Tag Archives: New Music

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Elina Filice Has Released The Music Video for ‘Thinking of You’

Singer-songwriter Elina Filice has released the music video for her most successful single yet, ’Thinking of You’ which has over 215k streams on Spotify.The video features several distinct locations in Toronto as well as vibrant colours, quick cuts, and creative camera work by Toronto-based filmmaker Phil Kim. The video is co-starred by Ally Cantalini. Born to Canadian parents, Elina spent her formative years in Singapore before moving to Canada to attend University. In September 2017 she moved to Dublin to pursue music more seriously, and completed two diplomas at BIMM Dublin. She has released an EP and several singles, and has gigged extensively both on her own and with her band, the Kicks. She founded Red Vine Music, a coaching and consulting service that helps artists and creative businesses with digital marketing, social media, and content strategies.

’Thinking of You’ is a cool slice of indie pop doused in hip hop elements as Elina Filice takes the listener down a lyrical rabbit hole of thought- provoking content. Her vocal delivery is similar to a scribbling of thoughts on paper or stream of consciousness. The jaunty mellow backdrop creates a chilled easy listening accompaniment while a zesty, funk-filled guitar radiates a sun kissed hue over the buoyant beat and jazz infused piano refrains. With sweet backing vocal coos, infectious vibrant chorus and intriguing storytelling, ‘Thinking of You’ marks Elina Filice as an artist to keep an eye on.

The video follows Elina on an adventure from Kensington Market, to the Island Ferry, to Toronto Island, and then finally back home to the bedroom.

About the track Elina says, “The song discusses themes of movement, travel, and adventure, so I wanted to capture that by shooting different scenes across the city.The song is verbose, rambling, and nostalgic, with thoughts and memories swirling and haunting. I wanted to capture that with the scenes cutting forward and back in time. I want viewers to wonder if the scenes with Ally are happening in real time or if they’re memories and flashbacks, and the journey is really happening alone.The video is pretty gay. It’s a little nerve-wracking to be this gay on camera, but… this is my life, this is my friends’ lives. Queer visibility is important, and as a creator, honest content like this is my way of fighting to normalize queerness and queer love. I think it’s important to recognize that feeling safe enough to be openly out, let alone shooting a music video like this, isn’t possible for a lot of queer people around the world.Queerness, especially between women, is usually blatantly oversexuallized, so I wanted the scenes between myself and Ally to be intimate and loving, and not at all sexual. There’s enough of that on the internet.”

Watch the video for ‘Thinking of You’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

TOYGIRL ‘Poison’

Dublin-based five-piece TOYGIRL are back with their third single out to date, ‘Poison’.Comprising Cork natives Aran Hopkinson (Bass), Ciaran Whelband (Guitar), Fiachra O’Mahony (Guitar), and Cian O’Leary Hegarty (Drums), and British / French lead singer Hannah Worrall the band have already notched up over 250K streams on Spotify and have been firmly established on the Irish music circuit, TOYGIRL is ready to extend their reach across international borders.

With layered ethereal synths shimmering over a rhythmic soundscape, ‘Poison’ ripples with the mesmerising musicianship of TOYGIRL. The majestic soundscapes fill the crevices of your mind with soft caresses while haunting whispered backing vocals lull in the backdrop creating a tranquil atmosphere for the listener to indulge in while the rich intricate drums build the tense and darker undertone.

TOYGIRL craft and layer their songs superbly so each listen reveals a new sound or hidden sonic delight which makes every replay just as compelling as the first. Chiming guitars delicately meander through the song’s vast pool of musical intricacies. Only for Hannah Worrall’s vocals (which exude passion, soul and rich tones) it would be easy for the listener to become lost within the track. Her sultry coos anchor and guide the listener through the tracks abyssal depths.The song builds in the later half. The intoxicating synths and bass intensify as the dark and sinister undertone bares its teeth and becomes more apparent.

‘Poison’ is an excellent display of the refined and immaculate musicianship of TOYGIRL. With each release TOYGIRL display musical prowess well beyond their years. Their music evokes a myriad of emotions and stimulates every sensory factor of the listeners imagination. ‘Poison’ is a joy to listen to again and again and again…

About the track Hannah Worrall said : “For me, this song is about deep infatuation, platonic, or romantic.The feeling that someone has accepted your purest form and loves you unconditionally. It’s one of the first songs that I wrote where my words felt transparent and straightforward, in some ways that makes me feel more vulnerable but also more connected to the song ” 

Stream ‘Poison’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Graham Mitchell ‘I Don’t Have To’

Graham Mitchell photographed by Zyanya Lorenzo

Graham Mitchell has released his new single ‘I Don’t Have To’. Graham Mitchell is a singer songwriter from the town of Raheny on the Northside of Dublin. Having cut his teeth live on the local pub and club circuit, he recently finished up solo shows with major Irish artists like Damien Dempsey alongside two sold out shows last year in Whelan’s and the Workman’s Club. 

