All posts by Indie Buddie

A Chat With, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With :Shayne Ward

Multi-platinum recording artist/award-winning actor Shayne Ward has released his first original single in six years, ‘Crazy In Love’. I caught up with the singer to chat about the new single, working with Swedish DJ, Record Producer, and Grammy Nominated Artist StoneBridge as well as what he has planned for the coming months.

“I just wanted to create something that makes people smile and, you know, just that love is love. You should be allowed to love who you want, when you want, and that it’s [love] out there for you and when you get it, just embrace it and go crazy with it. I was really pleased when I collaborated with producer StoneBridge. How he just completely brought it to life and it’s been received so well by my fans. I’m pretty pleased with it.”

“I’m a big fan of StoneBridge, from the early 90s, and I think in this game now, one of the great things or the positives that you can take from social media is that you can reach out to people directly in DM’s and things like that and, as long as you’re not afraid of getting the answer no, which, I’m not afraid of, you know, I’m okay with no’s. But you just reach out to them and, I said I’d love to collaborate and do something and he was all for it. He’s been great ever since and he’s now a mate. So we’ve been working together for quite some time now so we’ve written quite a few songs. We’re just pleased with this one. I’m just happy to have something out for the summertime and something new for myself, like you said it’s been six years since I’ve had an original song out”

It’s difficult to not let the fear of rejection affect you. Especially when you are an artist and you have poured your soul into a song. It’s a very personal thing, and people in general automatically fear rejection. It takes a thick skin to put yourself out there. 

“ At the end of the day you’re gonna get a handful of no’s.You will get a few yeses, and you just have to keep persevering and don’t take it too personally. It’s nothing to do with your talent. It just might not be right for that person you’ve approached, they might not want to do something with you or they might be working on a different project, which is absolutely fine. I believe that everything comes full circle and if you really want to work with somebody, you try them again at a later time. But yeah, I mean in my life now, I’m 36. I’ve been working on new material since last year writing and pitching things for films and I feel in a really good place and I felt in the right place now to just start releasing new music again, especially for my fans who have been so loyal to me over the years.”

As Ward drove down by the coast in Cornwall, we discussed how he wrote ‘Crazy in Love’ and the catchy trumpet hook that features in the song

“Yeah, it came quickly. It’s quite wordy but it came quickly once I knew what the concept was, what it was about. I’m pretty good with lyrics in general so it was quite a quick process. I just recorded the vocals in my studio, sent the demo over to StoneBridge and yeah like I said he just completely brought it to life and before we knew it we had the track and then I set about getting the video made.”

“I always wanted to do something with a trumpet, it just reminds me of summer. There’s so many great songs out there with the trumpet. So when I was creating this demo for this song. I was looking at what samples I had on the music programs themselves like Logic, and I found this one or two great little samples, I kind of chopped it up, and made it sound the way that it did and put it on the track and StoneBridge put it in great places and before we knew it, it was like wow this is actually really cool”

The creation and layering of a track is a fun and fascinating part of creating music. I wondered if Ward found it overwhelming when he got to the studio and saw all the different sounds you can bring to the song.

“ I think more than anything, you’ve got to be willing, unless there’s a certain way you want a song to sound. Then you go out all guns blazing and you have a chat with the producer and say look this is how I want it to sound, just bring it to life like this. Or, you basically trust in the process which is, look, I know what you can do, this is what I can do. Show me what you’ve got. I sent StoneBridge the demo. What he sent back is not too far away from the actual original demo in terms of a lot of the sounds and the trumpet. I think at the end of the day, you’ve got to let someone else’s creativity become part of the project and then, that’s when the magic happens, But if you feel like you’ve already created the magic then you know, as long as you get the right producer on board he’ll produce it for you exactly how you want it to sound and I always like to find inspiration from elsewhere as well, that’s what helps my songs grow.”

‘Crazy In Love’ is an exciting new release, especially for fans who have been eagerly waiting for Ward to release music. We discussed whether an EP or album was in the works to follow the single.

