King Kartel are an Indie Rock’n’roll band from Newry Co. Down and are based in Manchester. The band have released their new single ‘Brown Sugar’from their upcoming EP ‘Fault By Design’. This stomping blistering number flexes, struts and sprawls in slick rock n roll bravado. Its driven by a catchy melody, jangly keys and a thumping punchy rhythm. This is one hell of a steamy belter filled with scorching sleek instrumentation and a hefty mosh ready chorus. It is one for the mania of a sticky mosh pit. The smooth melody glissades upon the brawny backdrop with elegance and class, ready for mass sing alongs while the fiery guitar strides take on a sultry persona of their own strutting, flamboyantly boasting and elegantly sweeping across the track with a red hot fearless demeanor while the rooted elastic bass and punchy drums add a beefy foundation for the guitars to flourish off. It’s catchy and melodically luscious with enough vaporous sleekness to grab attention and wrestle your ears into blissful submission.
LOVR is the solo project of Irish songwriter/producer Brendan McGlynn who has now released his new EP ‘Surf’s Up’. After his involvement in a number of successful Irish bands, he began this solo venture. LOVR combines rich pop melodies, 80s soft synths, layered guitars and vocal harmonies to create his sound. ‘Surf’s Up’ is the second EP from LOVR
‘Surf’s Up’ is a luscious, heavenly sweet collection of tracks that soothe the soul in a blanket of dreamy cosy soundscapes. Rushing with breezy freedom inducing synths and nostalgic honey drizzled melodies each track flows with a subtle adrenaline rush and blissful euphoric vibes. Pristine production and crisp textures evokes every emotion in the listener with flickering immaculate sea side images of euphoria. ‘Instructions For Surfing’ kicks all this off with McGlynn lamenting over warm keys and the calming sound of waves. His knack with delicate melodies becomes instantly apparent as he gently coos a sweet nostalgic melody with an 80’s pop undertone. The pace of this track is magnificent, it slowly burns with a glistening glow filled with soothing wholesomeness as McGlynn’s soulful vocals hit you right in the chest. The magical charming tunes continue with ‘Surf’s Up’ as a soft spongy beat accompanies chiming keys and lush dreamy vocals. These are tunes to fall in love with, they are filled with tender tones, heavenly sugar sweet melodies and sublime dreamy soundscapes that wisp about caressing your ears with ethereal graceful bliss. ‘Song Of The Sea’ adds a hint of vibrancy to the EP. With choir like backing vocals layered over a jungle like beat, cinematic soundscapes and instant gush of adrenaline. It’s the kind of track that evokes picturesque images like it should be in a Disney movie as the main character runs to the freedom or joy they have always craved for. This is the most gripping and vivid track on the EP. It is pretty intense and flawless. Each track lays you on a light fluffy cloud of tranquilising soundscapes floating about soft synths and sublime harmonies over delicious pop goodness to create a unique yet consoling familiarity. The time stopping ‘Survive, Hold On, All You, Need Is, Time’ and the elegant closing track ‘Movin’ To LA’ are prime examples of this. With a glistening lamenting guitar feature gracing the latter with an angelic embellishment like a dream just out of reach pulling at your heartstrings while calming synths drift about the fragile melody -it’s the perfect sweet end to a beautiful EP.
‘Surf’s Up’ is an EP to cherish. Its bitter sweet delicacy is one to be admired as McGlynn finely blends sweet mesmerising melodies to create a wholly enthralling and exquisite listening experience.
When asked about the EP McGlynn said “I made this EP about surfing because I don’t surf, but I wanted to. I was drawn to the lifestyle surrounding surfers, their freedom and connection with nature. So I thought if I write about it then I’d have to go experience it and learn about it, so that’s what i did. This is why making music is so powerful. You can take one thing you love and use it to enable you to experience things you never have before.It’s the perfect catalyst.”
