Category Archives: Alt- Pop

Alt- Pop, EP Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Moncrieff ‘The Class of 2020’ EP

Moncrieff has recently released his second EP ‘The Class of 2020’. Having spent most of early 2020 in the solitude of his friend and co-producer Toby Scott’s home studio in Brighton, Moncrieff has created a collection of songs free and unconfined by genre that capture the zeitgeist of an ever changing musical and cultural landscape. Moncrieff’s debut body of work ‘The Early Hurts’ EP featured lead track ‘Like I Do’, this debut radio single (released in Sept 2019) received extensive airplay across national radio racking up nearly 12 million audience impressions and 5 million streams. The success of the single and EP led to Moncrieff selling out his first headline show in Dublin in less than 3 hours. His growing reputation also landed support slots touring with headline Irish acts Picture This and Walking on Cars.

As far as sophomore EP’s go ‘The Class of 2020’ is a musical triumph which boasts the unique genius of Moncrieff. Within this catchy, upbeat and candidly honest EP Moncrieff pushes boundaries and expectations while being extremely forthright with his emotions. The rich and utterly lush production on the tracks is masterful and something to be admired. If his debut ‘The Early Hurts’ EP had you thinking Moncrieff is an exceptional artist – ‘The Class of 2020’ will not only confirm your hypothesis but tell you the artist has more talent up his sleeve than he is letting on. 

‘PLAYLOUD’ jump starts the EP – lathered in electronic production, R&B and infectious pop Moncrieff’s fun, euphoric expression of youth surges through playful soundscapes and witty lyrics “I’m a f*cking unicorn if I say so”.  Oodles of attitude spills all over the EP. From quirky censored F word’s to catchy shout along choruses – it’s an energetic start to the EP. Moncrieff utilizes his unique and soulful vocals to inject rich depths through the rapid lyrics in ‘PLAYLOUD’ and surge emotion and velvety tones into the upbeat, urban pop ‘AMERICA’. A track that is vibrant, rich and laced in satirical commentary ‘AMERICA’ displays Moncrieff’s versatility as an artist through tropical rhythms, jangly soundscapes and a catchy chorus subtly scented with the aroma of Fun Boy Three’s ‘It Ain’t What You Do (It’s The Way That You Do It)’. The track is an impressive earworm which will chime in your head for days, its infectious rhythm unabated by any other tune you play after it.

Moncrieff doesn’t pull punches lyrically in this EP. He delivers an exhilarating middle finger to those in power failing to support society; “We chase our dreams while you spread your lies, Build castles in the sky, Heaven knows we’re all gonna die” in ‘AMERICA’ and rips shreds out of himself in ‘Sad and Horny’  “I’m a looser yeah i’m just a creep, who would wanna f*ck me”, it’s an honest account of his journey and thoughts on this year expressed through slick, first rate musicianship. The lush falsetto on the latter is simply flawless and gives listeners a teasing reminder of Moncrieff’s debut work – a clever addition and one that works so well. The chorus of ‘Sad and Horny’ erupts with subtle bursts of luscious pop followed by bubbling beats and simmering synths which blossom into a catchy release of tension as Moncrieff gravitates from glistening pop into a more melancholic undertone.

Similarly the dancefloor bop ‘DANCE’ follows the glum lyrical theme ‘we’re born, make money then we die’, however once again Moncrieff packages the ominous message within an upbeat infectious gem. ‘Dance’ is arguably my favourite track on the EP. This tightly produced glitter ball is drenched in bitter-sweet dreamy melodies, warm vocals and a catchy whistle along feature. Destined for the kinetic energy of a live show, the body moving beat, sweet electronics and jaunty guitar make this track a delight on the ears.

Moncrieff brings the EP to a close with the first demo he released this year during lockdown, the tender and earnest ‘in my room’. This beautiful track is again, a throwback to ‘The Early Hurts’ EP and the ruminating, depressive side of Moncrieff. Brooding, sombre and soulful Moncrieff coos a bittersweet melody atop ethereal soundscapes and lamenting piano creating an expansive, lonely and almost celestial backdrop. His wonderfully expressive vocal delivery hits hard and is raw and honest. Riddled with pain and expressing heartfelt emotion the track winds down the EP to a perfect end. ‘in my room’ is a poignant representation of how many people felt this year. However the track can be interpreted in many ways, for example it is a wonderful contrast to the upbeat, energetic bravado of opening track ‘PLAYLOUD’ where youthful angst has the potential to take on and change the world whereas ‘in my room’ is vulnerable, afraid and filled with doubt. Looking at the EP as a whole one can see Moncrieff is allowing the listener to glimpse different opposing facets of his personality and emotional state, which in truth on introspect is within each and every one of us. Moncrieff is vividly painting through the medium of music how we all feel at times. We may put on a brave face but within we are vulnerable and filled with doubt. Subtle messages, themes and nuances such as these lurk throughout the EP, within the lyrics, soundscapes and musical embellishments, deftly left obscure by the artist for the listener to make their own assumptions on the topic at hand.

