Jack West has released his new single ‘Missing Out’ featuring Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready. This passionate rock ballad drifts upon a melancholic melody, mature songwriting and brooding instrumentation. A lamenting guitar, elegant frosty piano and steady beat set up an atmospheric lonely scene as West’s rasped coos ( accompanied by haunting backing vocals ) pine through the verses before the track erupts for the chorus. This power ballad oozes rock swagger and gusto as it leads into the emotive hair-raising chorus with pounding drums and sharp guitar lines piercing the icy biting atmosphere. Boasting an epic guitar solo and passionate crescendo, ‘Missing Out’ is a sublime new addition to West’s catalogue.
Multi instrumentalist and singer songwriter Liam Geddes has released his new song ‘Bad Best Friends’. His previous single ‘I’m Her’s’ has passed 230k streams since August completely independently and Geddes has amassed 88k monthly listeners. This will be his 4th single of the year with an EP set for release early 2021.
‘Bad Best Friends’ is an infectious pop number doused in sunkissed soundscapes. The track pivots around a light key and guitar refrain as Geddes builds soaring synths and finger clicking beats around this hypnotic refrain. With a charming whistle feature catchy chorus and effortlessly chill production this fun track is a laid back sun soaked indie pop delight. Zesty bursts on guitar and electronics create a refreshing bite to the song’s rich and full flavoured soundscape while a dreamy melody and shimmering synths add sweetness to the warm soothing tone of Liam Geddes vocals. With relatable lyrics and compelling arrangements ‘Bad Best Friends’ is a well crafted, infectious gem from Liam Geddes.
Following the release of their critically acclaimed second album ‘CCTV’ earlier this year, Columbia Mills have announced they have teamed up with some of their favourite artists Jape, Girl Band, Ryan Vail and Get Well Soon, for their ‘Remixed EP’. This EP allowed the artists to create their own interpretation of tracks from ‘CCTV’ and put their creative spin on the songs. The first release from the remixed EP is Jape’s remix of their song ‘The Greatest Love’.
With flashing electronics, lush textures and melodies Richie Egan’s ( aka Jape ) remix of ‘The Greatest Love’ takes a more electronic dance form. Japes interpretation uses skittish beats, desert vibes and rushing waves of synths to create a 70’s-esque dance floor banger. Rich rhythms adorn the backdrop with an almost Salsa rhythmic bounce while the reverb vocals and swirling soundscapes create darker undertones. The remix is truly compelling.
Frontman from Columbia Mills Fiachra Treacy speaks about how the idea came about for the remixed EP:
“Above all else, the members of Columbia Mills are massive music fans. We spend most of our free time attending gigs of all genres and discussing our favourite artists. Our broad range of influences can be heard in our music, so we thought it would be a good idea to ask the people who influence us most, to remix some of our tracks. We put out the feelers and we were delighted that everyone agreed to be a part of this EP. Getting the mixes back from each artist was like waking up on Christmas morning. To have your favourite artist remix your tracks was an awesome feeling for us. Given the circumstances we find ourselves in, there has been a massive sense of community amongst artists of all genres. We are all in the same boat. Some of us are unsure as to whether we keep paddling, or whether to get off before it sinks entirely. This project, and the support that we have gotten from our friends and fellow artists, have galvanized and inspired us to keep going. It has inspired us to plough ahead and write our 3rd album.This EP represents the sense of community that has been created by the decimation of our industry. 5 artists of different genres coming together to support each other when it is needed the most.Thank you, Richie, Foxy (and the lads from Girl band), Ryan, and Konstantin for your genius. We are inspired and truly grateful.”
On the 30th anniversary of their debut album ‘Paradise in the Picturehouse’, The Stunning have reissued the classic album on vinyl accompanied by a beautifully crafted songbook.
A true collectors item, this will be the first time the album has been available on vinyl since 1990 and it will be accompanied by a stunning book – featuring easy to follow guitar and piano arrangements, playing tips written by the band themselves, never-before-seen photos and the inspiration behind each of the tracks and more.
