Category Archives: New Music

A Chat With, Indie, Interviews, New Music

A Chat With – Alvarez Kings

I had a chat with UK alternative pop 4-piece Alvarez Kings last week about the bands new single ‘Words I Couldn’t Say’, their upcoming album and touring.

Four lads from South Yorkshire, UK who gleefully share their moniker with an infamous old school South American gang, Alvarez Kings summon pop power through timeless analog synth and guitar magic. The quartet—brothers Simon [vocals, guitar] and Paul Thompson [bass, keys, backup vocals], Aidan Thompson [guitar, keys, production], and Richard Walker [drums, samples, pads] have quietly built up an international buzz since their 2012 formation.

You guys have just released a new single titled “Words I Couldn’t Say” tell us about that track and how you wrote it?

“It was a song that as soon as we created the idea of it we knew that we had to finish it. Simon had the initial idea of it when making his spare room into his baby daughters nursery. He said when the room was empty, he found the acoustics awesome and he started firing voice memos over. And yes, the acoustics did sound great! The song is a story of an uncontrollable collision course of self-destruction from drug and alcohol abuse. We like to think of it as the desolation of a failed relationship, and self-blame.”

Your tracks have vibrant and rich soundscapes with synths and luscious rhythmic textures. Did you always plan to bring synths into your sound or was it something you discovered worked when you were experimenting?

“It has been something we have developed over time. We  like to push the boundaries of production and our overall sound. We also try not to do an Oasis and release the same sounding record every time.”

How do you guys tackle the production of your songs do you get a producer in to help or is it something you tackle yourselves?

“On our ‘Somewhere Between’ album we worked with producer Carlos de la Garza who was outstanding, however with the new album and us not being able to travel to LA we have kept it all within the band. From writing and recording to mixing and mastering. We had a lot tracks already recorded before COVID hit so luckily we could mix from home. Through lockdown our group chat has constantly been lit up with new mixes and new songs. “

How do you write your songs, do you write elements separately and bring them together to work on or does the magic happen when you guys are all together?

“It all happens when inspiration strikes really. When we are on tour we always like to play backstage on new song starts together, be that a guitar riff, melody ideas or some bass lines. Then when we come home, we like to focus and finish writing them up.“

Up until 2018, you toured your debut album extensively, playing sold-out headline shows across Europe, UK and the United States along with some of your biggest festival appearances to date including Firefly and Summerfest. How do you find touring ? and how do you deal with the challenges that come from being on the road all the time?

“We like to see touring as the success of all the hard work and long hours we put into our music. Its great how we can see how our music effects people lives and we love that we can meet friends and fans along the way. The main challenges are being away from home. You can hear this on a lot of the lyrical content from us. From sending ‘Postcards from Berlin’ to ‘Sleepwalking PT I’“

I bet you guys have had some crazy experiences while on tour or onstage what is the most bizarre thing to happen while you were on tour?

“One that sticks out the most was in 2018, we were playing a show in Atlanta and a mosh Pitt started. One young guy was being really rowdy and starting fighting with people in the front row and tried to get on stage but got met by the headstock of Pauls bass guitar. Everyone cheered and the bouncers took the guy out.  “

You have experienced both performing as a main act and a support act with the likes of Melanie Martinez, PVRIS, and Echosmith – two very different experiences for artists. With a support slot you have to appeal to fans who might not be yours yet and win them over and with a headline slot it’s almost like a party with people who love and appreciate your music. Do you find the support slots daunting?

“Yes you’re right. They are both different. Sometimes we prefer the support slot -mainly away from home as we can go on stage, deliver energy for 30-35 minutes and have time to talk to fans after. If your headlining sometimes it’s hard to make time for that sort of thing. “

Do you get nervous before shows and if so how do you deal with nerves?

“We used to in the early days but not so much anymore. We have a beer and do our pre show routine. “

You guys are currently working on your second studio album, which is currently anticipated for a 2020 release. What can we expect from the album?

