Dublin, Ireland-based alternative rock band Late Night Pharmacy have released their new single ‘Grass-Eating Boys’. The single is the band’s fourth single of 2021, following April’s “Too Late for the Rickshaws”, June’s “Slacktivist (Normalise This)” and July’s “Relapse”. Recording the single was only possible after Late Night Pharmacy were one of four Irish bands hand-picked to take part in the 2020 edition of the TiLT Development Deal. As part of this deal, the band received hours of free studio time in Dublin’s legendary Sun Studios (in which artists such as Rihanna, Kanye West and Sinéad O’Connor have recorded over the years). There, the band recorded two songs, of which “Grass-Eating Boys” is the second to be released.
Laced in biting guitars and swirling soundscapes, ‘Grass-Eating Boys’ is a thrilling new single from Late Night Pharmacy. The band create a tightly-knit wall of sound through soaring guitar embellishments and sharp riffs while a buoyant beat maintains a strong and flexible foundation throughout. Late Night Pharmacy layer and craft the song meticulously; a constant instrumental onslaught of propulsive rhythms and blitz on synths is deftly combined with sweet melodies and slight tempo changes to create spacious moments within the frantic soundscape and contrast the post-hardcore rock moments. This wonderful combination of elements is a joy to listen to and showcases how talented this band is. ‘Grass-Eating Boys’ is an exciting tune that boasts Late Night Pharmacy’s refined and powerful musicianship.
About the track, the band said: “Our lead guitarist read the article “The Sex Recession” in The Atlantic, in which he encountered the Japanese terms “sōshoku(-kei) danshi” (grass-eating boys) and “hikikomori” (pulling inwards): Japanese men who express no interest in pursuing careers, financial independence or romantic relationships, and who live the life of a modern hermit. The song was inspired by this phenomenon, which is quickly becoming as visible in the West as it is in Japan.”
UK band InRetrospect have released their new single ‘Open Eyes’. Since late 2018, InRetrospect have grounded their footing in the music scene, playing shows throughout the UK. Releasing a small collective of singles from 2020 to date has earned the band radio play from BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio, Distortion Radio, ARFM, Kerrang Radio and more, and gained the band DSP playlisting with Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, Pandora and Apple music, surpassing 120,000+ streams on Spotify alone.
‘Open Eyes’ roars with the blistering and manic sound of InRetrospect. The band create a battering tune laced in hefty drums and bloodthirsty riffs while a robust bass line carves an enticing groove throughout. The song balances sweet melodies with raw unbridled angst perfectly to create a heavy mosh-ready song that you can belt at the top of your lungs. Boasting an arena-worthy soundscape, the band pack in oodles of deft instrumentation, massive headbang moments, and lacerating guitars to create a tantalising and mind-crushing song of epic proportions with earnest lyrical content to boot “Realise you’re not the only one struggling with pain in your life So open your eyes. And take that step towards bettering yourself in time”. ‘Open Eyes’ is a powerful tune oozing a blood-curdling intensity that marks InRetrospect as a band to keep an eye on.
Dublin-based, The Crayon Set have released their new album ‘Downer Disco’.The album was recorded with producer Stephen Shannon at Experimental Audio in Dublin in 2019. The release was put on hold due to Covid ’19.To celebrate the launch of ‘Downer Disco’ The Crayon Set will play their first headline show in over 2 years at The Grand Social, Dublin on 7th October. Tickets are €9 (Students: €7) and are available at www.ticketmaster.ie
‘Downer Disco’ is a glorious collection of alternative pop gems that ripple with shimmering synths, rich percussion and the irresistible musicianship of The Crayon Set. This band’s ability to whack out diverse earworms while creating a cohesive body of work is simply impressive. They pour sweet melodies and bright instrumentation into opening tracks ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’ and ‘Summer Song’ before stirring darker tones and brooding melodies through ‘Out Of Your Mind’ to showcase the versatility and freshness within their sound.