‘I Don’t Have To’ is a catchy ditty, laced in Mitchell’s hearty songwriting and infectious indie rock. With jaunty guitar refrains, cheeky lyrics and buoyant rhythmic section the track will have your foot tapping in no time. Mitchell’s warm vocals melt upon the vibrant melody creating that fun energetic summertime atmosphere. The sheer sing-along upbeat tempo and shredding guitar moments make this track instantly likeable and light hearted. Graham Mitchell is growing his sound and refining his lyrical content superbly. Looking forward to hearing more from this up and coming artist.

Stream ‘I Don’t Have To’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, New Music

Dagny ‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’

Norwegian singer Dagny has released her new single ‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’.The single is the first taste of the second half of her long awaited debut album Strangers / Lovers set for release October 2nd via Little Daggers Records.Showcasing her growth as an artist and her focused creative vision, the album – divided into distinct halves, tracks the journey of a relationship. The first half documenting the blossoming early stages of a new love, and the second – examining the fall out of that relationship.Following the release of Side A of Strangers / Lovers in May earlier this year, its two lead singles “Come Over” and “Somebody” undoubtedly proved Dagny is in the songwriting form of her life. “Come Over” spent 3 weeks at the top of the Norwegian radio-airplay charts, and “Somebody”, having already amassed over 14 million streams, was a mainstay in the Norwegian Top 10 on Spotify upon its release, and also hit the top 5 on the Norwegian radio-airplay charts.

‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’ is a snappy electronic/pop bop as Dagny spreads skittish beats over lavish synth flourishes to provide a tantalizing listening experience. The buoyant beat bubbles between soft twinkling on keys and wispy soundscapes creating an ethereal burst of adrenaline while the pulsing percussion provides a danceable foundation. Dagny’s sweet emotive vocals melt over the bittersweet pop melody while the lush harmonies and upbeat backdrop surge with the effortless charm of Dagny’s sound. This effervescent track is a positive and infectious medium for the conversational lyrics which see Dagny reflecting on her own emotions post-breakup – and telling herself she can get through this: “Most days I wake up I’m okay / I’m doing my own thing, I don’t have a moment to think about you / Most days I’m up on a high wave, And I’m just like urgh, It’s only a heartbreak, I got to get through you”.

‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’ is another shimmering, richly crafted gem from Dagny. Looking forward to the release of her debut album in October.

Speaking on the new single release, Dagny commented: “It’s Only A Heartbreak is actually partly inspired by the classic movie “Casablanca” from 1942, and Humphrey Bogart’s famous quote: “Here’s looking at you, kid”. Like the movie, the song is about knowing that you will never get someone back, but you can secretly still look at, and admire, that certain someone. The song carries a nonchalant expression, but the undertone makes it pretty obvious that you’re not over that person yet.”

Stream ‘It’s Only A Heartbreak’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

NÍV ‘Moonlight’

Kildare singer/songwriter NÍV has released her latest single ‘Moonlight’. The single is the newest official release from the solo singer/songwriter. It was recorded and produced in Maynooth by 93 Acres. NÍV is the alias of Irish singer songwriter Niamh Murray who hails from Kildare. She launched her solo career as NÍV earlier this year and has already gained many achievements. In March, Nív sold out her first Single Launch in The Workman’s Club for her single “Silly Voices’ she was also added to RTE Radio 1’s Recommends List and has been shortlisted for Four Star Pizza’s Star Nation Competition as a Leinster Provincial Winner.

‘Moonlight’ is a magical number as NÍV sets her vivid songwriting to delicate earthy musicianship. With elegant piano twinkling through ethereal soundscapes the track has a graceful and romantic tone. The warm strings lament through the track while Murray’s pristine vocals coo and soothe over the nostalgic dreamy melody. With lush harmonies and heart-pulsing suspense provided on cello the track blossoms into a beautiful emotive arrangement. Without any drums or rhythm section NÍV is able to keep the track within a dreamy state allowing the mystical tones create a serene atmosphere. ‘Moonlight’ is a charming track exuding traditional elements wrapped in emotive songwriting and delicate soundscapes.

Stream ‘Moonlight’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Garage Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

TV People ‘Nothing More’

Rising Dublin quartet TV People have released their third single of 2020, ‘Nothing More’ and its accompanying video directed by Robert Clarke. Mixed and recorded at Darklands Audio with Dan Doherty (Fontaines D.C., Vulpynes) and mastered at Abbey Road Studios by Christian Wright (Radiohead, Blur, LCD Soundsystem), ‘Nothing More’ sees the band come to terms with identity and the struggle of finding a purpose in life.Hailing from the heart of Ireland’s capital, TV People are a Dublin four-piece who lace their indie/garage rock sound with punk-infused undertones.