Coming out of Galway city, The Stunning took Ireland by storm and shifted the focus from a Dublin-centric rock scene to the provinces, paving the way for many more artists to come. They toured relentlessly releasing a string of hit singles and two number one albums and built a following that would make them one of the most popular Irish bands ever amongst a new generation of young Irish people for whom emigration was not a prerequisite.
‘Paradise in the Picturehouse’ stayed at the top of the charts for five weeks upon its release in 1990 and made the band a household name.
This album is a favourite of many. Within its melodic flows and rich tunes lies warm nostalgic memories, fond air guitar moments and sing alongs. Who can resist the “Da da da da, da da da, da da da da” lyric in ‘Brewing Up a Storm’, the beauty within the melody and instrumental blasts of ‘Romeo’s on Fire’ or the chugging rhythm in ‘Got to Get Away’.
According to Steve:“we had always intended on marking the anniversary of this album. It seems to have endured the passing decades and holds a special place in the hearts of a lot of people who grew up in Ireland during the late 80’s and early 90’s. I still meet people today who say Paradise was the soundtrack to their formative years. Doing the book was also a way to introduce new fans to the music and to give them the backstory as well. Budding musicians will have no excuse now for murdering the songs!”
Joe: “Though it seemed like a risky venture, I now realise it’s a fantastic piece of Stunning history for any fan to own. People on our mailing list got the chance to buy it first and the feedback has been amazing. Besides, the only physical product selling anymore are LP’s, so this is a no-brainer. 2020 is the album’s 30th anniversary so the book has to come out now regardless of the pandemic. We enjoyed making it so much that we can’t wait for people to see it”.
In between ‘Stunning’ duties the band members have their fingers in many pies. Lead singer Steve Wall’s acting career has really taken off. Following his portrayal of legendary trumpet player Chet Baker in the feature film My Foolish Heart, he’s recently filmed a new sci-fi series with Ridley Scott, completed an episode of Tin Star with Tim Roth and played a leading role in The South Westerlies, a new drama series for RTE due out soon. Guitarist Derek Murray tours with comedian Tommy Tiernan. Keyboard and trumpet player Jim Higgins is a stalwart in Christy Moore’s band. Drummer Cormac Dunne plays with everybody west of the Shannon, sometimes twice a day! Joe Wall has been involved with the Music College BIMM Dublin since it opened in 2011. In his spare time he writes and records and hatches plans for future Stunning ventures.
You can order the reissue of the classic album on vinyl accompanied by a beautifully crafted songbook fromwww.thestunning.net
Bright Falls has released his new single ‘The Widows Homes’. Bright Falls is the project of Thurles, Co. Tipperary, singer-songwriter Eddie McCormack, who blends Americana with alternative rock, while taking a narrative approach to songwriting. Bright Falls debut E.P ‘Logging’ which was produced by Martin Quinn (Aine Cahill, The Strypes), was released in July 2019 . After the release of ‘Logging’, Bright Falls, with a full band, was asked to open Féile ’19, in Semple Stadium alongside acts such as Sinead O’Connor and The Stunning. Bright Falls have also supported artists The Frank & Walters, Ryan Sheridan and David Keenan.
Oozing Americana tones and icy synth progressions, ‘The Widows Homes’ is a lush and passionate song from Bright Falls. Bittersweet melodies drift over a warm alternative backdrop accompanied by a chiming guitar which weaves through 80’s-esque shimmering synths.The production is clean and precise resulting in a solid heartfelt tune which displays Bright Falls beautiful earnest songwriting. With a soothing vocal delivery, McCormack effortlessly coos over the simmering backdrop and lush arrangements while a chugging beat maintains the track’s relentless drive.The song recounts the aftermath of a love lost, building up to the chorus which sees the protagonist long for reconciliation of the relationship which they know will never return. As the track builds the synths flourish and blend into the songs emotive Americana tones to create a touching and wholly soothing listening experience. Boasting tight animated instrumentation ‘The Widows Homes’ is an impressive and extremely compelling track from Bright Falls.