“No, not at all I mean for me personally it was just about getting something out, I think realistically in this day and age in terms of the big numbers that a lot of the big stars do now you can’t really compete, you’re not gonna compete with the numbers of The Weeknd or [Lady] Gaga or Ariana Grande or [Justin] Bieber. So for me it was like, it’s been six years. It feels nice now because we’ve all fallen into this situation which is the pandemic. Where we’re all housebound so it felt right for me to start writing again. I just want to keep releasing music, I am working to hopefully complete a brand new album, which is exciting, and maybe early next year, that would be awesome to release it, but for right now I’ve got a good few other sideline projects that I’m involved with. Fans can just keep checking my socials as normal, and yeah, I’ll be updating them.”

Like many artists, the pandemic put a halt in Ward’s days due to lockdowns and such. This downtime sparked his decision to potter about in the studio and see where his creative thoughts took him.

“Yeah so the songwriting had stopped because I was just so focused on the acting in general. I didn’t feel like I had the mind capacity to try and think of anything new lyrical wise for a song because I was so engrossed in the storylines that I was doing. But yeah, naturally because of the pandemic it threw me back into the studio which I’m sure it did to a lot of people because you can’t go out and act anyway. So yeah, it was a perfect opportunity where I was like okay, let me relax, let me see how my creativity feels right now and it did. Once I turned on the computer and set everything up, microphone turned on I was away and I’ve been writing since last year so I’ve got a lot of great songs and I’m just so excited and stoked to get out there.”

2021 marks the 15th anniversary of Ward’s multi-platinum self-titled album. I wondered if he had any plans to celebrate the occasion.

“Well it kind of reminds me that I’m getting older. It’s 15 years. But, I think it’s such an achievement, to say that I’ve had, the amount of albums I have had, I’m just delighted, yes. I think unless I can get out and have a nice Guinness in a pub, I think it would just be a cup of tea and I’ll just say cheers to myself.”

Ward has had a diverse and successful career so far; an award-winning role as Aidan Connor on Coronation Street, winner of the second series of The X Factor, selling over three million records worldwide,15 global platinum albums and number one in nine countries. Ward has also had success on the theatre stage in the production of “Rock of Ages” as Stacee Jaxx in London’s West End as well as the touring productions of “The War of the Worlds” and “Band of Gold” and has also starred in the Tom Paton directed feature film “The Ascent”. I wondered with a diverse and well-rounded career so far, if he has any advice for aspiring musicians and actors.

“More than anything, it’s just trust your gut. I think the hardest thing as well is, a lot of people can’t take criticism and that’s not a fault. It’s not. You’ve just got to be willing to grow and be willing to listen and ask questions, and that covers both the acting and the singing side. If you want to progress in this industry, whether it’s acting or singing, trust your gut, believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to say no if you don’t feel that something’s right, trust your instincts, but also be willing to learn.That’s one of the most important things, is to be willing to learn and let people see that you’re there to learn as well.”

With everything slowly opening up and live shows potentially coming back. Ward tells me about his hope to go on tour and what he has planned for the coming months.

“Oh yeah, I really want to. I’ve seen so many people’s shows being announced and then being postponed. I think we all want to get back doing shows. I think what’s great now is I have a new song out there and more stuff that’s gonna be coming out hopefully before the end of the year and, yeah, I can get myself a show over in Ireland, and you know that’s down to my fans over there just enjoying the song, download and streaming it and that’s actually what gets me over to Ireland, so fingers crossed.”

‘Crazy in Love’ is an upbeat summer bop laced in intricate soundscapes, biting electronics and glorious melodies. It’s a fantastic return from Shayne Ward and provides a glimpse into the tunes Ward will release next. 

Stream ‘Crazy in Love’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Ria Rua ‘Asking For It’

Ria Rua has released her new single, ‘Asking For It’.Ria Rua is a modern Irish female electronic art-pop singer, songwriter and producer. After spending years as a professional drummer and touring the world with orchestras, she decided to take a chance on her own material. Her first three releases received national radio play in Ireland and the UK, and she was awarded International Artist of the Year 2020 by Nova Radio in the UK. Ria writes about power, love, obsession and control. Her debut single was about the global response to the coronavirus pandemic and has become a staple on Irish national radio. She has been awarded several Irish Arts bursaries, including the highly coveted Irish Arts Council’s National Music Bursary (2020) and has plans to release more singles in 2021, followed by her debut album.