“You can expect lots of exciting new sounds/songs but still staying loyal with some classic Alvarez Easter eggs. “

Has the writing or forming of these tracks been different to how you created your debut album ‘Somewhere Between’?

“With the addition of Aidan we have been doing a lot of writing with him. A lot of the songs on the previous album were written over 5 years ago, so it’s been awesome writing fresh songs but our process has still remained the same. “


How have you guys been keeping busy during this crazy covid- 19 time?

“We’ve been busy with a new addition to our Alvarez family – baby Pippa. Also we’ve been writing back and forth through WhatsApp and voice memos. We’ve been doing a lot of live-streams and have some great ones coming up, so keep your eyes peeled for those! “

What advice would you give someone who wants to start a band or career in music?

“Practice, play and write as much as you can. “

What’s next for you guys?

“We will be back touring and playing shows whenever it is safe to do so. We also have lots of new music coming your way!“

Stream ‘Words I Couldn’t Say’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen -Bitch Falcon

Our Worth A Listen This Week Comes From Bitch Falcon

Dublin grunge-rock trio, Bitch Falcon have released their new single ‘Gaslight’ on Small Pond Records.The track premiered on BBC Radio 1 last Sunday and is the band’s debut release of 2020 and their first since signing to Brighton’s Small Pond Records. Formed by front-woman Lizzie Fitzpatrick with her friends in a small kitchen in 2014, the lineup has galvanised around the rhythm section of Barry O’Sullivan on Bass and Nigel Kenny on Drums. To date they have performed several headline and support tours around the UK along with frequent visits to the Benelux countries and North America. From the early days of their first single, Wolfstooth to their most recent release Damp Breath, an evolution in sound can be heard as the group perfect and refine their raw, fuzz-laced offerings over six singles and one EP. 

‘Gaslight’ is Bitch Falcon’s most exciting release to date. The band unleash an alternative rock maelstrom filled with raw guitars, powerful vocals and heavy barbed bass lines. The hefty tight rhythmic foundation anchors the listener through the tracks crazed agitated atmospherics as Lizzie Fitzpatrick’s bewitching vocals haunt over brooding sound rumbles and pummeling drum progressions.

Bitch Falcon have a deft ability to create wonderful calm moments of respite in between their chaotic sound which is a difficult task to achieve and yet they do this with such ease that the listener can not help but be in awe of their musical prowess. They are one of Ireland’s most exciting alternative rock bands at the moment. The refined layering and dark chilling atmospheres created within their tracks is utterly thrilling and a joy to listen to.

With gritty riffs and a dark all consuming soundscape, ‘Gaslight’ is an epic return from Bitch Falcon.

About the trackLizzie Fitzpatrick commented “I wanted to describe the feeling of what you see is not necessarily what you get. Gaslight is a song that came together quite fast. Barry started playing his riff and I played along messing rhythmically, just making noise. It sounded so weird and intense so quickly. I remember us all looking at each other and saying this is the one. I think this song was a change in our writing together. We knew we wanted a heavy sound with melodic intricacies.I recorded the vocal layering at home, building up chords with my voice. When we recorded it in the studio, I wasn’t able to sustain my voice for the whole section, Rían (Trench), and I decided to record it in a wave, one-note resting while the other picks up, so it sounds like a living, breathing thing.

I wanted to describe the feeling of what you see is not necessarily what you get. The holy grail of public display, and worth to others. Expressing yourself puts you in a vulnerable position, and I think a lot of people embellish the truth. In that way, an unachievable status is shoved down our throats, and we play into the game every day.”

Stream ‘Gaslight’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Somebody’s Child ‘We Could Start A War’

Dublin indie-rock/pop artist Somebody’s Child has released his new single ‘We Could Start A War’, taken from forthcoming debut EP ‘20-something’ out August 7th. ‘We Could Start a War’ is the second single from the Irish newcomers debut EP, it follows the success of first single ‘Hold Me Like You Wanna’, which has been featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday, plus editorial playlists The Indie List, alt-pop and more, steamrolling past 50,000 streams in just 2 weeks. The single has also been supported by BBC Radio 1 (Jack Saunder’s Next Wave Artist), Radio X, RTE Radio 1 (Recommends), RTE 2FM, Today FM and has been added to the A-list on Amazing Radio, amongst other stations.

