All posts by Indie Buddie

Folk, Indie Folk, New Music

Divining Rod ‘Hemlock Blues / Love Come Tumbling’

Americana, folk singer-songwriter Miyuki Furtado has announced the release of his debut EP with his newest band Divining Rod, a new direction for the previous member of popular post punk band The Roger Sisters. The double A side single was released yesterday and it illustrates the earliest and the most recent paths Miyuki’s songwriting has taken. Released under Killipaki Records, Divining Rod take inspiration from the likes of Bert Jansch, Stephen Stills and Fairport Convention to present a soul tinged, country sound and a taste of what is to come from their full album, ‘Return to Crystal Cove’ which is  set to be released later this year. During his upbringing in Kauai, Hawaii, Miyuki was surrounded by live music and the inspiration from that environment carries through to the tracks in this EP. Recorded by grammy-nominated Brian Forbes (Emily King, Bilal), both tracks on the EP have an interesting story behind the lyrics, with Hemlock Blues being a story of the sensationalism of news in the modern day and the repercussions it can have and Love Come Tumbling inspired by a dream of Miyuki’s which lead him to put pen to paper.
‘Hemlock Blues’ is bouncy soul infused Americana that rushes through you like blood in your veins, it’s wholesome and honest with dark sinister tones lying beneath its rooted sound. Rich country twangs fill the track with sharp bursts of refreshing zest while smooth vocals and soft beat add warmth and comfort. Dramatic stops and vibrant guitar twinkles create a delicate yet striking track that is foot tappingly good.
‘Love Come Tumbling’ is a melodic gripping track with a kick drum acting as the heartbeat of the song. Once again sharp bright guitar melodies flicker in and out adding bright little speckles of luminosity. With a sweet instrumental feature Divining Rod display their slick refined musicianship as lush guitar lines and mellow harmonica twangs blend seamlessly with sweet tones creating a well layered lavish experience. Its vocal melody is simple but with a hearty wholesome sound backing this track it is sublime and warming.

These intricate well layered tracks act as the perfect appetiser for the album ‘Return to Crystal Cove’.

Stream ‘Hemlock Blues / Love Come Tumbling’ below


Alt Rock, Blues Rock, EP Review, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

Maker ‘Girl Quit Your Crying’ EP

Maker are a rock n’roll band with a psychedelic bluesy punch, stirred with a fist full of soul. Hailing from Kent, they are made up of members Alessandro Marinelli (Vocals), Andrew Donaldson (Guitar), Gavin Donaldson (Drums) & John Austin (Bass). Renowned for their electrifying live performances, Maker deliver fresh sonic swagger defined by their own bluesy, boozy guitar riffs.The band have headlined many of the UK’s most prestigious venues, including 100 Club London as part of ‘Best of British Blues Explosion’ 2017, and have supported some of the UKs finest artists, Ocean Colour Scene, Dodgy, Wilko Johnson, The Slydigs as well as shared festival bills with The Cribs, Dizee Rascal, Mark Ronson, and Supergrass to name a few. Maker can even count one of the worlds most acclaimed guitarists Rich Robinson (The Black Crowes / Magpie Salute) as a fan of the band, as well as two of Soho Radio’s finest, Simone Marie (Primal Scream) and Virgil Howe (Little Barrie). Their new five track EP ‘Girl Quit Your Crying’ which was recorded at world famous Rockfield Studios and produced by the band and Nick Brine, will be released 11 August via Kidda Records.
‘Girl Quit Your Crying’ is a swagger soaked gritty slick rock n’ roll EP oozing strutting flamboyance with just the right amount of whiskey soaked brawn. Title track ‘Girl Quit Your Crying’ kicks off the EP, It is bluesy and soulful with a sensual sway -like tempo and steamy guitar licks. Raspy vocals add a warm texture to the track while piano elements add a classy jazzy quality. It builds to a mighty crescendo with punchy drums and expressive vocals. It’s sultry and sensually smooth while maintaining a raw edge. ‘So Serene’ is a Led Zeppelin – esque riff driven track. With a strutting striding pace, catchy melody and slick guitar exuding panache, it’s true red blooded rock n’ roll. ‘Are You Watching Me?’ rushes through with blusterous rapid blurry instrumentation which cools and separates out into a funky groove for the chorus. A little frenzied and manic the track becomes more heavy and psychedelic with strong bass strides and sharp guitar licks. It takes a trance-like hallucinogenic form with just the pounding beat becoming the constant as spiralling guitars create chaos. ‘Lose It On The Second Turn’ re introduces a jazzy Jerry Lee Lewis piano feature and distorted riff. With a clap along feature it’s a shimmy and shake blended with mosh elements. A thrilling guitar solo shrills with sublime sharpness it’s air guitar worthy and superb. ‘Stop My Heart Dead’ finishes the album with Makers golden rock and roll swagger filled sound. With a stomping beat and body grooving rhythm teamed with slick nimble guitar and infectious melody. These guys do cool and soul with powerful punk punches well, mix that with booze soaked riffs and bluesy elements ‘Girl Quit Your Crying’ is another knock out EP from Maker.

