Norwegian singer Dagny has just released the new video for her latest single “It’s Only A Heartbreak” alongside announcing an Irish headline show at The Academy, Dublin on the 10 April 2021. Her long-awaited debut album Strangers / Lovers is also out this Friday the 2nd October 2020 via Little Daggers Records.
‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’ is a catchy pop gem. Dagny uses relatable themes and shimmering musicianship to create an upbeat bittersweet post breakup anthem. In the video Dagny is supported by two women who encourage the singer not to text or think about her ex. With shots in a beautiful hotel and its grounds, Dagny shows off her ability to dance with fun choreography which includes a number of fancy moves geared towards stopping Dagny from picking up the phone and reconnecting with her ex.
Speaking on the new single release, Dagny commented: “It’s Only A Heartbreak is actually partly inspired by the classic movie “Casablanca” from 1942, and Humphrey Bogart’s famous quote: “Here’s looking at you, kid”. Like the movie, the song is about knowing that you will never get someone back, but you can secretly still look at, and admire, that certain someone. The song carries a nonchalant expression, but the undertone makes it pretty obvious that you’re not over that person yet.”
The full Strangers / Lovers album is out on October 2nd until then check out the video for “It’s Only A Heartbreak” below
I caught up with new Irish band N.O.A.H. to talk about their debut single ‘Shine’, their step away from their previous band Electric Shore and the exciting new songs the band have yet to release.
N.O.A.H is comprised of three lifelong friends, Ryan Hill: Lead Vocalists and Guitarist, Adam Rooney: Bass Guitarist and Ronan Hynes Drummer.The band was formed in January 2020, after they decided to reform their previous musical endeavour, Electric Shore.
Ronan :“ We were doing okay with Electric Shore, as far as how we started and, you know, there was only so many years we could keep on doing the same thing over and over again, and get the same results. Then we came across our manager, who took us on as a new project. We decided what better way to start, then to start, completely fresh again with a brand new idea and leave Electric Shore, where it is. So, it was basically just something new and it worked out best for the three of us anyway because it gave new life into the music that we were doing. So, yeah, it was literally a case that we just decided, new name, new music and see where it takes us.”
“In regards to Electric Shore we were trying to push for that cinematic sound and stuff like that, but as we developed and worked with more synthy stuff, that really helped us along the way. We have our grips now as far as musicianship, you know. We have improved as well on the actual instruments. We have improved on our songwriting as well, I think that really helps. Electric Shore was pushing to go for that but now I think N.O.A.H has nailed that.. on the head “
The band got their name N.O.A.H. from the biblical story of ‘Noah and the Ark’, its not exactly a religious reference but an expression for new beginnings
Adam : “I don’t think we’re religious in the slightest. It was more related to the idea of starting again. Sort of taking stock of what we’ve done and it just felt right and was nice and short. It summarized what we wanted to do.”
Ronan : “I suppose, when you put it in imagery, Electric Shore was the flood and we wanted to get away from it and start again. So, I suppose that ties in as well.”
N.O.A.H have released their new single ‘Shine’. It’s a powerful adrenaline-inducing number which races with an urgency reminiscent of The Killers with blistering guitars, driving bass and punchy drums. The band recorded the track during lockdown.
Adam : “ We wrote the song in probably about February or March, which is like the first few weeks in lockdown and as we were saying, we developed new ways of writing so, as the nature of lockdown was, we weren’t together in the same rooms, we weren’t writing the way we would have. So, a lot of it was sending stuff back and forwards and then from there we recorded it in July and, yeah, that was that. “
Ronan : “I found that when it came down to the lyric writing as well I think for all of us it was so strange because you’re obviously, in lockdown, all on your own, but then, it’s mad, even through our rough demos they illustrate the idea of freedom and stuff like that and coming away from the isolation side of things. So it had a big impact on the actual lyric writing as well you know.”
I wondered with the new style and name did the band approach their songwriting and composition process differently
Ronan: “It generally depends on the song really. There’s some songs where the music is formed well beforehand, and then there’s others where we sit down and try to work out a melody or one of us comes up with a melody to use and we take it from there.“
Adam: “ Yeah the way we write music is generally sporadic and we don’t like to put too much pressure on it so whatever happens happens, just once a good song is produced in the end ”
The band have all been to college and studied music which has helped them with the theory side of the music industry however they don’t consider it essential for an artist to do.
