Bristol-based, Drowzy Rock and Roll, quartet Hush Mozey have released their new single ‘Trim The Roses’.Last year the band released their second EP, “Pretty Little Seance”, with a sold out release show at Rough Trade Bristol, leading to multiple Glastonbury appearances, performing at O2 Academy Bristol and being featured on Steve Lamacq’s “Recommends” show on BBC 6 Music.
‘Trim The Roses’ wisps and drifts with soft dreamy tones, sweet melodies and lush textures as Hush Mozey create an anthemic laid back track to submerge the listener in. Chiming guitars weave between a buoyant beat while the psychedelic hued backdrop provides subtle bursts of scintillation throughout. It’s a charming soothing number. The band melt a velvety sun kissed melody over the bubbly sweet soundscapes to create a Utopian glowing track brimming with rich intricacies and glorious tones. Elegant strings swoon between the jangly guitars and vibrant rhythms as ‘Trim The Roses’ lifts you into a cosy cloud of ethereal indie pop bliss. Well crafted and wonderfully written this track is a vibrant and dreamy song filled with timeless blossoming instrumentation as Hush Mozey mark themselves as a band to keep an eye on.
Irish glam-pop artist Jack Rua has released his new single ‘Curious’, the fourth single from his yet to be announced debut album. Jack Rua is a classically trained vocalist and musician who blends well crafted pop music with electronic-dance and glam-rock influences. Jack began releasing his music in 2019 with three singles that racked up over 85,000 streams on Spotify and received radio airplay on RTE 2FM, Spin 1038, Classic Hits 4FM, BBC Introducing and KCLR to name a few. ‘Ego’, his house-pop banger with producer LOGUOS was placed on Spotify’s “Out Now” Pride and ‘Rise’ (featuring Cork rapper Darce) was added to New Music Friday UK on Spotify.
‘Curious’ flourishes Jack Rua’s infectious pop with dubstep elements which pelt heavy punches through his compact dance infused soundscape. Rua weaves swirling electronics through sultry rhythms and silky melodies as he presents another anthemic single. The track celebrates bi-curiousity through tight fluctuating ripples of synth and muggy electronics as Rua’s bright vocals coo and melt upon the catchy melody. The lyrics playfully challenge binary thinking in terms of sexuality, beckoning you to “stop paying so much attention to your labels” and embrace “a new world”. The pop elements blend seamlessly with darker indie rock elements as Rua warps the track to create something unique and refined. It’s edgy interior is wrapped in a polished dance pop sheen making ‘Curious’ another sublime number from Rua.
London/Irish band Indian Queens have released their new single ‘Shoot for Sexy’.The band are fronted by sisters Jen and Kat O’Neill and were personally invited by Robert Smith of The Cure to play his Meltdown Festival in 2019. They also have fans in Tim Wheeler of Ash and Theresa Wayman of Warpaint, both of whom have taken the band out as tour support. This track is taken from their debut album ‘God Is A Woman’ which is set for release on 3rd April via Cool Thing Records.
‘Shoot for Sexy’ is a luring number as Indian Queens present an almost upbeat track warped through a rich concoction of bewitching musicianship. A sultry, rumble on bass grooves and seduces through warm toned guitar embellishments and steamy shrills against the danceable hip moving beat.The harmonies haunt, enticing you into the darker elements of the track while the sweet falsetto lulls the listener into a trance-like daydream. The band swirl psychedelic elements into the track to create a meticulously layered, thrilling listening experience. The song ripples and twinkles like a mesmerising bottomless lake, flickering prismatic speckles of scintillation to draw you into its beautifully created yet eerie abyss. Another sublime track from Indian Queens.
Brighton’s indie quartet Koala Club have released their newest offering ‘No Surprise’ on 13th March. The release of ‘No Surprise’ follows the January release of single ‘360’,which garnered support from the likes of BBC Introducing, and is the first in a series of new singles that will be released this year.Koala Club consists of James Grimsdale (Vocals, Guitar), Doug Stokes (Guitar), Lewis Phenix (Bass) & Toby Jones (Drums, percussion).
‘No Surprise’ is a jaunty indie track laced in sprightly zealous guitar lines as the band create an upbeat infectious delight that is sure to have you bopping and dancing around the room. With an animated beat, wiggling rooted bass and infectious melody teamed with witty lyrics these guys hook you from the start. Well crafted with an energetic wall of sound blistering around the velvety vocals and eargasmic melodies Koala Club have an exhilarating, charming sound that is crisp and polished with enough edge to keep you craving for more.
Frontman James Grimsdale said of the track: “It’s about seeking truth and honesty. About losingthe lies that are spoken to make you feel better momentarily, moving on and getting rid of toxicrelationships in your life.”
