Indie, indie rock, New Music

State Lights ‘Give Me Something Human’

Rising Irish act State Lights have released their new single ‘Give Me Something Human’. Over the past twelve months State Lights have firmly established themselves as one of Ireland’s best Live acts. The band recently sold out a headline show at Whelan’s in Dublin and London’s Islington and their track ‘Let You Go’ was ‘Track of the Week’ on the 2fm Breakfast show with Doireann and Eoghan.Recently the band were ‘Homegrown Hero’ on Today FM’s flagship morning show Dermot & Dave, they performed on the country’s biggest television entertainment chat show (and the longest running in the world!), ‘The Late Late Show’ and also tallied substantial airplay and support from KROQ Los Angeles, Radio X (UK) and a host of other International radio stations. This positive uptake resulted in a slot at the prestigious Electric Arena Stage at Electric Picnic, where they shared the stage with The Kooks, St Vincent and Cigarettes after Sex. This was followed up with support slots with The Fratellis and The Academic.  Last summer the band also played the highly acclaimed Indiependence and Kaleidoscope Music Festivals.They are due to headline the Button Factory on Saturday February 20th 2021.

Surging with exhilarating energy and biting instrumentation, ‘Give Me Something Human’ fleshes out State Lights majestic and blossoming sound. Their ability to express character and emotion through instrumentation is masterful and perfectly shown in this new release. Punchy drums and piercing bass grooves keep the track grounded as strong guitar strides lament and pine through the raw rhythmic foundation which creates wild chaotic outbursts for the chorus. The verses brood and simmer as the distinctively powerful vocals from Shobsy rush with passion and tenderness. With a catchy melody, epic rock explosions and elements of distortion ‘Give Me Something Human’ boasts wonderful cinematic soundscapes that are sure to give you goosebumps.

Stream ‘Give Me Something Human’ below


Author : Danu

Event News, Indie, Live Music, Takeover

Event News – Jim McHugh Takeover

Jim McHugh will takeover our Instagram and Facebook for a live stream on Wednesday at 8.00 pm

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/indie_buddie/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/indiebuddie/

A native of Castleblayney Co Monaghan Ireland, Jim McHugh’s music is rooted in the worlds of Atmospheric Folk and Melodic Indie. The roots of this original music stretch back to Jim’s time performing and writing for many years with his band The Mandalas, previously known as Unaware.

Jim McHugh’s buoyant and foot tapping tunes are filled with warmth and heartfelt passion and his blend of rock, indie and traditional styles is sure to make for a vibrant live stream.

Check out Jim McHugh’s recent single ‘Should Have Lied’ below


Author : Danu

Album Release, Indie, New Music

Amahlie ‘Sentimental Animals’

Amahlie have released their debut album ‘Sentimental Animals’. Amahlie is a collaborative indie folk project brought to us by songwriter ‘Lucca Cardoso’, and an all-star cast of global musicians to bring his vision to life. While Amahlie is centered around Lucca’s intimate songwriting, his international bandmates provide orchestral flourishes and imaginative arrangements to give each song a sense of wonder and purpose.

‘Sentimental Animals’ is a mellow ambient album chiming with the sweet supple musicianship of Amahlie. Soft melodies drift upon intimate wispy soundscapes allowing each track to effortlessly flow into the next creating the ultimate easy listening experience. The album has a soothing quality as each song tells the story of a person who falls in love but is destroyed by their own anxieties. From the honest account in the elegant piano ballad ‘Avalanche’ through to the lush twinking guitar and innocent melody in ‘The Abyss’ Amahlie lays bare all the emotional twists and turns in a relationship.

The songs lift the listener up in a wave of passion and moving emotion through expressive and refined musicianship. Through meaningful songwriting, warm guitar moments, intricate bass and immaculate keys the songs address the complexities of life in an atmospheric and ethereal manner. The arrangements are airy and light while packing in oodles of emotion and tenderness causing a soothing cushion for the mind.

With folk elements glimmering through the plucked delicacy of ‘Two in the Morning’ Amahlie showcase another graceful aspect of their angelic indie soundscape. From the start right through to the last track ‘Wake-Up Call’ ( with its cosy glow on guitar and simplistic arrangement ) Amahlie take us on a journey of incredible happenings and intense realisations through the medium of evocative and magical musicianship. ‘Sentimental Animals’ is a wonderful album to treasure. 