Ryan “ Well for myself I went to BIMM. It’s hard to tell, they do a lot of stuff. I think to be honest, and this is me speaking from my own point of view. I do think that we probably learned more from the three of us working together then, like I said, I’ve probably learned in college. But I suppose when it comes to the performance side of things, playing live and stuff, it did give you that extra confidence from studying in college and doing performance and the overall being comfortable with your instruments and stuff like that. I just think I’d probably learn more being with the two lads, you know, “
Ronan : “ Yeah I don’t think anyone can teach you how to be creative, or they can’t teach you how to be friends in a band or anything like that. So that’s self taught, and as Ryan said to implementing certain techniques, or theoretical things can help “
I wondered what the band have in store for us as they unleash their new tunes into the world
Adam ; “ They’re all a little bit different, different sounds and that. That was the beauty about lockdown as well, it was a case that you wouldn’t get a song like ‘Shine’ if we weren’t separated but it just allowed us to experiment a lot more with different ways of doing stuff and helped us adapt basically to a pretty awkward situation. But yeah, every song we make is always trying to push ourselves a bit further in our own sounds. So, hopefully, anything that we release in the future will show that, you know, you might get a more rocky guitar vibe off some songs, a more dancey vibe off others and then atmospheric and cinematic with others. We do try hard to not pigeon hole ourselves into one specific genre or sound. “
Ronan : “Yeah, we’re planning on doing freshers weeks throughout the rest of 2020 so it’s more of an online stream, just to help the student bodies within each university around the country and engage with the students and it’d be a good way to, I suppose, create an audience because we are a brand new band so we’re still trying to push our name out there, so right now that’s it and then for the new year, it’s very hard to say. We’ve been in contact with multiple bookers in different venues and we’ve had gigs that were planned and unfortunately were not able to go ahead. It’s just the nature of the lockdown itself. But all we can do now is look a month to two months ahead, and plan for what we can and try not to get too lost in next year because it’s all up in the air.”
Ryan : “ We have an official video, being setup at the moment so it all depends on how far the actual song goes on its own, and then we’ll decide which way, we’re going to work the video or what day to release the videos as well “
‘Shine’ is an ambitious new single boasting arena sized choruses, dynamic energy and a tight blistering wall of sound. N.O.A.H have created a powerful sound brimming with energy which showcases their deft musicianship and musical growth. I’m looking forward to future releases, if ‘Shine’ is anything to go by, then we are all in for a treat. Talking to the guys it is easy to see how much passion they have for their craft. They are ones to keep an eye on for sure.
Bio : Tucker Woods is an American rock’n’roll band that delivers a raw and dynamic sound with an energetic and youthful spirit.The band have released their first single, ‘Who Loves Ya, Baby?’, and music video from their upcoming full-length album.
Track: Who Loves Ya, Baby?
Why We Like It: It’s a jaunty number with driving bass, punchy drums and shredding guitars. The full bodied backdrop creates a kinetic and raw wall of sound as the sharp pines on guitar scorch through the buoyant rhythm allowing the sweet melody and smooth vocals to cool the blistering wall of sound. It’s catchy with a 60’s -esque hue and fiery indie rock foundation as Tucker Woods spread their vigorous sound and refined musicianship over an upbeat charming tune.
Bio : Musician and producer Seafei reveals his admiration for both Eastern and Western traditions through ambient tracks and laid back beats. Born in Brighton, UK, and now based in Singapore, Seafei was first inspired by the technical and musical power of John Frusciante. Gradually via Odesza through to the sounds of Jai Wolf, Fakear and Kasbo, his personal, organic style has evolved through his influences and travels, both across the globe and through the world of music. Inspired by different parts of Eastern music than can be usually found in the mainstream, he weaves a multitude of sounds from Erhu samples to traditional vocal chanting into his esoteric compositions. Ancient influences are fused with electronic melodies, whilst underneath, his underground beginnings cannot be mistaken.
