Up and coming unsigned Irish singer-songwriter Jack Joyce has released his new single ‘56 Roadster’. Jack first embarked on his music career at the age of sixteen when he began performing and booking gigs in local pubs and clubs. Jack released his debut demo EP, Get Down, in October 2018 and spent the summer of 2019 busking through Europe. Following his return he sold out The Vintage Room in the Workman’s Club and the Whale Theatre. He followed this by opening for Cassia in Whelan’s and playing a slot at the New Year’s Festival in Dublin. ‘56 Roadster’ is taken from his upcoming EP ‘Big Sexy EP which is set for release early September.
Laced in rock swagger and witty charm ‘56 Roadster’ is a fun and infectious display from Jack Joyce. With a catchy chorus, jangly guitar and steady beat this smooth charmer bops in brimming with radiance while a country hue twinkles over the indie rock backdrop. The lyrics roll with effortless fluidity onto a melty pop melody allowing Jack’s warm voice to add quirky lilts and ooze character into the track. ‘56 Roadster’ is a sweet laid back cheeky track that displays Jack’s ability to distil and refine his songwriting into something enjoyable and yet overflowing with texture and vibrancy. ‘56 Roadster’ is a sleek beauty designed for summer weather and good times and a sublime earworm from Jack Joyce.
Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Feels The Same’. Noah Elliott is a 23-year-old artist based in Los Angeles. In 2018, Noah released a stream of self-produced singles resulting in over 700k listens on Spotify. In fall 2019, he joined forces with producers Dylan Bauld (Halsey, Bea Miller), Rune Westberg (Colbie Caillat, Daughtry) and Jon Santana (SuperM) to finalize his first record. The 7-song project titled Songs for the Optimist will debut as singles over the next 6 months. Along with his artist project, he is putting the finishing touches on a 5-song EP for sync (co-produced by Jordan Frye of Position Music), and writes for other artists such as Mackenzie Bourg (American Idol), Stela Cole and Ben Hon.
‘Never Feels The Same’ is a groove driven dance number doused in cool R&B as Noah Elliott ruminates through dark electronics and honest songwriting. Elliott’s smooth vocals caress the infectious melody with a lonely tenderness as the track ferments through subtle mysterious layers of confusion and turmoil while an elastic bassline coils around a sticky beat and intricate synths. This glossy number is saturated in night time vibes boasting crisp production and a catchy melody and rhythm. ‘Never Feels The Same’ is an utterly irresistible earworm from Noah Elliott.
Belfast alternative pop singer/songwriter Rebekah Fitch was the star of last night’s Virtual show organised by Fluttertone and dootdoot Records. With her merch strategically placed on the wall behind her and basked in golden-hued lighting the multi-instrumentalist takes her place ready to perform. The first bars of ‘Another Show’ which opens her set, displays her soulful R&B voice which is a shock to the system – pitch-perfect and masterfully balanced between angel-like sweetness and powerfully demanding. She weaves a few lines from Gnarls Barkley’s ‘Crazy’ into the crescendo before bringing the track to a hair-raising finale. It is a fantastic opening song, and the rest of Fitch’s set only gets better and better.
Utilizing loops, drum machine and keys Fitch provides a knockout set with a full uncompromising sound. Virtual once again pulls in another outstanding tech genius to perform and boy does it make a difference. There is something special about an acoustic set but it’s these engaging live performances filled with a full bodied sound that ignite the platform.
Fitch makes music composition look easy as she wonderfully blends flute melodies into alternative pop and R&B tracks.This clash of earthy almost classical pop with contemporary allows Fitch to create a collection of compelling music to delight listeners with. ‘Guns With Guns’ is the most acoustic we see Fitch. A simple emotive piano ballad, the track showcases her voice in all its beauty and glory.
Her tracks flourish live and for the first time we get to hear ‘Take Me Apart’ played on piano. This passionate and tender track discussing her feelings during lockdown is a real treat. Fitch possesses all the criteria for major alternative pop stardom, her ability to write songs ( which hit you hard in the chest, exposing feelings you never knew you even had ) is mesmerising while her ear worm melodies, expressive vocals and rich compositions leave all her contemporaries behind. The maturity and understanding in her songwriting is such a soothing and beautiful comfort while the refined layering and instrumentation displays her creative genius.
Fitch is an intense performer sprawling her arms out while soaring through her perfect falsetto and sultry lower range. From the power of ‘Fake Smiles’ to the haunting ‘Not Myself’ we get to see Fitch multi task between loops, flute and big drum and synth builds.This set list is a reminder of the fantastic tunes she has in her arsenal and the new unreleased track ‘Dust’ is an impressive display of her songwriting prowess. Words cannot express how special this song is. It floored me. It’s a moving track about losing someone you thought you would always have and almost hurts to hear. Each word feels fresh and painful for Fitch as she lays emotion over a bittersweet melody while a building piano graces the backdrop in an equal measure of strength and tenderness.