Doused in moody tones of garage rock ‘Nothing More’ sees TV People take a more delicate approach to their sound. Structured and driven by a rooted bass rumble, the tracks underbelly is dark and sinister as the deep almost nonchalant vocals mirror the immersive melancholy of the bass. However the sweet lament on guitar is the light in the darkness – radiating a pure ray of hope as it chimes and twinkles through the depressive soundscape.The band’s attention to detail has always been a compelling aspect of their sound and again they do not disappoint; TV People’s slow paced and deliberate approach to this track stops time. The steady beat ties all the airy, raw and emotive components together within a loose veneer of indie rock allowing the bass and guitar to flourish underneath as the track builds gradually becoming more dramatic and intense before settling on a beautiful guitar refrain for the outro. Displaying lyrical depth, maturity and deft musicianship ‘Nothing More’ marks a significant moment in TV People’s sound and strong musical growth.

Speaking about the single, the band explain: “It reflects on the superficial challenges of finding yourself that you face in adolescence and early adulthood, and contrasts these with a deeper existential anxiety that emerges in their place as you begin to overcome them.The song documents the experience of trying to make peace with the realisation that life may be inherently meaningless and deal with the burden of being responsible for your own life’s purpose. It was written remotely during the lockdown period by sending each other music and mixing a home demo which was a new way of writing for us.”

Watch the video for ‘Nothing More’ below 


Author : Danu

Album Review, Alt Rock, Blues, Blues Rock, New Music

Greg Davies ‘Greg Davies Isolated’ Album

Greg Davies has released his latest album ‘Greg Davies Isolated’.Greg Davies saw the perfect opportunity to use his lockdown to create the album he has always wanted to release. The idea formed from a need to invite the best musicians associated with Greg himself and join him on a guitar driven, instrumental ride.Greg Davies is a rock musician based outside of Manchester UK. Greg has been playing the guitar since the age of 12 and has been performing on the UK music scene for over 20 years. Having played in a series of bands as well as doing regular session work across the UK and Europe, Greg Davies recently released an EP ‘A Different Order’ with the band ‘Elements’ which has been successful on UK rock charts. In the last 10 years Greg Davies has performed alongside some of the best guitarists & musicians the UK has to offer including Guthrie Govan, Andy James and Alex Hutchings. As well as his work as a recording artist and performer Greg Davies is a well respected music teacher and music therapist who runs a business called ‘Access Music’.

‘Greg Davies Isolated’ is a shredding guitar driven instrumental album which showcases the slick, nimble and bewitching guitar prowess of Greg Davies. Seamlessly slipping from gritty blues to funk, rock, country and even metal the album exudes swagger and energy. Pulling in some collaborators along the way it’s quite the thrill ride. The more country tangs of ‘The Birds’ Morning Sunrise’ adds a laid back smooth quality to the album while the blistering rock and blues tracks show how much of a guitar virtuoso Davies is. There is something for everyone here from the heavier metal hues between country rock twangs on ‘A Shackled Mind’, chilled atmospheric ‘Stillness’ and blazing blues between jazzy keys on ‘Get Me Out (Lockdown Blues)’ Davies provides a tantalizing, meaty album full of instrumental goodness. 

Stream ‘Greg Davies Isolated’ below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Diamonds in the Dark Self-Titled Debut EP

Diamonds in the Dark have released their debut self-titled EP which was recorded between Liverpool’s Motor Museum studio by producer Loic Gaillard and 2flystudios in Sheffield with former Arctic Monkey’s producer Alan Smyth.Diamonds in the Dark have grown from a two-man songwriting project to a six-man energetic live act. Already gaining recognition from UK radio, the Merseyside band have been championed by Dave Monks on his BBC Introducing show. Dedicated to this release, Diamonds in the Dark spent a year perfecting their music and recording in different locations surrounding a live gig schedule.

A full bodied, cohesive body of work – ‘Diamonds in the Dark’ EP is a whirlwind journey through multiple genres and refined songwriting. Through five tracks the band explore themes of detachment, surrealism and romance within a number of styles including alt-rock, dream pop, psychedelia and 80s synth driven music. Shredding guitars, brawny drums and beefy bass grooves create the bands alternative rock assault with the aid of epic builds and punchy moments in ‘Getaway’ and ‘Bliss’. The blending of genres makes the EP fresh and engaging as each track holds its own character with powerful vocals and catchy melodies creating that earworm hook throughout each song. The contrasting 80’s synth driven ‘Humble Remarks’ gives a danceable disco vibe to the EP while the indie pop swoon of ‘Berlin’ wisps the tone of the EP into a romantic nostalgic daze. With twinkling guitars, steady beat and melancholic melody this track is quite the bittersweet gem. The band bring the EP to a close with ‘I Love The Way’. This dream-pop, indie-infused number is an emotional power ballad set to an ethereal backdrop with twinkling piano, 60’s – esque vibes and lush harmonies – it’s a sublime end to an eclectic EP.