Track: Tokyo feat. Haizzi
Why We Like It: This shimmering electronic pop number flows on pulsing beats, swirling synths and euphoric soundscapes as Seafei uses his crisp production to weave lush bubbling textures into the tracks foundation. With ethereal synths floating around Haizzi’s sweet whispered vocal lulls, the track drifts delicately on a dreamy melody and nostalgic rosy haze. The tropical tones weaved between subtle eastern elements create a unique and invigorating listening experience as the song builds superbly into an electronic pop dance number.
Bio : The Motive are an indie band from Southwest London who have released their new single ‘You’.The band have already racked up more than 3k streams as well as BBC Introducing support.
Track: You
Why We Like It: It’s an infectious guzzle of zesty indie pop at its finest. With sharp jangly guitar hooks striding through a buoyant rhythmic foundation, the track is an instant shot of adrenaline. The song is brimming with tropical tones and light indie pop embellishments while the tight guitar-driven wall of sound illuminates the tracks sprightly backbone. ‘You’ is a charming and well crafted ditty which shows the band’s breezy and melodious sound in all its glory. These guys are band to keep an eye on.
Bio : Andu is an upcoming musician hailing from Galway City in Ireland. At 20 years old he started his music career with his first release ‘Something New’ off of his upcoming debut album. All of his music is written, recorded and produced by himself from his home in Galway.
Track: Something New
Why We Like It: It’s a chilled R&B infused rap pop number with sweet mellow melodies blended between fluctuant beats and tropical guitar moments. The chorus lightly dips in and out with falsetto vocals, lush backing vocals, warm guitar refrains and a Salsa- esque rhythm while Andu displays his fluid rapping through the darker verses. This debut showcases the versatility, charm and musical prowess of Andu.
Bio : SJ Talbot is an indie pop artist from Dublin, Ireland. Her sound heavily focuses on her deep, soulful vocals and bright melodies. Since 2016 she has been working in the music industry as a session singer, songwriter and keyboardist for various artists across the thriving Irish music scene. After graduating from BIMM Dublin studying vocals and songwriting, she has launched her solo project with debut single ‘Envy’.
Track: Envy
Why We Like It: It’s a rich and passionate number with a driving bass line, punchy beat and sweet as honey melody. The track pulses with emotion and the vibrant musicianship of Talbot; her deep vocals ooze soulful tones and tenderness while lush backing vocals and sweet falsetto moments thrive on a kinetic indie pop backdrop. With delicate keys weaving between the swirling soundscapes and driving rhythm the track is brimming with gripping musical prowess.
Bio : Echo Fold are a psychedelic dream funk, jazz, dub and disco band based in Dublin. A project conceived by Drummer Ross Daly and Guitarist Sam O’Connor with stylistic influences ranging across minimal funk, old school hip hop, spaghetti western scores, neo-jazz and classic disco and reggae grooves.
Track: Long Shore Drift
Why We Like It: It’s an easy listening jam as Echo Fold strut funky guitar through a swirling prism of psychedelia while the elastic bass prances about, entwining the bouncy drums in swagger-laced grooves. Soft vocals soothe and coo as the backdrop ventures into lounge room jazz led by a peppy key refrain while the lyrics are hard hitting and deal with mental health issues. The band have created quite the infectious retro gem with subtle dark undertones. ‘Long Shore Drift’ is a unique classy delight from Echo Fold.
From the circus, to a string of singles, 27 year old Dubliner, Nathan Mac is an exciting and innovative artist who has recently released his second single ‘Carolina’.‘Carolina’ is the latest link in the chain of the ‘Start of Something Blue’ project. As the second major release, the bar has been set by the success of his first single ‘Better Off Without You’. This song hit 70,000 streams on Spotify in the first two months alone and has received acclaim internationally from the likes of ‘Buzz music LA’, and ‘The Music Nerd’.
Nathan Mac’s songs are exceptionally rich, melodious and tantalizing to the senses. His passionate songwriting showcases lyrical depth well beyond his years while his velvety vocals and sublime prowess on keys makes him a remarkable artist well worth checking out.
Nathan Mac has just released his new single ‘Carolina’ check it out below
The Human Nature are set to release their latest single ‘No Escape’ on 2nd of October. Originally an acoustic ballad, ‘No Escape’, has taken on a whole new life in its full production and is the second single to come from upcoming album ‘Circles’. An indie band hailing from Norway, The Human Nature have been releasing music together since 2014. Following on from the success of their 2018 debut album, ‘Kairos’ they are continuing to push to new heights and sounds with each new release.
