Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Feels The Same’. Noah Elliott is a 23-year-old artist based in Los Angeles. In 2018, Noah released a stream of self-produced singles resulting in over 700k listens on Spotify. In fall 2019, he joined forces with producers Dylan Bauld (Halsey, Bea Miller), Rune Westberg (Colbie Caillat, Daughtry) and Jon Santana (SuperM) to finalize his first record. The 7-song project titled Songs for the Optimist will debut as singles over the next 6 months. Along with his artist project, he is putting the finishing touches on a 5-song EP for sync (co-produced by Jordan Frye of Position Music), and writes for other artists such as Mackenzie Bourg (American Idol), Stela Cole and Ben Hon.
‘Never Feels The Same’ is a groove driven dance number doused in cool R&B as Noah Elliott ruminates through dark electronics and honest songwriting. Elliott’s smooth vocals caress the infectious melody with a lonely tenderness as the track ferments through subtle mysterious layers of confusion and turmoil while an elastic bassline coils around a sticky beat and intricate synths. This glossy number is saturated in night time vibes boasting crisp production and a catchy melody and rhythm. ‘Never Feels The Same’ is an utterly irresistible earworm from Noah Elliott.
Belfast alternative pop singer/songwriter Rebekah Fitch was the star of last night’s Virtual show organised by Fluttertone and dootdoot Records. With her merch strategically placed on the wall behind her and basked in golden-hued lighting the multi-instrumentalist takes her place ready to perform. The first bars of ‘Another Show’ which opens her set, displays her soulful R&B voice which is a shock to the system – pitch-perfect and masterfully balanced between angel-like sweetness and powerfully demanding. She weaves a few lines from Gnarls Barkley’s ‘Crazy’ into the crescendo before bringing the track to a hair-raising finale. It is a fantastic opening song, and the rest of Fitch’s set only gets better and better.
Utilizing loops, drum machine and keys Fitch provides a knockout set with a full uncompromising sound. Virtual once again pulls in another outstanding tech genius to perform and boy does it make a difference. There is something special about an acoustic set but it’s these engaging live performances filled with a full bodied sound that ignite the platform.
Fitch makes music composition look easy as she wonderfully blends flute melodies into alternative pop and R&B tracks.This clash of earthy almost classical pop with contemporary allows Fitch to create a collection of compelling music to delight listeners with. ‘Guns With Guns’ is the most acoustic we see Fitch. A simple emotive piano ballad, the track showcases her voice in all its beauty and glory.
Her tracks flourish live and for the first time we get to hear ‘Take Me Apart’ played on piano. This passionate and tender track discussing her feelings during lockdown is a real treat. Fitch possesses all the criteria for major alternative pop stardom, her ability to write songs ( which hit you hard in the chest, exposing feelings you never knew you even had ) is mesmerising while her ear worm melodies, expressive vocals and rich compositions leave all her contemporaries behind. The maturity and understanding in her songwriting is such a soothing and beautiful comfort while the refined layering and instrumentation displays her creative genius.
Fitch is an intense performer sprawling her arms out while soaring through her perfect falsetto and sultry lower range. From the power of ‘Fake Smiles’ to the haunting ‘Not Myself’ we get to see Fitch multi task between loops, flute and big drum and synth builds.This set list is a reminder of the fantastic tunes she has in her arsenal and the new unreleased track ‘Dust’ is an impressive display of her songwriting prowess. Words cannot express how special this song is. It floored me. It’s a moving track about losing someone you thought you would always have and almost hurts to hear. Each word feels fresh and painful for Fitch as she lays emotion over a bittersweet melody while a building piano graces the backdrop in an equal measure of strength and tenderness.
‘A Love So Crazy’ brings the set to an epic end, leaving us craving for more. This was a professional, fun and engaging performance from a remarkable artist.
In true Virtual manner a Q&A follows the performance allowing fans to ask questions and get into the details of tracks. Fitch’s bubbly persona makes this a seamless and fun engagement as she discusses all from how she creates her tracks, the biggest obstacle she’s had to overcome and how she got into music as well as some technical intricacies about her set up for the live performance. Rebekah Fitch is an amazing artist and one everyone should check out.
For a taste of the compelling songwriting of Rebekah Fitch check out her track ‘A Love So Crazy’ below
Anton Mcloughlin has released his new single ‘Leaving’.Edinburgh-based artist Anton Mcloughlin’s passion for experimentation was fostered by his musically driven family surroundings in Newry, Co. Down. A song written, recorded and produced during lockdown.‘Leaving’ marks the second release from Anton Mcloughlin.