Shrouded in gripping, nail-biting tension and unnerving electronics ‘Asking For It’ is a thrilling new single from Ria Rua. The track pulses with dark undertones as the artist blends heavy moments of EDM with head-spinning synths and techno flourishes. A dazed backdrop reminiscent of a rave has a muggy, lulling effect on the senses while Ria Rua’s vocals maintain an unimpressed matter of fact tone throughout. The striking lyrical content hits hard with bruising force as the artist pulls no punches, “people used to say to me you don’t walk around in short skirts cause they know what you’re asking for. No, it’s just implied cause you’re asking for it”. Boasting masterful production and thought-provoking lyrics ‘Asking For It’ is a fine example of Ria Rua’s boundless musical talent. Looking forward to hearing much more from Ria Rua.

Stream ‘Asking For It’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets ‘shine’

Limerick-based alternative rock outfit Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets have released their new single ‘shine’.This is the third single from their ‘crazy, how we live like this’ collection. As per usual the band recorded and produced the track themselves, with their drummer, Gavin Murray, mixing it. The track is set to come out under the Limerick-based collective, BitDepth.The band have been busy the last six months gaining over 18k on Spotify. They have released three singles and an EP with collaborator and producer, Culla. They also have plenty more to come, with three more singles set to come out from their ‘crazy, how we live like this’ collection. 

‘shine’ is an anthemic tune that boasts the emotive and stirring musicianship of Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets. The band caress the ears with a soothing sweet melody while bubbling rhythms create a tense and melancholic atmosphere to start before the chorus reveals a more uplifting undertone. Flynn’s smooth vocals exude tenderness and emotion throughout as he coos, “are we getting there?, are we losing our sweet time?. We’re going nowhere” over a building flurry on guitars and synths. The track gives way to a mighty, heartfelt crescendo as delicate guitar plucks and lofty western-esque refrains chime between cinematic builds on synth and driving drum progressions. Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets pack oodles of passion into their songs. This richness in emotion expressed through moving lyrics and evocative instrumentation is what makes Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets a band to treasure.

About the track, Flynn said:“This track is one that I’ve had for a while. I wrote it when I was going through a really tough time mentally, and it helped see the light at the end of the tunnel. We have been playing it live for some time, so I’m delighted its finally out in the world.”

Stream ‘shine’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Rowan ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’

Photo credit: Paul Trojner

Rising Cork trio, Rowan have released their new single ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’.It’s the second track to be lifted from their upcoming EP Everybody Talks, due on July 23rd via their new label home, LA’s Beverly Martel. Born out of the early pandemic last year, when the three accomplished musicians were forced into a hiatus from session work, Rowan are fast becoming one of the most exciting new Irish acts around.

Showcasing the band’s deft musicianship and exciting blossoming sound, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’ is a tight, well-crafted gem. Rowan weave bright guitar refrains into a punchy drum and rugged bassline combo to create a gripping, adrenaline-inducing blend of indie rock with luscious pop sensibilities that is a joy to listeners’ senses. The track’s empowering lyrical theme is enhanced by the bubbling instrumental backdrop while moody undertones brood throughout as Dylan Howe’s deep vocals express the hard-hitting lyrics “ wasting daylights worse than intentional stealing”. Filled with majestic guitars and biting bass lines, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’ is a fantastic new tune sure to be stuck in your head for days.

