall’s vocals coo and haunt over the rumbling drums and eerie, piercing guitar. With their tightly layered sound of twinkling keys and rooted bass grooves the band slowly seep their enchanting tunes into the venue- mesmerising the crowd. After a small request from Worrall to move closer the crowd rush to the front of the stage to sway to the bands hypnotic tunes. The hushed atmospherics of their songs flood with rich vitality and deep intricacies that can only be truly adored in the live setting. Utterly majestic and soul fulfilling TOY GIRL were superb.

Post Punk four piece Bullet Girl follow, tearing the venue to shreds with their raucous set and blistering instrumentation. Pulverising drums, crashing guitars and relentless bass hammer and pierce the atmosphere, consuming the audience in the band’s ferocious soundscape and battering punk assault. Aaron Doyle is the ever charismatic frontman as he prances about screaming, wailing and yelping into the mic. The tense sweltering bass and shrilling whines on guitar gash through your skull as Bullet Girl masterfully display their raw savage wall of sound. It’s an acute chaotic set brimming with tracks to set a mosh pit alight and the head banding and bopping from the crowd was a pleasant sight. This band is designed for blood thirsty moshing and utter anarchy. Bullet Girl are a fantastic raw live act. A must see. 

Electronic rock band Synk are up next. These guys bring an intense set to The Button Factory but on a different level to the previous act. The audience are swirled up in a psychedelic prism of rock with light indie facets and mellow glimmers to create a wholly submerging experience. These guys could melt your mind, frazzle the remains and solidify it again all in one rich tune. There are lush warm guitar moments wrapped delicately in laid back sweet melodies and dreamy soundscapes as well as crashing harsh rock moments throughout this bands set. The deeply nourishing melodies create a wholesome atmosphere while the lush harmonies and vibrant keys lift the tracks to ethereal heights. The rhythm throughout each song is mesmerising and pounds through your chest as this band weave between genres to create a sound all of their own. Very professional and proficient Synk’s sound is a bottomless pool of magical depth and the passionate powerful vocals are spine chilling. Synk are an outstanding and refined band that take you into a whole new universe with their sound and in a live setting they are enthralling to watch.

The fourth and final band to take to the stage are disco grunge group Munky. A band of vibrant charismatic characters these guys know how to put on a show. They steamroll through their funky infectious tracks with relentless stamina. With Taylor Maslanka and Sinead McConville on backing vocals and Andrea Louise Jones on saxophone the band were set and ready to create their dance-able setting. Stage presence and swagger-dipped persona’s in tow they jump, dance and wiggle around the stage as their tracks fluctuate from crashing grunge rawness to light disco funk with ease. The crowd dance and execute some very snazzy moves to the bands catchy tunes. Munky always put on a fantastic show. Their set is always vibrant and rich while exuding fun and energy. Bassist Niall Donnelly and guitarist Conor Lawlor have guitar poses down to a tee. The sharp guitar lines and intricate melodies are performed with precision while that hip grooving bass and pummeling drums keeps the crowd dancing. It’s not often there is a band as much fun to watch and listen to but these guys have it all. You will never be disappointed at a Munky live set.

TiLT chose four outstanding bands for their first showcase. There was something for everyone and more. Each band performed their set to a polished and professional standard however there was enough edge to keep them refreshing and interesting to watch. They all put on an exhilarating show. Versatile in their on right and greatly entertaining all four acts showcase the immense talent we have in Ireland. The sound on the night provided by the ninja’s at Sound Training Productions was flawless and of course The Button Factory is one sleek venue so it was sure to be one heck of a night and it was. I’m looking forward to who will play TiLT next month.

 


Author : Danu

Check Out Some More Images From The Night Below

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Hook ‘I love the world because you’re in it’

Hook have released their debut single ‘I love the world because you’re in it’. Hook are a 3-piece based in Dublin, Ireland made up of Eoin O’Donnell – vocals, guitars; Morgan O’Brien – drums and Danny Spelman – bass, vocals. The single was produced by the band with Colin Reid and recorded in the world-famous Camden Recording Studios, Dublin and in the band’s own studio. 

‘I love the world because you’re in it’ is a bright indie track that floats on the warm musicianship of Hook. With a jangly guitar stride the track has an instant uplifting quality while the steady beat creates a buoyant and foot tapping foundation. There is a county hue about the track that adds a twang of wholesomeness while the warm vocals and sweet melody charm their way into your ears. With a glorious guitar instrumental, subtle psychedelic tones and soothing soundscape Hook create a luscious new wave indie track that is a beautiful, dreamy delightful. 