‘We Could Start A War’ is a passionate and infectious slice of indie pop flavoured with R&B elements against an effervescent 80’s pop backdrop. The track packs in oodles of energy and 80’s rock gusto as a shrilling guitar soars over the swirling fizzing soundscapes.

The track begins brooding and mournful with soft guitar mirroring the melody’s lament before the suave production kicks in giving the track glitzy swagger and a polished sheen. The danceable foot tapping beat and chilled tempo of the track provides an ethereal quality while the rasped vocals venture into a soulful tone as the emotion and intensity of the song builds.

There is a laid back quality about ‘We Could Start A War’ as the 80’s synths flood with nostalgia while the refined blend of catchy sounds and powerful lyrics takes the song to its epic moments. ‘We Could Start A War’ showcases Somebody’s Child is an artist creating dynamic music with real heart and passion at its core. 

Stream ‘We Could Start A War’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Featuring Sapphire Blues,Courtney Jacobs, Michael-James and Turfboy

Sapphire Blues

Genre : Post Punk

Bio : Bristol post-punk outfit, Sapphire Blues comprised of Sam Lance Jones (vocals, guitar),Harry Beaver (bass) and Chris Thompson (percussion) have released their new single 119.

Track: 119

Why We Like It: It’s an abrasive dark number that pivots around a rumbling bass and percussion combination. These guys smudge chilling guitar squeals over pounding drums and eerie vocals to create a mysterious and ominous atmosphere between lighter moments of release. The track builds superbly as the guitars swirl with psychedelic tones through the heavy drums while the grimy bass wriggles and squirms in the tracks murky undercurrent. 119 is quite the thrilling roller coaster ride.

You can Follow Sapphire Blues on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sapphirebluesuk/

Stream ‘119’ below

Courtney Jacobs

Genre : Singer songwriter

Bio : Courtney Jacobs is a 21-year old synth-pop singer-songwriter who has recently released her new single ‘Canary’. Courtney plans to release several more singles this year, and her release of ‘Canary’ follows the Valley Days EP with her band, Silver Retriever, of which she is the lead singer. Silver Retriever is based in Charlottesville, VA,

Track: Canary

Why We Like It: It’s a laid back synth pop number that drifts effortlessly upon a driving bass line and pulsing drums while Courtney’s smoky vocals coo over the velvety melody. The track exudes a steamy atmosphere and teasing tone as it glissades effortlessly into the ears with a charming appeal.The lyrics describe a disturbing power dynamic in a relationship marred by control and trust issues as Courtney sings condescendingly at the listener. Well crafted and beautifully presented ‘Canary’ is a mesmerising listen.

You can follow Courtney Jacobs on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/courtneyjacobsmusic/

Stream ‘Canary’ below

Michael-James

Genre : Indie Folk

Bio : Michael-James is an Indie Folk artist from Newtownards, Northern Ireland. A music student who received a scholarship from the same university as George Ezra, James Bay and Tom Odell. Michael James came out of college eager to make his mark in the local music scene. Becoming part of Forestside Shopping Centres, ‘Artist Development Programme,’ Michael got the opportunity to play with and be mentored by Anthony Toner. As well as also play many festivals across the country such as Sunflower, Dalriada, Eastside Arts, Belfast Nashville Songwriters and many more, this lead on to becoming support act for Skinny Living on their UK tour

Track: Solicitous

Why We Like It: This warm comforting number surges with Michael’s soothing musicianship. The lush harmonies add a folky hue to the song while the twinkling guitar provides a simple but effective accompaniment. A track about being at the lowest point of your life and opening your arms for someone to come carry that weight with you, ‘Solicitous’ is a pure and wholesome ray of sunshine delicately presented for easy-listening pleasure. 

