Dublin solo artist Conor Furlong has released his new single ‘Are You Gonna Sleep Tonight?’.The song is the third single to be taken from his upcoming album, ‘Recurring Dream’, which is set for release on the 17th of September.
‘Are You Gonna Sleep Tonight?’ is a lush shoegaze tune bursting with ethereal soundscapes and Conor Furlong’s expressive, irresistible musicianship. Sweet guitar refrains drift through airy atmospherics for the brooding verses before becoming more animated for the chorus. The complex arrangement of the song and deft production leaves much to be admired; the lyrics exude a dark undertone that mirrors the building tension and aggression within the track, “On the trigger, itchy fingers, that’s right blow my brains out, and you just laugh alright” while elements of 90’s rock, psychedelia and shoegaze blend to create an utterly tantalising and refreshing soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. Filled with euphoric melodies and showcasing a smooth vocal delivery from Furlong, ‘Are You Gonna Sleep Tonight?’ is a gem to treasure.
Jack Joyce has released his new single ‘Black Cat by the Bins’. The track follows on from Joyce’s sixth single release and current hit single ‘Voodoo Belladonna’ which was released back on 16th July 2021. Early last year (2020) Joyce featured on Mute The TV band’s hit debut single ‘With You’ which got airplay around Ireland.
‘Black Cat by the Bins’ is a mysterious tune that pivots around sultry shivering guitars and chunky rhythms. The lyrics are a dazzling display of Joyce’s artistic talent: clever, poignant and packed with emotion, “let me know if I grow slow, I feel it turning baby something has changed… I saw a black cat by the bins, and I haven’t been the same since”. Joyce injects a sense of unease into the track’s enticing soundscape through the use of sharp riffs and supple lofty pines creating a sinister undertone throughout the song. The complex blend of elements within the song are a joy to listen to and can only be truly appreciated with repeat plays. Joyce has put a lot into his latest release – the track is an expressive, bewitching number filled with character and rich instrumentation.
Fresh off the news of being selected to appear at this year’s Ireland Music Week, Irish multi-instrumentalist Aonair has released his second single, ‘Bad Decisions’, from his upcoming sophomore EP ‘, Loveheart Birthmark’ – due for full release later in 2021.
‘Bad Decisions’ is a powerful, heartfelt tune that showcases Aonair’s melodic prowess and irresistible musicianship. Surging with epic 80’s drenched guitars, heart-racing rhythms, and Aonair’s warm vocals, the track is an ultimate power anthem that exudes a charming dynamic persona. The song is an absolute delight to listen to and beautifully captures escapism through rich instrumentation while the hook-filled chorus evokes images of a live audience jubilantly bellowing back the lyrics. ‘Bad Decisions’ is a fearless piece of music that marks Aonairas an artist to keep an eye on. Looking forward to the EP.
Acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter David Keenan has released his new single. ‘What Then Cried Jo Soap’, an official music video is streaming now via YouTube. ‘What Then Cried Jo Soap’ marks the latest single from Keenan’s eagerly awaited second studio album, WHAT THEN?, due via Rubyworks on Friday, October 15th.Keenan will celebrate WHAT THEN? with a busy international live schedule, including a series of eagerly awaited US shows supporting GRAMMY®-Award-winning guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela, set to get underway September 1 at Boulder, CO’s Chautauqua Auditorium.
‘What Then Cried Jo Soap’ is a frantic scramble for life’s meaning expressed through the powerful medium of evocative musicianship. Keenan once again showcases his poetic skills with this vibrant and riveting new tune. The genre-defying artist expands on his opulent sound with a soulful melody basked in-country hues while a dark, smothering soundscape broods in the background. His warm vocals dwell comfortably within his deeper range as he utters the lyrics in a thought-rambling manner before animating the chorus with short yelps. The vivid lyrical imagery Keenan is known for shimmers throughout the track, as the instrumentation builds and becomes more frantic towards the crescendo he rasps, “A Zippo light in the darkness fed. Two gold teeth in a krusty head did sing”. Boasting expressive musicianship, eloquent lyrics and Keenan’s commanding vocals ‘What Then Cried Jo Soap’ is an exciting teaser for his upcoming album.