Stream ‘Sentimental Animals’ here https://linktr.ee/amahlie


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, EP Review, Grunge, Indie, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Y!KES ‘MASS!VE’ EP

Birmingham based quartet Y!KES have released their new EP ‘MASS!VE’. A spine chilling collection of tracks filled with raw crunchy guitar lines, stabbing drums and manic dark soundscapes, ‘MASS!VE’ stays the course the band unleashed with their debut EP ‘Everything Pointless Is Correct’. The new EP captures the abrasive nature of Y!KES in a nutshell showcasing their unapologetic, gut-punching alternative grunge rock is a force to be reckoned with.

These guys have a knack with catchy guitar refrains which they mangle beneath wild unruly instrumentation while the odd guitar riff peers above the bands musical onslaught. ‘Pirouette’ follows this format perfectly. There is a ‘My Chemical Romance’ tone and Emo residue to the track which wallows within the songs underbelly – swarming with loathing and moody aggression.

Of course this bands instrumental prowess and flair is what makes them so intriguing however, it is Oli Long’s aggitated vocals which gives Y!KES enough drama and crazed intensity to take their sound to epic heights. His vocals are luring, moody and almost psychotic as he wails, growls and mumbles through the tracks creating quite the unique and exhilarating character for each song. This is especially shown in ‘Alice’. Long’s vocals slither with a gravelly texture truly displaying the sinister range and capabilities of his vocals. It’s utterly thrilling. With a 90’s rock bravado the verses are manic and full of surprises while the chorus is strong and melodic, all leading to a glorious ending,  ‘Alice’ is one of the pinnacle moments on the EP.

The high intensity, mind frazzling rock doesn’t end after ‘Alice’, instead Y!kes expands from this point. The EP only gets better and heavier from here as the band push and explore the depths of their tantalizing sound. With a cinematic rush on guitars, shredding solos and melodic frantic flurries to delight the listener, ‘Door Frame Angel’ and ‘Faker’ take their triumphant place on the EP. Although just as coarse and sharp as previous tracks, the band inject sweeter melodies into the thrilling, alternative rock instrumental. 

However it’s not all a screaming assault of alternative rock, final track ‘Step Away’ brings the album to a surprising close. Here the band effortlessly slip into a more indie pop outfit with light jaunty guitar riffage providing an indie spring through the buoyant drum progressions. There are glimmers of Sugar Cult, early Arctic Monkeys and The Strokes in this song. I have to hand it to these guys, they always deliver a slap in the face of some kind and this sunkissed and moody number is the rosy-hued ( yet dark themed ) gem to do it. Absolutely love it. 

‘MASSIVE’ showcases Y!KES is growing and harnessing their raw unbridled rock to create music with a memorable balance between drama, anarchy and deft musicianship.The band have created an invigorating sound of their own to discuss themes of depression and conflicting emotions through anthemic tunes with choppy chords, gnarled vocals and ground shaking drums. It’s quite the masterpiece. 

Stream ‘MASSIVE’ below


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, New Music

HEKA ‘Fake Smile’

Bristol based five piece HEKA have released their debut single ‘Fake Smile’. Oozing a sinister, cold undertone this mysterious electronic gem rushes and flutters with 80’s pop synths and rich musicianship. It’s well crafted as punchy soundscapes and sticky beat slaps flash and shimmer through the biting atmosphere providing a dark dance floor backdrop. The band place a smooth emotive melody and passionate vocals over this dynamic indie pop instrumental before the intense soundscapes envelope the track in a sense of loneliness. Exuding dramatic sonic flairs, rapid synth progression and throbbing bass line all wrapped up in a jittery uneasy atmosphere, ‘Fake Smile’ is an exhilarating display of deft production from HEKA. Keep an eye on this five piece.

Watch the animated video for ‘Fake Smile’ directed by Tom Sharp below 


Author : Danu

Indie Soul, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Bronagh Gallagher ‘Truth or Dare’

Bronagh Gallagher has released her brand new single ‘Truth or Dare’ today. Gallagher is considered one of Ireland’s leading actors and voices of soul music and is deeply respected for both the quality of her song writing and her stellar live performances. From the beginning of her acting career at age 17 as Bernie, one of the backing singers in Alan Parker’s The Commitments, Bronagh has appeared in countless films including Pulp Fiction, Star Wars, Sherlock Holmes, and award-winning TV dramas such as Jimmy Mc Govern’s The Street, and The Accused. She has also appeared in London’s West End, and Broadway Theatre Productions including Complicité’s Street of Crocodiles,the National Theatre’s Warhorse,and most recently Bob Dylan & Conor Mc Pherson’s award-winning musical Girl from The North Country. Alongside her acting career, Bronagh writes and produces her own music and runs her own independent label, Salty Dog Records. She has released three albums to date and past collaborators include Brian Eno, Maria Mc Kee, and Gary Lightbody.