‘No Escape‘ is a pulsing infectious tune as The Human Nature saturate sweet melodies in driving synths and passionate song writing. The flashing synths provide the tracks tension while sharp warm guitars chime between flickering sticky beats. The song centers around the search for love in a time of despair, a sentiment that has become increasingly relevant in the current climate. As the sweet vocals coo over the smooth melody the band create a catchy hook and smooth flow to the track’s fluctuant backdrop. ‘No Escape’ is a well crafted enjoyable ditty from The Human Nature.
TV People are a Dublin four-piece who lace their indie/garage rock sound with punk-infused undertones. The band have recently released their third single of 2020, ‘Nothing More’ and its accompanying video directed by Robert Clarke. Mixed and recorded at Darklands Audio with Dan Doherty (Fontaines D.C., Vulpynes) and mastered at Abbey Road Studios by Christian Wright (Radiohead, Blur, LCD Soundsystem), ‘Nothing More’ sees the band come to terms with identity and the struggle of finding a purpose in life.
TV People blend raw moody garage rock with indie to create an invigorating sound and their refined tunes are both gritty and polished with just the right amount of punch to keep you craving for more. This is going to be an exciting live stream.
TV People have just released their new single ‘Nothing More’ check it out below
Brass Phantoms have released their eagerly awaited debut album ‘Holding Out For Horrors’. With a growing fanbase and a reputation for energetic and frenzied live shows, the Dublin five-piece landed themselves support slots with Dublin favourites Delorentos and Manchester darlings The Slow Readers Club. Having toured throughout Ireland and the UK, they are tipped as one of the top acts to see at New York’s Global Music Festival and Conference Mondo NYC.
‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is a magnificent genre-splicing album as Brass Phantoms take their refined musicianship, expressive songwriting and dynamic energy and pour it into an impressive body of work. The album features the band’s singles ‘Hurricane’, ‘City Of Wolves’, ‘Waiting Up’, ‘Indigo’ and recent release ‘What We Leave Behind Us’ which have all been landmarks in the quintets musical growth. Displaying slinky ethereal guitar lines, chiming key progressions, epic melodies and choruses the band present a big lofty sound with weighty lyrics and biting soundscapes. Each track is meticulously layered and deftly crafted to create a thrilling listening experience. With the singles paving the way the band could have slipped in a few weaker and light listens to fill out the track list but that’s not the kind of band Brass Phantoms are. The rest of the album is chock-a-block with big songs of depth and quality.
The Killers – esque ‘Legal Fiction’ thrives on intoxicating guitar lines and atmospheric synths that skillfully blend synth-pop with dark gritty rock; it is a magnificent display of compositional prowess. Ryan Cashell’s vocals have become cinematic, deeper and more distinct than ever as he owns his unique vocal range and expressive emotive scope. He can haunt and chill through a song or mysteriously cast a sinister tone that turns the more instrumentally uplifting tracks ( such as ‘Wood Words’ ) into quite an ominous darker tune. To contrast Cashell’s vocals the band showcase a new facet of Brass Phantoms which we haven’t seen before, a duet with the one and only Colleen Heavey. Her sweet innocent coo’s contrast, blend and add a refreshing light to ‘What We Leave Behind Us’. This kinetic and refined track is a pinnacle moment on the album, showcasing the band’s mature musicianship. They create a richly textured sonic wall of sound exuding tantalising bass grooves which drizzle a funk tone onto the dark synth pop backdrop. A punchy drum foundation and woodblock feature entices the listener while sharp guitar lines weave and tease oozing tension and suspense – an utterly thrilling listening experience.The frantic swirl of ‘Disciples’ reminds us just how dazzling and synth heavy Brass Phantoms can be as they press disco shimmering synths over ominous melodies, and shredding guitar riffs that lament, soar and slice through Adam McCabe’s fluctuant, dead-summoning drums.
