All posts by Indie Buddie

Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Five Days North ‘Shapeshifters’

Five Days North are an energetic indie pop band based in Manchester. Band members Darryl Messer (Vocals, Synth), Dave Urwin (Guitar/banjo, Backing Vocals), Sam Taromsari (Guitar, Backing Vocals), Lewis Howells (Bass) and Zoravar Bakshi (Drums) create a blend of music that centres around powerful vocals, catchy choruses and electric banjo riffs. In the summer of 2016, they released their debut EP ‘Past Times’ and have since released a supporting music video for ‘Won’t Stop for Nothing’ that was directed by Lab Exposure UK. They have played a multitude of live events including gigs around the UK, alongside performing on festival stages such as Tribfest 2016, Warrington festival 2016 and multiple performances at Pangaea Festival. The quintet have now released their music video for their new single ‘Shapeshifters’.

‘Shapeshifters’ is a bright lustrous light bouncy slice of indie pop. The track is laced in peppy beats that add a spongy texture and elastic bounce. Twinkling guitars and jingling banjo riffs glisten throughout while the shimmering synths wrap the track in a smooth flurry of icing sugar. Instrumentally it is light and fluffy with a sweet melody and catchy chorus as the cherry on top however the vocals are brimming with soulful emotion and passion giving the light track a darker tone. This contrast makes for a richly textured song and brings a more emotional side to Five Days North’s sound.
The video for ‘Shapeshifters’ is out now check it out below

 


Indie, Indie Dance, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth Rock, Synth-pop

Ivy Nations ‘Live By Design’

Indie-pop quartet, Ivy Nations have released their new single ‘Live By Design’. The band are setting the dance-rock scene on fire in their native Dublin. Only two singles deep, the group have been praised for the refined sound that they have established with producer Phil Magee (Kodaline, The Script). Their previous releases have broken the HypeM chart top 5 and received international airplay in the US, Australia and Ireland. They’ve toured with major artists such as Kodaline and have also released their first ever music video, for ‘Live By Design’ directed and produced by Blacktooth Films.

‘Live By Design’ fleshes out Ivy Nations energetic dynamic indie pop only with darker tones. Haunting twinkling guitar gives flashes of light through the eerie shadowy mysterious track. A murky bass line gives the foundation to the ghostly verses. The track explodes into a fruitful full bodied sonic flashing chorus. The woozy hectic chorus accelerates the track into a dynamic dance anthem. Blending and churning intense dreamy verses with high energy chorus’ Ivy nations create a sublime fun track that hits all the right spots. The shredding stinging guitar solo builds the track up to the mighty crescendo. Ivy nations brings us a chilling track that is both goosebump inducing and thrilling while also vibrant and dynamic.

Stream the video for ‘Live By Design’ below.


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

Sonera ‘Claustro’

Four piece Alternative Rock band from Ireland Sonera, (formally Beautiful Corruption) have released their new single ‘Claustro’. Band members Oisin Wolfe, James Brown, Simon Cooke and Rory Cooper have raised the playing field with this new blistering track.

‘Claustro’ is a sultry dark alternative  track warped with dizzying distortion and a mighty anthemic chorus. The rapid flex of drums laden with scorching guitar riffs against a sticky elastic bass line gives the track rich layers and sweltering tones. It exudes smoldering confidence and panache while smothered in cool chilling vibes. Teasing verses hold intensity and eerie spine chilling suspense before the mosh worthy powerful chorus bursts in with explosive energy. A sublime razor sharp guitar solo finishes their track with a piercing thrilling buzz. Sonera have taken on a new slick mature sound with hints of psychedelia to tranquilize their subtle knock out punch. Along with the new name Sonera have honed in on their sound and tightened it up and ‘Claustro’ is the fine result. Take these guys seriously they have some talent.

Sonera will be embarking on an Irish tour soon with an EP on the horizon as well, you can catch them live at

29 April, Central Arts, Waterford

30 April, Murphys, Thomastown

Stream ‘Claustro’ below

 


Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Psychedelic, indie rock, New Music, psychedelic, Rock and Roll, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Factory

Rock and Roll four piece Factory have released their new single ‘Step A Little Closer’. The band consists of members James Shelley (Lead vocals/Guitar), Karl Richardson (Vocals/Lead Guitar, Tony Dainteth (Vocals/Bass Guitar) and Benjamin Worrall (Drums/Percussion). They have played countless gigs and festivals up and down the country at venues like the Queens Hall and The Cavern as well as packing out venues in their home town. The band are no strangers to big stages, playing academies and theatres such as the Epstein Theatre and the Brindley. They were also chosen by Alan McGee (Creation Records) to open up at the British Sound Project for Primal Scream at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.
‘Step A Little Closer’ is a swagger soaked rock and roll doozy, infusing swinging 60’s blues with the razor sharp edge of modern rock. Dripping in panache with slick splintery guitar and shimmying percussion its an infectious blistering triumph. This high energy track builds in intensity right up to the sultry steamy bridge which slows the tone to a hip swaying sensual psychedelic trip. Punchy drums and dynamic powerful vocals give the track a rugged texture and a Jagger strut vibe. These guys have crafted a staggeringly good hair raising track that is definitely worth a listen.
Stream ‘Step A Little Closer’ below