‘A Love So Crazy’ brings the set to an epic end, leaving us craving for more. This was a professional, fun and engaging performance from a remarkable artist.
In true Virtual manner a Q&A follows the performance allowing fans to ask questions and get into the details of tracks. Fitch’s bubbly persona makes this a seamless and fun engagement as she discusses all from how she creates her tracks, the biggest obstacle she’s had to overcome and how she got into music as well as some technical intricacies about her set up for the live performance. Rebekah Fitch is an amazing artist and one everyone should check out.
For a taste of the compelling songwriting of Rebekah Fitch check out her track ‘A Love So Crazy’ below
Kynsy is the solo project of rising 23 year-old multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Ciara Lindsey – who today has released her debut single, ‘Cold Blue Light. Having previously performed on the Other Voices Music Trail and at Ireland Music Week, the Dublin artist kicked off this year with a whole host of 2020 Hot List features.
‘Cold Blue Light’ is a fermenting blitz which evokes a thrilling sense of anticipation while Kynsy carries herself with a vivid coolness through a fizzing raw soundscape. The track is dark with a cold embrace as the song punches with effortless rock stamina through a nonchalant delivery. With sharp guitars saturated in distortion the track ventures into psychedelic territory.There is substance to this track as well, the wry lyrics depict fading chancers and their last grasp at relevance. The soft pop melody has a dreamy delicacy as shimmering synths sweeten the tracks ominous undertone which is provided by the sluggish drum beats and sinister foundation.
‘Cold Blue Light’ exudes a residue of St. Vincent flair albeit with more edgy rock elements as Kynsy builds and creates distinct moments of brilliance within the track which set the bar high. Kynsy is an impressive artist to keep an eye on.
About the track and video, Kynsy said: ‘’Cold Blue Light’ is about the bullies we all encounter in life and looking for meaning in the darkness they create. I wanted to write a song that held some sort of balance between destruction and hope. It’s based on an encounter I had at a new year’s eve party where there was a guy spouting racist remarks at people and it was quite upsetting and stuck with me. The result was a rowdy pop song truck full of sticky anger and synth pop goo. The video was filmed just with a camera on a tripod in my back garden, I wanted it to be direct and simple so people could focus on the music.”
Feuds have released their last ever single ‘Until It’s Done’ and music video as a band. Feuds started in the small town of Kilcoole, Wicklow. After going through many lineup changes they settled on their final lineup in 2016. 2017 saw the band release the single ‘Anything I Wouldn’t’ and playing Electric Picnic after being voted one of the winners of the 2fm ‘Play the Picnic’ competition. 2018 saw the band release their debut self titled ep which was received well on radio. Following the EP the band gigged in venues like Whelans, the Roisin Dubh, the Lighthouse and an EP launch in The Workman’s Club. ‘Until it’s Done’ was recorded and mixed by Eoin Whitfield of Ehco in the Hive Studio, Kilcoole in September 2018.
‘Until It’s Done’ is a bittersweet indie track as Feuds provide us with one last guitar twinkling gem to indulge in. With ethereal soundscapes, light guitar refrains and a punchy rhythmic backdrop, ‘Until It’s Done’ drifts elegantly through a nostalgic and moving wall of sound. The band build the tracks indie rock sonics allowing them to unfold and blossom beautifully becoming more heavy as it progresses. A braided bass groove weaves into the songs tight underbelly as the tracks rhythmic pull remains grounded and elastic for the refined guitar to flourish off and lift the song into an airy, breezy atmosphere.With a biting guitar solo and hair raising refrain ‘Until It’s Done’ allows Feuds to go out with a bang. It’s a tear jerking farewell to a talented Irish band. We wish all the guys all the best for the future.
Bio : Paperflower. is an independent alt pop/ indie rock project formed by Charlie PJ Phillips. Phillips, is 21 year old musician who writes, records and produces all his music in his room. He started writing under the name Paperflowers. recently after starting his BA Hons’ study at Leeds College of Music. Paperflower. has recently released a two track collection ‘I’ll Be Alright / Let Go.’
Track: I’ll Be Alright
Why We Like It: It’s a clean pop number doused in exhilarating soundscapes and sublime production. With twinkling guitar zealously slicing through an eruption on electronics the track has a hyper fun chorus while the verses cool the tone with ethereal moments brooding between sweet melodies and soft vocals. The track has a dreamy atmosphere with soft graceful melodies exuding majestic indie between the steady beat and lush intricacies. ‘I’ll Be Alright’ is a beautiful and comforting piece of bedroom pop from Paperflowers.
