Two of Ireland’s most exciting new acts, Enola Gay and PRS Techno Act Of 2020, Mount Palomar, combine on the visceral Black Lives Matter protest track,’The Birth of a Nation’. Written in the wake of the death of George Floyd, the original song was a response to the institutional racism that has plagued society for centuries. Having witnessed abhorrent prejudice aimed at a black friend on the streets of Belfast in the subsequent BLM protests, songwriters Joe McVeigh and Fionn Reilly felt compelled to call out the deplorable actions of those who stand in the way of unity and tolerance. Equally sickened by the rise of a jingoistic nationalism that has seen racism and fascism normalised once again, upon hearing the track, Berghain live act Mount Palomar stepped in to add his own unique, experimental twist on the punk anthem.
’The Birth of a Nation’ (Mount Palomar Remix)’ heightens the piercing angst of the original track. Mount Palomar smudges thick electronics onto the songs barbed soundscape while the shrilling whines on guitar soar through the dark rapid beats and flashing synths as Mount Palomar creates a manic frenzied soundscape with light glimmers of relief between. The remix maintains the tracks searing, ominous tones while enhancing the intensity and gnarly elements to create a wholly invigorating and tantalizing number for the listener to indulge in.
About the remix Neil Kerr aka Mount Palomar said “Before coming on board the remix, I questioned whether my input, as a white male living in Belfast, felt appropriate in dealing with such complex subject matter. However, given the appalling rise in jingoism worldwide and Trump’s willingness to fan the flames of division, I felt compelled to add my voice to those protesting against inequality and injustice. Without getting too heavy and self absorbed, as a gay kid growing up in Belfast in the 90s I unfortunately experienced the sense of shame that was almost inevitable in those days as a young gay male bullied for something out of my control. That feeling of self disgust that instilled a prolonged longing to be someone else, has had a lasting impact on my mental well being and to see that so many people are still persecuted due to their skin colour, sexuality, social standing etc… remains a source of huge frustration and disgust.”
Stream ’The Birth of a Nation’ (Mount Palomar Remix) below
SODAPOP has released his new single ‘Edge Of The Night’.This bright upbeat tune oozes feel good vibes as SODAPOP uses his radiant indie pop to provide that much needed pick me up. With bubbling synths, glistening guitars and shimming beats this track struts in ready to take you to the dancefloor. It’s a fresh, sweet guzzle of indie pop as SODAPOP creates a glucose-filled, luscious soundscape with shimmering electronics while adding a dash of zest through the sharp guitar lines. There is a tropical carefree tone to this song that is just irresistible. The smooth vocals drift over the dreamy melody while the chic disco vibes and indie pop subtly blend to create an infectious refreshing number that encapsulates summer.
About the track SOADPOP said: “I had been working on this song on and off for over two years, constantly rewriting it and trying to get it sounding like I wanted. One day I was out in the shed singing it and a little girl called from the other side of the fence, “Hey nice song!” There’s a school there, although it wasn’t in session. We couldn’t see each other at all.Thanks I said. We talked for a bit, then she asked me to sing the song again. I hadn’t quite worked all the parts out but I started playing it. I improvised the melody parts I still needed. I think knowing she was listening made me sort of simplify it towards something she’d wanna hear? Idk. But what I played there ended up being the version I went with for the record. Anyway, I’m stoked to have finally figured this one out.”
Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their new single ‘If It’s Important’. Laced in the retro charm of Thrillhouse ‘If It’s Important’ is a sweet, airy tune exuding an irresistible concoction of danceable beats and perky guitar lines. The band subtly slip the track into your head with a laid back attitude while the catchy chorus hooks you firmly within the bands grasp. A warm guitar refrain and shimmying rhythm drive the track to its infectious chorus creating a melodic and almost hypnotic breadcrumb trail for the listener to indulge in. With jaunty keys and soft vocals teamed with a building wall of sound, this luscious track is a fine example of the meticulous crafting and attention to detail Thrillhouse possess. ‘If It’s Important’ is a wonder to treasure.