About the song, Keenan said, “This song details the desire for purpose and meaning in one’s own life, These are human struggles which I believe we can all relate to – we are all Jo Soap – heightened like never before as a result of the great trauma that has affected all our lives in countless ways since the pandemic began.”
Watch the video for ‘What Then Cried Jo Soap’ below
Capturing the essence of the early days of the pandemic, ‘Staying In’ is the latest single to come from singer-songwriter Ben Lazarus. The song makes use of a wide range of instruments due to the pandemic affording Lazarus the time to play with everything in his vast musical “toy box”. Ben Lazarus grew up in Sunnyvale, CA, until April of 2005 when he moved to Los Angeles to attend film school, and where he has lived ever since. In March, the multi-instrumentalist signed with Napier Records, a label founded by Academy award-winning filmmaker Andrew Napier.
‘Staying In’ is a catchy folk hued indie tune from Ben Lazarus. The artist takes a bright buoyant melody and adorns it in twanging guitar, steady rhythms and intricate percussive elements. ‘Staying In’ provides a cheery tone and positive outlook to the pandemic lockdowns while soft bells and a layered tapestry of guitars create a sweet and charming backdrop for Lazarus’ unique vocal coos to drift upon. ‘Staying In’ is a quirky ditty that showcases the vibrant, irresistible songwriting of Lazarus.
Speaking of his new single, Lazarus explains “This song features the drumming of my late little brother John, and playing over his tracks makes me feel closer to him.”
Born out of life lessons and real experiences, ‘Not For Me’ is the debut EP from Australian Alternative Rock artist Mouk. This collection of five songs was written over an extended period of time, and covers a broad range of themes and emotions. Her debut single ‘Ready To Lose’ was released in 2020 and was written with friend and producer James Sully. Now taking her career to the next level, Mouk. prepares for her debut EP release, which has been independently written, recorded and released.
‘Not For Me’ is a catchy collection of indie rock that boasts the raw and blossoming sound of Mouk. The EP surges with luring guitar lines and groove laced backdrops as Mouk. writes about getting out of a toxic relationship, falling in and out of love, and dealing with conflict. From the sun-kissed radiance of ’Ready To Lose’ to the dark theatrical waltz of ‘Red’, Mouk. creates a diverse wall of sound. She blends lush harmonies and sweet piano between jaunty guitar refrains and rich rhythms to create a wholesome and charming collection of tunes. With tender emotional moments flickering throughout each track ( particularly within the cosy warmth of ‘Simple’ ) Mouk. provides a satisfying EP filled with sweet ditties and swagger-stomped indie.
Limerick’s Laura Duff has released her new single, ‘Wayside’.‘Wayside’ is the debut single from her sophomore EP entitled ‘Heavy Summer’.The EP was recorded and produced by Christian Best of Monique Studios, Midleton Co. Cork, and mastered by Richard Dowling of Wav Mastering, Limerick. The band lineup features Laura Duff (vocals, keys, acoustic guitar), JJ Lee (bass), Christopher O’Sullivan (drums), Finn Fogarty (lead guitar). Laura is a past student of University College Cork’s Music Department and an award-winning songwriter. She was named the Paul Clancy Songwriter of the Year at 2015’s Irish Youth Music Awards. More recently, she was selected as Circuit Arts Festival Music Project Awardee in April 2021. Following the release of ‘Wayside’, the band are set to play Pot Duggan’s in Ennistymon, Co. Clare in October, with more shows and releases to be announced.