About the track Charlie PJ Phillips said : “My latest release titled ‘I’ll Be Alright / Let Go.’ Stems from an event in my life that occurred recently and explores the feelings of losing someone very close,to move on from this I wrote the two songs almost like an explanation to myself.I like to think that people who enjoy my music find comfort and relate to the stories being told.”
Bio : Anna Jane Jackson is a model, actress, and musician based in LA. She was the vocalist in a teen country/Americana band, modelled internationally, and has appeared in many TV shows, commercials, and films. ‘Bittersweet Love’ was written for the soundtrack of the upcoming film Evan Wood featuring Jere Burns (Dead to Me, Breaking Bad), Trevor Stines (Riverdale, Purity Falls), and MacCallister Byrd (NCIS, Strange Angel).
Track: Bittersweet Love
Why We Like It: It’s a catchy number with warm guitar, cinematic soundscapes and emotive vocals. A pulsing beat and dark electronics create the stormy atmosphere of the chorus while the lighter twinkle for the verse provides a sublime contrast. With a raw singer songwriter feel the track is a refreshing number and satisfying listen.
Bio : Up and coming Irish songwriter Owen Rua makes his impressive debut with his new single ‘Do You Ever Think of Me?
Track: Do You Ever Think of Me?
Why We Like It: It’s a powerful indie pop anthem surging with passion while dark soundscapes wisp the backdrop in eerie sultry tones. Jaunty guitars glimmer between thick electronics as Owen Rua injects edgy moments into his indie pop concoction. With an upbeat backdrop of buoyant beats and smooth melody the song has a danceable quality. However there is a darker undertone to the track which oozes from the lyrics and expressed through Rua’s emotive vocals. His vocals caress the velvety melody allowing the bubbling rhythm to create tension in the background. Do You Ever Think of Me? is a bewitching indie pop number and magnificent debut from Owen Rua
Bio : James Jack is a 19 year old musician from Callington, Cornwall, who has been playing guitar for over ten years. Previously he has been the frontman to the Plymouth based band “Echo Chamber” where he has played at festivals such as Boardmasters and Port Eliot festival, as well as playing in front of the likes of Michael Eavis with “The Little Mammoths” at Pilton’s NYE party.He is now working on writing and recording songs for his debut EP, which is planned to come out later this year. Demo tapes from this project, such as “Crush” have been played on local BBC radio. Other works of his, such as “I Should Be In London”, won him The Old Bakery’s Live Lounge Competition recently.
Track: Can We Talk?
Why We Like It: Brimming with shredding indie rock and exhilarating energy ‘Can We Talk?’ is a fantastic debut. A cool laid back vocal display is spread upon a vibrant backdrop of jaunty guitars and punchy drums as the song drives upon a blazing backdrop of alternative rock. With a scorching guitar solo, catchy chorus and swagger dripping from every powerful note ‘Can We Talk?’ displays James Jack’s kinetic songwriting and refined edgy musicianship.
Bio : 23 year old Galway native Brendan Murray is no stranger to the music industry, having been a part of boy band ‘HomeTown’ managed by Louis Walsh, “HomeTown” achieved three chart hits in Ireland, including the number one singles “Where I Belong” in 2014, and “Cry for Help” in 2015. Their debut album, HomeTown, was released in November 2015 and peaked at number four in Ireland. Brendan then went on to represent Ireland at the Eurovision and was one of the finalists in X Factor 2018, mentored by One Direction star Louis Tomlinson. He secured a spot in the semi-final of the series, finishing in 5th place
Track: Let Go
Why We Like It: With infectious melodic hooks, crisp electronics and dance floor summoning soundscapes ‘Let Go’ takes Murray’s sound to an electrifying new level. With heavy beats providing an EDM element the songs rhythmic section pulses through the track with relentless stamina allowing the swirling electronics to build and create tension while the catchy pop melody and soft vocals create that earworm likeability.
Bio : Black Honey have released their new track called ‘Beaches’.The song is the first material to be released from the Brighton outfit since their self-titled debut album, which arrived back in 2018.
Track: Beaches
Why We Like It: This retro tinged indie sizzler struts in on a stomping rhythm while sultry guitar lines provide a desert haze through the bubbling backdrop. It’s a fun summer anthem with jubilous horns adorning the chorus in warmth while Izzy B. Phillips’ sultry coos lull over the blistering backdrop and laid back cheeky, clapping rhythm. With a 60’s vibe spread over a psych hued indie soundscape Black Honey have provided another infectious track sure to get those feet tapping, hips shaking and bodies shimmying.
