Dublin hip-hop three-piece LightNife have released an uplifting single, ‘Lost in My Head’. Originating from Finglas/Glasnevin, the group consists of singer Gavin Arnold, and rappers Stephen Wearen and Mikey Brennan, who are both also producers.“Lost in My Head” is the second single the group have released since their debut album ‘Afterhours’ was released in March.
‘Lost in My Head’ is a twinkling pop rap track which exudes R&B tones. LightNife spread their emotive songwriting over a sweet melody and uplifting instrumentation as glistening keys flutter between warm guitar lines and wispy soundscapes. The track maintains a dreamy quality as the trio delicately layer and build the musical backdrop, allowing the sweet vocals ooze passion and soul between the bubbling beats. The rap elements inject a dash of edge and power into this mellow pop tune as LightNife find a sublime blend between easy listening pop, punchy rap and chilled R&B creating a refreshing and satisfying listening experience.
About the track Stephen says, “The song was written during lockdown, when we were all isolated. It’s about being lost in your own head, alone with your thoughts. There are worries about the future, everything is unsure.The song explores the mental state of each member of the group. It’s about things we all might overthink: relationship struggles, seeking success but figuring out what success really means, knowing where we stand with ourselves, and finding out who we are and how to become the best versions of ourselves.”
22 year old pop rap artist Bobbi Arlo has released her new single ‘Signs’.This dynamic electronic pop track surges with pulsing beats, exhilarating synths and floor rippling bass grooves. Arlo’s sweet vocals venture from soft coos for the haunting verses and build for the powerful chorus. Arlo has a knack with ear worm melodies and ‘Signs’ is another prime example of this. The track meanders into slightly new territory for Arlo taking the R&B style of her debut radio smash ‘Berries’ and dropping some cinematic production and electronic flourishments to create quite the expressive hair raising number. Arlo spreads a catchy melody over this explosive progressive backdrop while subtle twinkles and passionate vocals exude emotive sweetness. With themes of longing blended with exhilaration ( provided by the darker sultry beat fluctuations and synth swirls ) the track has a gripping and wholly satisfying soundscape that is impressive and irresistible. ‘Signs’ is a musically rich, well crafted piece of electronic pop and another fine example of why Bobbi Arlo is an artist to keep an eye on.
Speaking about the song Bobbi Arlo says: “I’m so excited to release ‘Signs’. It’s a completely new sound for me which is exciting because I have no idea how it’s going to be received. I hope it doesn’t disappoint”.
Dublin artist/songwriter and producer Jacqueline Kennedy has released her new single ‘Your Friend’. This dark pop tune revels in swirling atmospheric electronics while lush R&B elements blend and entwine with smoky dream-pop to create quite the compelling piece of music.The innocent lamenting keys provide the track with petal-like delicacy and vulnerability as Kennedy subtly adds layers and rich textures to this brooding song. With sweet longing vocals pining over a delicate melody the track maintains a melancholic tone while dark fragmented beats create the songs pulsing underbelly. Kennedy builds and crafts this song superbly to create an enjoyable, emotive piece of electronic pop.
Dublin Singer songwriter Sarah Rebecca has released her new single ‘Every Tear’. Working professionally as a singer for 8 years Sarah has been all over the world in multiple productions and performances in Celtic Woman, Disney’s Raglan Road, Indian Ocean Cruise ship as lead singer/dancer, the Eiffel Tower Paris & NYC members club performances for the Hemingway Society of her original material, to name a few. Her musical theatre origins landed her in some wonderful Irish Musicals over the years, Gotta Make That Train, The Promise and Find Your Way Home which eventually ended up off Broadway and upstate New York. Between long contracts she has performed as lead vocalist with Legacy Entertainment Productions on trips to France, Cyprus and the UK and for several large corporate parties and productions.
‘Every Tear’ is a delicate and heartwarming number which highlights the beautiful vocals and emotive songwriting of Sarah Rebecca. With supple country warmth flickering through her vocals while soothing guitar strums blend with elegant string elements, ‘Every Tear’ builds superbly into a cinematic crescendo. Within this tender tune there are some traditional Irish hues blended between pop melodies creating a wholesome passionate ditty. Looking forward to hearing more from this artist.