Tasmanian rockers Meres have released their latest single ‘Finally’.Conceived in the perfect echo chambers of Canada’s cheap motel bathrooms, Meres is the solo writing project of Mary Shannon. With her band she is working on a new Meres album, produced by Australian Anna Laverty which is due for release later this year. Following on from the success of their previous singles, Meres have been Tasmanian nominees for the National Live Music Awards “Live Voice of the Year” award category for 3 years consecutively, and have this year been nominated for live act of the year.
A gritty and energetic grunge track, ‘Finally’ displays Meres’ ability to create blazing angsty tunes brimming with shredding musicianship. Raw guitar riffs pirouette into a shrilling stride of fury between light sun kissed soundscapes while pounding drums and simmering bass lines create the brawny riddled backbone. The band balance edgy grunge with explosive rock to create a catchy and compelling number. With powerful vocals driving the uplifting melody while the lyrics ruminate on finding yourself in the mess of someone else, this dynamic track is an instant shot of adrenaline.
Front woman Mary explains that some of the lyrics were “inspired by a person in my life who at the time I thought was worthy of dulling my own light to support them further.”
This serious subject matter is lightened with the fun filled video featuring two of the band’s dogs. Recorded at Audrey Studios in Melbourne with renowned Australian Producer, Anna Laverty, this was Meres’ first professional studio experience and it’s safe to say they knocked it out of the park.
Drew Thomas has released his debut EP ‘Early Hours’. Drew Thomas is a singer/songwriter raised in Nottingham and living in London. He has spent the past few years playing shows around the country including slots at Reading & Leeds festival, Y Not festival and Shepherds Bush Empire. Drew’s previous offerings have been heavily tipped and featured by the likes of BBC Introducing, Sofar Sounds, Atwood, God is in the TV and numerous other online tastemakers.
‘Early Hours’ is a moving collection of tracks as Drew Thomas uses his heartfelt songwriting and gripping soundscapes to create an emotional rollercoaster. With elegant keys, punchy drums and cinematic crescendo’s ‘Lying On The Concrete’ and ‘Running Reds’ kick start the EP with a multitude of emotions and rich textures.
The EP holds the listeners heart in suspense. Through the lyrics Drew tells uplifting, coming of age tales about finding yourself and the vices we hold that others don’t see. Using dark undertones, ethereal keys and indie pop melodies he balances themes of melancholy and feelings of loneliness with themes of hope to create a charming and compelling collection of tracks.
Drew displays his knack with beautiful emotive melodies through ‘Somebody You Needed’, the bittersweet melody drifts into an airy soundscape creating a tender tear-jerker. Soft keys wisps through pulsing electronics and steady beat, allowing the track to venture into darker territory while Drew’s clear warm vocals ooze soul and passion.
As ‘Early Hours’ progresses each song shows a different aspect to Drew’s musicianship. He simmers his emotive pop with subtle electronic elements to create a powerful and enthralling listening experience.This is shown most effectively in ‘High (On Our Own)’, the track whichbrings the EP to a gripping end. The song builds with power pop and indie elements as intense guitars blend with dramatic synths and snappy drums to create a hair-raising evocative finale.
‘Early Hours’ boasts the passionate and striking musicianship of Drew Thomas as he builds cinematic and powerful instrumentation around his gripping songwriting and velvety vocals to create a mature, earnest and uplifting collection of tracks.
Lost Boys have released their new single ‘Sunrise’ featuring UPPBEAT. Lost Boys are a 4 piece indie pop outfit from Limerick, Ireland. Following their formation 2 years ago they have gained a huge following with their most recent singles “Obvious”and “Sadie” getting featured on the New Music Friday UK Spotify playlist. Selling out multiple shows in Limerick the boys were all but ready to start exhibiting their music on a national basis before COVID 19 forced them to cancel. ’Sunrise’ has also reached No.1 in the Irish charts.