 

https://soundcloud.com/factorybandruncornliverpool/step-a-little-closer

 


Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

The Recoupes ‘Lovinit’

London alternative indie band The Recoupes have released their new single ‘Lovinit’. The band consists of members Michael Niner (Drums), Louie Cameron (Bass), Alan Li (Vocals/Guitar) and Oli Zanetti (Lead Guitar), all aged 18/19 they have received radio plays and recognition from BBC introducing. Their single ‘Drunk Messages’ was recently played on BBC introducing Essex (30th July 2016) and shortly after they supported The Hoosiers at the O2 Academy Islington. The group create driving, danceable indie songs that capture a live sound. Already having venues such as Dublin Castle,Undersolo Camden and The Goodship in their arsenal the boys look to strive outside of London with upcoming gigs and new songs to be released.
‘Lovinit’ Is a sweet toned zippy track masked in cool effortless vibes. This hazy dreamy track comes swinging punches of gritty alternative rock. Warm mellow tones on guitar radiate rays of vibrant sunshine throughout the track breaking up the whimsical bounce. Soft to start the song coaxes its way in before the mighty shredding crescendo that adds a rough texture and shows these guys aren’t afraid to get heavy. With blissful melodies teamed with creamy raspy vocals ‘Lovinit’ is perfect for those sunny lazy afternoons.
The Recoupes will be playing at Shindignation Festival in association with Indie Buddie, Music Muso and DIY Thursdays on Saturday 5th August so make sure to check them out at that.
Stream ‘Lovinit’ below


Indie Folk, Indie Quick Picks, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Indie Quick Picks

 Bandini

Genre: singer -songwriter, indie-folk

Bio: UK singer-songwriter Bandini is becoming known for his timeless songs which arrive fully formed and without unnecessary embellishment. With a yearning, vulnerable voice accompanied only by sparse acoustic guitar, these deceptively direct melodies soon burrow into the gaps between nostalgia and memory, between child-like innocence and painful life experience. Little is known of the reclusive singer-songwriter’s background and personality, other than his love of analogue recording.Sometimes, especially in our age of information overload, it’s better to let the songs speak for themselves.

Track: Little Room

Why we Like It: Its a haunting emotionally raw track soaked in nostalgia. With light accompaniment on guitar Bandini’s passionate vocals resound throughout with an eerie mysterious yet soothing quality. It takes you into a dimly lit room of solitude with nothing but the track to comfort you. Its oddly consoling yet skin crawling-ly haunting.

Follow Bandini on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/whoisbandini/

Stream ‘Little Room’ below

https://soundcloud.com/bandinibandini/little-room

Penny

Genre: Indie-folk singer-songwriter

Bio: Penny’s Anglo-American heritage and upbringing is a prime influence within her music.The new single ‘Misery Gut’ is lifted from the new ‘If, Buts & Maybes’ EP. ‘If, Buts & Maybes’ comes after several years hiatus since her 2011 self-titled release.With her earlier singles gaining airplay support on BBC Introducing, this new collection of timeless songs will see her music gaining wider recognition and acclaim.

Track: Misery Gut

When asked about the track Penny said:
“I wrote this song when I was surrounded by those who seemed to relish being negative about everything, I’m an upbeat and optimistic person, so I sing Misery Guts to myself when I start to drift into pessimistic thoughts or if my mood gets dragged down by something. It reminds me to just go with the flow, and not let whatever it is ruin the day”.
Why we Like It: Its a bright peppy earthy folk-pop song displaying lyrical wit and an infectious foot tapping beat. Driven by Penny’s strong vocals and hints of country twang its a snappy ball of quirky fun.

Follow Penny on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/officialpenny/

Stream ‘Misery Guts’ below

Follow our Indie Quick Picks Playlist on spotify here

 

 


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Little Triggers ‘Silly Cigarettes’

The four-piece rock ‘n’ roll outfit, Little Triggers, have released their latest offering, ‘Silly Cigarettes’. Band members Thomas Hamilton Hughes (vocals, guitar), Chris Carragher (bass), James Crawford (keyboard, backing vocals), Sam Gallacher (drums) slow things down with this emotionally powerful track. This slow burner nonchalantly reels you in showcasing their musical finesse and ability to hold the listeners attention. Lavish shredding guitar elements add a slick swagger while Thomas Hamilton-Hughes’ vocals add intensity and and emotional gut wrenching punch. The track builds for the chorus becoming passionate and mighty while still maintaining a tender delicate approach. Little Triggers show us there is depth to their musical inventory. They are definitely fast becoming one of my favourite bands out there at the moment. Watch out for these guys they are going to sky rocket to the top.