Watch the teaser video for the EP on their facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/Makeruk/videos/10155755309187240/

 


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Behold The Brave ‘Great American Challenge’

Nashville based band Behold The Brave have released their new single ‘Great American Challenge’.This blistering indie  track oozes edgy raw gritty rock smeared in sleazy dragging rhythm and sweat and leather swagger. Slick shredding guitars crash with fuzz fueled euphoria while punchy drums beat with bruising fierceness. It’s a strutting gloat and prance of panache with dynamic raspy expressive vocals and shrilling distorted guitar screeches interjecting the melody. A mosh worthy chorus and fiery instrumentation create a sweltering red hot rock track that is worthy of repeat listens.

Stream ‘Great American Challenge’ below


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Ego Kill Talent ‘My Own Deceiver’

 

Brazilian rock band Ego Kill Talent have released their new single ‘My Own Deceiver’.The band is comprised of members Theo Van Der Loo (guitar/bass), Jean Dolabella (drums/guitar), Jonathan Correa (vocal), Niper Boaventura (guitar/bass) and Raphael Miranda (drums/bass). On the road since 2014 the band’s name comes from the famous saying “Too Much Ego Will Kill Your Talent”. They have gained great exposure in South America playing in festivals such as Lollapalooza, Maximus and Planeta Atlantida. Most recently they performed at Download Festival in France and later this year they are confirmed to play in Rock In Rio Brazil.

‘My Own Deceiver’ is a grunge soaked rock track that travels full throttle blasting your ears with heavy mosh ready sounds. Shredding vigorous guitars and pulverizing drums pelt out the mighty track while raspy powerful vocals flood the song  with swagger filled attitude.This mighty brawny assault to the senses is plastered with gritty riffs and bulky basslines under a catchy melody and snappy rhythm. It’s headbang worthy and fierce while holding sensual elastic elements that give it a slick polished effect.

Stream ‘My Own Deceiver’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Delphina Kings 

Manchester-based alternative trio Delphina Kings have released their new single ‘Kid Calm Down’.It’s a blistering indie track soaked in vibrant explosive energy. Smouldering verses add a sultry swagger while the anthemic chorus bursts with infectious dynamic intensity. Rooted elastic basslines keep a hip shaking sensuality to the track while crashing guitars and punchy drums add an eruptive heavy gritty wallop. Brimming with adrenaline and thrilling distortion this track is a rush of blood to the head. With a raw edgy feel while also maintaining a cool polished sleekness this track is on fire. Delphina Kings are ones to watch.

Stream ‘Kid Calm Down’ below


Live Music, Live Music Review

Vulpynes ‘Silica’ Single launch at The Workman’s Club With Support From Jon Dots and Stitch Jones