The band exude swagger within this album as they confidently sashay through the sassy indie drenched ‘Rock Star// Dream Girl’ and country hued ‘Flames’ before using brooding guitar melodies, jazz peppered keys, punchy drums and a sultry soundscape to create a sense of mystery that keeps the listener hooked throughout. The lush musicianship within ‘Downer Disco’ is compelling. The band effortlessly balance light and sweet tunes such as ‘Boring’, ( with its lush harmonies, ethereal twinkles on keys and warm guitar ) with the more dark, obscure and electronic heavy ‘Not the End of the World’; the latter boasts choppy rhythms, spiralling electronics and distorted guitars that creates an intoxicating and luring psychedelic-hued backdrop for listeners to indulge in.
Alongside oodles of rich, tantalizing instrumentation The Crayon Set display emotive lyrical content throughout the album that depicts themes such as mental health, love and loss to name a few. The lyrics are powerful and evocative on their own however they are greatly enhanced by the band’s artful use of instrumentation; beautiful, poetic and aptly placed turns of phrase are wrapped within bittersweet or brooding melodies, “skimming stones cause ripples that go on”– ‘Miss You in my Dreams’. The Crayon Set have a wonderful ability to touch the soul with their lyrics, while soothing and comforting with their musicianship at the same time and these moments within the album are a joy to experience again and again.
A real treat to the ears ‘Downer Disco’ is an immersive gem of sweet alternative pop filled with beautiful melodies, opulent instrumentation and utterly compelling soundscapes. The Crayon Set are refining what they do best, providing eargasmic refreshing tunes that beckon repeat plays.
Kildare singer-songwriter Lisa Gorry has released her new single ‘It Was You (And Me)’ and announces her second EP, of the same name, which will be released on October 28th. The 4 track pop-rock EP brings resolution to Gorry’s debut, ‘Is It Me?’ and is the first release with new manager, Lia Lieghio of One Productions. Where Gorry’s first EP asked questions, ‘It Was You (and Me)’ delivers answers and is almost jubilant in it’s assertion of the freedom that comes with them.
‘It Was You (And Me)’ is a soothing and beautifully crafted tune from Lisa Gorry. The track radiates an empowered persona aptly expressed through Gorry’s opulent soulful vocals which drift atop a blossoming arrangement of supple strings, soft beats and warm bass flourishes. The song has a soothing retro atmosphere that creates a relaxing evening tone, allowing the earnest lyrics and meaningful melody to fill the ears with bright and uplifting feel-good vibes, “ I feel stronger now, To pull away”. ‘It Was You (And Me)’ is a compelling new single from Lisa Gorry. Looking forward to the EP.
About the new single Gorry says “It Was You (and Me)’ was the last song to be written for the EP and it was written for the purpose of having a single with the EP’s name as I thought the message was important. This single, and the EP as a whole I suppose, is answering the title of the first EP, ‘Is It Me?’ and was a reminder to myself of the work that I had done in the wake of past relationships to become stronger and more self-reliant, and how, while it was helped along by a loving partner who sought to understand, it was me who had to put in the foundational work first to then be able to express myself and set boundaries within a new relationship. It was written in a couple of hours, and came together very naturally and in advisory tone that I hope listeners can hear and think, “this was written for me.”
Phil Coulter has released his new single ‘Dear God’. Philip Coulter is an Irish musician, songwriter and record producer from Derry, Northern Ireland. An active musician since the 60s, Phil Coulter has recently ventured into the digital world, creating a popular weekly Facebook series known as ‘Lockdown Lounge’ which has amassed over 15,000 followers. Phil Coulter was awarded the Gold Badge from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors in October 2009, and has been releasing weekly music videos since June 2020. ‘Dear God’ was composed for his son’s wedding. During his ‘lockdown Lounge’ sessions Coulter invited some of his friends who were singers to do a guest spot.One of them was George Hutton, a fellow Derryman and one of the most exciting young voices in the country. Listening to him sing one day Coulter describes a light bulb moment. He would finally get down to writing that lyric and George’s voice would be perfect.