Another point of interest is Moncrieff is ending the year as it began for the artist. His first release of 2020 is his curtain call as well – the finale of a chapter, the end of a crazy year and ‘in my room’ aptly closes the chapter or does it ? .. the haunting nature and sorrow of the track feels as if it’s a small break before everything kicks off again… Intriguing to say the least.

‘The Class of 2020’ displays a different facet to Moncrieff as an artist. His sublime ability to make you feel the pang of his isolation and emotional state through tonally tight, crisp and full flavoured production is awe-inspiring. The dynamic energy within each track is infectious and each song warrants its place on the EP creating a compelling and thoroughly enjoyable collection of tracks. Moncrieff is a musical force of nature who possesses depth and artistic understanding that is both mesmerising and enviable. ‘The Class of 2020’ is only a keyhole glimpse of the boundless talent this artist has to offer. Keep an eye on this guy.

Stream ‘The Class Of 2020’ Below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, New Music, Pop Rock

World’s First Cinema ‘Red Run Cold’

World’s First Cinema have just released their hotly anticipated new single ‘Red Run Cold’.The track is the second single from World’s First Cinema who recently released their debut song ‘Can’t Feel Anything’ which saw additions on 2 key Spotify playlists Pop Rock Shot and Fin De Journee. The track has now accumulated over 200k streams. World’s First Cinema is a cinematic alt rock duo from Los Angeles comprised of John Sinclair and Fil Thorpe. Since the project’s inception in early 2020 the duo has aimed to combine cinematic orchestration with melodic pop vocals and unique rock production. Their sonic identity reveals a theatrical tone inspired by film scoring as it clashes with rock. ‘Red Run Cold’ their second single was both written and produced by the duo.

‘Red Run Cold’ is a mouthwatering bite into the luscious alternative pop of World’s First Cinema as they use their first rate musicianship to create a wholly invigorating listening experience. The track ferments and simmers within the bands richly melodic sound; electronics surge through the track creating an intense soundscape while heavy beat eruptions and expanding sonic builds add adrenaline and power to the songs emotive melodies. The strings glide and swoosh through the track with a lamenting stride that at times mirrors the bitter sweet vocal melody. The duo flesh out the track superbly embellishing their full bodied wall of sound with rich percussion and dramatic synth progression between biting alternative pop eruptions. This anthemic song builds to cinematic heights as the band utilize pockets of space in the track to create intense, hair-raising moments while employing a varied range of genres. With soul infused passionate vocals and an infectious melody ‘Red Run Cold’ is a captivating new single from World’s First Cinema.

Stream ‘Red Run Cold’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, New Music

Apella ‘POINT OF VIEW’

Apella return with their brand new single ‘Point of View’. Alongside this they have also announced the release of their debut album “1963” which is set for release on January 29th, 2021.Formed in Dublin in 2016, Apella burst onto the scene with their radio hit ‘We Met At A Party’ and furthered their success with ‘Graceful Dancer’, ‘Logic’ and ‘City Limits’. After touring all over the country – opening for Twenty One Pilots, appearing at all major Irish music festivals including Electric Picnic, Indiependence, Castlepalooza and Sea Sessions – accompanied by UK tours with Keywest and Don Broco, frontman and singer Dara Quilty moved to New York City to work further on his music career. This period saw him playing in venues like Rockwood Music Hall, Bitter End, Pete’s Candy Store and many more in New York City. The Pandemic brought the music industry to a tragic halt with Dara Quilty completing his work on the album at Empire Underground Studios in Brooklyn, NY. 

Exuding cinematic soundscapes, ‘Point of View’ presents the passionate and emotive musicianship of Apella. The track builds superbly boasting lush, diverse instrumentation from warm guitars, spongy drums to elegant strings which creates an uplifting ethereal atmosphere.The dynamic and graceful elements are enhanced by heartfelt songwriting, hair-raising pop production and dreamy melodies. As ‘Point of View’ progresses the guitars and drums pepper the song in indie rock grit. The warm emotive vocals drift over the tracks bittersweet melody with a soaring elegance as the song builds to its powerful crescendo. ‘Point of View’ is a well created new song from Apella. Looking forward to the album in 2021.

Speaking about the album Dara Quilty said: “I had a goal to produce & record an entire album before I was 30 and I did it. I waited for too long to release this but now is the time. This is my life’s work, this is my twenties. I paid for the entire production of the record myself and I am truly excited to put it out into the world!”

