All posts by Indie Buddie

Columbia Mills ‘Who Am I Supposed To Talk To Now’

Photo: Derek Kennedy

Columbia Mills have released their new single ‘Who Am I Supposed To Talk To Now’. The release comes after ‘Strange Game'( the first single from their upcoming sophomore album, CCTV) garnered huge radio support here and in the UK including John Kennedy Radio X, Play Irish Artist of the week with Today FM, Dan Hegartys (2FM) Track of The Week and heavy airplay across all national and regional radio stations. 

‘Who Am I Supposed To Talk To Now’ drives relentlessly on an intense thrilling soundscape of pulsing rhythms and earnest synths. Compelling and utterly immersing, the track broods and ferments beneath a flickering 80’s electronic hue that swirls and coils with bewitching charm. Festering guitars lament while the darkened bass-groove wiggles through the buoyant infectious beat. The track has an unsettled quivering atmosphere as the band create a push pull effect where the ethereal guitar moments provide release from the murky sticky electronics. With passionate soft vocals caressing the sweet sombre melody Columbia Mills have created a compelling and enthralling gem to listen to.

Stream ‘Who Am I Supposed To Talk To Now’ below 


Author : Danu

Daniel Furlong ‘Safe’

Wexford 21 year old Irish singer songwriter Daniel Furlong has released his second single ‘Safe’ following his debut single, ‘Spread My Wings’ which opened in the top 20 Irish tracks on iTunes in March this year, hit 20,000 streams and earned him the label “One To Watch” from Spin103.

‘Safe’ blends Daniel Furlong’s warm emotive musicianship with gripping tender instrumentation beautifully to create a comforting, passionate track. With lush string elements, driving soundscapes and rumbling rhythms Furlong builds the track beautifully to its intense and uplifting crescendo. Furlong’s emotive, comforting vocals coo passionately throughout the track as the lyrics tell the story of someone supporting a loved one during their darkest times. It’s a heart-wrenching rush of hope carried through a gripping soundscape of beautiful instrumentation. Another sensational and cinematic track from Daniel Furlong.

Speaking about the track Daniel says, “My inspiration for ‘Safe’ was a desire to combat that feeling of being alone and struggling in a dark place.I think most people can relate to a time when they needed a helping hand and I wanted to write a song that could empower people to reach out, open up and fight their way back.”

Stream ‘Safe’ below 


Author : Danu

Shaky Shack ‘In Honey’

Dublin alternative pop duo Shaky Shack have released their new single ‘In Honey’. The duo comprised of Alex Winter and Mateusz Kosnik have created a wonderfully faceted gem that weaves with mellowed psych pop, shimmering soundscapes and intricate rich depths that take you on a velvety journey into the bottomless pristine pool that is Shaky Shack’s sound.The band create a flickering wave of calm and tranquility as tight guitar elements swirl in subtle fuzz and heady moments of distortion between warm twinkling melodies. Time stops as this track develops. The pulsing almost hip hop beat encases the background in a smoky subconscious reality. A balmy passionate Saxophone melody provided by Andrea Jones brings a pausing glimmer of warmth into the track with a lamenting delicate tone. The intricacies and layering within the track is masterful as the duo weave sweet, melancholic and icy tones into thick rich production with glimmering rays of light thawing the track softly throughout. The deep, moving vocals coo and caress the dreamy melody with a feathery light delicacy while oozing emotion in a laid back hazy manner. There is no denying the sophisticated, passionate and mesmerising talent of this duo as ‘ In Honey’ creates it’s own little pocket in your mind, like a soothing tranquil dream. 

Stream ‘In Honey’ below 


Author : Danu

Bedrooms ‘Chunky’

Bedrooms have released their new single ‘Chunky’. Bedrooms are a 4 piece alternative band from the northside of Dublin, formed in 2019. The band released their debut single ‘Chico’s Bodega’ in June which has since been featured on Dan Hegarty’s 2fm show, as well as being added to the playlist on PlayIrish radio.

A sublime track to follow ‘Chico’s Bodega’ – ‘Chunky’ is a laid back melodic ditty that coasts effortlessly on Bedrooms biting indie rock. There is an effortless flow to this track that creates a lazy mellow atmosphere while the edged backdrop of fuzz guitars and driving rhythm provide that wonderful rough wall of sound to keep your head out of the clouds. The marshmallow melody has a sweet, dreamy quality with a nonchalant vibe as the reverb vocals coo and drift with a sort of aloof casual tone. With witty lyrics, a driving wall of sound and vibrant guitar melodies, – Bedrooms have created a sun speckled, charming alternative track. The band are developing and establishing their sound and each release is a heartfelt and delightful glimpse into their growth and exciting creation of their brand of alternative indie. I’m looking forward to seeing how these guys cultivate their sound further.  