‘Wayside’ broods with intoxicating tones as Laura Duff presents her luring indie noir pop sound through this easy on the ears gem. This mellow tune balances dark smoky melodies with subtle glimmering guitar and keys to create an enticing rabbit hole of tantalising soundscapes. The song ventures between laid back psychedelia and indie effortlessly to create a fluid sultry tune for listeners to immerse themselves in. Duff’s smooth vocals smoulder throughout, while the sharp twinkles on guitar and layered backing vocals create a prismatic psychedelic effect with undertones of desert rock rumbling beneath. Within each verse and musical embellishment, ‘Wayside’ reveals new and captivating sounds that are a delight to listeners ears. Laura Duff is quite an exciting artist.
SoFFT Nights made their highly anticipated return to Dunderry Park, Co. Meath yesterday and I headed down to experience the event in the flesh. I watched the live stream last year and was impressed by their approach to hosting the event and with Soda Blonde, Maija Sofia, and Callistan providing the live music on the day I simply couldn’t miss it.
Yesterday 27th August, the festival had a day of interesting activities that included Sound Meditation, Reggae Yoga, Children’s Well Being Workshops and Shamanic Drumming Workshops. There was something for everyone at the festival to enjoy before the evening of music began.
With an impressively talented band behind the musician, Callistan kicked the live music section of the day in motion. The artist crooned a sweet brand of grunge alternative rock, filling the tent with hypnotic, moody bliss. Callistan exudes a nostalgic 90’s tone that captivates and lures the listener deeper into the artist’s immersive songs. From awe-inspiring guitar intros and slinky bass lines to groove infested drums and lulling melodies, the set was the perfect pairing for the chilled atmosphere within the tent and for a 90’s grunge lover like myself, absolute manna from heaven. Callistan finished the set on the most perfect tune to match the vibes in Dunderry Park, The Smashing Pumpkins ‘1979’. It was a time-stopping moment that everyone in the crowd enjoyed to the fullest, appreciating the experience of live music in a wonderful setting.
As the sun began to set and the evening chill crept in Maija Sofia took to the stage. Sofia is mesmerising to watch. An artist of boundless talent she swooshes her arms and quips her vocals with a Kate Bush-esque flair while providing insightful introductions to her songs about great love stories in paintings, the stark murder of ‘The Wife of Michael Cleary’ and obsessions with Saint Sebastian. Her songs flow like old folk tales told on dark nights, and Sofia is the master narrator.
Sofia’s songs are rich in depth and her interaction with the crowd is refreshingly honest and fun, “there is a really beautiful sunset which you can’t see and you shouldn’t look at because this is your time to look at me, however, this is a love song and I very rarely write love songs”. It’s easy to get lost in the captivating, soothing tone of Sofia’s voice. Her vocals gently drift atop soft piano, guitar or harp (by harpist Méabh McKenna), the latter enhancing the calming atmosphere Sofia creates with just her voice. However, behind those beautiful vocals is striking and raw lyrical content. Tracks such as “Smile Please” showcase this perfectly and in a live setting the emotive weight behind these stark lyrics comes to the fore, “When I met a man with long-fingered hands he picked me apart like the meat from a crab claw”. Her set was thoroughly enjoyable and in a live setting, her talent truly shines. Sofia is a one of a kind artist.
Soda Blonde bring the crowd to the front with just a small beckon from Faye O’Rourke as the sweet sound of ‘Tiny Darkness’ wafts through the tent to joyous yelps and cheers. Children dance with glowing solar lights as the band’s glorious grooves resound throughout the grounds. This band are masters of their craft and their musical prowess has to be commended. Dylan Lynch exudes a cool air of nonchalance from behind the drum kit as he creates an irresistible rhythm that commands the crowd to dance while Donagh Seaver-O’Leary executes the groove inflicted bass lines and sharp smouldering poses with masterful precision.