Thom Southern, a Belfast based singer, songwriter and producer, has released his debut single ‘Shivers’. Recorded in Southern’s Belfast based home studio, ‘Shivers’ has been co-produced by iconic producer and 2 time Grammy Award winner Adrian Bushby (Muse, Foo Fighters, Feeder). Thom Southern started his musical career busking in Belfast aged 16. After winning a national competition he was awarded a trip to Nashville and some recording time in a studio. The resulting material saw him awarded ‘Songwriter of the Year’ by Belfast City Council. He teamed up with his sister Lucy to form the band Southern. In 2012 they signed to Marathon Artists.Within 18 months they had toured with the likes of Jake Bugg, Bastille, Hudson Taylor, Catfish & The Bottlemen and The Kooks, saw their work used in international campaigns by ESPN, Netflix and Channel 4 and performed events around the world for brands such as for Yves Saint Laurent and Burberry. In 2016 the duo took some time off to launch another project – a self recorded psych-rock project called MMODE – before Thom made the decision to move back towards recording his own work.
Encased in a 90’s haze of sun kissed alternative grunge and the beautiful songwriting of Thom Southern, ‘Shivers’ is a captivating debut. With dizzying distortion on guitars swirling around ethereal sonic flourishes the track maintains a buzz of heightened emotion. Southern’s velvety vocals coo with reverb whispers over the dreamy melody while the steady drums and psychedelic embellishments create a colourful prismatic wall of sound. The song rushes with intensity as the blazing backdrop and impenetrable guitar onslaught provides a raw, alternative grunge edge to this gem. The pulsing bass gently protrudes though the hazy melody as Southern displays his flair for melodious, breezy, memorable compositions. ‘Shivers’ is a solid debut from Thom Southern.
About the track Thom Southern said : “Shivers is the concept of love feeling like a drug, a sensation of being outside one’s own body, floating and observing oneself from a different perspective. I wanted to embody this meaning within a dense sounding track, to mainly focus on one swollen guitar sound which never stops throughout and accompany that with repetitive beatnotic drums”
Noah Elliott has released his new single ’Selling Out’. 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.
‘Selling Out’ is a lush electronic pop tune which showcases Noah Elliott’s emotive songwriting, crisp production and grand musicianship. With deep grooves wriggling through ethereal synths, subtle tropical hues and intricate percussive shuffles the track has a bubbling backdrop which exudes an upbeat tone while the melancholic dreamy melody and velvety vocals create an addictive bittersweet sonic contrast. The breathtaking production and warm guitar refrains ensure the track hits you to the core while the electronic soundscapes glide into the ears with an effortless lo fi tone that is utterly soothing. The earnest lyrics deal with themes of love, manipulation and how harmful it can be to give up who one is for romance. This is what makes Elliott stand out as an artist – his ability to create a musically vibrant track that reaches out and touches the listeners soul through wonderful melodies and relatable themes.
About the track Elliott said : “ Themes of love, manipulation, and shame all come to mind when I think back to writing Selling Out. It’s about realizing how much of myself I was willing to give up for romance and how harmful that was for my own mental health.”
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Sylvan Esso
Sylvan Esso have released ‘Frequency’ the third single from their eagerly anticipated new album ‘Free Love’, which is set for release September 25th on Loma Vista Recordings. The song is accompanied by a new video directed and styled by Moses Sumney. ’Frequency’ follows two other singles from ‘Free Love’ – ‘Ferris Wheel’ and ‘Rooftop Dancing’ and is the latest proof that, even with the challenges the year has brought, Sylvan Esso are finding ways to creatively thrive like never before. Just last week they released a new version of the ‘Ferris Wheel’ video created entirely in Animal Crossing, prompting the Verge to proclaim “Game of the summer, meet song of the summer.” Sylvan Esso also recently performed ‘Ferris Wheel’ from a flatbed truck for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee. The ‘Rooftop Dancing’ video, released earlier last month, is a freewheeling ode to NYC shot by acclaimed street photographer Cheryl Dunn.
