Category Archives: Alt- Pop

Faraway Martin ‘Falling In Your Sleep’

Faraway Martin has released his second single ‘Falling In Your Sleep’. Faraway Martin hails from the West of Ireland, via Doha, Qatar, where he remains until this summer. He spent the past three years performing throughout the Middle East, USA and Ireland. Venues he has graced the stage of include the QNCC Arena in Doha, supporting international artists.

‘Falling In Your Sleep’ is a delightful melodic tune as Faraway Martin lays out a warm romantic spread with a sweet melody to devour. Richly crafted this track carefully blossoms from a twinkling cheery number to a heartfelt treasure. His warm vocals lilt and pour tender emotion over the honeyed melody while a cosy guitar jingles behind cherry whistles and a peppy beat. It’s a heart on your sleeve, longing track that is catchy and wholesome. Charming and mushy this song builds to its cinematic crescendo that embraces your ears with good vibes, vibrant instrumentation and a cosy horn feature. ‘Falling In Your Sleep’ is infectious, light, fluffy and sweet as angel cake.

Watch the video for ‘Falling In Your Sleep’ below


The Indica Gallery ‘Wait For Your Love’

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Liverpool quintet The Indica Gallery have released the video for recent single ‘Wait For Your Love’. Formed in early 2018, The Indica Gallery have a blossoming sound that blends 60s and 70s pop with modern psychedelic overtones and poetic Northern grit. Recorded at Airtight Studios in Chorlton, ‘Wait For Your Love’ is a love letter personified in a song and is the follow-up to their debut single ‘Forever Loving You’ released last year.

‘Wait For Your Love’ is a lazy afternoon swoon of lush 50’s pop glistening through sweet instrumentation and ethereal melodies. It’s a delicate sway-able number with minimal adornment as a twinkling guitar feature gently sparkles soft beams of sun light through the mid tempo and easy beat. The warm velvety vocals add a soothing sweet quality to this sophisticated, admirably restrained tune. With a rich, reminiscent and romantic tone The Indica Gallery sound very much at ease with themselves and their talents, offering a flurry and satisfying glimpse of the beauty of their musicianship. Dreamy, mellow and lushly melodic ‘Wait For Your Love’ is a retro classy number to fall in love with.

The enchantingly surreal music video questions the potential impact technology has on individuality, human nature and the quest for real love, with the unlikely help of two sentient scarecrows. It was filmed by Inframe Productions at Didsbury Fletcher Moss Gardens in Greater Manchester, a place of regular inspiration and solitude for lead singer and songwriter Joe Mansergh. He says : “The band and a few close friends took a trip to Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens. We spent the time we had together mostly laughing, making freaky outfits and shooting as much footage as we could. We wanted to make a video that toyed with our own thoughts about the effects that technology has on individuality and relationships. By the time we were finished having fun it had taken a more abstract path and I think that’s become part of the charm for us.”

Watch the video for ‘Wait For Your Love’ below


Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Mini Mansions

LA trio Mini Mansions have released their new single ‘GummyBear’ taken off their upcoming third studio album ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar…’ which will be released on July 26th on Fiction Records.This fizzy, sugar sweet track struts in, slick and smooth with a luscious dreamy melody soothing the effervescent sticky instrumentation. With a toothsome pop shell, this peppy number swirls and weaves its glossy way into a darker hued bitter center. A little disco- like, the song is brimming with infectious grooves as a funky bass line and buoyant drums fluctuate through the euphoric soundscape creating a rich elastic foundation. The twinkling keys wander playfully about the majestic zesty sting on guitar as Mini Mansions flesh out this delectable biting number. From the anthemic thudding start right through to the wobbly guitar tickles and chiming key injections this track is steeped in chic panache and effortless charm. Tyler Parkford’s sweet falsetto vocals blend perfectly with Michael Shuman’s depth creating a full bodied sound that is so satisfying. Doused in effortless swagger ‘GummyBear’ is another suave track from the melody masters, Mini Mansions.

Lead singer Michael Shuman says of ‘GummyBear’, “Although GummyBear is rather fun and comical, the sentiment and story behind it are quite the opposite. At that time I really wanted to make an all disco record, but I guess this is as close as Mini Mansions gets to being part of the Gibbs family.”

Mini Mansions will be touring the UK and Ireland in May, including several festivals and a show at Dublin’s Whelan’s.. Tickets are on general sale from 9am GMT, Thursday 21st February.  

