Category Archives: Indie

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, New Music

in earnest ‘Come Upstairs’

Southend-on-Sea alt/indie trio, in earnest are set to release their new single ‘Come Upstairs’ on the 3rd July.Forming in early 2019, the members of in earnest were previously part of the band ‘Carousel’, a project which went on to perform at Cambridge Folk Festival, toured with The Oh Hello’s and embarked on an 8-date headline tour whilst gaining 100k+ Spotify streams on official playlists. ‘Come Upstairs’ is the second single from in earnest’s upcoming 6-track EP, due for release in late 2020.

‘Come Upstairs’ is a moving, tender and beautiful track as in earnest present an honest account of mental health struggles with stripped back, time stopping musicianship. The track expresses warm glimmers of hope between raw emotion as a delicate guitar twinkles with supple comfort through airy soundscapes and lamenting strings. The lush backing harmonies soothe between the emotive and sorrowful vocals.The lyrics which provide an account of mental health from the perspective of a sufferer’s partner, aiming to encourage conversation around the topic are beautifully crafted as the sorrowful and building instrumentation wanders with a sense of loneliness and despair. ‘Come Upstairs’ is a biting, sweet and utterly moving track from a band who constantly showcase their mature songwriting through wonderful, passionate and heartbreaking musicianship.

About the track Thoma said  “In the wake of my partner’s mental health struggles, it feels like I spend every waking moment trying to keep a brave or positive face on and there are times when I find it difficult to maintain my own identity. We’re gradually learning how to combat negative thinking, but I’m usually the one who takes the weight and pulls her out of waves of depression.” 

‘Come Upstairs’ will be released on July 3rd for more you can follow in earnest on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/inearnestband


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

Vulpynes ‘Sister’

Punk rock duo Vulpynes have released their new single ‘Sister’. A week before Covid19 struck, the duo were half way through recording their debut album in Black Mountain Studios with James Darkin. Due to travel restrictions and Ireland being in complete disarray, they were unfortunately unable to finish it. After much consideration, Vulpynes have decided to release the first half of the album as a single sided limited edition 12″. The EP, entitled ‘Us Against Them’ will be released via Ireland’s premier punk rock label F.O.A.D/Advance Records.

 ‘Sister’ is another no nonsense smasher from Vulpynes. It’s a speed battering of the duo’s frantic punk rock at its most potent and all consuming best. The thrashing guitars and rapid pogo slaps on drums create that lean mean sound we have come to love from the band.

Molly’s powerful vocals are the heart of the song. The sheer attitude, ballsy fire and grit in her compelling voice gives her such a dominating presence it leaves much to be admired.

‘Sister’ is quite the razor cut anthem. Kaz’s jackhammer assaults on drums is the most beautiful battering ever to bruise your ears as her fast and poisonous whack creates the track’s all authoritative foundation.

Vulpynes’ music is always a joy to listen to. The duo produce some of the most visceral and kinetic forms of music on the Dublin scene at the moment. They have a slick, raw and majestic way of presenting their blood thirsty rock and ‘Sister’ is a fine new example of this.

Stream ‘Sister’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Post Punk

Enola Gay ‘The Birth of a Nation’

Belfast noise rock/post-punk band Enola Gay have released their debut single ‘The Birth Of A Nation’.The band is comprised of Fionn Reilly on vocals, Joe McVeigh on guitar,  Adam Cooper on Bass and Stevie Curtis on Drums. 

‘The Birth of a Nation’ is a raw, rampaging debut from Enola Gay. The band lacerate sharp guitar lines through a rumbling bass to create a thrilling and unnerving intense sound. The verses revolve around the rooted bassline while wailing on guitar occasionally pines throughout. The song erupts with electric shocks as it progresses with elements reminiscent of The Prodigy while the lyrics address systematic oppressions and how racism still spreads in the streets of Belfast. Fionn Reilly spits the rapid lyrics with disdain and angst while the blistering and unsettling guitars jolt and shrill with a haunting quality. ‘The Birth of a Nation’ is an uncompromising dose of unadulterated post punk and a fantastic musical display from Enola Gay.

The video for the track features shots of the many instances of police brutality within the height of recent Black Lives Matter protests in America and worldwide.

Watch the video below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Kevin Casey ‘It’s Alright’

Dublin- based singer/songwriter Kevin Casey has released his new single ‘It’s Alright’.Long standing regular in the Irish music scene, Kevin Casey has released several singles, two EPs, and a full length album since 2014. He has done two European tours and gigged extensively across the country as well as in Germany, the U.K and the USA, including two consecutive years at Electric Picnic. He is known for his raw vocals, versatile songwriting, and for keeping Irish rock and roll alive and well. 