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Dizzy
Photo Credit: Pooneh Ghana
Produced by Dizzy and mixed by Craig Silvey (Arcade Fire, Florence & The Machine), ‘Sunflower’ is the first release from the Canadian four-piece since last year’s Heavy / Twist EP, which followed their 2018 debut album, Baby Teeth which won the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year in 2019.The band have toured with the likes of Death Cab for Cutie and Tokyo Police Club and appeared at London’s All Points East Festival in 2019.
‘Sunflower’ is a laid back sun-kissed number that drifts beautifully on infectious, ethereal soundscapes. Katie Munshaw’s sweet vocals caress the dreamy melody with a tender, comforting ease while the lush rhythm maintains a peppy foundation. The track holds a vibrant, airy poise as twinkling guitars wobble and weave gloriously between a groovy bass creating a hazy psych hued tone to the radiant indie sonics. There are wonderful lush textures and layers to the track creating blossoming moments as the track unfolds with bursts of sweet scintillation. The lyrics contrast the blooming effervescent instrumentation superbly as they meander between self-loathing and tender self-talk, depicting raw sensitivity and sweet, self-deprecating humour. ‘Sunflower’ is a glowing track intricate in its composition but beautifully luminous and delightful to the ears.
Speaking about the track, frontwoman Katie Munshaw says, “‘Sunflower’ is a three and a half minute ‘snap out of it!’ to myself when I’m feeling low, unconfident or not myself.”
Why We Like It: This track slithers with a darkened sense of mystery against a grooving, flickering beat and bubbling atmosphere.The band disperse a pop melody into a constantly evolving soundscape of twitchy edged guitar, mellow keys and funky bass lines to create a dreamy gem that is utterly enthralling. There is a rushing sense of urgency within the track while the sweet vocals and luscious melody cool the bubbling backdrop – it is a puzzling delight to the senses.
Bio : Brighton’s alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their second single, Lesser. The track follows debut single One of These Days, which grabbed the attentio of all who heard it, including Radio X’s John Kennedy, half of the DJs at KEXP, and Amazing Radio.
Track: Lesser
Why We Like It: It’s an uplifting indie track that becomes vibrant with each flourishing element. With jaunty synths ricocheting off the snappy beat and wispy soundscapes the track creates a sweet sense of positivity and hope. As the song progresses it becomes more dynamic instrumentally. The sultry guitars inject a scorching desert vibe as the track relentlessly travels to its striking synth solo. The vocals coo through the peppy buoyant backdrop as the band create a thrilling emotive track which has an 80’s – esque quality. The song is a reflection on the ups and downs of life and how it can often feel like an uphill struggle however the playful and cheery instrumentation creates a light heartwarming effect that is utterly charming.
Bio : Tel-Aviv based artist and producer Eshchar Nachmany (AKA MONAD) reveals the final single from his sophomore project with ‘Dawn Chorus’.Beginning his first musical project in an isolated house in the Moshav, Israel, Esh built a studio from scratch, remodelling broken tape machines and synths to construct layers of dreamy soundscapes. Again, Esh returned to nature for this project – renting a small cabin not far from the sea to set up his studio.
Track: Dawn Chorus
Why We Like It: It’s a shimmering kaleidoscopic slice of laid back shoegaze that melts and fizzes upon a pop sprinkled backdrop with psychedelic hues. With flashing effervescent soundscapes evaporating off glistening guitars and wonderful blasts of distortion the track creates a dazed fuzz-filled sound of bliss. The smooth dreamy euphoric melody and sweet vocals dissolve into the ears with a nostalgic melancholia to create a wonderful daydream track ready to submerge yourself in.
Bio : Kilkenny singer songwriter Shane Joyce built up a strong and loyal fanbase last year playing a number of high profile shows both at home in Ireland and abroad, including a slot at Glastonbury and a number of festivals throughout Europe.2020 will see the release of Shane’s much anticipated 2nd album entitled “The Desert & The Rain”
Track: I Won’t Run
Why We Like It: It’s a foot tapping ditty that thrives on Joyce’s heartwarming songwriting. With a buoyant beat, warm guitar jangles and catchy cosy melody this track has an indie folk tone with a charming country outer shell sure to soothe the soul. With velvety vocals, clap along feature and scorching guitar solo Joyce presents a cheery number filled with passion and charisma.
Watch the video for ‘I Won’t Run’ which was shot and edited by Joyce himself below
Demons Of Ruby Mae
Demons of Ruby Mae, London, November 2019. Photo by: Carsten Windhorst
Genre : Indie
Bio : After releasing their self-titled debut in 2018 and signing to North American and European labels Anti Fragile Records and Long Branch Records respectively in 2019, Manchester indie duo Demons Of Ruby Mae take things to the next level yet again, with their eagerly anticipated new single ‘This Is Your Time.’