You can follow Michael-James on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/michaeljamesofficial/

Stream ‘Solicitous’ below 

Turfboy

Genre : Alternative

Bio : Following the release of the first two in a trilogy of singles “(L)earn” and “Holly Daye”, comes “Attendance”, the final single before the release of Turfboy’s debut album “At Tension”, which will be released on August 8th 2020 through Horn & Hoof Records Manchester. The album was completed late last year with Michael Richards at Trackmix Studio Dublin.

Track: Attendance

Why We Like It: This grunge/alternative track begins with brooding vocals and light guitars before Turfboy explodes into their gritty gnarly chorus. The band present a thrilling blend of polished and edgy rock as they drift mindlessly into the blazing chorus. With intricacies of picked guitar and wandering bass peeking between the mania the band flesh out their all consuming sound with a majestic sense of fuzz-filled chaos. The vocals in particular begin soft and almost lulling to start and venture into a howling scream. With strong strides on guitar slicing relentlessly through a gritty wall of sound this track is a fierce explosion of 90’s alternative rock.

You can follow Turfboy on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/yobfrut

Stream ‘Attendance’ below 

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Mechner ‘Wasted’

Mechner has released his new single ‘Wasted’ which is part three of his upcoming mini-LP ‘Club Idem’. Mechner is the latest foray for Cork based artist Jack Ahern, Mechner has supported the likes of Dermot Kennedy, Delerentos and The Coronas amongst many others.  

‘Wasted’ is quite the bewitching tune. Ahern pursues a more mysterious and conflicted form of songwriting with ‘Wasted’ as he drowns his sorrows in cinematic eerie soundscapes while the lyrics express self doubt “It’s easy to see that you’re wasted on me”.

Ahern’s vocals venture between soft whispers and melodic coos before becoming more intense as the song builds. The track swirls almost out of control delving into a dark abyss of coiling, confused emotions expressed through crashing cymbals and pounding drums. The airy rhythmic taps and swirling soundscapes between this emotive frenzy expresses an uncontrollable rush of panic and pain. ‘Wasted’ is a mesmerising piece of work, I can’t wait to hear more from Ahern.

Watch the video for ‘Wasted’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, electro- pop, EP Review, Indie Pop, New Music

Euan Lindsay ‘You, Boy’ EP

Multi/instrumentalist, singer, producer, journeyman Euan Lindsay has released his debut E.P ‘You, Boy’. Hailing from Cork, Lindsay’s music pulls heavily from a wide reach of genres. Elements of disco, house, soul and hip-hop can all be heard throughout the artist’s first work.The E.P was recorded over a 6 month period by the artist through a turbulent time. 

‘You, Boy’ combines Euan Lindsay’s earnest lyrics with modern pop production to create a distinctive body of work. From darker evening tunes like  ‘Lost my head’  to the Spanish toned ‘Easy’ and R&B hued ‘Sing about me when the craic is done’ each track has a lightness and mellow soundscape. Lindsay embellishes his tracks with tight instrumentation and lush textures transforming songs like ‘Ur Smile’ into a vibrant funk pop song laced in tropical tones and rich rhythms.

The tracks are clean and refined as Lindsay shows off his production prowess. He knows when not to overdo things and keeps the intricacies on guitar and synths within delicate and subtle levels maintaining the easy going atmosphere throughout. Distinctive vocals meander between coos and soulful tones with a Cork twang shining brightly throughout as Lindsay provides a fresh listening experience with a proudly Irish undertone.