SODAPOP has released his new single ‘Looking Like That’. SODAPOP is the artist project of Kane Nania, a Santa Barbara, CA native who spent two years abroad working on songwriting and production. He lived in Thailand for 7 months and Serbia for a year in an effort to save money so he could focus solely on music. The first two singles released have picked up traction, landing on Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Bedroom Pop playlists,
‘Looking Like That’ is a catchy laid back gem which drifts effortlessly along SODAPOP’s luscious musicianship. His bedroom pop is infectious and upbeat as he lavishly spreads intricate danceable rhythms over sweet melodies while synths and zesty guitar refrains shimmer and sprinkle the track with sun kissed radiance. His smooth vocals are honey to the ears as he coos the catchy melody over a bubbling indie backdrop. ‘Looking Like That’ is meticulously layered and well produced with relatable songwriting. The mellow earworm melodies display just how talented Kane Nania is. ‘Looking Like That’ is a polished lustrous anthem, sure to brighten anyones day.
About the track Kane Nania said : “While I was living in Thailand honing my skills as a writer, I adopted this mindset that I felt a lot of the locals had, perhaps as a result of the Buddhist influence. For me it’s the idea of not letting negative outcomes in your life affect you too much emotionally. After leaving that beautiful country, I felt that mentality start slip away. This song is mostly a reminder to myself to not worry too much about the past (or the future). You hear that all the time, but the catharsis of writing this song helped me really reestablish that frame of mind.”
Benji and the Saltwater Sound System have released their new single ‘Lights and Smoke’. ‘Lights and Smoke’ is the third single to be released from the upcoming Benji and the Saltwater Sound System EP, ‘Ripples of Thunder’. Benji and the Saltwater Sound System draw from Ben Fowler’s recent immersion into islander flavours and fuse these with the jazz, reggae and African roots of its members past musical projects.Benji and the Saltwater Sound System have played acclaimed festivals including Woodford, the National Folk Festival, Mitchell Creek Rock N’ Blues.
Exuding a soft layering of folk, pop and indie ‘Lights and Smoke’ is a lush unfolding of Benji and the Saltwater Sound System’s wonderful musicianship. With guitar twinkling over a rumbling beat the track begins light and radiant before the chorus introduces warm melodies on cello provided by Sivan Agam of the April Maze. ‘Lights and Smoke’ lyrically draws from frontman Ben Fowler’s experience of living in the Solomon Islands.The song oozes passion within its roots as the foot tapping rhythmic pulse surges warmth and cosy vibes while the light guitar and keys lift the track to ethereal heights. ‘Lights and Smoke’ is quite the time stopping number as the listener is lulled by Ben Fowler’s dreamy emotive vocals which gently coo over the songs organically flourishing soundscape. With a sweet melody melting over this softly bubbling backdrop Benji and the Saltwater Sound System present a lush and intricately rippling sound full of rich textures and intriguing musicianship.
Originating from the town of Portlaoise, Chris Conroy has released his debut single ‘Dive’. Conroy presents his passionate and melodically rich musicianship with this single. As a debut it is quite the mature songwriting display. With warm guitar accompaniment the track begins light and breezy as cheery guitar strums bounce behind Conroy’s velvety vocals while wispy soundscapes lead the track into its invigorating chorus. Conroy creates a dynamic pop track with ‘Dive’ which ventures sonically into R&B tones with skittish beats fluttering between strong piano chords and climatic electronics. The song builds in intensity with heavier hip hop elements while the sweet lyrics talk about the excitement and nerves at the start of a relationship. ‘Dive’ is a sublime debut from Chris Conroy.
Locklin are set to release their new single ‘Setting Sun’ on 31st July. The band Locklin is the brain child of Barry McLoughlin and hail from Tipperary in Ireland. Mcloughlin, in a previous band called The Rumours had the honour of playing Electric Picnic on two occasions in 2006 and 2007. Under the pseudonym of Locklin, the band released their debut EP in late 2018, entitled “Never Forget”. Locklin was joined by Eoin Ryan (guitar) and Cian Cronin (drums) in the recording and promotion of the EP. The band have performed in Crane Lane in Cork, as well as support slots from the likes of Seskin Lane in Whelans, Dublin and Hermitage Green on their tour in January 2019 at The Source Arts Centre, Thurles.
‘Setting Sun’ is solid classic rock doused in laid back summer vibes and rich instrumentation. Locklin spreads spaghetti western guitar lines over a punchy rhythm and warm soundscape to create a healthy dose of easy listening rock. With a smooth melody gliding over the sharp sting on guitar the band provide a velvety mellow texture between an edged shoegaze hue. It’s very chill and relaxed with luscious musicianship between charming lyrics and warm vocals. The soft keys and elastic bass elements fill out the songs sound creating a tune that is sweet and well crafted with a residue of Oasis glimmering through the track. Locklin are building their sound perfectly and displaying significant musical growth. ‘Setting Sun’ is a well paced 90’s rock gem to indulge in. Enjoy.