‘Leaving’ is a punchy pop number showcasing wholesome songwriting and infectious melodies bubbling over a passionate, moving backdrop. The track is a clever blend of emotive pop as Mcloughlin’s velvety vocals ooze tenderness, comfort and positivity while electronic and warm guitar elements provide a dash of sunshine. The effervescent chorus and power pop soundscapes make ‘Leaving’ a charming new track from Mcloughlin.
Kynsy is the solo project of rising 23 year-old multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Ciara Lindsey – who today has released her debut single, ‘Cold Blue Light. Having previously performed on the Other Voices Music Trail and at Ireland Music Week, the Dublin artist kicked off this year with a whole host of 2020 Hot List features.
‘Cold Blue Light’ is a fermenting blitz which evokes a thrilling sense of anticipation while Kynsy carries herself with a vivid coolness through a fizzing raw soundscape. The track is dark with a cold embrace as the song punches with effortless rock stamina through a nonchalant delivery. With sharp guitars saturated in distortion the track ventures into psychedelic territory.There is substance to this track as well, the wry lyrics depict fading chancers and their last grasp at relevance. The soft pop melody has a dreamy delicacy as shimmering synths sweeten the tracks ominous undertone which is provided by the sluggish drum beats and sinister foundation.
‘Cold Blue Light’ exudes a residue of St. Vincent flair albeit with more edgy rock elements as Kynsy builds and creates distinct moments of brilliance within the track which set the bar high. Kynsy is an impressive artist to keep an eye on.
About the track and video, Kynsy said: ‘’Cold Blue Light’ is about the bullies we all encounter in life and looking for meaning in the darkness they create. I wanted to write a song that held some sort of balance between destruction and hope. It’s based on an encounter I had at a new year’s eve party where there was a guy spouting racist remarks at people and it was quite upsetting and stuck with me. The result was a rowdy pop song truck full of sticky anger and synth pop goo. The video was filmed just with a camera on a tripod in my back garden, I wanted it to be direct and simple so people could focus on the music.”
Feuds have released their last ever single ‘Until It’s Done’ and music video as a band. Feuds started in the small town of Kilcoole, Wicklow. After going through many lineup changes they settled on their final lineup in 2016. 2017 saw the band release the single ‘Anything I Wouldn’t’ and playing Electric Picnic after being voted one of the winners of the 2fm ‘Play the Picnic’ competition. 2018 saw the band release their debut self titled ep which was received well on radio. Following the EP the band gigged in venues like Whelans, the Roisin Dubh, the Lighthouse and an EP launch in The Workman’s Club. ‘Until it’s Done’ was recorded and mixed by Eoin Whitfield of Ehco in the Hive Studio, Kilcoole in September 2018.
‘Until It’s Done’ is a bittersweet indie track as Feuds provide us with one last guitar twinkling gem to indulge in. With ethereal soundscapes, light guitar refrains and a punchy rhythmic backdrop, ‘Until It’s Done’ drifts elegantly through a nostalgic and moving wall of sound. The band build the tracks indie rock sonics allowing them to unfold and blossom beautifully becoming more heavy as it progresses. A braided bass groove weaves into the songs tight underbelly as the tracks rhythmic pull remains grounded and elastic for the refined guitar to flourish off and lift the song into an airy, breezy atmosphere.With a biting guitar solo and hair raising refrain ‘Until It’s Done’ allows Feuds to go out with a bang. It’s a tear jerking farewell to a talented Irish band. We wish all the guys all the best for the future.
Cloakroom Q have released their new single ‘Nowhere To Spit’ off their upcoming album ‘Yes Again’. Liberated by an LCD Soundsystem gig in 2016, Cloakroom Q became upstarts with synths, loops and dynamic tension. They mess with the idea of stage performance, with primary colours, smudges of make-up and even mock fights on stage. From the Mournes area of South Down and now based in Belfast, they have experimented with spoken word and confessional themes.
‘Nowhere To Spit’ is a theatrical display from Cloakroom Q. as they use their unique storytelling and quirky melodic hooks to create a refreshing alternative art rock track. With a lush variety of instruments from horns and bells to organs; the band flesh out their sound superbly. The track kicks into motion with a delicate guitar jingle while ominous vocals haunt in the background. ‘Nowhere To Spit’ displays a sublime contrast between soft sweet twinkling moments and mysterious sinister progressions with elements of theatrical bursts throughout. Glittering keys provides a light innocence to the track while strident guitars and punchy drums create glimmers of rock which unfolds with elements of stage performance theatrics. ‘Nowhere To Spit’ is quite an intriguing blend of music which works well within the band’s unique and powerful soundscape.