‘It’s Alright’ is a steady rock anthem. Kevin Casey slowly seeps emotion into the track as he creates space within for the instrumentation and tones to flourish and blossom. It’s a guitar driven song that chugs into motion with raw guitar melodies, and a foot tapping beat. The rhythmic pulse is the heartbeat of the track as the bass and drums simmer though the verses before pounding into the chorus. With soaring string flurries and lush orchestral samples the song builds becoming more grand yet maintains the relaxed pacing throughout. The rasped vocals and lush vocal harmonies teamed with zesty guitar wails and richly layered production create tension and brief gasps of relief throughout the song making it an enjoyable number to listen to. There are elements of Oasis with tones of The Beatles and even some Bryan Adams peppering which makes the song quite easy on the ears. Casey took the best part of these artists and blended them with his own style to create a moving power anthem for the crazy times we live in now. With an 80’s rock hue, scorching guitar solo and dynamic wall of sound ‘It’s Alright’ is quite the impressive mature number.

Stream ‘It’s Alright’ below 


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 Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Mechner ‘Do it Again and Again’

Mechner follows up the exciting first single ‘Do you wanna go?’ from upcoming mini-LP “Club Idem” with ‘Do it Again and Again’ along with the anticipated accompanying music video. The video is a continuation of where “Do you wanna go?” left off, though it’s not immediately apparent how they tie together, maybe some eagle eyed viewers will spot an advert for “Club Idem” and ponder what it all means, the video shows a young couple going through a tough patch, financially speaking, living in relative squaller like much of the youth of today, when one of them discovers an interesting opportunity in a local paper, work at “Club Idem”, will this be the salvation they are looking for?

Laced in passion, blistering soundscapes and epic instrumental blasts, ‘Do it Again and Again’ continues Mechner’s thrilling, lush and rich musicianship. The song warps, wraps and asphyxiates with luring soft verses before a demolishing drone on guitars scorches your ears. Mechner has a beautiful ability to take a sweet nostalgic and longing melody and saturate it with lean mean anthemic rock. A wriggling bass groove weaves through the tracks underbelly with elements of distortion creating a dark undertone. However there is an 80’s power anthem vibe about this song as the explosive chorus and dramatic instrumental wails all ooze charisma and gusto. The smooth vocals caress the verses with a warm country-esque tone while taking on a swagger-dipped persona for the fist pump chorus. Once again Mechner presents a tight passionate and utterly intoxicating tune ready for repeat listens. 

About the track Mechner says:  “The song is relatively old, having been written in 2013, while I was still in college, it started off as a much more “pop” sounding tune, with a faster tempo, in the vein of Thudthumping by Chumbawumba. The original version of the track actually featured in some student film, that I never got to see and know nothing about, but it never officially released.”It wasn’t until last year when I slowed the tempo of the track down considerably, found the right chord arrangement and came up with a much more interesting bass line for the verse, then I started to really see it as something “Mechner” could do. Whilst recording it I kept layering the guitars, I believe there is at least 10 or 15 separate guitar tracks that give it an overwhelming wall of noise when it kicks in.”

Watch the video for ‘Do it Again and Again’ below


Author : Danu

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

Banríon ‘Airport Dads’ EP

Dublin based alt-rock four piece Banríon have released their debut EP ‘Airport Dads’.Following the release of her solo single ‘bins’, songwriter and guitarist Róisín Ní Haicéid recruited drummer Michael Nagle, bassist John Harding and guitarist Ivan Rakhmanin to form Banríon and complete their immediately recognisable alt-rock sound. The jazz backgrounds of Nagle and Harding have allowed Banríon to explore a refreshingly eclectic mix of genres to create a powerful indie sound, already attracted a very loyal fanbase. Banríon has played in venues such as Whelan’s, the Workman’s Club, Bello Bar and the Sound House and their cult following is growing in numbers after every live show. Recorded in Nagle’s home in Connemara, the three-part EP was entirely self- produced.

‘Airport Dads’ provides a short glimpse into Banríon’s alternative indie rock as they create a mature, lush and well balanced EP.  ‘Yesterday’s Paper’ kicks things in motion with jangly indie guitars piercing a thick punchy rhythmic wall of sound. It’s a light, sweet tune that floats delicately over an upbeat backdrop and tight musicianship while lyrics explore the fears of day to day life.

Through sweet and delicate tones and catchy refrains the band express pain, angst and vulnerability. Banríon take tender and raw themes of disability, feelings of uncertainty, emigration and heartbreak and place rich, delicate and compelling musicianship around them to heighten and highlight the emotion one feels during these experiences. A brave undertaking which the four-piece succeed in doing with skill and empathy.

The gliding and elegant flurries of ‘Bunk Beds’ pivot around a rooted guitar jingle and raw rhythmic bounce as the band create an illusive shoegaze soundscape with a more punchy rock foundation. The laid back lull of ‘Ouchie’ brings the EP to a close. The mood is glum as the twinkling on guitar glimmers through the tracks moody melodic flow. Róisín Ní Haicéid’s vocals have a pacifying and soothing tone throughout the EP while delivering coarse and painful lyrics. Her sweet lull and richer depths express emotion effortlessly as she draws you into each song’s enchanting sorrow and diverse emotions. 

‘Airport Dads’ shows Banríon know their sound and what they want to achieve. The band have created a wonderful collection of time stopping and utterly moving tunes with sublime dreamy moments and raw emotive themes to provide an honest, real, and emotional EP.

Stream ‘Airport Dads’ below


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