Miles Kane is releasing his new album ‘Coup De Grace’ next month and has shared another tantalizing track from it. With Lana Del Ray and Jamie T featured on previous track ‘Loaded’ the new track ‘Too Little Too Late’ gives Jamie T another whirl. This blazing inferno blasts attitude-soaked punk with Kane’s suave rock and roll finely blended throughout. Strident guitar stings, elastic rumble on bass and rooted punchy drum whacks create the fierce backdrop for Kane’s dynamic, spirited yet effortlessly panache-soaked vocals. Gliding on passionate hot-blooded rush to the head rock and roll this track stomps in and steam rolls over all your wild expectations. The verse spits fiery attitude at neck snapping speeds while the infectious chorus cruises in, smooth velvety and effortlessly cool and that rooted ductile bass bridge is just riveting. The melodies are divine as they seep honey sweet lushness to smoothen the harsh frenzied backdrop. Kane has presented us with some exciting, thrilling and stimulating aperitifs to his upcoming ‘Coup De Grace’ album keeping us enthralled and eager as to what glorious tunes will grace our ears in August. All the tracks released so far have been breathtaking. The suspense for the album is killing me.
German trio Mushroom People have released their new single ‘La La La La Lie’. With their last song ‘LOWWS’, Mushroom People, which is made up of two producers and a vocalist attracted a lot of international attention and made it to #1 on the Hype Machine charts. ‘La La La La Lie’ is a heavy trudging electronic number that slithers in on chilled darkly coated verses of thick bulky drum beats and sticky claustrophobic electronics. The track slaps and crawls through the brooding viscous stuffy soundscapes before it explodes for a dynamic release for the catchy chorus. Steamy guitar solos break up the clammy atmosphere with its zesty sting and sultry licks while a mixture of reggae-ton beats and pan flute injections freshen up this captivating tightly weaved gem. The soulful and passionate vocals are the icing on the cake they exude swagger, charm and emotion all in one swoon inducing effortless swipe. Mushroom People are ones to watch out for ‘La La La La Lie’ is one slick glossy number that will seep its way comfortably into your brain.
Los Angeles based, surf pop trio, Bikini Trill have released their new EP, ‘Wassup, We Good?’. The band combine trap / hip-hop beats, surf guitar and bass, with powerful pop vocals to create a fresh sound and feel-good vibe. This female-fronted group draw inspiration from a variety of genres including punk, reggae, and hip-hop. Formed in 2016 by vocalist Frex (Lauren Johnson), bassist Kourosh Poursalehi, and guitarist Tony Stern, Bikini Trill is a nod to the various musicians and genres from which they draw inspiration- combining the Riot Grrrl punk mentality of Bikini Kill with current urban and trap influences. Currently, the band is celebrating their second mini tour at SXSW in Austin, Texas and are gearing up to tour with Coast Modern and Mikey Mike- playing the House of Blues San Diego, The Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix, Arizona, and The Troubadour in West Hollywood, California.
‘Wassup, We Good?’ is a blissfully melodic collection of tracks that fill your soul with golden luminosity, laid back vibes and euphoric mellowness with an underlying punchy kick to add a bit of spice. Each track fluidly flows into the next from the trippy ‘Napster and Acid (INTRO)’ right through to the seductively slinky ‘Wassup, We Good? (OUTRO)’– Bikini Trill sandwich in a sweet collection of velvety smooth raspberry ripple tunes to have your mind in a sedative state of creamy groove filled bliss. ‘Chapo Howl’ firmly envelopes you in Bikini Trill’s swirling exhilarating world as vibrant guitars meander through captivating vocals while a subtle drift of sweet psychedelic hued soundscapes wisp like a refreshing breeze over the sugary pop melody. The tracks are addictive and radiate sunny, easy going vibes ‘Smoke A Jay and Watch Yourself Dance’ adds a body moving bouncy rhythm into the mix coaxing your body to sway and bop along while ‘Need Me’ throws in a dash of gritty guitar jingles. Johnson’s vocals are simply captivating and nectarous as she floods each track with a honey steeped sprinkling of sweetness that is delicious to the ears and when teamed with the catchy mouth-watering pop melodies it’s a deadly concoction that leaves you craving more. Bikini Trill manage to balance and blend this sugar rush with some hip-hop beats and biting guitars to add a healthy dose of edge and gritty texture to the tunes. ‘KUT U UP (INTERLUDE)’ and ‘Scarlet’ stride in on a cool swagger driven reggae-esque beat and rich weaving soundscapes that add some attitude and bite while the glistening guitar moments elevate and give a vivid golden lustre to the tracks. The lyrics are honest and rugged and don’t gloss over the themes whereas the instrumental backdrop covers the lyrics with a hazy dreamy camouflage. In ‘2:25 am’ Johnson’s vocals really hypnotise as she coos and sweetly pines through a sticky beat and lamenting soundscapes- its quite touching and beautiful and the perfect lead in to the closing track ‘Wassup, We Good? (OUTRO)’, a spaghetti western -esque ditty filled with psychedelic tones and desert like vibes.
