Orwells ’84 have returned, bringing their familiar sound to the masses with the release of their latest single ‘She Is So Sweet’. The track is the third release from the band’s well received debut EP ‘Truth is the First Victim’.The band recorded most of ‘Truth is the First Victim’ in Sun Studios in Dublin with Pauric McCrum and Peter McCoy of Pillowhead. This is the band’s second venture with the duo; having worked together previously on the single “Cailín”. They’ve performed with talents such as David Keenan, Nix Moon, Myles McCormack from Belfast group Lonesome George and Finnian, among others.
‘She Is So Sweet’ is a light, charming tune as Orwells ’84 spread their uplifting and melodious musicianship over a colourful tapestry of wonderful instrumental embellishments. The band’s hearty sound is wholesome and rich with diversity streaming in through indie elements, folk tones and wonderful melodic progressions. Elegant strings glide through a buoyant rhythmic section while warm guitars adorn the backdrop. With smooth vocals, lush backing vocals and meticulous layering this track has a vibrant and irresistibly ebullient sound that is joyful to the ears. Brimming with radiance, traditional tones and cheery refinement, ‘She Is So Sweet’ is a wonderful new single from Orwells ’84.
Rising newcomer Kynsy has released her new single ‘Happiness Isn’t A Fixed State’. Kynsy, is the solo project of rising 23 year-old multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Ciara Lindsey.Tipped in 2FM’s Rising 2020 list, Kynsy’s single ‘Cold Blue Light’ picked up plays on BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music with Kynsy also featuring on the cover of Spotify playlists including Fresh Finds Rock and An Alternative Eire as well as on the cover of Indie Britain on Tidal. The track was also included in Spotify’s New Music Friday UK, Badass Women, Et Alt and New Alt playlists.
‘Happiness Isn’t A Fixed State’ is a sublime example of Kynsy’s tight, refined songcraft as she swaggers her way through sharp guitar and jolting indie rock to create a raw number that is to die for. A catchy guitar riff reminiscent of The Strokes introduces a lonely, almost spaghetti western vibe while the stomping beat and moody delivery sets the tracks gritty undertone.It’s a punchy, matter of fact tune with both sweetness and attitude oozing through Kynsy’s vocals. The zest-stricken sharp guitar refrains and light buoyant rhythmic foundation create a mesmerising contrast while at the same time blending the light indie tones with sulky, moody moments. There’s striking cinematic beauty to ‘Happiness Isn’t A Fixed State’ as Kynsy paints a mixture of emotions on an almost Tarantino- movie desert backdrop, however she reins it in, not fully committing to the gritty genre and instead introduces and allows the indie pop elements to flourish and thrive. Kynsy is an exciting and talented artist and one to keep an eye on.
Written and co-produced by Kynsy, she enlisted mixer Claudius Mittendorfer (Interpol / Sorry / Parquet Courts) to buff the finished work. About the track, Kynsy said: “It’s a tug of war between the positive and negative thought processes that occur when a relationship ends. It’s about accepting the fact that sometimes you have to laugh the pain away or look at negativity head on in order to feel positive emotions and have positive thoughts again.”
The track comes with an accompanying self-directed video, filmed in Dublin by Tim Shearwood and featuring Kynsy and her friends. Talking about the video, she explained “I wanted to try and create the same sort of balance of ideas, it needed to be fun and playful but with moments of emotional vulnerability in there too, a sort of yin and yang of simple fun against complex emotions.”