About the track, Dylan Howe explains: “Nothing’s Gonna Change” talks about “coming out of your shell, gaining your self-confidence and growing into yourself” 

Stream ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jonnie Wallace ‘Milk And Flowers’

Edinburgh singer-songwriter Jonnie Wallace has released his new single ‘Milk and Flowers’.Wallace presents a stomping dynamic indie rock track that boasts his sharp songwriting and energetic musicianship. Filled with edgy guitar riffs that pierce through a dense rhythmic wall of sound the track is well crafted, full-bodied and the perfect example of Wallace’s catchy passionate sound. Punchy instrumentation pivots around a sweet yet power-driven melody to create a strong and angst-hued tune full of gusto enhanced by blazing guitars that slice through resounding bass rumbles and relentless drum thrashings. As the song swarms to its hair-raising crescendo, Wallace howls “I’m not gonna wait on you no more” while haunting vocals echo his frustration in the background. ‘Milk and Flowers’ is a fantastic new single from Jonnie Wallace.

About the track Wallace said “This track is about not settling for being second best, or being an option, or being treated as a lesser priority. Too many times I have put in the effort to keep in contact, continue a friendship, or form a new relationship with someone, and too many times I have been ignored or treated like nothing important. I poured my angst and frustration into this track and I think it is my best work yet.”

Stream ‘Milk and Flowers’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

James Lonergan ‘Joop’

Dublin artist James Lonergan has released his new single ‘Joop’. Lonergan joined his first band, aged 10; since then, he has steadily fronted bands – most notably as the vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter of the recently disbanded progressive band, Synk.


Blending ambient soundscapes with looped harmonies on backing vocals ‘Joop’ displays the refined, lush sound of Lonergan. The track flows upon ripples of silken melodies and grand instrumental builds to create an atmospheric piece of music that boasts gripping soundscapes filled with washes of synths and elegant piano. A bubbling rhythmic undercurrent of shaking percussion and buoyant beats draws the listener into the song’s many intricate layers and musical depths while Lonergan’s passionate vocals exude soothing tones that become more dynamic before fading out into a blustery wall of distortion. Fusing harsh elements with delicate tones and sweeping moments on strings, ‘Joop’ is an awe-inspiring single as Lonergan pushes boundaries to create quite a mesmerising piece of art.

Stream ‘Joop’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jamie Button ‘Strange Saints’

Jamie Button has released his new single ‘Strange Saints’. The song is taken from Button’s forthcoming debut album, which was written in lockdown, and speaks of frustration, inner turmoil and a desire to break free. Hopes are high for Button’s new single after his previous singles ‘Flashbang’ and ‘Told You Things’ peaked at No. 3 and No.2 on the iTunes singer/songwriter charts, respectively. ‘Strange Saints’ was recorded in Paisley at Jamie McGrory’s (Bay City Rollers) studio JJ Recordings. ‘Strange Saints’ features Scott Forsyth on drums and guitars whilst Gordon Burn (bass) and Gary Hornsby (lead guitar) complete the record. The song was produced by Glasgow-based Ross Hamilton (Texas, Saint PHNX, Seafret).

Steeped in indie rock energy with an anthemic chorus and Button’s trademark earworm melodies, ‘Strange Saints’ is a stomping new banger. Button crafts a catchy tune laced in blistering guitar hooks and driving rhythms ready to ignite a live audience while the easy on the ears melody ensures this song won’t leave your head anytime soon. His smooth vocals coat the song in emotion while the indie rock soundscape blazes in the background. Boasting a shredding guitar solo and adrenaline-inducing basslines, ‘Strange Saints’ is a fantastic new addition to Button’s knock out repertoire.

Stream ‘Strange Saints’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

TV People ‘Out of the Silence’

Photo Credit: Nicholas O’Donnell

Dublin alternative rock outfit TV People have released their new single ‘Out of the Silence’. Working alongside Dan Doherty at Darklands Audio (Fontaines D.C., Vulpynes), Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios (Radiohead, Blur, LCD Soundsystem) and Grammy award-winning Caesar Edmunds (QOTSA, St. Vincent, PJ Harvey); ‘Out of the Silence’, is the band’s first new music of 2021.