Bronagh Gallagher presents her timeless retro sound with oodles of passion and gusto in new single ‘Truth or Dare’. Gallagher’s soulful vocals have a velvety texture as she uses the power in her voice to surge emotion and depth into her track. With warm brass elements, steamy guitars and elastic bass grooves the track oozes swag without losing sight of its smooth, funky, soul- filled core. The steady beat and meaty rhythms seduce and entice as the dreamy, supple melody melts into the listeners ears with tantalizing ease. Oozing emotion, rich instrumentation and catchy hooks teamed with a powerful crescendo, vaporous guitar pines and sass ‘Truth or Dare’ is another smooth as silk number from Bronagh Gallagher.

Watch the video for ‘Truth or Dare’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Gavin Doyle ‘Redamancy’

Gavin Doyle has released his new single ‘Redamancy’. The Dubliner’s highly anticipated single was recorded and produced by Doyle himself during lockdown. It was mixed by Philip McGee (Kodaline, Wild Youth), and mastered by Simon Francis (Kodaline, Kylie Minogue, High Flying Birds). A natural flair for music has led to Doyle being a highly regarded session musician. He has performed with Heroes in Hiding all over Europe, including a support slot with Picture This in The Olympia Theatre.Doyle established himself as a promising solo artist in early 2020 releasing ‘Before the Fall’ to critical acclaim.

‘Redamancy’ is utterly heartbreaking and melancholic as Gavin Doyle expresses tender emotion through a beautiful backdrop of twinkling keys, graceful strings and lush backing vocals. As the song progresses the tone drifts into a euphoria of hope aided by uplifting soundscapes while Doyle coos heartfelt lyrics over a sombre melody. There are elements of grace and elegance expressed through lamenting strings, warm guitar and steady drums which glimmer through the mournful melody while undertones of traditional and country hues collide with twinkling pop moments to create a full bodied, emotional sound which is as heart warming as it is painful and moving. A fantastic display of production and artistry – ‘Redamancy’ is a beautifully raw new track from Gavin Doyle. 

Talking about the single Doyle said :” I almost cast this song aside as I felt it was too bleak/complaintive. It wasn’t until myself and a good friend were exchanging songs late one night that he reacted strongly to the rough demo I had made. He helped me realise that I wasn’t complaining, I was merely being honest. So, maybe me being honest about some of my darker emotions will help to normalise the subject for others.”

Stream ‘Redamancy’ below


Author : Danu

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

Isaac Butler ‘Change The Past’

Isaac Butler has just released his highly anticipated new single ‘Change The Past’, produced by Philip Magee (Kodaline, The Script, The Academic), today. The release comes hot on the heels of recent radio hit ‘Paranoid’ which has racked up 4.86M impressions to date and broke into the Top 50 of the Overall Airplay Chart – at the time the only self released single in not only the Top 50 but the only self release in the Top 100 – as well as climbing to 13 in the Top 20 of the Irish Airplay Charts.’Paranoid’ was also chosen as ‘Song of the Week’ on 2FM’s Breakfast with Doireann and Eoghan and as the Select Irish ‘Track of the Month’ for June.Isaac Butler’s show at The Sound House is now rescheduled to 11 March 2021, with all original tickets valid for the new date. It is his second headline gig, having sold out his debut in Whelan’s last November and follows a jam-packed festival season in 2019, which saw Isaac Butler play a host of dates around the country including Electric Picnic and Kaleidoscope.

‘Change The Past’ builds on Isaac Butler’s cinematic pop as he continues to perfect his musicianship by spreading emotive earnest lyrics over synthesisers and lush melodies. Lamenting piano introduces the track which then blossoms into a smashing pop banger. With twinkling guitar, biting electronic soundscapes and trademark backing vocal hooks the song maintains that epic live audience sing-back the lyrics aesthetic we have come to know from Butler.