Over the past year Vulpynes have been making a name for themselves both here and abroad. Only less than a year old the duo have gained a lot of support for their singles ‘Terry Said’ and ‘OCD’ and are developing a name for themselves for their no nonsense ruckus live performances. They have released their new single ‘Silica’ with an accompanying video on the 21st of July and they celebrated the launch with a gig at The Workman’s Club last Saturday. Having seen the girls live earlier in the year supporting Fangclub we were happy to accept an invitation to check out their headline show.
Singer songwriter Jon Dots, the alter ego of the solo music making wizard Darragh McCabe (also the drummer of alt-punk band Alien She)  kicks of the night. Opening his set with the bright texture-warping ‘One Fine Day’. McCabe stands on stage humble with a guitar and laptop then unexpectedly this luscious rich sound comes from the stage filling the room with his unique fantastically layered indie pop with cinematic bursts, echos and divine melodies. Using distortion shrills,electronic smacks and loops teamed with his powerful vocals he’s completely captivating. His knack for melody and composition is remarkable every fragment of each song is euphoric and intricately rich and McCabe performs with such intensity it’s extremely thrilling, imagine Børns only more raw,edgy and dark. He lets the music speak for itself with little to no speech between the songs.It’s quite the engulfing performance that holds everyone’s attention even the usually awkward guitar retuning is met by absolute silence I’ve never seen a crowd so quiet as they await the treasures McCabe will play next. When you think he surely cannot top that fantastic set…  he does beautifully and simply with the sweetest delicate and elegant ‘Always You’. The sway-like candied doo wop gentle track is heartmeltingly tender and emotional. Passionately performed the melty melody and dreamy exterior of this track is just irresistible and softly sweet. Building to an intense expressive heart felt crescendo and ending on a light creamy note it’s a beautiful way to end his set.
The Dynamic Duo Stitch Jones follow. These guys seem to be everywhere at the moment. ‘Nothing War’ blasts us straight into their ruckus causing set. With a touch of technical difficulties they sing and play through the blunder in true rock and roll manner. Since the last time we saw them which was….. the week before, the lads are in top form evil laughs and all, (Tinder date went well I was told) and songs are heavy and skull bashing as always. The tunes, heavy riffs and bruising drums blast through the amps while the vibrations cause our drinks to move along the table. That’s an insane reaction to their tracks it’s so good even our drinks want to dance. They bellow out a nice little sample of George Michael’s ‘Outside’ before exploding into ‘Groove Mission’. These guys are packed with energy and fun vibes with humorous banter from a ZZ Top rip off beat to beards while still belting out powerful neck snapping tunes. They close their set with ‘Hold Me Klausly’ their self described “steady stain of manure” truly a blustering mostly instrumental wallop of pulverising drums and crunching bass.The crescendo of the track is the squealing shrilling finale where Watchy drops his bass on the floor before saying “look after each other”. Check them out on “Bebo and Myspace”
Vulpynes take to the stage with a “one two, one two” mic check before a feedback shrill. “ok lets do this” and we are off dirty, gritty riffs play over crowd screams and pummelling drums. The timid duo began with sweet nervous introductions and then kick you in the face with their no nonsense hard core rock. The energy levels from the crowd immediately peak they draw closer to the stage and bop and begin to mosh manically. Maeve keeps movement minimal focusing on delivering a high powered dynamic set while Kaz batters the drums with tireless vitality. The heavy instrumentation vibrates through and compels the crowd to move. For a band barely a year old the sound is weighty and overruling. Each track belts out relentless aggressive stamina. Even the “slow song for if your feeling romantic” is a deception thankfully these girls do hefty rock well and for the moment that’s what they stick to. ‘Terry Said’ sparks immediate applause and screams clearly a fan favourite the duo strike out a knocking performance of the fierce track. Launch single ‘Silica’ results in heavy moshing and jumping Maeve’s vocals are harsher and meaner for this track as its feistier and frantic. ‘OCD’ closes their set, accelerated and hard core, it’s an explosive way to end their show. The duo walk of stage to screaming fans for “one more song” while the new video for ‘Silica’ plays on the backdrop behind.
Vulpynes kicked ass. In their first year they have achieved so much with their bloodthirsty ear bleeding tunes and blasting live sets. These girls deserve to go far.

 


Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Stalker Miller ‘Tearaway’

After a long but rewarding writing and recording process, five piece rock band Stalker Miller have released their debut single ‘Tearaway’.Named after the bass player’s great uncle, the foursome formed on a campsite overlooking the English Channel. Taking influence from an eclectic range of artists including Arcade Fire, Sonic Youth and Janes Addiction, Stalker Miller aim to tell stories of local characters and beyond through their songs.
‘Tearaway’ is a melodic indie rock track that takes the listener on a journey through moods and expression. With eerie vocals layered on top of a slightly psychedelic bassline, it’s spine chilling and somewhat obscure. The track builds as it progresses becoming heavier with crashing striking guitars and punchy drums. Light guitar twinkles weave in and out of the verses adding a multi dimension and bright scintillation while the chilling vocals and gritty heavy sounds contrast with darker more aggressive tones. This track is compelling and mighty constantly twisting in unexpected directions, a strong debut from Stalker Miller.