“Does it feel like a festival?… It feels so good” Adam O’Regan declares as the crowd cheer. O’Regan is perhaps one of the most underrated artists on stage. His versatility is impressive – he skillfully drifts between guitar and keys while harmonising with O’Rourke with effortless ease. Especially within ‘Perfume’; just an acoustic guitar and the duo’s vocals make for a captivating treat to the ears. Their voices blend beautifully. O’Rourke’s vocals exude strength and floods of emotion ( ever so slightly reined in ) while O’Regan’s velvety tone slips underneath creating warmth and complementing her range perfectly. It’s another magical moment that can only be truly appreciated within the live setting.
The band are in top form smiling and engaging with the dancing crowd. O’Rourke has a bewitching stage presence. Her theatrical gestures and potent vocals make for a powerful yet vulnerable set. She dances while executing some pretty hefty notes without a quiver or falter through ‘Don’t Mind Them’ and ‘Terrible Hands’. The band’s dreamy alternative pop is difficult to resist especially within the live setting. Soda Blonde ooze larger than life persona. Their masterful musicianship and poetic lyrics make them a very special band that has the ability to capture the hearts of many with their rich melodious tunes.
SoFFT Nights pulled out all the stops with this festival from magical lighting throughout the beautiful grounds to a fire display at the end of the night as well as mindfulness sessions and fantastic music. It’s the most charming, chilled and enjoyable festival I’ve experienced in a long time. It was good honest fun and I’ve never returned home from a festival more relaxed, content and elated all at once, plus no one spilt their drink on me, that alone is a win.
Cork-based singer-songwriter and producer Fintan McKahey returns with new single ‘Lost Balloons’. The song was recorded and produced by Fintan in his newly built space, Ivy Hill Studios. Built by Fintan and his team during COVID-19, the studio offers a variety of audio and visual services. An active artist since 2016, his 2019 sophomore EP “God Games” received critical acclaim as did his several 2020 singles, achieving national radio play and press acclaim. He has performed in major venues across the country, including support slots for the likes of The 4 Of Us, The Scratch, Junior Brother, and Roisin O.
‘Lost Balloons’ is a nostalgic soulful tune that displays the emotive musicianship of Fintan McKahey. He spreads a dreamy melody over warm guitar while a steady, soothing beat bubble’s throughout. McKahey has a mesmerising ability to capture emotion through his poetic songwriting and supple arrangements. Within ‘Lost Balloons’, he reflects on how the pressures of modern life can get overwhelming through the medium of delicate atmospherics and gentle guitar refrains while his warm, rasped vocals coo with a hushed tenderness throughout. ‘Lost Balloons’ is an absolute joy to listen to. The track is a time-stopping, emotional and satisfying tune that beckons repeat plays.
About the track, Fintan says, “‘Lost Balloons’ is an ode to the slow life, a gentle reminder to take a breath and let life unfold at its own pace. Letting go can be the most liberating feeling there is.”
Returning from a slight breather after the recent release ‘Sunset’, FYA FOX is back with her new single ‘Need It’. FOX’s previous two singles ‘Body’ and ‘White Lies’ have already been supported by 2fm, Today FM and many more. ‘Body’ was added to the BBC Radio Ulster ‘Where Music Matters’ playlist which features ten new tracks across the BBC Radio Ulster playlist each month and her debut, ‘White Lies’ received its world exclusive with Radio 1’s Gemma Bradley on BBC Across The Line. As well as being added by Hattie Pearson to the influential Co-op Edit UK playlist, her music has featured on a number of prestigious Spotify playlists including ‘Fresh Finds’ (750K followers).
‘Need It’ is an impressive tune that pulsates with FYA FOX’s unmistakable alternative pop sound. The song simmers with tense electronics and sultry bass lines as FOX coos over the infectious melody creating an intoxicating heart rushing soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. With soft keys chiming between dense electronic palpitations and sticky beats ‘Need It’ blossoms to become a power-pop anthem brimming with vigour. FOX creates expressive tunes that boast irresistible hooks and crisp production. She is an immensely talented artist, and ‘Need It’ perfectly displays her infectious musicianship and deft musical prowess. Press play and enjoy.
Stream ‘Need It’ below
Author: Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