Within ‘Out of the Silence’ TV People flesh out their dark and brooding sound to create a spacious and intense tune for listeners to indulge in. The band have become known for their meticulously crafted songs and ‘Out of the Silence’ follows this trend superbly. The verse simmers with rooted bass and thudding drums while Paul Donohoe’s rich baritone croons over the dreamy melody with a sense of longing. As the song progresses into the chorus the soundscape becomes lighter as sweet glimmers on guitars fragment the muggy backdrop with subtle yet energetic instrumental bursts. With vivid eloquent lyrics drifting through the building instrumentation, the band showcase their poetic flair and maturing lyrical prowess “I watched the Liffey bleed along the banks of distant quays, and I awaken when the feeling flows from out of the silence”. TV People are an evocative and compelling band to listen to. With each release, the listener gets an exciting glimpse into their vast, rich pool of talent and it’s simply extraordinary.

About the track Paul Donohoe said:  “We wrote ‘Out of the Silence’ at the start of the year when we got back into our rehearsal room in Dublin after months of writing from home. I remember feeling inspired and invigorated by the energy of the city at the time, despite the fact that everything was closed and the weather was dark and grim. I found solace in the fact that the city was indifferent to everything that was going on in the world around it, and started to reflect on the fact that I needed a bit more perseverance in my own life. The tune is a homage to that timeless energy and presence that certain places have and how you can find comfort in the permanence of these places when you’re feeling a bit lost and dejected. For me, it’s an expression of optimism and appreciation for life, despite its faults and imperfections.”

Stream ‘Out of the Silence’ below


Author : Danu

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

Damn Good Liars Self Titled EP

Recorded in the height of the pandemic, Damn Good Liars have released their self-titled EP. A passion project years in the making, Damn Good Liars is the result of guitarist and co-producer Steve Jenner’s enduring ambition, his long-standing friendship with producer and multi-instrumentalist Ian Turner, and their combined efforts to transform their concept into existence. Originally creating instrumental demos, Damn Good Liars was completed by the vocal and lyrical talents of Ellis Turner who joined the band in 2020. Elevated by Ellis’ vocals, Damn Good Liars released their debut single, and opening track from the EP, ‘Station Wagon Motel Chic’ was released in June 2021 and has already received support from BBC Introducing Berkshire.

Damn Good Liars is a brooding and enticing collection of tracks that displays Damn Good Liars intricate musicianship and tantalizing songwriting. Blending haunting melodies with Turner’s smoky vocals, the band create an eerie and mysterious soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. Exuding lulling vaporous tones in ‘Unworthy’ and rock and roll undertones in ‘Station Wagon Motel Chic’, the EP boasts Damn Good Liars engaging and diverse sound. There is oodles of swagger within the EP enhanced by rich mellow refrains on guitar and ethereal synths that create a dreamy narcotic atmosphere throughout. This is best shown in ‘Tobacco Lips’ where a slow 60’s shimmy and panache driven melody slips gently into psychedelic territory while funky guitars and a sensual bass line groove throughout. Damn Good Liars have crafted a satisfying EP that blends edgy alternative rock with smooth psychedelia and grunge elements to create one thrilling, cohesive listening experience. 

Stream ‘Damn Good Liars’ below 


Author : Danu

Acoustic Set, Indie, Indie Buddie Session, New Music

Indie Buddie Sessions: Big Sleep

Rónán and Matteo performed an acoustic set for Our Indie Buddie Sessions.

Big Sleep are a Dublin based indie-alternative band who spent the last two years playing to packed out rooms of a steady-growing and dedicated fan base until the lockdowns came along. The four-piece formed when frontman, Rónán, entered a Battle of the Bands as a singer-songwriter. He reconnected with some old bandmates and was introduced to some new ones to form the current lineup: Matteo Poli on percussion, Evin O’Connor on lead guitar, Rónán Connolly on vocals and rhythm guitar and Dougie Sealy on bass.

Big Sleep create sun-kissed irresistible tunes laced in warm laid back instrumentation. Blending funky rhythms, supple drums and radiant guitar melodies the bands sound is luscious and oh so sweet on the ears. Rónán and Matteo’s performance highlights the band’s nostalgic hazy melodies through a soft acoustic set and it’s simply divine.

For more from Big Sleep check out their Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/bigsleepmusicpeople/

 Check out the performance below. 


Author: Danu