‘Sunrise’ is a breezy sun-soaked delight as Lost Boys glaze their indie pop in R&B hues and feel good summer vibes. With sharp mellow guitar lines weaving between sticky beats and smooth laid back soundscapes, the track drifts effortlessly into the ears. The velvety vocals glide over the dreamy buoyant melody while the band injects tropical elements into the tracks relaxed atmosphere. This song is catchy and charming with a rhythmic pulse that is irresistible. UPPBEAT’s raps fluidly flow over the songs bouncy groove, oozing swagger and R&B hues into the song. The punchy raps and bubbling rhythm provide a wonderful contrast to the nostalgic, wispy soundscape which the instrumental backdrop provides. Lost Boys have captured summer in a tune and it’s the perfect go to track to just chill and relax to. These guys have got something special, I’m looking forward to hearing more from them.
About the track the band said “We initially started writing the song about that summer feeling where you want to run away to the coast with your friends for a weekend, going camping and just escaping from everyday city life. Although it started off like that it grew into so much more when summer came and no-one was able to do any of those things. We weren’t able to go on spontaneous trips, we weren’t able to leave our room feeling safe and we weren’t able to see our friends and loved ones.It made the song bittersweet as we were experiencing the exact opposite of how we wanted to feel when listening to it.That’s why we decided to delay the release until after summer. It didn’t need to be summer for us to have that summer feeling. It bottled up the exciting, crazy, mad trips we had last year and gave us the chance to experience the feeling in a little way. We want people to listen to this driving in the lashing rain with the windows down – if it makes one person feel like they’re sitting at Lahinch with a can in their hand then it was 100% worth making.”
Hailing from Belfast, the now Liverpool based, Irish songwriter Lucy Gaffney has released her new single ‘Send Me Away’,via Frictionless Music. The track was produced by The Coral’s James Skelly and featuring on the track alongside Lucy is Thom Southern (Electric Guitar, Bass) and Jim Sharrock(Drums).Previously, Lucy was part of Marathon signed band Southern, alongside her brother and consistent collaborator Thom. Her short solo career – with just the one single out so far – has already seen acclaim from the iconic Liam Gallagher (who called her music ‘celestial’), a collaboration with DMA’s and tours with Bill Ryder Jones and She Drew The Gun. Big supporters at radio have come in the form of BBC Radio 1, as well as BBC Introducing Merseyside and BBC Introducing Ulster.
‘Send Me Away’ is a dreamyslice of psychedelic shoegaze as Lucy Gaffney’s delicate vocals drift over an expanding swirling soundscape. The effervescent instrumental backdrop fizzes and swells to create an intoxicating wall of sound. With sweet guitar refrains piercing the thick euphoric bass ripples and driving beat, the track instantly lifts you into an ethereal state of bliss. The melody is saturated in irresistible hooks and syrupy textures. As the song progresses distorted guitars superbly build creating pockets of piercing scintillation through the dazing synths while Gaffney innocently coos over the tense edgy soundscape. Lucy Gaffney is a compelling artist and talented songwriter, showing strong personal musical growth from her days in Southern and MMode. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Lucy Gaffney in the future.
About the track Gaffney explains: “For me the track really encapsulates the dreamy element in the idea of love, getting lost in intoxicating moments and the electric excitement of the unknown. With the recording I wanted to capture the garage band rawness from when I wrote it in the rehearsal studio. There’s an honest naivety to it that fizzes with electric quirks and kinks from start to finish, igniting an in the moment carefree edge.”
Up and coming, unsigned Irish singer-songwriter Jack Joyce has released his new single ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’. Jack first embarked on his music career at the age of sixteen when he began performing and booking gigs in local pubs and clubs. He released his debut demo EP, ‘Get Down’, in October 2018 and spent the summer of 2019 busking through Europe. Following his return he sold out The Vintage Room in the Workman’s Club and the Whale Theatre. He followed this by opening for Cassia in Whelan’s and playing a slot at the New Year’s Festival in Dublin.