Watch the video for ‘Happiness Isn’t A Fixed State’ below
Sinead McConville has released her second release; a self-empowerment & fierce pop track ‘Running from You’. Sinead McConville released her debut single ‘Doorstep’ in May 2020 which received nationwide praise. The song was played on national radio stations such as Totally Irish with John Barker, 8Radio and Dublin City FM.Her first headline show was one of the first live gigs back in Dublin on July 4th in The Wild Duck in association with Ex Oh Promotions. The gig was a huge success and ended with a standing ovation & encore. Furthermore, she performs as a session musician with upcoming Irish artists and has performed on The Late Late Show with D. Cullen, Irish Music Week & The X Collective Showcase with ELKAE and TiLT in The Button Factory with Munky. Radio performances include RTE Radio 1 (Today with Sean O’Rourke and The Ray D’Arcy Show), BBC Radio Ulster (Gerry Kelly), SPIN 1038 (Plan B with Sarina Bellissimo) and East Coast FM (The Morning Show with Declan Meehan).
‘Running from You’ is a power pop anthem doused in dark-hued electronics, suspenseful beats and the dynamic songwriting of Sinead McConville. Haunting synths wisp about the dance-infused beats which thump and pulse throughout building tension as the track progresses. With a smooth vocal delivery contrasting the fermenting, curdling instrumental backdrop and honest lyrics ‘Running from You’ is an intoxicating new single from Sinead McConville
About the track Sinead McConville said : “A past relationship just kept being brought up in conversations and it came to the stage where I felt like I was constantly running from everyone bringing him up. Writing this song felt like I was finally laying all my cards on the table and expressing that no more did I depend on someone to bring me happiness. Instead I truly found my own happiness and ‘picture perfect land’ within myself”
Someya is set to release her new single ‘Da da da da’ on October 2nd. Also known as ‘The Sassy Song’,Someya’s ‘Da da da da’ is a brand new track fresh off her upcoming EP ‘Bottle Full of Dreams’. Depicting a brutally honest moment of being tired of someone, Someya brings forward the confidence in acknowledging that really, ‘it’s not me, it’s you’. Someya brought in Nova Noir Productions to work on the song as well as Flipsyde’s guitarist Dave Lopez.Constantly writing and expanding her artistry, Someya grew up in California and became involved with music from an early age. Having several summer programme’s at Berklee College of Music under her belt, a debut EP release at age 16, a UK tour, and after spending the past three years pursuing her music career, Someya is proving to be quite the dedicated pop artist.
‘Da da da da’ is a dark noir rock/pop track as Someya spreads a haunting melody over chilling guitars and ominous soundscapes to create an eerie lulling tune. A melancholic melody soothes while Someya coos with a mysterious undertone. The track travels at a steady, creeping pace as it builds to its intense crescendo. With a shredding guitar solo breaking the song’s hazy state, ‘Da da da da’ is an intriguing well crafted single from Someya.
Mysterious and moving, ‘Ivory Black’ is the compassionate call to arms from Sage Morei. Inspired by a documentary about the illegal ivory trade and the devastating impact this is having on elephant populations, Sage Morei channels his rage into this thoughtful and powerful track that clearly comes straight from the soul.
‘Ivory Black’ is a dark coiling number as Sage Morei uses smoky electronics and alternative rock to create a striking new song. The sharp guitar distortion smothers in thick asphyxiating synths, creating a tar-like muggy soundscape while Morei’s powerful rock-infused vocals express the songs grittier elements and emotional theme. Elements of Marilyn Manson provide the song with chilling and ominous tones which brood through the rich percussive wall of sound while haunting backing vocals and mysterious instrumental backdrop make this song one heck of a thrilling listening experience.
Filmed on location in Thailand, the video features stunning locations, ranging from the urban environment of Bangkok City to Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park. Sage Morei and cinematographer Dorian Kissama Merciai spent many days with the majestic elephants themselves, wanting to highlight the real reason behind the video in a truthful and authentic way that avoided exploiting the animals. Working with a top team that includes Lee Avant (FKA twigs), and second cinematographer Nina Hawkins, the entire project has taken years to perfect. Sage Morei has also set up a webshop with an entire collection revolving around the release, all profits from which will go to elephant and rhino conservation charities that work to protect these animals from poaching. This is especially significant now as they have seen a rise in poaching numbers during Covid-19.
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.
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
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