Stream ‘Tearaway’ below


Folk, Indie Folk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Ben Bateman ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’

Ben Bateman is a singer/songwriter from the northeast of UK. He began playing guitar at the age of ten and writing songs at thirteen. He travelled to New Zealand at the age of 17 to perform music and develop his live performance skills, which he brought back to the UK shortly after and began performing at all the folk clubs in the north east.He is releasing his new single ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ on July 31st. Its a warm dreamy folk pop track. Swoony and light doused in gentle romantic tones with a sweet melty melody it’s a tender delicate delight. Reverb laced guitar adds a mellow comforting tone as Bateman’s smooth slightly rasped vocals coo and soothe you into a gentle swaying lull. The subtle bass adds depth to the feathery light fluttering heart track. It’s simply composed and as sweet as pie.

‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ is the first of six songs Bateman will be releasing monthly over the next half-year so keep an eye out for those.
You can hear ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ on YouTube below

 


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

A Weekend Away Debut EP

Limerick band A Weekend Away have released their debut EP. The band jumped onto the music scene during the Spring of 2013. Initially with six members, they were praised for mixing jaw dropping punk sound with indie and blues influenced rhythm and lead guitar. With the assistance of Music Generation Limerick, they thrived for 2 years regularly playing in venues such as Dolan’s pub, Cobblestone Joes and the Limetree Theatre, creating an impressive portfolio of tracks in the process. Following a line up change in 2016 and the edition of singer/songwriter, Peader Storey the now five piece, started thriving with their newly released single ‘Parseltongue’ being praised for its punchy riffs and catchy chorus. Following a packed out headline show at the Kasbah Social Club, and supporting Blaming Hannah at The Kino, A Weekend Away won the University of Limerick Battle of the Bands and supported ALL TVVINS. The five piece consisting of members Peader Storey (Frontman), Patrick O’Donnell ( Lead guitar), Peter Corbett (Bass), Jacob Woulfe (Rhythm Guitar) and Evan Berry(Drums) have now released their debut self titled EP which contains six tracks recorded by Mike Gavin (Even Audio), Tony Monaghan (Music Gen) and Ciaran Woulfe (Woulfe) and mastered by Richard Dowling of WAV Mastering.

The bluesy soaked ‘Haze’ kicks off the EP. It’s slick and oiled in sensual bass slapping against shredding sharp guitars and punchy drums. Raw, edgy and drenched in attitude this track hits the spot for gritty bluesy rock. It’s vigorous while remaining slick and cool. With passion filled vocals and the thrilling shrill on guitar it’s a dark tinged wallop of their organic sound. ‘Parseltongue’ blends dark eerie tones for the verse with the summer tinged bright vibes of the catchy chorus. With a pop tinted melody blasting out on crashing guitar strides and elastic bounce on bass it’s snappy gritty while smudged in light bright tones. Exuding a youthful vibe with soft mosh elements this track is a catchy radio friendly tune with some sweet guitar moments. ‘Phone Home’ has a The Fray feel, it’s an emotional hard hitting melodic track with a delicate melody packed with passionate vocals and gentle little twinkles on guitar. Vocal harmonies are tight and the track becomes slightly heavier instrumentally for the massive dramatic crescendo. It really packs an emotional mighty blow you can imagine it accompanying a tender or heartbreaking scene in a movie or T.V. series. It’s quite beautiful and tear jerking. If you feel nothing while listening to this song you’re probably dead inside. ‘Going Down’ brings back the dirty gritty heavy rock. With fuzzed guitars heavy moshing is guaranteed, as vigorous guitars blast across a foundation of pounding drums and dynamic vocals. ‘Free of the Land’ brings us a snapping sleazy rapid rock and roll rhythm and  scuzzy stained guitars. With vocals that exude swagger and attitude it’s a finger clicking dark blast of eerie entrapment. It’s a cocky display of brashness but tastefully displayed. ‘Terminal Blues’ closes the EP with the return of the bands bluesy signature sound. With a swing like strut and wiggle tempo once again it’s slick and sharp with thrilling heavy mosh ready elements.

A Weekend Away have produced a raucous raw EP that has all the gritty elements of rock while polishing it up a little and soothing the frenzy with pop tinged melodies and a bit of heartwarming emotion thrown in. A strong debut from the Limerick quintet.