‘Dear God’ is an elegant tune that boasts the melodic prowess of Phil Coulter. Filled with lush strings, vibrant rhythms and elegant piano, the track has a warm and cinematic tone enhanced by George Hutton’s tenor vocals and the tracks uplifting melody and expressive soundscapes. ‘Dear God’ is a powerful, well-crafted tune filled with heart and oodles of emotion.
Bio : Slaney Bay are a female-fronted, three-piece indie band hailing from South West London. Their debut single, “Talking About You” received generous attention from 50+ countries within the first 2 weeks of release. Notable supporters include actor, Robert Carlyle. The band consists of: Caitlin Whitley (lead vocals, synth and guitar); William Nicola-Thompson (lead guitar); and Joel Martin (backing vocals and bass)
Track: The House Across the Street
Why We Like It: This bubbling indie-pop tune rides along sweet melodies, delicate vocals and sharp edgy guitar to create an invigorating listening experience. The band blend their infectious indie with lush arrangements of driving bass lines, punchy drums and dreamy melodies to create a bubblegum tune bursting with raw rock bravado and nostalgic 90’s tones. It’s a well crafted and satisfying track sure to revolve in your head for days.
Bio : Royal Castles have released their new single ‘Frickin Pretty’, the third single from their upcoming sophomore album, ‘Just The Hits’.Hailing from Guelph, Ontario, the 3-pieces sophomore album was recently recorded at North Of Princess Studio with producer Zane Whitfield (Glorious Sons, Sarah Harmer)
Track: Frickin Pretty
Why We Like It: It’s a fun hook-filled anthem laced in sun-soaked vibes and blistering garage rock. This energetic song bursts from the seams with vibrant instrumentation and witty lyrics as the band weave resounding bass grooves between punchy drums and jaunty guitar melodies to create one heck of a tune. ‘Frickin Pretty’ is an instant pick me up and infectious track from Royal Castles.
Bio : Royel Jr are alt-pop duo from London and Bray, Ireland. ‘Over by The Rain’ is a stunning first release by Royel Jr, capturing the duo’s conflict and familiarity with the violence of love.
Track: Over by The Rain
Why We Like It: The duo present a vaporous yet musically dense tune that boasts the masterful musicianship of Royel Jr. The track is an intoxicating and mesmerising listening experience that boasts a prismatic soundscape of shimmering synths and biting guitars that slice through a muggy atmosphere. This sonic beauty pulses with wonderous bass lines, nostalgic melodies, velvety vocals and meandering keys to provide a lucid and dreamy wall of sound. The song’s lyrics carefully study the tenderness of sexuality, offering space to explore queerness, infidelity, addiction and self-acceptance while the soundscape ventures between soul, R&B ( with subtle jazz flirtations ) and lathers of brooding alternative pop embellishments. ‘Over by The Rain’ is a glorious and tantalising new single from Royel Jr.
Bio : 21-year-old NYC-based artist, Cade Hoppe has released his new single ‘Afterparty’ which was produced by indie-pop duo Eighty Ninety’s Harper James and co-written by Maddie Regent.
Track: Afterparty
Why We Like It: It’s a charming tune laced in the warm, heartfelt and rich musicianship of Cade Hoppe. The track travels delicately on pulsing beats and soft electronics while cosy guitar entwines the song in balmy and comforting tones. Hoppe’s velvety vocals caress the sweet melody with tenderness as he croons over the earnest and heartfelt lyrics, “somehow you’re still gonna love me in the morning”. Filled with lofty guitar and showcasing deft production ‘Afterparty’ is a wholesome earworm that beckons repeat plays.
Bio : Anna Pancaldi returns with a stunning live performance of her brand new single, ‘No More Make Believe’.The London based singer-songwriter has had three Top Ten’s in the singer songwriter iTunes charts, has toured the UK, Europe and the US, opening for the likes of David Ryan Harris (John Mayer’s guitarist), Jake Isaac and Fatai, as well as headline shows in NYC, LA and Nashville. Anna has performed on CBS LA TV, had her music featured on hit US TV shows such as ‘Pretty Little Liars’, ‘Famous in Love’ and also featured in and soundtracked a Levi’s campaign amongst others.