Stream ‘I love the world because you’re in it’ below 


Author : Danu

Album Review, Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

THVS ‘Fevers’ Album

THVS formed in 2014 with Michael, Matt and Dave making up the elements of guitar/vocals, drums and bass. The power trio have earned a reputation through their energetic, sweaty and cathartic live shows. The band have now released their new album ‘Fevers’.

‘Fevers’ is a rampant blast of THVS’ heavy pop as they create a collection of brisk raging tracks that are not for the faint-hearted. The rough ear piercing sound kicks off with the first track ‘Rax’ and steamrolls right through to final track ‘Brando’. With pulverising drums screeching guitars and metal influences throughout ‘Rivals’, ‘Brides’ and ‘Circles’ the band create a bloodthirsty album that is relentless in its approach. There is no breath or relief from the onslaught as the rough jagged riffs batter and bruise between a crashing wall of sound while the screaming vocals howl and spit with aggression throughout. The band veer from manic to lunacy as the second half of the album comes into fruition. They summon all out anarchy as the tracks intensify. Slicing sharp guitar solo’s create refined piercing relief in tracks like ‘Wounds’ before the band demolish your ears with their vociferous alternative rock. Lyrically the album deals with numerous heavy themes of loss, regret and self doubt. However they also deal with thought provoking themes as well such as achievement, the connection between people and detachment to the world around you. The band portray this though their shattering wall of sound and heavy pop rock superbly. ‘Distances’ and ‘Brando’ bring the album to its mutilated peak. With heavy riffs, dark foreboding bass and utterly annihilating drums the band end the album with the most spine chilling slaughter. 

‘Fevers’ is a raw pure concoction of THVS’ unapologetic sound set to  ravage your brain from the inside out. However, with all the frenzied ear bleeding soundscapes the band manage to blend in some really refined and cultivated moments throughout. The album possesses sublime ominous bass grooves and wonderfully precise, shrilling guitar solo’s while the relentless rhythm batters their ferocity into the depths of your soul. The darker chilling moments within the album are beautifully fermented and fester deep within each track’s core to create a deep and volatile album sure to leave your ears ringing for days. 

Stream ‘Fevers’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Chinese Newspaper ‘Late Night Pharmacy’ EP

Navan fuzz pop band Chinese Newspaper have released their new EP ‘Late Night Pharmacy’. The band has gained some traction since the release of their single “If Not Now Then When” playing shows such as Vantastival festival, opening for Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes at the Tivoli Theatre as well as being part of an all Irish line up at the Button Factory on Halloween night.

‘Late Night Pharmacy’ is Chinese Newspaper’s most defined and exhilarating body of work to date. There are a plethora of shredding refined guitar moments and intense rhythms throughout the EP.  The band ferment and harness their wild raucous musicianship to create something that is well-crafted and polished but with a deep rooted sense of anarchy. ‘Are You Bored?’ sets the riot in motion with a sublime rumble on drums creating a fluctuant almost wriggling foundation while the bass swivels between the intoxicating finesse on guitar. It’s a hyper energetic track stamped with all the loud aggression we have come to know Chinese Newspaper for. This band is flourishing. They immerse their sound in rich layers and textures. There is a dash of rock ‘n’ roll swagger in ‘Cola’ as the band smother the track in a bloodthirsty wall of sound. It’s ready for the energy of a live show as the chorus explodes into a massive assault and mosh ready blitz. The moody vocals from Killian Barrett express angst with vigor while his rasp and attitude create that teenage rebellion atmosphere through the stormy instrumental backdrop. There is no denying the rhythm and pounding drums in this track – they are sublime. Nathan Merriman could summon a demon with that ominous drum rumble and Aran McGilick ties the track together with the vibrant, infectious groove of his bass while the guitar lightly ricochets off this backdrop majestically creating an invigorating and danceable listening experience. The band chill the intensity and sweltering heat of the EP with ‘Nothing Comes From Nothing’. A light melodic ditty which swoons over a melancholic sulky melody while a hazy atmosphere ( created by shaky percussion and steady beat ) provides that lazy summer’s day gloom. The light indie-drizzled guitars jangle innocently throughout until the track becomes more expressive and jagged for the crescendo. The nostalgic ‘Sunday’ brings the EP to a close. With thumping drums and a mosh-ready break, its an emotional tantrum backed by fantastic instrumentation which intensifies for the chorus and broods through the verses. These guys have mastered the ability to create emotive music and make the listener feel connected and enthralled by their tunes while also bashing out rich fuzz-filled pop with grunge and rock elements sprinkled on top. 