Moncrieff has released his hotly anticipated new single ‘AMERICA’ as well as announcing the release of his second EP ‘The Class of 2020’, which is set for release on the 27 November. Moncrieff’s debut body of work ‘The Early Hurts’ EP featured lead track ‘Like I Do’, this debut radio single (released in Sept 2019) received extensive airplay across national radio racking up nearly 12 million audience impressions and 5 million streams. The success of the single and EP led to Moncrieff selling out his first headline show in Dublin in less than 3 hours. His growing reputation also landed support slots touring with headline Irish acts Picture This and Walking on Cars.
Catchy and dynamic, ‘AMERICA’ is another passionate pop anthem doused in Moncrieff’s deft melodic prowess. Anyone familiar with Moncrieff might find this gem a shock; his brooding ballads and soul bearing banger days appear to be behind him. ‘AMERICA’ gives us a glimpse into the more upbeat, urban pop side to this artist’s ever evolving sound. The track is vibrant, rich and laced with satirical commentary. With buoyant beats, choir backing vocals, jangly percussion and sing along refrains this song is an instant floor filler.
Moncrieff’s warm vocals are as versatile as his sound, oozing velvety tones to deliver witty lyrics and clever turn of phrase with sweetness and playful cheekiness. Under the surface of the upbeat production the song’s lyrics hit a deeper note that comments on some of the absurdities of American culture, centred around consumerism and materialism. “We spend money we don’t have on things we don’t need to impress people we don’t like.” This irresistible track is catchy as hell as Moncrieff takes Fun Boy Three’s ‘It Ain’t What You Do (It’s The Way That You Do It)’ and twists in his clever lyrics to create the ultimate bop. Moncrieff is one of a kind and an artist that brings something new and exciting to listeners with each release.
Speaking about the EP, Moncrieff says: “I had planned to release my second EP earlier this year but I felt after all the world kind of came to a standstill that maybe I should hold off. Nobody had a clue what was happening and the music didn’t feel fully right for the time. Then I realised these are the times that I had actually always dreamt about writing songs for and being able to make music that had a voice in this bizarre time we’re in.”
Cavan garage rock band, The Zen Arcade, have released their debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’.To Celebrate they have released a brand-new video to go along with the track.The band formed in Late 2019 and is comprised of 3 ex-members of The Strypes whose stellar rise saw them tour 3 critically acclaimed albums all over from Glastonbury to Fuji Rocks and feted by all from Jools Holland to the Arctic Monkeys before calling it quits.
Showcasing brisk melodic hooks and sharp instrumentation The Zen Arcade have created a unique, exciting 90’s alternative rock sound with ‘Don’t Say A Word’; a dynamic, energetic track ready for blasting from your speakers. This neck snapping track speed balls in on frenzied guitars, pounding drums and a rampant bassline as the band fill out the song beautifully creating a chaotic swelling sound. It’s an instant shot of adrenaline, fizzing guitars ricochet off a brawny rhythm while psychedelic murmurs simmer in the background while a pop steeped melody sweetens the song’s aesthetic.
There are wonderful musical moments hidden within ‘Don’t Say A Word’ to delight the listener with, from melody changes to distortion and a few other gems such as whining synths. Each subsequent listen reveals more and more and subtly displays The Zen Arcade’s musical prowess and deft use of instrumentation. Ready for manic moshing this infectious, frantic track is a sublime debut and exciting glimpse of what The Zen Arcade has to offer.
Speaking about the video shoot Pete O’ Hanlon says: “The video was shot in a shed, stars the band, abuses a projector and was directed by a tripod. It showcases the latest in digital regression and artfully combines the bare minimum with low light, undoubtedly inspiring the inevitable low-resolution revolution.”
The band express how “Don’t Say A Word is a mantra for the muted millions. Time now for the monosyllabic among us to rise up and remain silent!”
Rachel Grace has released her new single ‘Cry Me An Ocean’. Rachel Grace is a singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has been creating music from a very young age. At 13, she released her debut album and now at 18, she has just recently won the Four Star Pizza, Star Nation competition. She has also supported established Irish musicians such as Wallis Bird, Brian Deady, Don Mescal and Paddy Casey and also played a number of festivals including Vantastival & Electric Picnic. Over lockdown she has been creating cover versions of songs in her own style, playing Synth, Keys, Sax and also putting harmonies over her own vocals.