Brass Phantoms prove they are quite the dream team, not only does the band have a unique, powerful and charismatic frontman (Ryan Cashell). They also have guitar and bass virtuoso’s in Greg Whelan and James Geraghty and voice of an angel and synth wizard in Colleen Heavey. All this talent is nurtured by McCabe’s hefty dynamic drums which allows each instrument ( guitars, synths, and vocals ) to flourish and shine in prismatic glory. McCabes drums also create the elastic flirtations and ballsy backbone which levitates each song to its epic climax
The sustained dark ecstasy of each song expands as the album progresses. The sultry ‘Something Automatic’ and the blustery elation of ‘Indigo’ are brimming with luscious indie pop melodies consumed in a whirlpool of rich ethereal soundscapes, reinforcing the kinetic adrenaline this band have crafted so meticulously. Even the beautiful and short interlude of ‘Max’s Reprise (We Leave Behind)’ and slow burner ‘Reflection’ which exudes lush harmonies, heartfelt melody and passionate instrumentation, winds the album down without loosing the majestic and impactful punch of its predecessors.
‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is a marvelous, epic collection of synth-rock gems and energetic anthems. For their debut album Brass Phantoms take us on a journey through their own personal experiences while also showcasing their musical growth. Within the album there is enough familiarity and boundary pushing to keep the listener engaged while the darker, thrilling moments keep you hanging on the edge of your seat. Showcasing wonderful blends of synth pop, indie and alternative, ‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is an album to fully indulge in and enjoy over and over again.
Singer/songwriter Elina Filice and spoken word artist/rapper Claudia Crampton have teamed up to release a new single ‘Lying’. This laid black alternative R&B tune drifts upon a mellow guitar hook and warm bass while the intricate hip-hop beats provide texture and buoyancy. Jazz laced guitar delicately weaves between the dreamy sweet melody, catchy chorus and lush vocal harmonies creating a soothing tone. The brisk raps roll over the verses with a sleek fluid flow while charming keys and the relaxing instrumental backdrop provide a breezy chilled contrast. ‘Lying’ is a well crafted tune which boasts the talent, sleek musicianship and deft songwriting of both Elina Filice and Claudia Crampton.
About the track Elina says, “Fascination with the concept of Lying inspired the song. So much of our lives, on a small and large scale, with how we relate to ourselves and each other, is based on lies. The lies we tell ourselves to get by, the lies we tell to either harm or protect each other.”
Claudia says, “My verses narrate the story of a relationship that has had its many ups and downs but has ultimately reached its end. The verses reflect the turmoil and hardship that come with an unfaithful partner and the difficulties in coping with the heartache.”
Mayo indie pop artist Rowlette has released her new single ‘Cucumber & Ice’. The single is her third release of 2020 and marks what has been a very impressive breakthrough in her music career with her previous singles being added to Spotify editorial playlists (including Fresh Pop, Pop Right Now and New Music Friday), performing alongside Jack L, being RTE Culture Tune of The Day twice and packing out her first headline show.
Rowlette writes catchy pop tunes that ooze character and charm. Whether she is providing an emotive heartbreaking delivery or fun upbeat anthem each track is a treasure and an enjoyable listening experience. Rowlette is an exciting new singer songwriter and will soon be your new favourite artist.
Rowlette has just released her new single ‘Cucumber & Ice’ check it out below
modernlove. have released their new single ‘Use Me’ along with the announcement of their headline show in The Grand Social on Saturday, 5th December 2020. This show will be a socially distant show. Tickets €14.50 are available from tickets.ie.
Spinning through a progressive electronic spiral of EDM moments infused with melodic pop hooks and indie glimmers, ‘Use Me’ shows modernlove. are a band cultivating their sound into something unique and expressive. The track kicks off with twinkling synths and a longing melody as Barry Lally’s smooth vocals drift upon a gentle soundscape.Soft piano moments create pockets of innocence and melancholic sweetness before the song erupts with dazzling electronics which whirlwind the song’s chorus into a dance banger filled with heavy beats and flashing electronic progressions. The band slide their legendary rapid lyrics over a glossy backdrop for the second verse which adds to the intensity of the song. Boasting silky soundscapes and tight layering, ‘Use Me’ is a joy to listen to and an impressive new release from the talented four piece.
About the track the band said: “It is about someone who knows their feelings for another are unrequited but is so desperate that they are willing to settle for even a semblance of affection or love from them. They are willing to let themselves be used to convincing themselves of a false notion of being close and intimate with this person. Even if it “doesn’t mean anything” to them, they can at least “pretend”.”
Stream ‘Use Me’ Below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