Each track grooves and pivots around the meticulously placed guitar melodies. These golden melodies lace the songs in sun-kissed tropical and funk/soul elements creating a balmy hue to indulge in. Although the songs float with a dreamy laid back upbeat vibe, Lindsay discusses themes of loss, illness and self-uncertainty throughout the EP, albeit with a sense of Irish irony and self-mockery

With dazzling electronics and flashing beats on the lofi ‘All I Know’ and the mellow lounge soul elements on closing track ‘I don’t belong’ Lindsay proves his deft ability to create stunning pieces of music while bending genres harmoniously. ‘You, Boy’ is an impressive debut from Euan Lindsay.

Stream ‘You, Boy’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, New Music, Rock

Mantis and the Prayer ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ EP

Enigmatic rock band Mantis and the Prayer have returned with a double single release. ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ features the songs ‘I Know You’ and ‘Go Too Far’ which are written on themes of tragedy and disconnection. Mantis and the Prayer are a three piece rock band from Melbourne Australia. Releasing their first album ‘Butterflies and Demons’ in 2016 they have since gone on to place their music in the soundtrack for independent movie ‘Queen of Hollywood Blvd’ which was featured in the film festival circuit and had a cinematic release in Los Angeles.

‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ is a dramatic two track concoction which blends fermenting alternative rock with theatrical elements to create a chilling listening experience. The punchy drums, crashing guitars and wailing backing vocals in ‘I Know You’ ooze tension and eerie atmospheres as dark pop elements swirl through a rock backdrop while ‘Go Too Far’ adds a ghostly aspect to the ominous vibe. The track is a goosebump inducing boogie with groove riddled guitar and a 60’s rock n roll shimmy rhythm. With deep vocals echoing through the pop/rock sensibilities and upbeat moments ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ is quiet the fun, engaging and catchy two track EP.

Stream ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – Sea Girls

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Sea Girls

Sea Girls have released the stunning animated video for their anthemic fan favourite and new single, ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’, taken from their forthcoming debut album Open Up Your Head – out August 14th on Polydor. The band also embark on a huge headline tour this November, including sold-out dates at Glasgow’s legendary Barrowlands, Manchester Academy and Birmingham’s O2 Institute, as well as the band’s biggest headline line show to date at London’s Brixton Academy.

‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ is an effervescent guzzle of refreshing indie rock. This anthemic track kick starts the frenzy with a cool guitar chime and pulsing beat. The band cruise into the song before erupting into the dynamic chorus which is sure to be epic live. The band spread a bitter/sweet melody over crashing guitars, punchy drums and blazing bass grooves to create an instant shot of adrenaline-fueled indie. Henry Camamile ventures from wistful coos for the verses to passionate exclaims for the chorus building the tracks emotive quality. The intensity builds as the song progresses towards the frantic crescendo. The band have a knack for writing earnest ear-worms with clever lyrical content and ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ follows this trend. Sea Girls’ music is expanding and getting better with each release. Their anthemic musical prowess provides a wholling invigorating sound sure to charm all who hear it.

The animated video was directed by acclaimed Korean-Swedish duo Tjoff Koong Studios (Tezo Kyungdon Lee and Magnus Lenneskog). The video takes the viewer on an emotional rollercoaster. Lead singer Henry Camamile perfectly describes the video, “When I wrote this song I was trying to channel some emotional highs and lows of the likes of Kurt Cobain.” He continues, “Full of visual adrenalin, it builds with rushes of excitement and lack of control. Someone build a rollercoaster through the city and we’ll get on it.”

You can watch the video for ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music

Lady Landscape ‘3’ EP

Upcoming indie-pop band, Lady Landscape released their third EP, ‘3’ on June 26th.Founded by Alex Harrison and Ryan McDonnell in late 2018, Meath-based five-piece ( Jamie Reynolds (Drums), Tiernan Buckley (Bass) and (Lead Guitar)Adam Ollin ), Lady Landscape embrace a lo-fi sound that combines rich synth textures, dreamy guitar rhythms and nonchalant vocals.