‘Wassup, We Good?’ is an absorbing collection of tracks perfect for sweltering hot days as the sun glares and distorts your view allowing Bikini Trill to create sublime delusions with scorching guitars and gloopy beats between luscious melodies and captivating vocals.
Citylightz are a west Midlands based 5 piece with a 90s attitude blending indie and rap to create a unique take on modern music. The band comprised of members Matthew Barnett (Vocals), Luke Henry (Vocals/Guitar/Bass), Adam Bolger (Guitar), Tom churm (Drums) and James Skidmore (Bass) have released their debut single ‘Don’t Know Me’. It’s a shredding, slick debut that strides in on steamy sleek guitar lines, punchy drums and vibrant bass grooves to create a chilled effortlessly cool number that packs a serious amount of gusto. It’s a compact tune that takes its time gradually layering its structure before building to an anthemic belter. There are some golden guitar moments in this track with striking jagged guitar slashes forming the rumbly aggressive foundation while sweet little guitar jingles weave their way on top to warm and caress the melody with delicate sun kissed tones. Barnett raps over the blistering instrumental backdrop with attitude and swagger while the backing vocals coo through the infectious chorus. It’s a sharp bite of alternative indie that cruises with charm and likable charisma and some pretty shredding instrumental displays – that blistering guitar solo is raw, pure, air guitar worthy and sublime.
Fresh off their slot at Vantastival, Dublin Indie Psychgazers Sun Mahshene are set to release their new single ‘Tales of Fiction’ on the 28th of July. The track was recorded and co-produced by Dan Doherty in Darklands Audio. This is the first single to be taken from their forthcoming debut album ‘Contradictions & Tales of Fiction’ which is due for release in October 2018. Sun Mahshene started off as a solo project by guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Nathan Henderson and soon turned into a collective of talented musicians, bringing Dave Murray on board for drumming duty and Ian McGinn on rhythm and lead guitar. With a mutual ambition to create something special they decided to merge their wide range of influences and joined forces with Darren Hughes on Bass and Ryan Daffy as third guitarist.
These guys know how to make mind melting tunes and ‘Tales of Fiction’ is no different. Filled with shrilling guitars and floor shaking punchy drums and bass combination, the monstrous wall of sound this track brings is something to behold. Swirling soundscapes mystify with wispy dreamy kaleidoscopic hues while the crashing biting guitars soar, wail and glide with a relentless onslaught into your ears in the most captivating and thrilling manner that leaves you in a blissful haze of euphoria. The adrenaline rush that exudes from this track is sublime while the smooth honey drizzled melody flows in on a laid-back cloud of sweet sedation. Henderson’s vocals weave between powerfully dynamic and velvety smooth tones while oozing a fiery passion. It’s a big tune camouflaged as a sweet psych trip. Once this track kicks in it goes full throttle – psychedelic indie rock at its shoegazing fueled best. Once again Sun Mahshene produce a fresh mouth-watering slice of captivating infectiousness to sink our teeth into.
Psychedelic rock trio Serene are set to release two new songs, ‘Pendle Hill ‘and ‘Footsteps in the Dark’ this week for Kendal calling. The band who are based in The Lake District and Liverpool have regular spots on the Manchester and Liverpool circuit; The Night and Day Cafe, The Castle, Zombie Shack, The Peer Hat, The Zanzibar, along with the brand new Peaky Blinders Bar (Liverpool). In summer, Serene are often found at a multitude of Lake District festivals, such as Kendal Calling, EskFest, Another Fine Fest, PigFest, DogFest, MoonFest, Noon til Midnight and Grasmere Guzzler. In the summer of 2016 they embarked upon a two week tour of Italy, previewing their new material prior to releasing their debut album – ‘The Lonely Road’. This proved a successful adventure, as it gained the band a session with BBC Introducing, along with CumbriaLIVE describing the band as ‘one of the finest live acts in the county’. Serene also supported Nazareth on their tour of England in January this year.