The passionate yearn of his vocal delivery distinguishes him from other aspiring songwriters as his velvety tone can croon like the best of them, however it’s in his hair raising dynamics for the mighty chorus where the power in his vocals truly shines. Butler captures timeless relatable moments within his songs whether it is candidly detailing the breakdown of a romantic relationship in ‘Paranoid’, that sense of freedom in ‘Young Forever’ or the gut twisting emotions which surface if one asks themselves the question “what if I had done this differently? ”- in ‘Change The Past’; Butler gives his unique view on these universal thoughts and emotions.

The track displays Butler’s knack for catchy dreamy melodies as it swoops and swirls sonically into an intense crescendo and an ending that will surely give you goosebumps. Isaac Butler is quite the impressive singer songwriter. His ability to create emotive music which is relatable to anyone who hears it is admirable. ‘Change The Past’ is another elevating and impressive track from Isaac Butler. 

Speaking of ‘Change The Past’ Isaac Butler said: “I recorded the song in the Mill Studio’ with Phil Magee. This is the second track we’ve done and he’s become a great friend and mentor to me. He’s been so important in shaping my sound and I can’t thank him enough. He’s also just the nicest man in music. Doesn’t matter who you are/what you’ve done, Phil treats everyone the same. A legend in the Irish music scene!”

Watch the lyric video for ‘Change The Past’ below


Author : Danu

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Brian McGrane Live On Virtual

Having spent the last five years touring the world’s most iconic stages from the Sydney Opera House to Radio City New York, Dublin based musician Brian McGrane takes to the zoom platform to perform this week’s Virtual, an online event organised by Fluttertone and DootDoot Records. 

McGrane’s set was brimming with heartfelt emotive tunes and light hearted banter. His warm vocals incorporate ample nuance and expression into his performance. However it’s the quirky moments between the emotive tunes that make his show so charming for example he laughs about forgetting the lyrics to his newly written ‘Just Like You’. He gives thoughtful anecdotes and introductions to his tracks as well as reads out the comments from the audience, explaining “sure it’s the same as people heckling me onstage”.

From the soothing tenderness of ‘Miracle’ to the ethereal ‘Take Your Time’ McGrane demonstrates his ability to write sweet pop songs with catchy melodies which drift into the listeners ears with ease. He plays guitar and keys for this performance as the viewers sway and bop to his beautifully crafted tracks clapping and waving between them to show their support and flooding the comment section with compliments.

The audience last night was treated to songs which are freshly written. ‘Inside Out’ (co written with Roseanna Brown and Hannah Avison) is a beautiful example of the magic created within McGrane’s collaborative writing sessions. This romantic gem wonderfully builds into a cinematic delight as McGrane’s soulful vocals do a fine job of creating a welcoming, warm atmosphere. Not even his dad walking past and knocking at his window affects his performance of this track. The Coldplay -esque ‘Bubbles’ brings the show to a powerful end – a beautifully uplifting track which is just as intimate as it is anthemic. I for one enjoyed his set so much it felt as if time flew by.

A Q&A follows the performance with fans asking McGrane about his favourite piece of gear, advice for a songwriter going into a session for the first time and what one album he would bring if he was stranded on an island. McGrane answers every question honestly and in great detail.

McGrane put on a professional and entertaining show. His performance was clean, passionate and earnest and his tunes hold their own charm and grace. It’s difficult to see how anyone wouldn’t be blown away by his ambition and talent. 

Brian McGrane is set to headline Whelan’s on Friday, November 6th he hopes he can do this in some shape or form so keep an eye out for more details. Until then stream his new single ‘Out Of Control’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Oli Barton & The Movement Cover Billie Eilish’s ‘Bad Guy’

London based indie-alternative outfit, Oli Barton & The Movement have released their new live cover of Billie Eilish’s ‘Bad Guy’. The band take the haunting track and put their unique spin on it, twisting and coiling the eerie moments into something just as dark but with a mighty punch behind it (even adding the chorus of Slowthai’s ‘Doorman’ into the track’s mammoth finale). With sharp guitars blazing through pounding drums the band present a blistering assault to the senses while maintaining the mystery and spine chilling momentum of the original. Oli’s vocals are harsh and brazen. He prances through the verses with attitude and sass as he wails, whispers and bellows. Oli Barton & The Movement take the chilling aesthetic of ‘Bad Guy’ and turn it upside down to create a rock-doused, swagger-drenched force to be reckoned with. 

Watch ‘Oli Barton & The Movement’ live video for ‘Bad Guys’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.

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