Track: This Is Your Time
Why We Like It: This anthemic track rushes with ethereal soundscapes, glistening guitar and a sweet sense of suspenseful euphoria as Demons Of Ruby Mae use intricate musicianship to create another gripping track. The track flurries with a wonderful sense of positivity as the passionate vocals encourage the listener through a pulsing beat and warm melodies.
About The Track The Band said : “it’s a song about inclusion and acceptance. No matter who or what you want to be, it shouldn’t stop you achieving what you want to in life.”
TOYGIRL have released their second single, ‘Moonlight Velvet’ which was recorded at the legendary Windmill Lane Studios, was produced by up and coming Irish sound engineer and producer Daniel de Burca and was mixed by in-demand producer Cormac Butler (The Academic, All Tvvins, Coronas, Gavin James, Kodaline) and mastered by Deadeye’s Billy Farrell.TOYGIRL was formed by friends Hannah Worrall (Vocals/Keys), Fiachra O’Mahony (Guitar) and Ciaran Whelband (Guitar) in March 2018 with bassist Aran Hopkinson and drummer Cian O’Leary Hegarty finalising the line up later the same year. TOYGIRL have already gained a reputation for their exciting, hypnotic live performances. Despite their relative newcomer status, the band has clocked up a lot of ‘gig-miles’ on the Irish circuit including stints at the Button Factory, Levis’ Ballydehob, the Workman’s, and Roisin Dubh, Galway, to name a few, as well as the much-coveted support slot to Alice Phoebe Lou on Whelan’s main stage.The group has already been named in the line ups for this year’s Indiependence, K- Fest and We’ve only Just Begun music festivals amongst others.
‘Moonlight Velvet’ is a swoony gem which floats on a vintage bed of lush arrangements. TOYGIRL are developing their irresistible sound superbly. With a delicate yet lush backdrop the band twinkle guitars through soft soundscapes, angelic hushed backing vocals and a supple beat as the track softly wisps into an ethereal cloud of dreamy bliss. There is a faint yet deep flourish of jazz as soothing saxophone surges with a sweet loneliness through the hazy backdrop. The band masterfully create a delicate track which has depth and exudes rich rhythms without becoming overpowering.Hannah Worrall’s soulful vocals melt upon the bitter sweet melody with a pacifying comfort. Her voice is longing, sincere yet hopeful all at once.
‘Moonlight Velvet’ is utterly tender and sweet. The band provide comfort through melodic and sultry moments blessed with intricate guitar lines, glistening keys and an overall whimsical romantic soundscape. Presented with class and elegance ‘Moonlight Velvet’ is an immaculate emotive number that totally consumes you in the undeniably lush musicianship of TOYGIRL.
Multi-genre Irish Five Piece Radio Mafia recently released their debut EP ‘Don’t Think About It’. Radio Mafia are in the process of putting the finishing touches on what is to become their debut album, titled ‘Can Anybody Hear Me’ which the band is aiming to release this summer.
‘Don’t Think About It’ is a tight collection of tracks as Radio Mafia meld alternative gusto with some slinky funk and blues elements to create a satisfying debut EP. With infectious grooves, sleek guitar lines and a buoyant beat, title track ‘Don’t Think About It’ sets the EP in motion.
The band allow each track its own identity within the EP without compromising on the overall flow and smooth transition from track to track. ‘B.R.S’ and ‘Fit to Die’ provide the brawn and alternative rock on the EP with gritty guitar lines, meaty drums, soul creeping rumble on bass and an overall harsh mosh rock attitude while ‘Glass Soldier’ brings a dash of swing into the mix. The finger clicking, foot tapping beat teamed with chic guitars and jazzy keys create a delightful break between the more alternative tracks and showcases the band’s ability to create a sound that is more classy and vibrant while still maintaining the bands bite and rawness. The smooth vocals, lush harmonies and pop sprinkled melodies hold all these tracks together and provide the component parts that puts Radio Mafia’s stamp and style on them.
Whether its a polished swing number or a rowdy alternative rock or punk influence Radio Mafia manage to create diverse and engaging tunes that have an instant likability and buoyancy. ‘Don’t Think About It’ is a solid debut EP.
On Friday night, Dublin based TOYGIRL had their ‘Moonlight Velvet’ single launch in The Sound House Dublin. A night of time stopping tunes, musical poise and fun this young band set the bar high. With only two released tracks so far they took The Sound House by storm and characterised themselves as a band to keep an eye on.
