Category Archives: New Music

Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music

Y!KES ‘Long Gone Silver’

Following on from the success of their previous releases, ‘EP!C’ and ‘MASS!VE’, Birmingham anti-pop quartet Y!KES have released their new single ‘Long Gone Silver’.

‘Long Gone Silver’ is a shredding and tantalizing assault to the senses. The track bursts in on the raw, relentless alternative rock we have come to love from Y!KES. This rattling rock beast roars upon a bloodthirsty drum and bass foundation while kaleidoscopic shards on guitar splinter through the backdrop with sharp stings.

Y!KES have a deft ability to balance the refinement of their craft and create a mind-blowing spectacle all at once, and ‘Long Gone Silver’ achieves this magnificently. The verses tease, wriggle and ferment through fuzzy suspenseful instrumentation while the band’s explosive chorus introduces the dramatic and theatrical affair of a mosh pit frenzy.

Displaying a sharp sense of understanding, the band capture a sense of youth through their wild tracks. Oli Long’s vocals spit and growl “All We Do Is Escape Ourselves and Call It Fun” with swagger and a sense of disdain, capturing the global frustration at the moment through witty and honest lyrics.

This frantic, energetic track is a sublime example of Y!KES’ fun and gloriously chaotic alternative rock. Sure to have you jumping and dancing around the room, ‘Long Gone Silver’ is one for repeat plays with the volume booming.

About the track Liam Howard, Guitarist explains, “Written in the heat of global frustration, Long Gone Silver smacks against the rage with massive guitars, bass hooks, punchy drums & sinister vocals to remind the world that music is alive, kicking & screaming”. 

Adding to Liam’s comments, Vocalist Oli says “Excuse the pun, but I guess we are all somewhat in the same boat now. So what should we have done? Sat around twiddling our thumbs… or turn our shared frustration into something we can sing and dance to? I thought so. We wrote this as an almost sarcastic reminder that although tempting to rid one’s inhibitions daily through a chosen vice or activity. Sometimes it’s a good idea to check what day it is & ensure that you and your friends aren’t bleeding out.” 

Watch the video for ‘Long Gone Silver’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Noah Elliott ‘Never Know’

Oregon Pop-R&B artist Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Know,’ produced by Nashville hit-maker Jon Santana (Phangs, SuperM).

 ‘Never Know’ is a piece of softly glittering pop prowess as Elliott swirls sweet melodies through bubbling electronics to create an ethereal and tender number. With R&B elements weaved through fresh synths and spacious soundscapes, Elliott builds the track superbly. Weaving soft guitar between bubbling beats and a laid-back tempo, the song floats into a dreamy atmosphere allowing the electronics to unfold and create a soothing sense of nostalgia.

Elliott’s soulful vocals coo throughout, creating a melancholic and sweet tone to the track. His lush falsetto and velvety tone adds to the track’s overall sulky yet dreamy atmosphere. As Elliott builds the song, he layers bouncy synth elements into the catchy chorus and airy soundscape. Here the electronics become a little darker and sticky while the R&B elements kick in for the finger-clicking beat and the smooth vocals. 

Elliott’s songwriting excels in setting vulnerable, personal themes and lyrics to his minimal radio-friendly pop. It’s this exposure of his heart that gives the track its power and beauty  “Romeo and Juliet I envy what they had, thought we would have that or was it unrealistic “….. “But your doors are always closing when I keep mine cracked open waiting for you to walk in”. Elliott wears his heart on his sleeve for each song he releases, and ‘Never Know’ is a superb example of this. 

Elliot’s spacious yet intricately weaved musicianship and heartfelt lyrics make each release engaging and utterly compelling. Within ‘Never Know,’ we see this through beautiful melodies, meaningful, honest lyrics, and a gripping wall of sound. 

About the track, Noah Elliott said “The song is about the confusion and heartache that results from having no idea as to why someone left you.”

Stream ‘Never Know’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Hawke The Band ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’

Hawke The Band have released their new single ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’. The young Dublin act was formed in 2018 by two friends in the shadow of the world-famous Guinness Brewery (in the south of the city) and features Richie Power (vocals/keyboards) and Eoghan MacMahon (vocals/guitar). Irish rock legends Aslan quickly declared themselves major fans, with frontman Christy Dignam proclaiming Hawke The Band “the next big thing” to emerge from a country that consistently punches above its weight in terms of quality music.

Anthemic and powerful ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a stunner as Hawke The Band present their refined and spirited sound through 90’s rock energy, a cinematic chorus and invigorating soundscapes. The band’s melodic mastery is something to be admired. A bright guitar refrain introduces the song. Twinkling throughout it becomes the main thread tying the vibrant instrumental embellishments together. Deep pulsing grooves anchor the listener within the ethereal atmosphere while a euphoric melody floats upon a lush soundscape filled with soaring guitars, accelerated drums, and chiming keys that continually expands as the song progresses. This lively assault on the senses is eargasmic and fills the listener with the sense of heart-rushing elation one feels at arena-worthy gigs. The duo showcase their deft lyrical abilities with this tantalizing number. They are honest, catchy, and powerfully moving “how could someone like me have you right by their side”. This is greatly enhanced by the warm emotive vocal delivery and sweet vocal harmony that coos the heart-felt lyrics.

‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a brilliant example of Hawke The Band’s breathtaking musicianship. This enthralling track boasts the duo’s sublime ability to pour heartwarming pop sensibilities over a dynamic indie rock backdrop to create a satisfying listening experience. The passion and youthful adrenaline surging through their sound is impressive and is equally as compelling. With each exciting release Hawke The Band are proving themselves ones to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Midnight Wayne ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’

Having cut his teeth in one of the most well-loved live bands of their time on our festival circuits and live scene, former Hot Sprockets frontman Wayne Soper is no stranger to the Irish music scene. Now focusing on his solo artist project, Midnight Wayne, Soper returns with ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ boasts the impressive genre-blending musicianship of Midnight Wayne. Melding 80’s synth-pop with crisp sparkling production, Soper adds layer upon layer of beautiful luxuriant sounds for the listener to indulge in.

The song flows upon a kinetic groove and pulsing bass while sweet synths chime throughout. Soper uses a tight beat to pull against a funky flex on guitar, and loose electronics to create a tantalizing, irresistible sound to tease and entice the listener with. The result is a mesmerising display of musical prowess and an enjoyable listening experience.

From panache-soaked breathy whispers to velvety croons, Soper’s vocals ooze a charming tone while delivering the uplifting lyrics “seek the fire that you’ve lost inside”. The upbeat lyrics are highlighted further by the tracks infectious jangly guitars and rhythmic bounce.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ is a gem to treasure. Midnight Wayne is refining his sound into something special and something to get excited about. Looking forward to hearing more from Midnight Wayne.

Stream ‘It’s Alright Hold on Tight’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Folk, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Conor Scott ‘Life Now’

Y-Control Photography | All Rights Reserved |

Conor Scott has released his highly anticipated new single ‘Life Now’. Fresh from returning to Belfast after a period of time spent forging a music career in London, Conor Scott is back with a large online following, and recent support and praise shown by Mahogany Sessions.

Conor Scott displays his bright indie folk-rock and compelling songwriting with new release ‘Life Now’. The track exudes an energetic aura as Scott creates a vibrant soundscape filled with chiming guitars, lush chanting backing vocals and ethereal keys while an elastic bass weaves between a punchy drum foundation.

Scott’s warm vocals coo with a cosy, soothing quality over the infectious melody injecting a folk-rock tone into the radiant indie rock aesthetic. His voice smoothly bounces over the honest lyrics as he puts a positive spin on some of his realisations over the past year. 

“Hitting twenty-six, it hit me like a ton of bricks maybe I should roll with it”

‘Life Now’ superbly displays the talent and earnest beauty within Scott’s songwriting. Boasting lush harmonies and a tight rhythmic pull, Scott has created a wholesome and passionate tune brimming with first-rate musicianship. His ability to richly blend textures and tones to create heart-stopping music is mesmerising and a joy to listen to.

Speaking of the track, Scott says: “This is the first song I’ve written that is mainly stemming from an objective view of the world, and not so much based on relationships. I wrote it right in the middle of the first lockdown so it was hard not to look at all the things that were happening. That said, I didn’t want to have something totally doom and gloom, and I think you can take quite a few positive affirmations out of the song also. Hope, I suppose”

Stream ‘Life Now’ below


Author : Danu

Album Review, New Music

Bluenose B ‘Harrowby Road’ Album

A semi-autobiographical depiction of his youth, ‘Harrowby Road’ is the debut album from Liverpool singer-songwriter Stephen Lawson, artistically known as Bluenose B. Written after his mother’s terminal illness diagnosis, ‘Harrowby Road’ sees Bluenose B making a return to his happy family home, looking out over Crosby Beach and Antony Gormley’s art installation. 

‘Harrowby Road’ is a warm and wholesome collection of indie rock tracks with electronic elements and country tones glimmering throughout. Lawson fills the songs with uplifting tones as he meanders between funky guitar refrains and light, nimble solos to create an upbeat listening experience. The album is well balanced with infectious bangers evenly spread between the soft lamenting ballads such as ‘Dark Inside’ where Lawson gives us a glimpse into his pain and anguish “the reason that I love myself because I know there’s no one else”. 

Throughout the album, Lawson expresses his pain through country-rock tunes accompanied by icy piano elements and deft clean production. From the sweet guitar pines and lonely tones in ‘Rodeo Clown’ to the infectious electronic hued disco stomp of ‘Where The Rubbish Collects’, the album is laced in dynamic and expressive tunes that discuss the themes of loss, love, and mental health. 