Watch the video for ‘Chunky’ below 


Author : Danu

Freeda ‘Wash’

Manchester indie rock five piece Freeda have released their new single ‘Wash’, the third single to be taken from the bands upcoming EP which is set to be released at the start of next year. Their first two singles ‘Plug It In’ and ‘Go Home’ received airplay on Amazing Radio and BBC Introducing. At the start of 2019 Freeda released two singles ‘Replay’ and ‘Plead’, both of these received extensive backing from XS Manchester and continued support from Amazing Radio and BBC Introducing. Freeda have their largest headline show coming up at Deaf Institute on the 23rd November.

‘Wash’ is a swirling electrifying gem that seeps, oozes and bleeds Freeda’s sublime, mature and invigorating musicianship. From that twinkling reverb intro it’s apparent these guys can take a delicious melody and explode it into their thrilling wall of sound without drowning it out. There is a sugar cane 50’s element to the melody but the five piece make it current, youthful and timeless all at once. Whipping exhilarating synths into the mix this track grabs your heart firmly with its riveting soundscape. The jangly sting on guitars glisten while the punchy drums shake things up creating a sublime bubbly texture to this effervescent number. It’s a sensational, perfectly crafted track that rockets Freeda into their most compelling sound to date. Their knack with melodies, instrumental prowess and utterly passionate musicianship is the reason these guys have a bright future. 

About the track the band said : ‘‘Wash’ is a song that plays with the idea of two people letting themselves drift apart as they realise neither person was who the other thought. Although animosity shines through at first, the protagonist soon deals with emotions of moving on, implying that rising above may be the better option.”

 Stream ‘Wash’ below 


Author : Danu

Chiefgroover & Co ‘Sunset’ Album

Classic rock outfit Chiefgroover & Co have released their debut album ‘Sunset’. This is their 2nd release of the year, preceded by the single ‘Shooting Star’, released in June. Written between 2012-2019, ‘Each song tells a story, from a poignant chapter in Chiefgroover’s life.

‘Sunset’ is a powerful classic rock album laced with passion, air guitar worthy moments and raw shredding musicianship. It’s easy to get carried away with this collection of tracks. The first half of the album from ‘Free’, ‘Oh Wild One’ right through to ‘Her Master Plan’ showcases the emotive melodies and wonderful songwriting of Chiefgroover & Co. With punchy drums, slick guitars and that straight up raw rock ‘n’ roll wall of sound it’s a feel good collection of tracks sure to give you a spring in your step and make you ready for whatever the day will bring. ‘Where Are You Now’ takes the brooding ballad stance on the album. With delicate vocals, twinkling guitar and steady beat the track lulls it’s lamenting way into your mind with a soothing sombre yet comforting tone. ‘Sunshine’ is exactly as it’s title says , sunny and filled with a vibrant fun atmosphere. Blistering guitar injections split the sweltering rock soundscape with finesse and sharp stings while the warm sing-along melody keeps the track replaying in your head. ‘The Survivor’ is a more gritty track on the album. With an 80’s power anthem vibe Chiefgroover & Co create a wild and demanding tune brimming with harsh jagged riffs and raw Def Leppard -esque influence. The vocals throughout the album are powerful, emotive and filled with intense earnestness while creating velvety tones and raspy hues. The tender ‘Anna’s Song’ and steamy instrumental ‘How Life Goes In’ bring the album to a close. Both tracks surge with Chiefgroover & Co’s passionate musicianship and intricate guitar work, especially in ‘How Life Goes In’. Amidst lamenting vaporous guitar pines and shrills it’s a dramatic and breathtaking close to the album.

‘Sunset’ is a heartfelt weighty collection of tracks as Chiefgroover & Co weave wonderful instrumental intricacies into the tunes to create an 80’s rock-infused album with wholesome passion and rich musicianship.

Stream ‘Sunset’ album below 


Author : Danu

Greywind ‘Desolate’

Greywind have released their new single ‘Desolate’. Greywind are a two-piece alternative rock band from Killarney in Ireland formed by siblings Steph and Paul O’Sullivan. In their first 35 shows as a band they have already played some of the biggest festivals in Europe, including Reading and Leeds, Isle of Wight, Download, Rock Am Ring and have supported the likes of You Me At Six and Thrice. Their debut album ‘Afterthoughts’ was recorded in Texas with Grammy-Winning producer Jason Perry and has achieved huge critical acclaim from the likes Zane Lowe, Kerrang!, Rocksound, MTV. The album was released through Universal Music and charted in the Top 10 of the Official UK Rock Chart.