Full dates below:

04.05.19 Live at Leeds Leeds, UK

05.05.19 Hit The North Newcastle, UK

06.05.19 King Tut’s Glasgow, UK

08.05.19 Whelan’s Dublin, Ireland


09.05.19 Hare & Hounds Birmingham, UK

11.05.19 The Great Escape Brighton, UK

12.05.19 The Joiners Southampton, UK

13.05.19 The Cavern Exeter, UK

14.05.19 Clwb Ifor Bach Cardiff, UK

16.05.19 Esquires Bedford, UK

17.05.19 The Portland Arms Cambridge, UK

18.05.19 The Waterfront Studio Norwich, UK

20.05.19 Picturehouse Social Sheffield, UK

21.05.19 The Forum Tunbridge Wells, UK

22.05.19 Islington Assembly Hall London, UK

23.05.19 District Liverpool, UK


Stream ‘GummyBear’ below


Some Bodies ‘Escape’

Bristol-based newcomers Some Bodies have released their debut single ‘Escape’. The band who recently made their live debut in their hometown of Bristol, supporting Champagne Superchillin’ submerge your ears in a luscious swirling lagoon of melodic bliss. A dreamy melody floats delicately through the gentle swoosh of sparkling synths while twinkling guitars chime and strike throughout the steady beat and sublime bass rumble. It’s swoony and delicious with a cinematic tint adding a rose coloured glare to this lush daydream.The track builds to a dramatic crescendo brimming with emotion as the warm soothing vocals become more expressive and passionate, leading the way to a breathtaking instrumental frenzy. Fuzzed guitars blast through the punchy drums distorting every sweet flutter before leaving only a mind frazzling wall of sound echoing through your head. Well crafted and polished like a lustrous pearl Some Bodies have created one glorious sentimental  treasure with ‘Escape’.

Watch the video for  ‘Escape’ below


No Alarms ‘Marble Bars’

Indie band No Alarms have released their new single ‘Marble Bars’.No Alarms was born in Texas as the solo passion project of multi-instrumentalist Andrew Boles, and has since bloomed into a Detroit-based, fully-fledged, five-piece. Their single ‘Right is What’s Left’ was featured in an episode of ABC’s “Kevin Probably Saves the World’ and their ‘No Alarms’ EP was the 13th most added record on NACC college charts its debut week, and has since peaked at #132 on the NACC 200.

‘Marble Bars’ is a slick ethereal burst of youthful indie. it is brimming with lush synths creating that instant rush of adrenaline while a rooted rhythmic backdrop stomps and bounces on a fluctuant meaty heart thumping foundation. The track is compelling and filled with passion as the warm vocals caress the catchy sweet melody. No Alarms showcase their fine musicianship as they grip your heart firmly with every note, synth lick and guitar flutter. They douse the track in a youthful flurry of urgency while light zesty twinkles on guitar flicker in and out with an edgy sting and refreshing burst of energy. Its feel good exhilarating indie at its best.

Watch ‘Marble Bars’ below


Constant Supply ‘The Misanthropic Phase’

Donegal, alternative rock/pop band Constant Supply have released their new single ‘The Misanthropic Phase’. The band consisting of James Gillen(Vocals, Guitar), Conal Sweeney(Bass, Piano),  Eoin Gildea(Guitar, Synths) and Justin McDaid(Drums) are set to release their third album ‘Isn’t Life Great’ in June. The album was recorded and co-produced by Tommy McLaughlin (Soak, Villagers). The first single from the album, ‘Sanguine Lane’, was played by Steve Lamacq on his BBC 6 Music Recommends show.

‘The Misanthropic Phase’ is a groovy slice of psychedelic alternative rock. Constant Supply unfold this track perfectly, brooding through the verses with rich rhythms flickering and slapping through chiming twangy guitars while the synths flurry and wisp around creating a dreamy narcotic atmosphere. The vocals croon over a 60’s – esque melody while the bass creates a meaty foundation. The track wanders off a bit with a brass solo shredding and pining through a simple “do do do” backing vocal line. It’s shimmy chic as confident vocals lure over the darkly smothered instrumentation. Well crafted and perfectly blended, Constant Supply hold your attention throughout the gripping enticing track. It’s extremely catchy and hypnotic with an air of mystery throughout making this track quite compelling and fun.

Stream ‘The Misanthropic Phase’ below


Crome Yellow ‘Tastes Much Better With You’

Waterford band Crome Yellow have released their new single ‘Tastes Much Better With You’ the fourth single from their upcoming debut album ‘See Why’. This slinky, smooth number drifts blissfully into your ears stopping time in a sugar coated dreamy dimension created entirely by Crome Yellow’s prowess. There is immense depth in this track as the band allows every pulse, flicker and swoosh take its place elegantly. The pop melody melts upon soft pearly electronics, warm guitar jingles and a soothing vocal delivery to create the perfect chilled number. It’s one tranquilizing time capsule as the band present a track with sweet hallucinatory swirls, zesty guitar solo’ s and a clean production.With gentle whines hitting the lush backdrop with an alien – esque tonality this wobbly and floaty dream has everything to transport you to a sedating state of bliss. The edged guitars fill the track with a classic rock anthemic vibe showcasing Crome Yellow’s brilliantly refined musicianship.

Stream ‘Tastes Much Better With You’ below


Lycio ‘Young Ties’

Birmingham band  Lycio have released their new single ‘Young Ties’. This latest cut is one of the bands oldest compositions, and sees a return to their darker side. The track was mastered at Metropolis Studios by Stuart Hawkes (Jack Garratt, Rae Morris, Lorde, Fickle Friends, Rudimental, Mura Masa).