Track: No More Make Believe (live)
Why We Like It: It’s a time stopping song as Pancaldi’s warm and beautiful vocals ooze passion and heartfelt emotion while elegant piano and strings adorn the backdrop in majestic tones. Her vocal delivery is simply captivating. Pancaldi is a one of a kind artist with a voice that transcends genre and this live performance captures the artist’s talent wonderfully. Her live performance of ‘No More Make Believe’ is a mesmerising treat highlighting just how special Pancaldi is as an artist.
Four in the Morning have released their Debut EP ‘Stress Dreams’. Led by Irish singer-songwriter Kevin Dolan and surrounded by an eclectic group of genre-defying musicians – Kiran Srinivasan, Dan Walwyn and Alex Lees – Four in the Morning write sad songs for insomniacs. As Kevin Dolan puts it: “I’ve always been bad at sleeping, and I find late at night a great time to write. Whether it’s a dream or a song, there’s something beautiful in the subconscious, taking all the stuff from a day and making sense of it. I guess that’s what these songs try to do.” ‘Stress Dreams’ was produced, recorded and mixed by Jono Steer (Angie McMahon, Ainslie Wills, Leif Vollebekk, Julia Wallace) at The Perch Recording Studio in Castlemaine in rural Australia.
‘Stress Dreams’ is a marvellous EP. Four in the Morning define their songwriting to create a moving, multi-dimensional experience full of heart and exquisite musicianship. Their music transports you into a dream-like, sedative world filled with wispy, almost translucent soundscapes. Each track exudes hazy bright tones that create a rosy-hued, memory-like effect between the mellow guitar and smooth melodies. This multi-dimensional sound transcends any genre and is a joy to listen to.
The beautifully melancholic ‘Home Home’ kicks the lucid experience in motion. A soft piano laments beneath Kevin Dolan’s vocals of despair as he pines, “I wanna go home home”. This majestic tune boasts Four in the Morning’s musical prowess as they build on the raw vocals and piano, adding in warm guitars and Irish musical embellishments; these elements lift the song from the stark loneliness displayed at the beginning to give the listener a glimpse into the warmth and joy Dolan longs for as he dreams of returning home to Ireland. This evocative imagery is the EP’s foundation as the band takes us on many mind journeys through the medium of powerful musicianship and eloquent lyrics. From the pulsing heartbeat rhythm in ‘Keep It Together’ to the warm nostalgic melody, dark undertones and striking lyrics in ‘Love in the Asylum’, the band provide a bittersweet escape for the listener to immerse themselves in while dealing with heavy emotional themes “it’s so dark and I’m so scared I’m living in a brain that’s running out of air”.
‘Stress Dreams’ ripples with light fragments of hope between dark emotions. There are themes of loss, loneliness and despair throughout the lyrics; however, at times, glimmers of hope rise above the pool of emotion; sometimes it’s through a cosy caress on guitar as in ‘Good Love’ or time stopping harmonies in ‘In The Dark’. The band never leave us to wallow in the sombreness for too long. They provide a means of coping through refined, and ethereal instrumentation to make ‘Stress Dreams’ quite the compelling listening experience.
Within ‘Stress Dreams’ Four in the Morning capture raw, unbridled emotion through spectacular arrangements and eloquent songwriting. The EP is laid back, passionate, and lays bare dark thoughts and feelings that are deftly expressed through mesmerising and expressive musicianship. It’s a heartbreaking but utterly beautiful collection of songs.
Speaking about the EP Kevin Dolan of Four in the Morning said: “I didn’t really notice until the record was finished how many references to sleep and dreams there were across it. The songs are obsessed with family, longing, stress, depression, love, and how we make sense of all of it. They’re fragments, feelings, and a means of coping.”