‘Frequency’ is a enjoyable new tune from Sylvan Esso. Light pulsing synths gradually build to create the tracks airy soundscapes; they delicately push and pull in a jittery motion providing a rhythmic throb while Amelia Meath’s sweet warm vocals, coo on a supple dreamy melody. With tight harmony interjecting between the songs synthy bounce Sylvan Esso takes a minimalists approach to this song while still managing to create a wholling engaging and rich number. The light production and sparse use of instrumentation ( there is not any drums) allows the track to maintain an ethereal wispy texture that gracefully enters the listeners ears with a soft and infectiously soothing whisper. ‘Frequency’ is a sweet and uplifting delight from Sylvan Esso.
Shot in an anonymous suburban idyll with choreography by North Carolina-based Stewart/Owen Dance, the ‘Frequency’ video explores the inescapable pull – emotional, physical, and literal – of attraction over a pulsing, phantom beat.
About the video Sylvan Esso said : “We had a fantastic and rewarding time collaborating with our friend and fellow North Carolinian, Moses Sumney, on building a visual world for Frequency. He had such a beautiful vision for the project, one that ran parallel to the song’s initial source in a way that showed us new spaces it could inhabit. It’s a beautiful exploration of being together and apart at the same time – we feel it rings clearly in this moment. “
Written against the backdrop of the CoronaVirus catastrophe, ‘Nearly Life’ is the latest album to come from Neil Armstrong. Teaming up with lyricist David Will Mitchell and the legendary Jose Maria Sagrista (Triana), the album was initially sparked in January of this year and finished within six months despite recording grinding to a halt mid-way through due to Spain’s lockdown measures. Scottish born multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Neil Armstrong has recently welcomed music back into his life. With two albums and a rock musical already to his name, he now lives in Spain with his family. ‘Nearly Life’ is the debut of Neil’s creative partnership with British lyricist David Will Mitchell.
‘Nearly Life’ is a thoughtful, emotive album as Neil Armstrong spreads his passionate heartwarming musicianship over moving pop rock tunes. Using his warm vocals Armstrong floods each track with tenderness while sharp country-esque guitar, pines and laments through subtle keys, harmonica moments and steady rhythmic flows. Through tracks like ‘Paradise Lost’, ‘Rhythm Of Destiny’ and ‘Rock Me Sweet’ Armstrong displays themes of descent and redemption; falling from grace, financial loss, physical falls, societal descents and environmental decline to name a few. Taking inspiration from poet W.B. Yeats, author Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and from pivotal societal moments such as the Covid pandemic, the 9/11 tragedy and climate change, at its core the songs touch on thought provoking issues and display emotive moments through elegant arrangements. Each song brings a new aspect and blended genre to the album to delight listeners ears for example ‘Nearly Life’ is a theatrical piano led number filled with subtle jazz elements while ‘The Gambler’ smudges some steamy blues on top.
‘Nearly Life’ is a rich collection of tracks that create an easy listening experience while dealing with strong themes expressed through wonderful musicianship and sweet melodies.
Bio : Springs are a band from Birmingham who are releasing their highly anticipated EP “3:17am” on October 3rd this year.They have released their new single ‘Desire’ as a taste of what’s to come
Track: Desire
Why We Like It: It’s a blazing indie track laced in scorching guitars, punchy drums and sweet melodies. The band build the song superbly to create an invigorating youthful indie sound. A melancholic bitter sweet melody drifts on a sharp indie soundscape while groovy bass lines and warm vocals ooze charm and oodles of energy into the track. ‘Desire’ is an impressive new track from Springs.
Bio : Somebody’s Child have shared Le Boom’s remix of “We Could Start A War” which is an exciting addition to the recent catalogue of songs released on the indie rock bands’ debut EP 20-Something. Le Boom duo (Aimie and Christy) are warming up with a string of remixes between now and the end of 2020. This highly anticipated remix is their first release in over a year as they have been working on new material.
Track: We Could Start A War
Why We Like It: Le Boom meticulously blend their lush melodic pop and tropical elements into the track creating a rich new aspect within the song. Originally the song broods and laments through dark soundscapes however Le Boom’s influence paints the dynamic soundscapes in a light breezy indie-house tone while highlighting the moving lyrics and Cian’s passionate vocals. The buoyant groove and summer electronics weave into the songs moodier elements delicately enhancing and highlighting the masterful elements of this compelling track.