‘Late Night Pharmacy’ is a clear step in the right direction for Chinese Newspaper. They haven’t lost the raw rampage of their 2017 ‘Spotless Mind’ EP. They have refined and cultivated it to create a fine, engaging and deft sound all of their own. With first rate guitar work and ground rumbling rhythm these guys have a sound that is both dreamy and razor sharp. 

Stream ‘Late Night Pharmacy’ below 


Author: Danu

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

Slyrydes ‘Dangerous Animals’

Galway’s Slyrydes are set to release their new single ‘Dangerous Animals’ on October 25th. The track was recorded by Daniel Doherty (Fontaines DC, Vulpynes, Galants) in Darklands audio Dublin.This is the fourth single from the band who have an album set for release in 2020. The band have been making a name for themselves with their previous tracks gaining radio support from Today fm, 2fm, RTE radio one, Radio Nova, BBC radio Foyle and Radio X in the UK as well as many regional stations.

‘Dangerous Animals’ is a relentless onslaught of bruising, battering punk rock as Slyrydes take their abrasive sound and carve it brutishly into your head with savage force. The piercing shrilling guitars lacerate and gash into the track with menacing rage as the pulverizing drums batter furiously throughout with primal vigor. With a curdling bass line rumbling relentlessly through the frenzy, this track packs one heck of a punch. The delirious swirling on guitars create a sinister, seizure-inducing mania that is both chilling and compelling while the shouted vocals spit and bellow the cutting lyrics. Slyrydes have created one turbulent blitz with their new track ‘Dangerous Animals’. It’s a dark blood thirsty belter brimming with raw unadulterated punk rock.

‘Dangerous Animals’ will be released on the 25th of October for more you can follow the band on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/slyrydes/


Author : Danu

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

Gypsies On The Autobahn ‘Rubicon’

Photo Credit : Anthony O’Connor

Lifted from their second album ‘Suspended’ which was released earlier this year to critical acclaim, Dublin four piece Gypsies On The Autobahn have just released their single ‘Rubicon’ along with a thought provoking video which is written and directed by front man James Smith. Having supported some huge international and Irish bands such as Bombay Bicycle Club, The Coronas and Little Green Cars, G.O.T.A are currently working on their own UK shows for late 2019/2020.

‘Rubicon’ is an intricate meticulously layered track which almost pauses time with its spacious composition as Gypsies On The Autobahn take their sound to new sophisticated ethereal heights. With a rooted bass groove driving the track and creating a movable backbone between the shaky percussion and beat, the band set the track up with luring seductively dark tones. The smoky guitar laments and pines with a hollow sense of loneliness through the wispy mist – like soundscapes. With passionate vocals caressing the funky bass and dance-able beat this track has sublime contrasts. The bass and guitars create a push pull effect between the overcast backdrop as the track builds to a slightly more vibrant pop sprinkled chorus. Gypsies On The Autobahn have created a catchy, lovable track filled with rich emotionally entangled elements. It is a delight on the ears.

 About the song and video the band say:  “In the lead up to writing Rubicon Niall and James had come to blows and were not speaking to each other. Eventually Niall came in with this bass line, which was what broke the silence between them. Working in close proximity with each other for so long there is ultimately going to be conflict; luckily this conflict gave us Rubicon. The video is about two people who can’t talk, moving between Reality and the Otherside; a dark and surreal look at relationships and conflict. Written and Directed by frontman, James Smith, shot and edited by Oliver Kelly and Alex Lynch and starring Laura Brady and Tadhg O’Rourke.”

Stream ‘Rubicon’ below 


Author : Danu

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

The Pretty Visitors ‘High Sailing Blues’

The Pretty Visitors have released their new single ‘High Sailing Blues’. Previously supporting artists such as Circa Waves, Jaws, Billy Lunn (The Subways), The Family Rain and more recently, Sisteray, The Pretty Visitors  showcase an energetic, eclectic live sound. In 2019 The Pretty Visitors released their demo ‘Its Not Easy’ and have featured multiple times on BBC Introducing shows. 