‘Young Ties’ is a wispy ethereal slice of atmospheric indie wrapped in swirling, fluctuant synths while an elegant piano and flashing drum arrangement provide a gripping and meaty backdrop to this airy number. Mendez’ passionate vocals powerfully plough through the chorus with oodles of expression while gently cooing through the delicate brooding verses. The track is doused in sweet melancholy as swoony dreamy soundscapes flurry and delicately rebound off the luscious melody and sway-able synths. Richly layered, each gripping note is laced in emotion as the track gracefully and beautifully dances with its darker tones creating an ambient full-bodied sound. Another majestic track from Lycio.

Of the track, frontwoman Genie Mendez explains – “Young Ties is about mental health. Trying to understand how my head works, whether it’s a gift or a curse (‘the beauty that’s inside my mind’), and then trying to accept it (‘I’ll go where you are taking me’). Then of course everyone’s getting on with their daily routine not knowing the struggle of those around them (‘all the young men in long ties…’). And of course ‘can you bring me home/can you take control’ is a question for my own head. I’m asking my mind if it can really handle this, if we can bounce back from it.”

Stream ‘Young Ties’ below

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Chay Snowdon ‘Mon Cheri’ and ‘Sha La La’

Chay Snowdon return with double-single; ‘Mon Cheri’ and ‘Sha La La’.The Bristol based band (Liam Roberts on lead guitar, George Roach on bass, Ed Fox on drums and Chay Snowdon providing vocals and rhythm guitar) have already made their mark in the music independent scene with support slots with the likes of ‘The Sherlocks, ‘JUDAS’, ‘VANT’, ‘The Snuts’, ‘Glass Caves’ and ‘Oddity Road’ as well as performances at Camden Rocks and two UK tours. The band have now returned with two knockout indie tunes.

‘Mon Cheri’ is a brisk swagger-dripping banger sure to set a mosh pit alight. With jangly guitars weaving and striking bursts of vibrancy through foot stomping drums – this charming adrenaline surging track is locked and loaded, ready to make you dance, shuffle and bop. With shrilling guitar whines, rich buoyant rhythms and panache soaked vocals, its a rush of wild indie rock. Riding on high adrenaline instrumentation, this catchy track is a punchy, potent thrill from the start.

‘Sha La La’  is the flip-side to ‘Mon Cheri’s’ energy with its slow dance tempo and delicate brooding instrumentation. It’s sweet, tender and emotional as Snowdon’s warm vocals exude passion and soul. The smooth melody floats gently over twinkling guitars and soft drum taps. A moving guitar feature fills the song with that “hold me close” swoon leading the track into its dramatic classic rock crescendo of heartfelt guitars mourning over punchy drums and sing along refrain.

‘Mon Cheri’ and ‘Sha La La’ are two equally gripping and diverse tracks from Chay Snowdon showing just how versatile these guys can be. Each note leaves you craving to hear more.

Stream ‘Mon Cheri’ and ‘Sha La La’ below



Heir ‘Better In Silence’

Heir celebrate the announcement of their tour in April with the release of their new song, ‘Better In Silence’. Following their previous single, ‘Restless’ the band continue to display class and courage with another carving of irresistible DIY-pop music. 2018 saw the band launch their own collaborative arts night, Blueprint. The event brings together bands and visual artists for a display of high quality creation. Heir also spent the latter half of the year working with producer Ken Scott (The Beatles, David Bowie, Elton John).

‘Better In Silence’ is a glorious light airy indie number grounded with a sublime elastic bass rumble and sticky beat slaps. Heir flesh out their sophisticated, polished sound with crisp production, shimmering electronics and luscious melodies. It’s refined and chic with a swanky funk flex glimmering through the rich basslines, jangly guitars and rhythmic bounce. The smooth vocals caress and soften this honey melody with a sweet coo, lush harmonies and dreamy falsetto while the zesty guitars add a dash of vitality and juicy sting to the track. Richly weaved this song cruises along sun kissed vibes, laid back tones and heavenly melodies ready for that perfect chill time listening.

You can catch Heir live on their April tour at :

10.04.2019 ~ Leeds, Lending Room

15.04.2019 ~ Newcastle, Think Tank Underground

16.04.2019 ~ Hull, The Polar Bear

17.04.2019 ~ Manchester, Gullivers

18.04.2019 ~ London, Sebright Arms

20.04.2019 ~ Breda (NL), Sofar Sounds

21.04.2019 ~ Appeldoorn (NL), Gigant

22.04.2019 ~ Cologne (DE), Sofar Sounds

24.04.2019 ~ Utrecht (NL), Stathe

27.04.2019 ~ Roosendaal (NL), King’s Day Festival

28.04.2019 ~ Amsterdam (NL), Hannekes Boom *more dates tbc.

Stream ‘Better In Silence’ below