Nicetry kick started the night. This band is utterly mesmerising. They create beautiful tunes that lull with sweet melodies and earthy qualities. Eunice Saraiva’s vocals soothe with calming tones as her vocals coo and caress the soft wispy melodies with elegance and passion. The backdrop exudes wonderful prismatic hues of scintillation, distortion and psychedelia – it’s amazing how this band provides such chaos and calm all at once. Danilo Ward’s bass weaves and rumbles with intricate grooves while Cian McDaid lets it all go on guitar – shrilling, dazing and crashing between the lush delicate vocal melodies and constant rhythmic pulse provided by Cam Teehan’s rich drumming. The contrast is so thrilling and superb. The band’s heavy moments are intense, vibrant and all consuming yet they maintain a noir-pop stillness throughout as they stealthily groove and weave between these moments of utter musical splendour. With tight spine chilling harmonies Nicetry are a joy to listen to.
The crowd rush forward as TOYGIRL take to the stage. The bands soulful alternative pop reverbs through the venue creating a groove laced atmosphere that has the crowd dancing from the very start. TOYGIRL are a dark horse. Their vivid multi-genre blending, creates a sound truly unique which comes to life in the live setting. They ignite the crowd with funky grooves, R&B elements and a rich full bodied sound. Hannah Worrall’s vocals are truly spectacular; her ability to coo with warm depths and emotional tones as well as surge with soulful power is what ties the band’s compelling sound together. Her vocals puncture the atmosphere with sheer clarity. Yes the band have tracks that haunt, lull and stop time in an instant but boy! can they dance, groove and party as well. There is an effortless swagger about this band and a maturity on stage that is to be admired. If I wasn’t aware how new this band is I would claim their maturity is due to years of experience. They banter with the jubilant crowd between songs and jam through a pause in their set as Ciaran Whelband runs for his capo ( which was left in the green room). We even experience a bass mishap that requires Aran Hopkinson to borrow a bass from Nicetry, but this doesn’t really disrupt the night, the band jam and banter through it and within moments they are back into the set list.
There are a number of special moments in the set. Guitarist Fiachra O’Mahony taking to vocals was a pleasant surprise as Worrall’s haunting harmonies blend perfectly with his velvety lilt. TOYGIRL flesh out their sound with sublime bass lines intricate, vibrant drums and sharp, sweet guitar elements and within the live setting their tracks are mesmerising. The crowd knew every word and went crazy for the band’s debut single ‘Reign’. The magnificent new track that brought us all to this celebration ‘Moonlight Velvet’ (which was released only a few hours before the show) was bellowed back by the crowd while an impressive rendition of Estelle’s ‘American Boy’ had the crowd eating out of the palm of the bands hand. TOYGIRL succeeded in sending chills around the audience as well as bringing some infectious alternative pop and slinky grooves. Not only do they make strikingly beautiful music with their unique sound, they can switch between tenderness and intensity with such ease and fill a room with a warming radiance.
By the time the last strum on guitar had faded, I was already hungry for more, Worrall’s vocals and the band’s hypnotic alternative neo-soul is highly addictive. They have some bangers in their repertoire which display powerful emotive musicianship and striking lyricism. Their music evokes a myriad of emotions while thrilling and tantalisng the imagination and senses of the listener which is a rare gift to possess. I should warn you once you see them live you will be hooked. This band have a lot more to offer and judging from the unreleased tracks the band played TOYGIRL are a band to get excited about.
Chappaqua Wrestling return with their new single ‘Early’. Chappaqua Wrestling are long-term writing partners Jake Mac and Charlie Woods, both 24, from Brighton via Manchester.The band have gained support from BBC Radio aficionados Huw Stephens, Steve Lamacq, Jack Saunders and Annie Mac as well as supported Sports Team and Black Honey. The band have also performed at the Green Man and Latitude Festivals, before travelling to the US for their first stateside show at 4XFAR in California last month. Chappaqua Wrestling are set to release a new EP this spring.
With sweet melodies, hazy tones and lush delicate intricacies ‘Early’ continues Chappaqua Wrestling’s sublime musicianship. The band smooth a grunge hue over their irresistible sound to create a sublime edge. Twinkling guitars create a dreamy refrain with a sun speckled radiance as the velvety vocals caress the melty melody with a laid back tone. The duo unravel the track beautifully, building to a heavier chorus with a gritty tonality of raw guitars and heavy beat. The narcotic tranquilizing verses disperse elegantly into the ears with a butter on toast warmth and melting quality while the crashing chorus showcases Chappaqua Wrestling’s fine ability to blend genres seamlessly. These guys are talented for sure. The lushness and deft musicianship is presented in such a wonderful and subtle way it’s an utter delight to the ears.
About the track the duo explain : “Early is the resurrection of a group of parts and a chorus written a while back. It’s something of a time traveller but has only recently been put together as a live song. The earliest notions of it date back to 2014 when we were in college, but the intro came as recently as a few weeks ago when we were in California.It chronicles the early stages of a relationship and the late nights/early mornings that came with it, dipped in layered guitars and harmony riffs. It’s a helluva fun song to play, so we are hugely excited to release it.”
Stream ‘Early’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