Stream ‘Silly Cigarettes’ below


Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Bayonet ‘Call Me When It’s Over’

Sheffield’s indie four piece Bayonet have released their new single ‘Call Me When It’s Over’. Bayonet have rapidly made a name for themselves as Sheffield’s indie poster boys,with their last single ‘Heart Attack’ premiering on Rebel Culture back in November, the last few months have seen Bayonet’s focus turn to the writing and recording of new material, their own inimitable brand of synth-pop now honed to polished perfection thanks to the handful of headline shows the band have already enjoyed this year.2016 saw band members Lewis Cain (Lead vocals/Guitar), Vince Ringrose (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Danny Higgins (Bass/Backing Vocals)and Sam Chapman (Drums/Backing Vocals) sell out various venues, wow crowds at both Dot to Dot and Tramlines festivals and release four rapturously received singles.
New single ‘Call Me When It’s Over’ follows this upward climb to success. Glowing with bright shimmering indie pop Bayonet display their smooth polished sun-kissed sound with a sugar coated melody against spongy beaming soundscapes. Twinkling guitars lift the track with peppy bright jabs and warm golden licks while the soft cushioned rhythm adds a bouncy vitality. Flowing in waves of cool tones of wistful longing this track is silky smooth and instantly likeable. Velvety vocals soothe with slick panache while the track takes a subtle groovy almost disco vibe. Bayonet skillfully balance sombre chilly tones with optimistic energetic instrumentation giving a well formed glossy track.
Stream ‘Call Me When It’s Over’ below

 


Live Music, Live Music Review

The Revellions Single Launch Party With Support from Gavin And Thee Icons and Crushed Out

We headed to The Revellions Single Launch Party last Saturday at The Grand Social, Dublin following our review of their new single ‘False Hope’.

Dublin Garage Punk band Gavin And Thee Icons kicked the show off on the night with their ruckus rock. Blasting out their mighty crashing tracks full of roaring enraged frenzy. Tracks like ‘Shout And Hollar’ give us racing guitars and stop start suspense,the lads know how to set the tempo for the night. Demolishing our ear drums with their drunken brawl-like sound its not for the faint hearted. If you want to go mad moshing in a manic delusional frenzy these guys are the ones for you. Shredding guitar solos and all, Gavin And Thee Icons gave us a striking display of mighty fun neck snappy punk.
Rock and rollers Crushed Out follow in a wave of fruity psychedelic surf. Equipped with tropical shirts and sparkly outfits and a random pineapple, they brought the Californian beach vibes to us. The husband-and-wife team Frankie Sunswept on guitar/vocals and Moselle Spiller on drums, tantalise our ears with dreamy prisms of psychedelic flavoured rock and roll. The steamy ‘Out of the Blue’ introduces the crowd to their smooth, sleek, drizzled in spaghetti western sound. Exuding swagger and class these guys take us from bouncy groovy shimmys to dazed trippy drops effortlessly. From swanky summer soaked ‘Skinny Dipping’ to the heavier punch of ‘Big Wolly’ Crushed Out play a set list made for dancing. Even if you’ve never done them before its time to bust out those 60’s “The Swim’ moves in between moshing and twisting. Treating us to new track ‘Stay Wild Gator Child’ and a sweet guitar change Crushed Out bring a set list oozing suave with splashes of shimmering crisp guitar, passionate drumming and refined musicianship.
The Revellions take to the stage with blasts of dry ice and a swirling trippy backdrop. James Lister takes every opportunity to engage with the crowd and draw them into the psychedelic hazy kaleidoscopic sound of The Revellions. They deliver a show packed with pure raw energy and thick intensity. Track after track lures the crowd deeper into their swirling entrapment pulling out old favourites like the the dark eerie ‘Strung Out Bad’ to a teasing taste of some new tracks including the insanely catchy new single ‘False Hope’. The nimble razor sharp guitar, elastic bassline and punchy drums sparkle between churning mind bending psychedelia. Its a sticky intense set that has audience members dancing in a mesmeric haze. The crowd can’t get enough of The Revellions as they call for “one more tune” following the final song. Though I don’t think the 6 piece would have minded playing all night the sound guy wasn’t having any of it (you know who you are party pooper). With thrilling shrill on guitars and pounding drums The Revellions know how to put on a good show with enthusiasm and mesmerising stupefying psychedelia.

Gavin And Thee Icons, Crushed Out and The Revellions are three bands you have to see live, follow them on their Facebook pages for more dates and new music  below

Gavin And Thee Icons https://www.facebook.com/gavinandtheeicons/

Crushed Out https://www.facebook.com/CrushedOutmusic/

The Revellions https://www.facebook.com/therevellions/