‘Pendle Hill ‘and ‘Footsteps in the Dark’ display the depth and maturity of this trio. Their precise and enthralling musicianship is what I have come to love about this band. ‘Pendle Hill’ swirls with dark eerie tones creating a spine chilling atmosphere as haunting vocals sets the harrowing scene for the shadowy verses. The flickering guitars meander through the almost tribal beat adding a danceable groove to the psychedelic mindless soundscapes. If you want a submerging chilling experience filled with rich tangible instrumentation that grips and pulls you into a mysterious world of ominous possibilities this is the tune for you. The depths and multi textures layered into a captivating hypnotic tune is masterful and just a first class experience. ‘Footsteps in the Dark’ follows this marvelous trend with cool tones over sweltering oriental-esque and sometimes traditional or Celtic -ish guitar moments. The melody is superbly melancholic as it sweeps and rushes over the psychedelic hues with a grandeur and elegance that would bring a gentle tear to your eye. The bass and drums keep an elastic and fluctuant groovy foundation for the ethereal luscious soundscapes to wisp around and playfully rebound off. This dreamy hazy gem floats about with a feathery lightness while still maintaining a meaty brawny hold. Vocals gently coo and brood with an angelic heavenly sweetness while this infectious mesmerising track immerses you in an overwhelming surge of euphoric yet wistful bliss.
These guys are coming into their prime and it’s a pleasure to watch and experience their magnificent tunes come to life is such a beautiful colourful and prismatic way.
Stream ‘Pendle Hill ‘and ‘Footsteps in the Dark’ below
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Deep Sky Objects
Alt-rockers Deep Sky Objects return this summer with their second single from their raved-about debut EP ‘Deep Sky Objects’. After the success of the Kerry band’s spring tour the band have lined up a string of dates across Ireland including INEC’s Future Sounds. We see the band come into their own with this rockier follow-up to debut single ‘This City’s at War’ while keeping true to their melodic song writing Deep Sky Objects recorded their debut self-titled EP ‘Deep Sky Objects’ in Whitewell Studios with Ciaran O’Shea. The EP was subsequently mastered by Fergal Davis. In March 2018 Deep Sky Objects released their debut single ‘This City’s at War’ to an eager audience and received extensive airplay across regional radio as well as national airplay. Deep Sky Objects ‘Desire’ is our worth a listen track this week.
‘Desire’ is a ballsy dark smeared number that blisters bruises and pummels with melodic ferocity. Driven by a meaty gritty riff this track instantly grabs attention wrestling you to the ground with its eerie melody chilling and creeping over the boiling explosive instrumental backdrop as Kevin O’Brien’s vocals soar and haunt above this scorching concoction. With a sturdy thundering drum and rooted rumbling bass back bone this track has everything to thrill you to the core and have you moshing along. Drenched in ominous darkly hued tones this goosbump inducing tune is well crafted for sing along lovers, head bang fanatics and slick earworm melody seekers. They then throw a shredding steamy guitar solo on top and bam! these guys have just whacked out a banging tune.
Bio: Hailing from Nottingham, The Mocking Jays are a five-piece pop-rock band that have effortlessly created a deft balance of pop sensibility and rock and roll swagger that, since forming in 2014, has allowed them to rapidly make a name for themselves, both within their native East Midlands, and across the UK. Though crucial early support from the likes of 6Music and BBC Introducing, as well as festival appearances at the likes of Y-Not, have done nothing to hamper the band’s reputation, it’s largely down to the inherent appeal of their own brand of idiosyncratic indie-pop.
Track: Edge of Your Knife
Why We Like It: This bubbly indie pop gem bounces along with an infectious beat upon a honey drizzled melody and sassy slick instrumental backdrop. Elastic bass lines and rich rhythm create a danceable groove foundation for this fun ditty to explode off. It’s upbeat with swagger soaked guitars rebounding and slickly weaving off the sublime percussion to make for a wholly satisfying and engaging listen. These guys throw on a healthy dose of panache and sleekness to charm their way onto your playlists.
Bio: Henry’s debut EP, ‘Guest at Home’, which was released in 2016 garnered critical acclaim. His breakout single “Alright,” has reached over 100,000 plays on Spotify, and he shows no sign of slowing down. Teaming up on the new record with legendary producer, Rob Schnapf, who has worked with Elliot Smith, Kurt Vile, Beck and The Vines to name a few, Henry is about to share his new album ‘Marlin Fisher’ which is set for release 31st August. Henry acted as a multi-instrumentalist again, playing drums, guitar, bass and keys on the record. The songs have been brought to life for the stage with his 4-piece band, consisting of Eddie Curzon (guitar), Zach Scott (bass) and Anders Cochran (drums).