With ripples of jazz and R&B seeping into a soul backdrop, ‘Cry Me An Ocean’ is a mature, well crafted example of Rachel Grace’s magnificent songwriting. Her velvety vocals coo over the jangly keys and dreamy melody while the rich rhythm shimmys and bounces in the background. Grace creates a timeless sound with her chic instrumental prowess and luxurious vocal range. The smoothness in her vocals is irresistible while the light melody ( oozing R&B tones and delicate pop embellishments ) creates a full and diverse tapestry of sound which is a delight on listeners ears. Exuding earnest lyrics and instant charm ‘Cry Me An Ocean’ is a wonderful song from an artist who is a true treasure.
Thom Southern has released his highly anticipated second single ‘Perfect Someone’. The song was co-produced by the legendary Adrian Bushby (Muse, Foo Fighters, Feeder).After recently bursting onto the scene with the fuzzy debut single ‘Shivers’, the Belfast based artist is already making a powerful and unforgettable first impression.Thom Southern also co-writes and produces for his sister Lucy Gaffney. Following the success of their previous joint ventures Southern and MMODE, the pair are both now simultaneously striking out with exciting solo projects.
‘Perfect Someone’ is a sweet slice of shoegaze. Thom Southern has created a song doused in rich textures and lush tones, he builds the track superbly creating soundscapes so pure and passionate it holds your heart in suspense for each note. With pulsing beats and dreamy melody this chillwave pop tune is saturated in sweet nostalgia. The flashing synths create a mystifying wall of sound as Southern’s velvety vocals coo through the rush of sonic flurries to soothe the scorching backdrop. Exuding tight production and superb musicianship ‘Perfect Someone’ is a beautifully crafted track from Thom Southern.
Thom Southern elaborates on the lyrical sentiment for the new single…“Perfect Someone is a bittersweet story of nostalgia and young love. I wanted to write a song about that moment when out of the blue an old romance pops into your head and takes you straight back to a specific time and place. The lyrics are about finding an old coat that hasn’t been worn in years with a photograph inside one of the pockets. You remember how good that day was but inevitably you know it will never be the same again. I wanted to embody the track with repetitive melodies which create the immediate atmosphere of nostalgia. I used an 808 drum machine to make the track hypnotic to take you through the story in a quick, simple way just like when a memory flashes into your head and then it’s gone.”
Hailing from Tipperary, Kill ‘Em Charlie are a five piece indie rock outfit. Newly re-imagined and taking their sound to blistering new heights, they have released their new EP, ‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’. Showcasing deft hooks, swaggering musicianship and some seriously slick riffage the EP is an impressive display of indie rock.
The band pivot their slick guitar lines around a punchy drum foundation while elastic wriggles on bass create a dark luring undertone in ‘Dark Maneuvers’ and ‘I’m Not Alone’. The tracks explode with heavy jagged moments of epic alternative rock proportions as Kill ‘Em Charlie build tension through gritty riffs, sweet backing vocal coos and pulverising rhythms which provide a satisfying mosh worthy listening experience.
The band’s clean, catchy and expressive melodies surge adrenaline and panache throughout providing a light and sometimes dreamy release from the crashing wall of sound. However it’s ‘One Thing To Say’ which displays the band’s tight, refined instrumental, and melodic prowess. Showcasing light jangly guitar, jazzy keys and bouncy beats teamed with tropical tones and glimmers of The Strokes between some pretty slick arrangements, the track is a special moment on the EP. It’s dangerously catchy, well crafted and radio ready. The vocals are strong, smooth and blend perfectly with the bands scorching sound.
The five piece keep the EP traveling at high intensity and don’t allow any track to dampen the EP’s stride. Even the glum titled ‘This Is A Proper Quarter Life Crisis’ blazes with lively indie rock, enriched with rampant bass lines, razor sharp guitar lacerations and pulverizing drums – paving the way for the dynamic ’Victoria Avenue’ . Each song on the EP warrants repeat listens and the band use the blazing track ‘I’m Not Alone’ to close the EP, leaving you craving to hear more.
‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’ is a solid debut EP from Kill ‘Em Charlie. The five piece are showing strong musical growth as they experiment and hone in on their sound. Looking forward to hearing more from this band.
Stream ‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