Bio : Paperflower. is an independent alt pop/ indie rock project formed by Charlie PJ Phillips. Phillips, is 21 year old musician who writes, records and produces all his music in his room. He started writing under the name Paperflowers. recently after starting his BA Hons’ study at Leeds College of Music. Paperflower. has recently released a two track collection ‘I’ll Be Alright / Let Go.’
Track: I’ll Be Alright
Why We Like It: It’s a clean pop number doused in exhilarating soundscapes and sublime production. With twinkling guitar zealously slicing through an eruption on electronics the track has a hyper fun chorus while the verses cool the tone with ethereal moments brooding between sweet melodies and soft vocals. The track has a dreamy atmosphere with soft graceful melodies exuding majestic indie between the steady beat and lush intricacies. ‘I’ll Be Alright’ is a beautiful and comforting piece of bedroom pop from Paperflowers.
About the track Charlie PJ Phillips said : “My latest release titled ‘I’ll Be Alright / Let Go.’ Stems from an event in my life that occurred recently and explores the feelings of losing someone very close,to move on from this I wrote the two songs almost like an explanation to myself.I like to think that people who enjoy my music find comfort and relate to the stories being told.”
Bio : Anna Jane Jackson is a model, actress, and musician based in LA. She was the vocalist in a teen country/Americana band, modelled internationally, and has appeared in many TV shows, commercials, and films. ‘Bittersweet Love’ was written for the soundtrack of the upcoming film Evan Wood featuring Jere Burns (Dead to Me, Breaking Bad), Trevor Stines (Riverdale, Purity Falls), and MacCallister Byrd (NCIS, Strange Angel).
Track: Bittersweet Love
Why We Like It: It’s a catchy number with warm guitar, cinematic soundscapes and emotive vocals. A pulsing beat and dark electronics create the stormy atmosphere of the chorus while the lighter twinkle for the verse provides a sublime contrast. With a raw singer songwriter feel the track is a refreshing number and satisfying listen.
Bio : Up and coming Irish songwriter Owen Rua makes his impressive debut with his new single ‘Do You Ever Think of Me?
Track: Do You Ever Think of Me?
Why We Like It: It’s a powerful indie pop anthem surging with passion while dark soundscapes wisp the backdrop in eerie sultry tones. Jaunty guitars glimmer between thick electronics as Owen Rua injects edgy moments into his indie pop concoction. With an upbeat backdrop of buoyant beats and smooth melody the song has a danceable quality. However there is a darker undertone to the track which oozes from the lyrics and expressed through Rua’s emotive vocals. His vocals caress the velvety melody allowing the bubbling rhythm to create tension in the background. Do You Ever Think of Me? is a bewitching indie pop number and magnificent debut from Owen Rua
Bio : James Jack is a 19 year old musician from Callington, Cornwall, who has been playing guitar for over ten years. Previously he has been the frontman to the Plymouth based band “Echo Chamber” where he has played at festivals such as Boardmasters and Port Eliot festival, as well as playing in front of the likes of Michael Eavis with “The Little Mammoths” at Pilton’s NYE party.He is now working on writing and recording songs for his debut EP, which is planned to come out later this year. Demo tapes from this project, such as “Crush” have been played on local BBC radio. Other works of his, such as “I Should Be In London”, won him The Old Bakery’s Live Lounge Competition recently.
Track: Can We Talk?
Why We Like It: Brimming with shredding indie rock and exhilarating energy ‘Can We Talk?’ is a fantastic debut. A cool laid back vocal display is spread upon a vibrant backdrop of jaunty guitars and punchy drums as the song drives upon a blazing backdrop of alternative rock. With a scorching guitar solo, catchy chorus and swagger dripping from every powerful note ‘Can We Talk?’ displays James Jack’s kinetic songwriting and refined edgy musicianship.
Bio : 23 year old Galway native Brendan Murray is no stranger to the music industry, having been a part of boy band ‘HomeTown’ managed by Louis Walsh, “HomeTown” achieved three chart hits in Ireland, including the number one singles “Where I Belong” in 2014, and “Cry for Help” in 2015. Their debut album, HomeTown, was released in November 2015 and peaked at number four in Ireland. Brendan then went on to represent Ireland at the Eurovision and was one of the finalists in X Factor 2018, mentored by One Direction star Louis Tomlinson. He secured a spot in the semi-final of the series, finishing in 5th place
Track: Let Go
Why We Like It: With infectious melodic hooks, crisp electronics and dance floor summoning soundscapes ‘Let Go’ takes Murray’s sound to an electrifying new level. With heavy beats providing an EDM element the songs rhythmic section pulses through the track with relentless stamina allowing the swirling electronics to build and create tension while the catchy pop melody and soft vocals create that earworm likeability.
Bio : Black Honey have released their new track called ‘Beaches’.The song is the first material to be released from the Brighton outfit since their self-titled debut album, which arrived back in 2018.