However, the sultry ‘Freak’ marks a shift in the album’s tone. A shadowy enticing guitar line glimmers between intricate rhythms and wild, darker soundscapes, allowing Lawson to explore a mysterious and wilder side to his sound.

‘Harrowby Road’ is a refined collection of tracks that displays Lawson’s earnest and powerfully emotive songwriting.

Stream ‘Harrowby Road’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Freeda ‘5 AM’

Formed in 2017 and with a plethora of headline and sold out shows under their belt including a sold out show at the iconic Deaf Institute in Manchester.and festival appearances at Dot 2 Dot, Tramlines Fringe, 110 Above and Y Not Festival, Manchester-based Freeda, have released their new single ’5AM’. All their singles have received extensive backing from BBC Introducing, and continued support from XS Manchester and Amazing Radio.

Exhilarating guitar lines swirl through a vibrant anthemic indie backdrop as ‘5 AM’ pulses with the engaging and dynamic sound of Freeda. Blending bustling bass grooves with punchy drums and a soaring rush on synths, the track exudes an intense kinetic soundscape. Smooth, emotive vocals drift over a rich percussive groove that embellishes the track’s vibrant wall of sound and brisk catchy melody – a joy to listen to and a feast for the senses. The band create and layer the anthemic synth-rock soundscape to mirror the lyrics within the song which draws a comparison between a busy, hectic lifestyle and a more settled content frame of mind.

Racing with intense musicianship and boasting refined songwriting, ‘5 AM ‘ showcases strong musical growth in Freeda. Their sound is becoming more compelling with each release. ‘5 AM ‘ is a fantastic new single from Freeda. 

Stream ‘5 AM’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Arthur Valentine ‘Dream About You’

Arthur Valentine has released his latest single, ‘Dream About You’, the lead single from his forthcoming debut EP, ‘Splitscreen’.

‘Dream About You’ blends Arthur Valentine’s luscious alternative pop with bubbling R&B and hip hop elements to create a cohesive, mellow, and infectious number for listeners to indulge in. The song maintains a sunkissed dreamy soundscape throughout filled with woozy synths and bright glistening indie guitar. As the track progresses sticky beats are added into the mix to flesh out the song’s expansive sonic sound.

Valentine layers the backdrop in thick hip hop beats and rippling bass and contrasts this with a wistful melody. The wispy, light texture of the melody immerses the song in a carefree, laid-back tone as Valentine displays his tight and ambitious production skills. Valentine’s soulful vocals ooze tenderness throughout as his laid back tone and the care-free instrumental backdrop gently paces the listener into the songs hypnotic crescendo.

‘Dream About You’ is an irresistible gem and a fine display of Valentine’s cool musicianship. His alternative pop aches with sincerity over sugary arrangements and deft production. There is a compelling and soothing effect to Valentine’s songs and ‘Dream About You’ follows this trend superbly. Arthur Valentine is an artist to treasure.

Stream ‘Dream About You’ below. 


Author : Danu

EP Review, New Music

The Immaculate Crows ‘Different Birds’ EP

‘Different Birds’ is the long-awaited debut EP from Australian alternative rock band The Immaculate Crows. Founding member Bruce Neilsen has reunited with former member Mark Hocknell for this recording project, teaming up with a collective of local musicians.

‘Different Birds’ displays The Immaculate Crows’ slick and intriguing music as they spread shredding rock over their melodious wall of sound to create a satisfying collection of tracks. With psychedelic hues weaving between the band’s raw alternative rock in ‘She’s A Mystery’ and country folk elements glimmering through ‘Business Girl’, the band flesh out their energetic sound. ‘Different Birds’ shows just how a diverse the band is. They take on various themes throughout the EP, from a protest song to a female empowerment song, each track showcasing a unique side to The Immaculate Crows.

‘Different Birds’ is a creative and energetic EP displaying the enticing sound of The Immaculate Crows in all its glory.

Stream ‘Different Birds’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Tadhg Williams ‘The Hope Song’

Almost a year after the release of his debut single ‘My Father’s Clouds’, Tadhg Williams returns with his second release ‘The Hope Song’ – a reflection on a trans-Atlantic relationship he experienced as he began to experiment with writing songs.

‘The Hope Song’ is a heartwarming number as Tadhg Williams displays his poetic and reflective lyrics over a beautiful melody and elegant instrumentation. The track floats upon a warm indie folk tone as soothing guitars, steady rhythms, and icy keys create a richly textured foundation. Williams fleshes out his honest songwriting by utilising poetic lyrics to create beautiful imagery and a sweet sense of nostalgia and innocence  “these droplets of moments better not melt too fast.”

‘The Hope Song’ is a wonderful example of Williams’ compelling musicianship and sublime songwriting. Exuding supple cinematic builds through catchy melodies and heart-stopping arrangements ‘The Hope Song’ is an earnest, and tender new single from Tadhg Williams.

Stream ‘The Hope Song’ below 


Author : Danu