Stream ‘Point of View’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, New Music

Noah Elliott ‘Empty’

Oregon native and Pop R&B singer Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Empty’, the third release from his debut album ‘Songs For The Optimist’.His previous releases already have over 500k Spotify listens from a growing fanbase of loyal music lovers and this is just the beginning.

Honest and infectious ‘Empty’ displays Noah Elliott’s ability to blend intricate electronic pop with emotion to create a wholly consuming number. The track simmers with buoyant subtle grooves while warm guitars lament between a dark R&B backdrop. Elliott’s lyrics are earnest and raw “ I was brain dead, close to the edge” while haunting backing vocals and spacious soundscapes flutter about the track’s expansive wall of sound accompanied by earthy twinkles on xylophone. ‘Empty’ is a sublime engaging song from Noah Elliot.

Stream ‘Empty’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Liam Geddes ‘Christmas In Bed’

After a busy year of releases Liam Geddes finishes 2020 off with a playful yet relatable Christmas single called ‘Christmas In Bed’. This year has seen Liam rack up 336k streams on Spotify alone and peaked at 93k monthly listeners.

Richly textured and boasting witty lyrics, ‘Christmas In Bed’ is a catchy tune from Liam Geddes. The track takes the cheery Christmas song and puts a fun and unique spin on it. Geddes’ velvety vocals cruise along an infectious nostalgic melody which surges with uplifting soundscapes of bubbling synths, buoyant beats and festive sleigh bells ( which adorn the clap along feature ). The lyrics long for a proper Christmas, not the 2020 version we are stuck with, while the lush pop sensibilities, R&B hues and anthemic tones keep the track bright and fun. ‘Christmas In Bed’ is a lively earworm perfect for the Holiday season. Love It.

Stream ‘Christmas In Bed’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Quinn ‘Some Days’

After the successful debut single release of ‘Trespasser’ in July 2020 Belfast local and ‘dootdootRecords’ artist Quinn has released her follow up single ‘Some Days’. Since linking up with Producer Michael Mormecha and John Dynes from dootdoot Music, Quinn’s guitar and piano based lyrical music has taken a massive leap into experimental, hard hitting pop.Quinn has performed in many venues around the world, including touring in New York,Amsterdam, Dublin, Cambridge, Manchester, Dubai, Dublin and Nashville,with the main purpose of getting her music in front of as many people as possible. She has also appeared at multiple venues and events in Northern Ireland


Quinn fleshes out her emotive alternative sound with new single ‘Some Days’; a shimmering pop track with an 80’s synth sheen. The track travels on an upbeat melody and tightly weaved synths which creates a vibrant and bubbling soundscape for Quinn’s expressive vocals to bounce off. As the jaunty guitars spread a sweet radiance through the warm melody the song reaches its comforting power pop crescendo. Exuding quirky, earnest lyrics ‘Some Days’ is an uplifting and richly crafted gem from Quinn. 

The song was written in Amsterdam in January 2020 when Quinn was on tour in Europe. About the song she says…. “I was really struggling with the loneliness of the music industry and not sure what direction to go in. I wrote ‘Some Days’ on an acoustic guitar in 3 or 4 days and used it to help redirect my goals and focus for my career in music.”

Watch the video for ‘Some Days’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Thrillhouse ‘The Tin Man’

Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their new strut worthy single ‘The Tin Man’. This radiant anthem prances in on Thrillhouse’s infectious musicianship.The band have created a luscious irresistible tune exuding a hip moving beat, jaunty guitar, and funky bass groove with a vibrant backing vocal and fruity pop melody providing the sugary coating on top. Thrillhouse craft fun, energetic and exhilarating tunes laced in charm which compel you to put the track on repeat. Their tunes will put a smile on your face and coax you to the dance floor. I’m becoming a big fan of these guys.

Stream ‘The Tin Man’ below


Author : Danu

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

Sam Ludlow ‘Summertime Somewhere’

Dublin multi-instrumentalist Sam Ludlow is set to release his new single ‘Summertime Somewhere’ on 20th of November. The song was recorded during the Summer with producer/friend, Mateusz (Shaky Shack), and Andrea Louise Jones on sax in a small house outside Dublin.

‘Summertime Somewhere’ is a wonderfully melodic track as Sam Ludlow spreads mellow alt pop over infectious grooves and intricately crafted soundscapes. The track’s soothing atmosphere and relaxed vibes seep into the listeners ears with ease as Sam’s velvety vocals cruise over the laid back melody and bubbling beat. The sunkissed haze on guitar is perhaps the most interesting aspect on the track, it exudes warmth through a soft beat which ventures slightly into reggae territory without fully committing to the genre. Sprinkles of jazz provided by a sultry sax give that final touch to create an all consuming listening experience.

‘Summertime Somewhere’ is a delight to listen to. Sam Ludlow is honing in on his sound and perfecting his craft. Looking forward to hearing more from this artist.