Diamonds in the Dark present a powerful EP brimming with emotive tunes and sublime musicianship. Looking forward to hearing more from them.

Stream ‘Diamonds in the Dark’ EP below

https://ditto.fm/diamonds-in-the-dark


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

POLAR STATES ‘Sellotape The Skies’

Liverpool’s POLAR STATES have released their new single ‘Sellotape The Skies’. This is the bands second single recorded remotely during lockdown, working from their bedrooms, following, ‘2020’ which was championed by Huw Stephens and featured on Spotify’s Hot New Bands and Fresh Finds (Global). Since their formation the band have had strong support from Radio 1 including a feature on the best of BBC introducing playlist, entered Spotify’s Viral 50 Chart, and have played a number of major UK festivals, supporting Wolf Alice, The Japanese House, and Clean Cut Kid.

‘Sellotape The Skies’ is ethereal, anthemic and surging with gripping indie vibes. With raw biting guitars rushing through an intense sonic build the track erupts with kinetic adrenaline and invigorating indie rock. The soaring guitars flourish and ricochet off the buoyant punchy drums while the rooted bass lines create that hip coaxing groove.These guys always pack oodles of passion and youthful energy into their tracks and they have out done themselves with this new release. Exuding a catchy uplifting melody and smooth emotive vocals ‘Sellotape The Skies’ has that blood rushing state of suspense that is sure to spark something within the listener. The band build tension superbly through the verses before the powerful anthemic chorus bursts with jubilation of epic proportions. Robust and packing a hefty punch ‘Sellotape The Skies’ is a joy to listen too.

On the song and the experience of recording remotely, vocalist Paul Tong commented: “When I was a kid, I used to think Sellotape could fix anything. It even held my BMX together at one point, till someone stole it. I guess when you don’t really understand a problem, you think it can be fixed so easily. ‘Sellotape The Skies’ is like my way of going back to that simplicity.I wrote it at 3am in my bedroom in a bit of a hazy state. I woke up the next day and was like, ‘where did that song come from?’ It didn’t have a chorus for a while, and was more just like a big poem. It sat around unfinished for months, but we went back to it during lockdown and recorded remotely from our bedrooms. It’s weird releasing a song that we’ve never actually played together from start to finish. The lads were like, ‘we’re gonna get sued for this title’, but then we figured The Kinks sung about Coca Cola and they got away with it. “

Stream ‘Sellotape The Skies’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, EP Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music

The Flies ‘Looser’ EP

Roscommon Rock and Roll Teens The Flies have released their sophomore EP ‘Looser’. The band have been playing together for three years, starting off playing shows in local schools and at small festivals as well as playing headline shows in Sligo and Carrick-on-Shannon in the period before the Covid 19 pandemic.Last year the band released their debut EP – ‘Catch Up To You’ which received radio play including national radio play on RTE 2FM after it’s release The Flies played shows including a show in Dublin supporting the inimitable Jinx Lennon and their final gig before the lockdown hit was a support slot with The Stunning.

‘Looser’ is an EP laced in shredding instrumentation as The Flies develop their sound through some pretty slick tunes. The band use punchy drums, blistering guitars and groove layered bass lines to whisk their sound into an adrenaline shot of exhilarating alternative rock. ‘Back Pocket’ and ‘Director’s Cut’ blast through brawny sonic soundscapes with slinky frills on guitar and drums which provide a glimmer of the bands own character and musical prowess however it is in ‘Fool’ where The Flies show the most promise. With a blazing solo, lighter indie sound and lamenting tone bursting through robust instrumentation, the track surges with emotion, passion and earnest songwriting. Oozing a swaggered confidence and rock n roll tone the quartet set the EP up to impress. There is no shortage of catchy melodies and hooks within this band’s music and their tight wall of sound is impressive. The rapid punch of ‘Council House’ brings the EP to a close with early Arctic Monkeys vibes and a crowd friendly sing along “da da da” lyric that is just too infectious to resist. 

‘Looser’ is an energetic EP with thrilling surprises within each song. Whether its a sharp guitar flourish, elastic bass wriggle or ground shaking drum rumble the band keep each track interesting while balancing the right amount of heavy rock and engaging indie. The Flies present a fun vibrant sound sure to get anyone up and dancing. A solid second EP from this promising band. 

Stream ‘Looser’ below 


Author : Danu