Track: Bag of Chips
Why We Like It: It’s a woozy dreamy number with a luscious pop-ish melody filled with hints of psychedelia. The sweet gently stomping beat adds a strong foundation for the distorted guitar to lament over while Henry’s velvety vocals soothe and coo throughout. It’s a dreamy sun kissed laid back track that still packs in some vibrant vivid instrumentation to make for a wholly satisfying listen. This blissful lazy day tune is such a bitter sweet joy to listen to as it delicately caresses your ears for a perfect mellowed out deeply enriching experience. It always feels like Henry gets you.
Bio: KAVES are a Norwich based alternative rock band who have just released a new single titled ‘TBT’. The band have been together just over 1 year, but have had their new singer Caitlin since May, and this is the first single with her.
Track: TBT
Why We Like It: It’s a punchy blast of gritty alternative rock that rides in on a mighty rumbling wave of powerful drums and slick rooted bass lines. The guitar jaggedly pierces through the catchy melody with a strong ferocity as meaty riffs drive the track pushing it to its manic adrenaline rushing crescendo. It’s a slick lean and mean track from this young band.
Bio: BAILEY is the moniker of singer-songwriter & multi-instrumentalist Joe Bailey. His first introduction to the world was with his sparkling debut single “The Future”. The song received a lot of good press and ongoing support from BBC Introducing Cambridgeshire along with many other radio stations.
Track: Change
Why We Like It: It’s a catchy peppy pop track that bounces along with summer vibes and gospel- esque hints. The anthemic chorus teamed with cheery vocals and warm acoustic guitar jingles between a sprightly beat fills this little charmer with good vibes and wholesome tones. It’s one of those pick me up little ditties that you will be humming all day.
You can follow BAILEY on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/baileymusiconline/
Bio: The Limerick-born, Galway-based, songwriter has made a name for himself performing his self-penned songs. He first started writing songs between busking sessions on a San Diego boardwalk. Since then, he has honed his performance skills, playing wherever he happens to end up, ranging from rooftop fiestas while living in Andalucia to bars in Northern Vietnam to music festivals located not too far from the arctic circle.Though he has lived all over Ireland, Dylan’s musical home is Galway, where he has been heavily involved in the music scene as member of Citog Records for the better part of the last decade. He has performed onstage with artists such as Steven Sharpe, Emma Langford, Tracy Bruen and My Fellow Sponges and has supported artists such as Ben Caplan and Jake Clemons.
Track: ‘Anxious Times’
Why We Like It: It’s a snappy folk flavoured track seeped it gritty grunge hued tones. With a rampant guitar stomp driving it into an adrenaline inducing frenzy while punchy drums set the foot tapping backdrop. This catchy number is filled with a raw energy that is infectious. Raspy vocals and brisk melody add a rough and ready texture to this lively tune leaving you craving to hear more.
Bio: Kahuna are an explosive ska punk five piece formed in 2016 in Newcastle Upon Tyne. The band provide a fresh take on the familiar ska punk sound, combining upbeat infectious ska rhythms with playful, catchy melodies and an unrelenting DIY punk rock ethos. Since their live debut in 2017 they’ve built up a dedicated and enthusiastic following as well as a reputation for raucous, energetic live sets having played venues across the UK including headline sets at The Cluny and Head Of Steam Newcastle.
Track: Throw
Why We Like It: It’s a vibrant infectious track filled with luscious tropical rhythms zealous tasty guitar jingles and lively catchy melodies that melt upon the vivid backdrop like butter on toast. This track is bursting with colour and dynamism to make for a joyful spiritual listening experience.
Bio: Luke Top (of Fool’s Gold) is an LA-based psychedelic/pop artist who just announced his new EP, ‘The Dumb-Show’ out 19 October via Grand Gallop and Org Music.
Track: I’ve Been Workin’
Why We Like It: This dreamy delight is frothing and bubbling with luscious playful rhythms over a beautiful sun kissed irresistible melody. His velvety vocals caress the melody with the sweetest tone to create a hazy euphoric atmosphere that soothes as well as tantalizes the senses. Jangly guitars fill the track with a delicious dash of zest while the shaky rhythm brings forward a surge of tropical bliss. Instantly likeable and charming with the perfect amount of sun-soaked paradise to make for a captivating, wholly enjoyable Beach Boys- esque vibe. Just sublime.