 ‘Summertime Somewhere’ is set for release tomorrow 20th of November for more you can follow Sam Ludlow on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/samludlowartist


Author : Danu

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

Dunluvly ‘Something On My Mind’

Dublin-based singer/songwriter/producer Dunluvly has released his new single, ‘Something On My Mind’.The song is the second release off Dunluvly’s upcoming EP, ‘Plethora’.

Exuding a chilled atmosphere, subtle R&B elements and indie pop melodies, Dunluvly crafts ‘Something On My Mind’ superbly. The multitude of textures created through looped guitar and meticulous attention to detail showcase just how talented Dunluvly is as an artist. Each subsequent listen provides a new treat to the ears as it reveals a new melody, rhythmic pull or electronic twinkle within the song’s rich sonics. With warm indie guitar peering behind a lo-fi beat and agitated percussive progression Dunluvly creates a vibrant backdrop for his smooth vocals and hook filled melody to flourish within. ‘Something On My Mind’ is wonderful track from Dunluvly. Looking forward to hearing more from Dunluvly.

About the track Dunluvly says, “I wrote the track when I was in the decision making process of trying to move out. I was going a bit mad living at home with my family, and feeling mounting frustration at the impossibility of moving out in the county that I grew up in. The song expresses the agitation of wanting to fly the nest but feeling chained. It felt impossible to work to afford a place to live and also have the time to pursue creative endeavours.“The main hook of the track is a looped melody that repeats quite a bit in the song. It mimics being caught in a mental loop and being haunted by the same recurring thoughts.” 

Stream ‘Something On My Mind’ below


Author : Danu

Album Review, Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Nightly ‘night, love you’ Album

Photo Credit :Zach Pigg

Nashville Indie-pop, alternative band Nightly have released their debut album ‘night, love you’. In true Nightly manner ‘night, love you’ overflows with genuine, heartfelt warmth and refined musicianship. These guys write infectious earworms oozing lush intricate arrangements that create wonderfully melodious tunes. 

Synths wisp and soar through the tracks creating an ethereal atmosphere which exudes sweet hues and lush textures that flourish through ‘the car’, ‘mess in my head’ and ‘not like you’. Indie jaunty guitar bursts add a dash of vigor through the tracks as the band allow each song show a new facet of their musicianship. The 80’s shimmering disco ball of ‘time online’ is a lonely bop with elements of auto tune on the vocals. The tracks bittersweet infectious melody is an instant hook which entices the listener into submission while a danceable shuffling beat coupled with cinematic production makes ‘time online’ a memorable track on the album.

A number of interludes embellish the album providing a The 1975 vibe for ‘(howitfeels)’ – exuding sparkling synths, bubbling beats and audio clips, this darker number displays a unique facet to the bands sound while the short ‘turnpike’ showcases Nightly’s heavier electronic side as they layer deft beats over an electronic soundscape. ‘whiskey’ displays the light-hearted and fun element of the album while paving the way for the ultimate summer tune, ‘summer’. This upbeat ditty is the gem. Though all the songs warrant a memorable place on the album there’s something special about ‘summer’. Maybe it’s the nostalgic vibe, radiant atmosphere or dreamy melody, the song emcompasses everything youthful and free. The band continue this knockout melodic flow through their slower ballads. ‘older’ which is my favourite track is an earnest account of growing up and the fear and expectation associated with it. A relatable theme set to beautiful music, it’s the most moving track on the album. The song is honest and filled with weaving electronics, soft beats and bubbling soundscapes which caress Jonathan Capeci’s soft coos as he perfectly delivers the lyrics with passion and tenderness. With warm guitar accompanying his voice this emotional tune is a captivating example of how well Nightly capture emotion within their lyrics and music. 

The band build on natural emotion, expertly crafting it through this album to provide an incredibly powerful collection of sonic beauties. However they keep the tempo bubbly and bright with ‘so sly’ and ‘lose a friend’ while ‘the movies’ returns the album to that dreamy nostalgic melancholy that could make your heart bleed.
The album comes full circle with ‘i got so much to tell you’. A minimalist track with reverb vocals and echoed soundscapes; the song builds tension ever so carefully. Themes of love, confusion and fear all flood through the song’s lyrics while the swirling electronics and lofty soundscapes create space between the clicking and pulsing beats.

There is a magical quality to Nightly’s melodic wizardry. Their ability to pull passion, sadness and love out of every note is masterful. The band have nurtured their sound and allowed it blossom into something beautiful and passionate. Emotion drives this collection of tracks. ‘night, love you’ is a catalogue of life and a journey of the heart set to intricate, cinematic sounds and emotive vocals – a wholesome, wholly consuming listening experience.

Stream ‘night, love you’ below 


Author : Danu