Once again Jack Joyce presents another sleek and breezy indie rock number that exudes charm while maintaining the irresistible infectiousness of his previous single ‘56 Roadster’. Boasting warm jaunty guitar, steady drums and a sun kissed soundscape ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’ is a quirky, lyrically witty and upbeat bop. With a balmy smooth melody draped over nimble guitar refrains and elastic bass groove it’s a buoyant gem sure to brighten anyone’s day. In fact, it’s the effortless laid back swagger and light flirtations on guitar that makes this track so enticing. Jack weaves sweet and nimble guitar lines into the songs foundation to create bright moments and zesty stings to delight the listeners ears with. His unique, cheeky vocals ooze character into the song while the irresistible bubbling backdrop makes ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’ quite the ear worm. Showcasing refined tunes, sharp storytelling, and strong musical growth, Jack Joyce is becoming an impressive songwriter. He has limitless talent and ambition, keep an eye on Jack Joyce.
Bio : Following on from her debut release ‘Devices’ that drew attention from Stephen McAuley and Across The Line at BBC Ulster, as well as Dan Hegarty at 2FM, nicha (aka Lucy Robinson) is releasing her new single ‘Little Bird’ Oct 2nd.The song is a call to those who are subject to mental and physical abuse in any relationship. nicha hopes to let her listeners know that you have the strength to make yourself happy, let that be through making a difficult decision in escaping a toxic relationship. nicha hopes to spread hope and awareness to all genders and whoever may be facing both mental and physical abuse. “I feel there is a taboo around talking about domestic abuse, mental and physical. Women are suffering, men are suffering, there are so many victims even in this day and age. We need to raise awareness and remind people to talk more.”
Track: Little Bird
Why We Like It: This emotive track captures nicha’s powerful songwriting through an easy listening yet haunting number. With wisping electronics swirling eerie soundscapes into the jazz-like keys and buoyant guitar melodies the song melds warm soothing tones with biting icy tones to create quite the compelling track. nicha’s soulful velvety vocals comfort while distant wails and ghostly backing vocals chill the song’s atmosphere. This diverse and moving track is a sublime example of the expressive and mature songwriting of nicha.
Bio : Dublin-based singer/songwriter Graham O’Hara has released his second single, ‘If Only’. ‘If Only’ was recorded in Wavefarm Studios under the direction of producer Kevin Brennan. It is the latest release from Graham after his debut single ‘Unless I Say.’ Graham spent the last decade in different bands and projects before going solo a few years ago. He is building up a repertoire of songs to share with the world for when the time comes that gigging is part of normality again in Ireland.
Track: If Only
Why We Like It: It’s a passionate indie number drizzled in blues guitars and dynamic instrumentation. The track’s pulses with suspenseful beats teamed with intricate slick bass grooves. The song is both soothing and empowering with guitar refrains peppering Graham’s deep warm vocals in rock nuances. Exuding an energetic chorus and a refined balance of light soothing tones and uplifting elements, ‘If Only’ is quite the power anthem.
Bio : Alt pop wizards FLING have released their new single ‘Best Friend’, with a video to debut on their YouTube channel on Friday 9th October.This comes after last year’s debut album ‘FLING OR DIE’, the March standalone release ‘Windmill’, and the woozy lockdown single ‘Let’s Stay In’. The boys from Bradford have been acclaimed by the likes of Abbie McCarthy and Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1), Zane Lowe (Beats 1), Steve Lamacq, Gideon Coe and Tom Robinson (6Music).