California-based indie electro-pop act Margot Polo has released his new single ‘Can You Hear Me?’.This vibrant bop is bursting from the seams with Margot Polo’s lush, intricate and dynamic musicianship. Margot Polo is becoming known for passionate, irresistible melodies and ‘Can You Hear Me?’ is a triumphant example of this. Glittery disco elements blend into a pool of shimmering synths while jaunty guitars ripple throughout, adding a dash of zest and edge into the track’s sonic soundscape. With a stomping beat slicing between the sun-kissed psychedelic tones and lush pop sensibilities, Polo creates a refreshing tune laced in hearty melodies and rich production. ‘Can You Hear Me?’ is a catchy upbeat tune that is destined for repeat plays.
Seán Finn has released his new single ‘Summer Is Over’. Originating from rural Ireland, Seán Finn is a multi-instrumental songwriter, grounded in pop and jazz. With a few years of songwriting under his belt, Seán’s homespun style provides a warm and inviting soundscape for his listeners. Seán is currently working together with sound engineer Jack Roulston on a project titled ‘Pencil In Regret’. The project consists of 10 songs that were written before and during the pandemic and ‘Summer Is Over’ is the final single to be released from this upcoming project.
Seán Finn blends retro tones with warm jazz hues, and subtle psychedelia in ‘Summer Is Over’ to create a sweet tune that boasts his vibrant songwriting. The song is lavishly arranged to provide a mellow and bright listening experience as warm guitars weave between rich rhythms and elastic bass grooves. The guitar adds a playful character to the song. It cheerily meanders between melancholy and peppy joy before unfolding into a more distorted psychedelic tone for the trippy crescendo. Finn’s soothing vocals carry the hopeful lyrics “ I know she likes me too” with a cheery and charming quality as the song effortlessly glides into the ears with a mellow and nostalgic tone. ‘Summer Is Over’ is a joy to listen to.
About the track Finn said: “I would describe ‘Summer Is Over’ as my first sincere attempt at writing a single. The production feels like it’s a big step in the right direction for me, it all sounds very clean and proper, yet it still sounds like me. It’s definitely my best song to date. It captures that melancholy feeling when the summer is drawing to a close, and your summer romance didn’t pan out the way you had hoped. Instead of facing the rejection at hand, you decide to focus on the positives. That kind of behaviour will catch up with you eventually, but in the moment it provides a little comfort. It might be naïve, but it’s nice.”
Patrick Stefan (formerly Paj) has released his new single ‘Anna’.Irish-born, half Dutch singer-songwriter Patrick Stefan would describe himself as a bit of a musical polyglot, having lived and performed in America, Brazil and West Africa, and played with some of Ireland’s leading musicians (including Loah, Fehdah, Uly, and rising R&B star Aby Coulibaly). He even has performance credits alongside Eurovision winner Luisa Sobral, and Irish fiddler Martin Hayes, as part of the award-winning band Ensemble Ériu. After completing his Masters in Global Music & Pedagogy at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, the Berklee College of Music graduate began releasing the bulk of his solo material under his former moniker, Paj. Stefan’s folk/jazz group, Leafzang, also released their eponymous album in 2011. ‘Anna’ is the first single Stefan is releasing under his real name and was written about his fateful meeting with the Airbnb host. The song heralds the announcement of his forthcoming album, slated for 2022 release.
‘Anna’ ebbs and flows with Patrick Stefan’s emotive and lush musicianship. He creates an ethereal laid back tune through refreshing instrumentation and airy soundscapes. The track has a mellow and passionate tone, enhanced by a supple guitar intro, wispy electronics and earthy marimba. Stefan blends smoky melodies and warm jazz keys with hypnotic rhythms and intricate arrangements to create a unique and mesmerising tune for listeners to enjoy. The lyrical tenderness is soothing to the ears “you don’t know how precious you are,” as Stefan’s velvety vocals caress the dreamy melody to create a pacifying and comforting listening experience. Doused in lo-fi tones, R&B elements, and silken melodies, ‘Anna’ is simply a delight to the ears.
Stream ‘Anna’ below
Author: Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