Bio : Charles Connolly makes melodic pop songs for the masses. He writes and produces all the music himself aswell as singing, playing, arranging, recording and mixing.
Track: Never Said Goodbye
Why We Like It: It’s a smooth chilled pop number which drifts on smoky R&B elements and mysterious soundscapes. The lush vocals coo for the catchy chorus while reverb vocals and a chic finger clicking beat embellishes the verses.The arrangement of this song is subtly grand as we hear glimmers of horns, intricate twinkles on synths with a rich broad percussive filling – a compelling listening experience.
Bio : Dublin alt-folk artist Ailbhe Reddy is set to release her debut album ‘Personal History’ on October 2nd and has recently released her new single ‘Looking Happy’.Currently on the BBC 6 Music playlist (Lauren Laverne’s a massive fan), Ailbhe’s already got tour supports confirmed for 2021 alongside Big Thief, received backing from Consequence of Sound, The Line Of Best Fit, Clash & Wonderland, as well as having played the likes of Glastonbury, Primavera and Latitude amongst many others.
Track: Looking Happy
Why We Like It: Reddy’s distinctive warm vocals coo the honest lyrics in this jaunty infectious track which exudes glorious guitar riffs, buoyant rhythms and a pop smudged melody. The track has an icy dream-like nonchalant tone to it. However the steady guitar strums maintain the vibrant indie sound which contradict the lyrics (which navigate through break-ups in the age of social media) while a smooth lush chorus surges with sweet vibes and retro hues. It’s an infectious number brimming with rich musicianship and clean production.
Bio : PAULI is a brand new Irish artist. Inspired by lockdown the Cork born, Galway raised and now Dublin based musician took his song writing to the bedroom where he wrote and produced a three track EP delving into everything from self isolation, to binge drinking as well as dreams of love and loss. Lead single ‘Cocoon’ got video treatment from award winning animation director Marc Corrigan who has worked with Irish and international acts including Hamsandwich, The Academic, I’m From Barcelona, The Futureheads, and Dan The Automator. The video tells the simple story of self-isolation and life while cocooning, hopeful that we will emerge from it all the better for it.
Track: Cocoon
Why We Like It: It’s a heartwarming catchy track brimming with passionate musicianship and emotive songwriting. With sharp guitar refrains, steady beat and twinkling elements teamed with echo backing vocals and a blazing indie rock chorus this infectious hearty track hits you right in the chest. The warm electronics create a hazy dreamy atmosphere of summer sun while the velvety vocals soothe the tracks bubbling bright undertone to create a lush easy listening gem.
Mayo indie pop artist Rowlette has released her new single ‘Cucumber & Ice’. The single is her third release of 2020 and marks what has been a very impressive breakthrough in her music career with her previous singles being added to Spotify editorial playlists (including Fresh Pop, Pop Right Now and New Music Friday), performing alongside Jack L, being RTE Culture Tune of The Day twice and packing out her first headline show.
‘Cucumber & Ice’ is a shimmering pop anthem that drifts on the fun, clean and dynamic songwriting of Rowlette. This track radiates sunny vibes through a warm guitar refrain, buoyant rhythmic drive and a vibrant bubbly melody. Rowlette’s soothing vocals ooze character and charm while the freeing catchy melody ensures the song will stay in your head for days. This upbeat track is an instant ray of sunshine as the twinkle on guitar saturates the verse in a luminous glow before leading the song into its blossoming earworm chorus. ‘Cucumber & Ice’ is that catchy pick me ready to put a smile on your face when you need it.
About the song’s creation Rowlette says “I was with Graham and Rob in the studio and we were writing a very serious/sad song when we decided to just switch it up. Graham started messing with a riff on guitar and I had the Cucumber and Ice idea in my notepad and we went from there. It was a lot of fun writing it.” The song was later mixed by Vasileios Gourgourinis and mastered by Fergal Davis to add the final gloss to an already sparkling tune.”
Stream ‘Cucumber & Ice’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