‘Desolate’ is a prime example of Greywind’s passionate full bodied alternative rock. Wisped up in a heartfelt melody the track travels upon a bed of rich, vibrant and wholesome musicianship as Steph’s warm and emotive vocals coo and powerfully express the striking lyrics with a soothing and dynamic tone. As with every stunning Greywind track ‘Desolate’ drifts beautifully on a heavy backdrop of thumping drums and sublime crashing guitar work. This track broods majestically into its explosive cinematic chorus that is ready for arena sing-alongs. The twinkling components exude a sweet innocence while the subtle fuzz and ethereal guitar elements build the track to its most epic and adrenaline-inducing crescendo. ‘Desolate’ is an enthralling, powerful display from Greywind.

Watch the stunning video filmed in Kerry by director George Maguire below 


Author : Danu

Something Leather ‘Lullaby’

Something Leather have shared their new single, ‘Lullaby ’released via We Can Do It Records. The band have been hailed as one of the most exciting bands on the Brighton music scene.The band have announced an exclusive ‘Lullaby’ vinyl package in association with Flying Vinyl, which will feature the new single and their highly acclaimed previous single ‘Velvet’ released earlier this year.Something Leather have recently supported a multitude of upcoming bands including the likes of Black Midi, Calva Louise, Valeras, Phobophobes, Madonnatron,Saint Agnes and JOHN, gaining a significant buzz since the release of their debut single ‘Shotgun Persona’.

‘Lullaby’ is a chilling psychedelic entrapment of retro steamed alternative rock as Something Leather create an eerie, creeping soundscape filled with perilous bliss. Eerie organ jingles seep into the track with ghostly terror. A driving bass lurks in the background slithering through a wiggle-inducing progression while the 70’s hued shimmy beat adds that dance-able light quality. The sultry vocals coo and seduce with a wispy vaporous quality through the ominous soundscape as the sharp guitars wriggle with a tightening claustrophobic grip. It’s a sublime haunting number that is utterly infectious and sure to have you hooked on Something Leather’s unique bewitching sound. 

About the track the band said : “Lullaby’ is the sweet temptation of dwelling in the past instead of moving on, the comforting call to press pause or rewind when it’s actually necessary to go ahead, There’s calm and stillness as well as action and urgency all side by side–replicated in the song itself. Can we actually break free from a lullaby’s spell?You tell us..”

Stream ‘Lullaby’ below 


Author : Danu

Rain ‘Forget The World’ EP

Rain have released their new EP ‘Forget The World’. The band which is a three piece from Sunderland in the north east of England is comprised of lead singer and guitarist Patrick Ashurst, Alex Liddle on bass and Ben Mitchell on drums and backing vocals.

‘Forget The World’ is a snug collection of tracks as Rain delve deep into their melodic indie. The band are fleshing out their sound by refining and beautifully building on their debut EP ‘VOLUME 1’. From the driving bass line in ‘The Only One’ to the punchy drum progression in ‘Pyros’ and warm guitar jingle in ‘Goodbye x’ the band chisel there sound into a sleek and effortless swaggering soundscape. The melodies flurry from 60’s Beatles- esque tones to early Arctic Monkeys elements while maintaining the bands own charm and sparkle. The groovy guitars saunter throughout the EP with silky licks and intricate riffs creating a glistening light texture and zesty quality to each track without becoming overpowering. The band don’t overload their tracks with excessive layering, they use their instruments precisely where needed to create a clean and tuneful wall of sound. ‘Forget The World’ is the radiant upbeat ditty that is sure to spark sing-alongs in a live setting while a Fluorescent Adolescent -esque guitar refrain in ‘Thank You’ carries its predecessors upbeat vibe with a more tender melody before the melancholic longing ‘Goodbye x’ plays out the EP.

There is passion and warmth throughout ‘Forget The World’ as Rain nourish the listeners ears with their well blended tunes and rich musicianship. Each track is lovable and infectious in its own right. Rain are blossoming and shaping their indie into something compelling, exciting and vibrant.

Stream ‘Forget The World’ EP below


Author : Danu

Y!KES ‘Hold On To Your Grudge’

Birmingham alternative rock band Y!KES have released the video for their new single ‘Hold On To Your Grudge’. The single is one of four tracks from the bands debut EP coming in January 2020.

‘Hold On To Your Grudge’ continues Y!KES stride of relentless scorching alternative rock with a dark haunting twist. The band present their buoyant hyper sound with an eerie undertone of perilous danger expressed superbly through the howling gravel of new vocalist Oli Long, who joined the band last month. With shredding licks and slinky shrills on guitar accompanied by funky synths the band flesh out their swagger-dipped musicianship with ease. These guys have a knack for creating exciting tracks filled with hyperactive instrumentation, fuzzy riffs and thrilling bass lines and ‘Hold On To Your Grudge’ follows this trend beautifully.

The video is a spooky tale of a rogue vampire terrorising the band as he runs rampant sucking their blood and turning them into a wicked vampire band. With capes, dramatic makeup, a quirky Halloween vibe and garlic bread incident its worth checking out. 

Watch the video for ‘Hold On To Your Grudge’ below 


Author : Danu