‘3’ is a laid back collection of tracks which showcase Lady Landscape’s earnest and melodic musicianship. Previously released singles ‘Versailles’, ‘25’ and ‘Apartment Song’ ease the EP into motion with glistening guitar, supple soundscapes and dreamy tones. The band use soft, delicate melodies with powerful lyrics to express the melancholic and irritating themes of self disappointment and normal life occurrences. With deep baritone vocals cruising through the hazy melodies and buoyant rhythm each track flows fluidly into the next making for a soothing listening experience.

I particularly enjoyed the use of acoustic guitar in tracks ‘Ghost Story’ and ‘WWII’. The acoustic guitar chugs along sluggishly between the lulling elements with a nonchalant aesthetic. The band seep wispy synths and airy soundscapes into the tracks background making each song drift into the aerosphere allowing the deep vocals, steady beat and striking lyrics ground the track. ’2001’ brings the EP to an end with a bitter sweet melody and continuing the chilled out vibe of the EP.

‘3’ is an EP of moody, glum tones mangled between ethereal and dreamy soundscapes. The band discuss themes of growing older and the mundanity and disappointment of life through hazy calm tunes that drone as well as twinkle beneath the lo fi indie pop canvas. Lady Landscape’s soft and melancholic tones are filled with intricate moments and lush instrumentation. ‘3’ is a fantastic display of this. Lady landscape’s third EP is a smooth and satisfying listening experience.

Stream ‘3’ below


Author : Danu

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

Brian Houston Live on Virtual

AER Music, Fluttertone and dootdoot Records have come together to create live streams on the Zoom platform and last night was another outstanding evening of music as they hosted Belfast singer songwriter Brian Houston.

Deciding to play his new unreleased album Brian Houston provided a night of relaxed country rock. His warm, rasped vocals reverb with a velvety soothing quality. He could sing anything and it would comfort and soothe your soul.This glimpse into the new album was a real treat and showcased just how good a singer songwriter Houston is. The lamenting guitar accompaniment in ‘I Let Her Go’, ‘Good News Junkie’ and ‘The Angel On The Corner’ is emotive and powerful yet delicate and tender all at once.

Houston puts on a full and consuming show. His anecdotes and stories between tracks about opening for Elvis Costello, how he wrote his songs and even a rendition on Mandolin of Happy Birthday for one of his friends was a joy to listen to. They provided some light hearted relief from the emotional heavy hitting tracks. Houston has a wonderful ability to break your heart and stir emotion within the listener and the striped back acoustic version of his songs last night cut deep with passion and thrived within the live acoustic setting. Oozing spellbinding and spine-tingling charm Houston sings about religion, love and the people he has met through the years. His witty lyrics and calming tone lulled us into a world of folk/country rock.

For me the bright and charming ‘She Got That From Me’ was a highlight in the set along with Houston’s sweet falsetto in the delicate ballad ‘If’. However it is ‘Spanish’ which is the pinnacle moment of the show. Houston’s harmonica slices through a haze of melancholia while the lyrics depict the lives and sorrow of the people who lived in residential schools in towns such as Spanish, Ontario, Canada. It’s a beautiful, touching and melodically magnificent number which stirs hopelessness, fear and sorrowful remorse in the hearts of anyone who hears this song. The wonderful advantage of these Virtual shows is the audience’s silence. The silence allows songs like ‘Spanish’ to really hit home as you can hear every emotive word with such piercing clarity. 

A Q&A follows the show with Houston answering questions about how he writes his songs, what he is doing in lockdown and what a ghillie weeper bird is ( ‘a wee bird that at the end of its life cycle goes round and round in ever decreasing circles until it disappears up its own backside’ ). 

Brian Houston performed an outstanding set last night. His clear, deep vocals provide moments of sweet tenderness alongside subtle gravel-hued coos and sweet highs which evoke raw passion and emotion. There is no fuss or extravagance with Houston’s set – its honest, pure good tunes. Last night featured another knockout performance on Virtual. I have to hand it to AER Music, Fluttertone and dootdoot Records, these guys are highlighting some serious talent every week. 

Stream Brian Houston’s ‘Good News Junkie’ below 


Author : Danu