‘High Sailing Blues’ is a gritty raw rock track as The Pretty Visitors flesh out their swagger-dipped sound. Steamy guitar riffs carve into the pounding drums while a slick bass wiggles and coils throughout. This robust powerhouse is a sleek battering of the band’s energetic sound with a steamy sensual backbone. The raspy vocals add a rough quality while the vaporous guitar licks and sharp flirtations give a refined and majestic element to this hungry mammoth. The Pretty Visitors knock it outta the park with ‘High Sailing Blues’

Stream ‘High Sailing Blues’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/theprettyvisitorsuk/high-sailing-blues-demo


Author : Danu

Garage Pop, Garage Rock, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Johnny Kills ‘Help Me Out’

London/Brighton trio Johnny Kills have released their new single ‘Help Me Out’. They have also announced the title of their debut EP: ‘Panic’, which will be released via Killing Moon on November 20th. The bands previous EP single, ‘I Feel Like’, earned fans in BBC Radio 1’s Huw Stephens and with BBC Introducing and Amazing Radio. Johnny Kills have supported the likes of Fangclub and Sick Joy whilst playing numerous shows in Brighton, London, Liverpool, York and Birmingham.

 ‘Help Me Out’ is a breezy, zinging, indie-pop can of soda as Johnny Kills present their fizzing, energetic, bouncy sound in a fruity laid back surf pop flavour. This track is a youthful infectious gem. A punchy beat and relentless bass-groove creates an animated backbone. The fuzz laced guitars add a dash of bite as the track takes a sunny Californian indie rebellion tone. The attitude-soaked, angsty vocals complain over the kinetic backdrop as the band smother the track in their signature infectious pop-sprinkled melody. It’s a tight, light-hearted number with a garage rock chorus that erupts into the ears with tantalizing vigor and blistering instrumentation. There is a 90’s pop rock vibe about this track that makes it intensely nostalgic and sure to charm its way on repeat. 

Tim Lloyd-Kinnings describes the themes behind ‘Help Me Out’:“It’s about getting to a stage where you have some big life questions-what career do I want? Where do I want to live? What do I really care about?-to which the answers are all a resounding ‘I don’t have a scooby, mate’. It’s about having a blank slate in front of you and it just freaking you out, and hoping someone else will sort it all out for you.”

Stream ‘Help Me Out’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Sister Ghost ‘Fake Friends Run This Country’

Belfast-based punk act Sister Ghost are set to release their new single ‘Fake Friends Run This Country’ On October 21st. Sister Ghost, aka Shannon Delores O’Neill, has a background playing in bands from the age of 12. In early 2014, she began writing and demoing – singing and playing everything herself – before enlisting a band to bring Sister Ghost to completion. She has been recognised for mentoring and encouraging other female-identified musicians to perform in the Northern Irish scene, having also set up the Girls Rock! NI chapter in 2016. Sister Ghost has garnered high profile support slots with Shellac, Pussy Riot and Le Butcherettes as well as airplay on BBC 6 Music and a Next Wave Artist slot on BBC Radio 1. As of Spring 2019, O’Neill has teamed up with producer Cahir O’Doherty (Frank Turner, Fighting With Wire, New Pagans) to work on the debut Sister Ghost album, set for release in 2020.

‘Fake Friends Run This Country’ is a brisk swarm of punk rock as Sister Ghost blast out their blistering high energy wall of sound with ease and vigor. From fiery guitar riffs and rooted rumble on bass to the pulverizing drums the band set down an infectious foundation ready to set a live audience alight. With attitude soaked vocals tight harmonies and dynamic melody this powerful onslaught is a force to be reckoned with. The track takes aim at oppressive systems both in Northern Ireland as well as those abroad as O’Neill spits and bellows the lyrics with intensity creating a hyper active atmosphere as well as making the song relatable beyond the political confines of Belfast. ‘Fake Friends Run This Country’ is a wallop in the face of infectious fierce punk rock at its raw and exhilarating best. 

‘Fake Friends Run This Country’ is set for release on October 21st for more follow Sister Ghost on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sisterghost


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Rock

C’nergi ‘Hope and Paradise’

Reading Rock artist C’nergi has released his new single ‘Hope and Paradise’.

‘Hope and Paradise’ is a vibrant indie rock track which presents C’nergi’s passionate songwriting with equal parts grace and power. With a twinkling piano feature the track flutters on an ethereal atmosphere while the intricate experimental rhythms add a unique texture to the track. The guitars stride and drift with an 80’s classic rock dramatic persona and swagger. ‘Hope and Paradise’ is filled with tender verses and explosive choruses to create a rich listening experience. C’nergi’s raspy vocals coat the catchy melody in emotion as the track develops into a power rock ballad. ‘Hope and Paradise’ is a fantastic follow up to his last single ‘Give Light’, released in August 2018.

Stream ‘Hope and Paradise’ below 


Author : Danu