Stream the EP below


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Bicurious ‘T.O.I’ Single Launch Upstairs in Whelan’s With Support From Mike Paterson and Rabble Babble

When you think of an instrumental band you probably think lengthy songs and a tedious set without lyrics, vocals or a swagger soaked larger than life frontman/ woman to engross you. Well this was not the case last Friday night. Dublin instrumental and experimental duo Bicurious were holding their ‘T.O.I’, single launch upstairs in Whelan’s (where the proceeds from the ticket sales went to the Dublin Simon Community). They invited us along to check it out and boy was it explosive.
Indie Folk Singer Songwriter Mike Paterson kicked off the night, originally the frontman of the rock group Travis Oaks, Paterson’s solo work takes a different approach to the gritty anthemic bluesy tinged sound we are used to hearing from the band Travis Oaks. Establishing himself as a solo artist he has peeled back his sound focusing on creating and crafting simple vocal melody driven tunes. He still packs all the punches, just with a more refined emotive approach. Timidly he takes to the stage for his first gig in Dublin as a solo artist. ‘Outside Lines’ introduces his soulful passionate sound, it’s simple emotive and raw displaying Paterson’s crisp vocals and sharp falsetto range. There’s something to be said for a solo performer especially when they can grab your attention and draw you into their performance with ease and Paterson does this perfectly. His songs speak for themselves from warm country bouncy tunes to edgy indie folk melodies. He performs a diverse, striking yet beautifully simple set. Bantering through the slightly awkward guitar retuning , he is unfazed and relaxed. A refreshing refined stripped back set that makes Paterson stand out as a performer.
Rabble Babble begin their set with a groovy instrumental vibe while vocalist Molly Callan Cassidy warms up with lunges and stretches. They deliver a set drenched in blissful wobbly guitar and slick elastic bass backed by buoyant steady drums. Kicking off their set with a cruising almost jazz and blues club cover of The Velvet Underground’s ‘I’m Waiting for The Man’ with a tropical wavy guitar feature and powerful expressive vocals. Theses guys are slick and gloriously eccentric with random jingles mixed with intense soulful passion and swagger infused attitude. With shimmy ready tunes, chilled back vibes and narrative lyrics their set is a quirky mixed bag. New single ‘Joe’s Bust’ goes down well with the crowd as they bounce and bop to the groovy rhythm while psychedelic whine on guitar adds a hazy trippy glaze over the expressive punchy track. These guys are an experience for sure.
Bicurious take to the stage and waste no time in blasting the crowd with their mosh ready heavy tunes drizzled with sweet luscious guitar melodies. They constantly shake things up showing off some really proficient and nimble guitar skills while packing in a decent spray of showmanship. Taran Plouzané-Brady jumps, moshes and strides across the stage making the most of the space. Swift slick pedal manoeuvres are effortlessly managed with agility and finesse while Gavin Purcell acutely belts those drums with fierce relentless stamina. From the thrilling ‘Fake News’ to the slick swagger soaked ‘Caged’ the set is brimming with altering grooves, meaty punches and sweet elevator-like jingles thrown into the mix to break up the sticky hot messy mosh. These guys like to keep the crowd on their toes. When the tune is heavy, oh boy, it is skull pounding mania and when it’s light and sweet, its the most blissful toned deliciously honeyed melody you can imagine. All this is mixed and blended meticulously to create the most thrilling live experience possible. Plouzané-Brady plays the role of frontman with ease, keeps banter to a minimum but interacts with the crowd by moshing and playing amongst them. With stage hands at the ready like ninjas (nod to Oisín Wolfe) any little hiccup is swiftly dealt with instantly. ‘Sugar Beats’ brings a clap along feature for the now tightly squished to the front crowd as they mosh manically. Hair everywhere and pints spilling it’s a feverish manic chaos. The crowd lift Plouzané-Brady above their heads like a hero as he plays horizontal in a triumphant wobbly crowd surf. New single ‘T.O.I’ is the final song on the Bicurious set, another staggering powerhouse and floor shaking mosh ready track with gentle melodic interludes. The crowd cheerfully “whoo” in time with this mighty euphoric track while the duo blast us with relentless energy and intensity.
A surprise at the end of the show (which unfortunately for a certain hopeful member of the crowd was not cake) the duo invite Mike Paterson back on stage along with Aran Mcgillick (Bass Player in Travis Oaks) and Josh McClorey (guitarist in The Strypes) for a stellar rendition of Black Sabbath’s ‘War Pigs’. With Paterson on vocals flicking and swooshing hair everywhere in true rock and roll manner and Mcgillick standing on Purcell’s drums, its all roaring male guitar testosterone. A fiery way to end a fantastic night. Bicurious are a talented duo and they excel beyond belief in a raw live setting.