Track: Best Friend
Why We Like It: It’s a melodic track surging with rich instrumentation. FLING blend raw rock swagger with heartfelt emotion seamlessly to create a wonderful, passionate track. The song begins with soft guitar twinkles, sweet backing vocals coos and nostalgia-filled lyrics. The track builds, becoming more anthemic with shredding guitar embellishments, dynamic drums and lush vocals while the dreamy, nostalgic melody coats the track in sweet tenderness. With warm harmonica blasts and an epic rock n roll crescendo ‘Best Friend’ is another first rate tune from FLING.
Bio :Bedside Manners are a five piece from The Wirral. After releasing their debut EP ‘(I Can Take A While To Heat Up) Please Be Patient’ in 2018, the band gained over 200,000 Spotify streams and multiple plays on BBC Introducing Merseyside & Lancashire. This success was capitalized on in 2019 as they began to sell out shows in the UK. Their second EP, ‘Powers That Be’, released in 2019, gained 10,000 streams on the day of release. Tracks on this EP once again garnered plays from BBC Introducing Merseyside & Lancashire and was featured on Spotify’s ‘Hot New Bands’ and ‘All New Rock’ editorial playlists.
Track: What It Seems
Why We Like It: It’s a swarm of blistering alternative rock as the band spread sharp guitars over a fiery rhythmic backdrop. This feisty assault is laced in gritty riffs and boasts a swaggering sleek guitar display. Punk elements ricochet off an alternate rock backbone while the raw vocals drive the catchy melody forward with vigor and power. ‘What It Seems’ is a fine example of the explosive musicianship of Bedside Manners.
Bio : Emerging from the steamy shadows of their debut single ‘Badlands’, pop-noir duo, Dark Tropics are back with their brand-new single/video, ‘Moroccan Sun’
Track: ‘Moroccan Sun’
Why We Like It: It’s a sweet upbeat gem that meanders around pop and retro 60’s elements. With elegant strings, supple buoyant beats and warm guitar refrains the song wisps and flutters through a dreamy melody caressed by soft vocal coos. This track is a refreshing venture from the duo’s usual dark aesthetic. It’s a climatic timeless track which flows with grace, elegance and charm. With soulful melodies and light indie elements this intricately crafted delight is a refreshing track and fine example of the precise and radiant musicianship of Dark Tropics.
Bitch Falcon have released ‘Martyr’, the 3rd single taken from their forthcoming debut album ‘Staring At Clocks’, set for release 6th November 2020. The band have played with Girl Band, Fontaines DC, Torche, Black Peaks and Pussy Riot.
‘Martyr’ is a decisive onslaught of bittersweet chaos as Bitch Falcon take their grunge sound to a thrilling and haunting dimension. From the relentless bass rumble start, the track wriggles its way into your head grasping your mind with strident razor sharp guitar riffs. The track has a residue of Korn as the sweet pines on guitar contrasts the rumbling rhythmic flow. It’s eerie and ominous with lighter elements flickering beneath the asphyxiating bass assault. As the song builds into its tantalizing chorus the track becomes thick and darkly intoxicating as it oozes distortion and punk elements while the rippling bass coils around the rampant drums to create an airtight wall of sound. Lizzie Fitzpatrick’s mesmerising vocals haunt, bellow and scream over this frantic wall of sound. She is by no means drowned beneath the grungy rock mayhem. Holding her own, she exudes an icy, luring tone for the verses before the vocal shrill entraps the listener within the deep weaving instrumental chaos.
Bitch Falon’s skill to both haunt, chill to the core and blister with intense fury is awe inspiring. They posses the rare ability to capture and express beauty within chaotic musical composition. Their sound is glorious and majestic to say the least.
About the track frontwoman Lizzie Fitzpatrick said: “When writing this song, we wanted to achieve a post-punk vibe to it, but with modern influences. Nigel’s drumming reminds me of Warpaint in this, it has such a bounce to it. I tried to span my vocals from soft to cord ripping, a bid to show the aggression in the song.’
Stream ‘Martyr’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