Track: Beaches
Why We Like It: This retro tinged indie sizzler struts in on a stomping rhythm while sultry guitar lines provide a desert haze through the bubbling backdrop. It’s a fun summer anthem with jubilous horns adorning the chorus in warmth while Izzy B. Phillips’ sultry coos lull over the blistering backdrop and laid back cheeky, clapping rhythm. With a 60’s vibe spread over a psych hued indie soundscape Black Honey have provided another infectious track sure to get those feet tapping, hips shaking and bodies shimmying.
Following the success of debut release ‘Did You Ever Really Listen to Yourself?’ in April, manic Waterford rockers 7Levels return with the explosive ‘Hard Drive’. With ‘Did You Ever Really Listen to Yourself?’ receiving support from RTÉ 2fm’s Dan Hegarty, 7Levels have made a very quick impression on the Irish music scene. The band consists of Ger Reid, Mike Fox, Caela Murphy, Cian Dalton, Adam Cullen Stafford and Lou Bennett.
With a bloodthirsty rhythmic backdrop, ‘Hard Drive’ is quite the blazing second single from 7Levels. Guitars rampage through the backdrop with blazing fury and majestic scorches while the rooted demon-summoning bass lines curdle through the tracks underbelly. The jagged stomps, raging drums and spitting punk vocals drive home the songs theme of the dangerous world of online personas while adding a murky dark undertone to the track’s scorching rock coating and mosh pit ready mania. With an all out anarchy drenched crescendo ‘Hard Drive’ displays a wild and raw side to 7Levels powerful and compelling musicianship.
Dublin-based trap-pop singer/songwriter/ producer Mac Rose has released his new single ‘I Need This’. The beat was made by Hill Kidd, with further production, vocal recording, mixing, and mastering by Mac Rose.Born in England and raised in Ireland, Mac Rose spent his teen years listening to grunge, rock, and learning to play a variety of instruments. His releases have amassed over 65k streams on spotify, and he has a growing and loyal social media fan base.
With clean production hazy soundscapes and hip hop flavours ‘I Need This’ displays Mac Rose’s modern pop charm and musical versatility. ‘I Need This’ is a sweet ditty exuding delicate dreamy melodies mixed with smooth R&B to create quite the easy listening experience. Mac Rose tells a story of being vulnerable in love through melancholic beats and superb musicianship. The intricate beats slap between warm bass lines and twinkling guitars. The track travels into an ethereal soundscape while his rasp filled vocals ooze a rock tone and soothing warmth.
Mac Rose is quite the songwriter. The chorus is just immaculate, evoking images of stadium crowds swaying and singing back the lyrics with a watery, cheery glint in their eye. He is building his sound superbly. At present he is walking the intriguing line where hip hop and alternative rock combine and the result is pretty impressive. Mac Rose certainly is an artist to keep an eye on.
About the track Mac Rose said “Hill Kidd sent me the bones of a sombre, hopeful beat. I remember listening to it and replying to him saying “I need this!” and right away started writing lyrics. The song is about relying on someone, needing someone. Even though there’s shit involved and things aren’t always good, you still need everything they give you. At the end of the day it’s worth it, and you would do anything for the other person.”
Danny G & the Major 7ths have released their new single ‘D.A.R.L.I.N.G.’ feat. Tolü Makay & Jamel Franklin with all proceeds on Bandcamp (Pay what you like) going to MASI. This song was written and recorded in isolation.
D.A.R.L.I.N.G. is a smooth slice of R&B soul. Rooted in a deep funky groove this sultry track drifts over a hip tantalizing beat while the elastic bass wriggles in the backdrop with a warm bounce. Tolü Makay’s vocals melt on top the velvety melody with soulful tones while Danny Groenland’s coos float through the slinky chorus. It’s a clean polished and steamy number filled with rich instrumentation. Lyrically the song evokes the complex feelings of love and longing that are both strained and strengthened by distance. Jazz-infused piano sprinkles a classy chilled tone over the sticky R&B pop elements while Jamel Franklin’s fluid raps roll into the tracks crescendo with an effortless ease. The entire track is a mellow night time schmooze presented with chic class and relaxed swagger.
About the track Danny said : “The genesis of this collaboration came from my group playing gigs with both Jamel and Tolü, I was already a huge fan of both artists. I had the song’s chorus and beat – it gave me an early 2000’s Neosoul vibe. Tolü and Jamel wrote their verses, the Major 7ths added their parts and the song came together really organically.”
The music video was recorded by friends of the artists and represents their different reactions on a video call to a loved one in isolation. See if you can spot some familiar faces* among the 50 people (and 1 cat). Stream it below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
