Category Archives: Alt- Pop

Alt- Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

LYRA ‘Lose My Mind’

Cork native LYRA has released her new single ‘Lose My Mind’, via Rubyworks label. It is the first new single to come from the as-yet-untitled new body of work due for release later this year.’Lose My Mind’ was written and co-produced by LYRA and Dane Etteridge (former Ordinary Boys guitarist), it was mixed by Grammy-nominated Darren Heelis (Sam Smith, Tom Walker, Liam Payne) in the US. Darren Heelis also worked with LYRA on her previous single release the Jackie Lomax cover of ‘New Day’, which achieved #1 chart positions with iTunes and Shazam.

‘Lose My Mind’ radiates with LYRA’s emotive and cinematic musicianship. Propulsive rhythms and blustery electronics exude dance anthem vibes while powerful vocals soar across a kinetic soundscape and anchor the listener within the tracks alternative pop backdrop. A dark and ominous undertone bubbles underneath, enhanced by tense drums and brooding verses that build to a fantastic hair-raising crescendo. LYRA is a master of her craft. Her striking, dynamic vocal delivery and ability to create thrilling, emotive arrangements that stir the soul is admirable and ‘Lose My Mind’ is a fine example of this.

About the track, LYRA said: “I had so much fun with this single, I wrote ‘Lose My Mind’ in the recording studio, it is a song about losing all your inhibitions, being free of mind, the idea that you can be possessed and yet exhilarated at the same time”.

 Watch the video for ‘Lose My Mind’ below


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

Jack Rua and Kit Major ‘Vacuum’

Single cover by PureGrand

Irish alternative pop artist Jack Rua and American electro-pop artist Kit Major have released their new single ‘Vacuum’, which was produced by UK based artist Possessive and written by Jack Rua and Kit Major.

Filled with pulsing synths clashing against a tight and muggy backdrop of dynamic beats and kinetic guitars, ‘Vacuum’ sees both Rua and Major reach new earworm pop heights. An intoxicating bittersweet melody chimes throughout as Rua and Major express the tracks dense lyrical content “I lost the part of me that wants to fall in love”. Their vocals perfectly complement each other as they seamlessly harmonise and interplay between bubbling glam-pop electronics and dark alternative pop soundscapes. ‘Vacuum’ is an enticing and irresistible tune that boasts the refined and masterful musicianship of both Jack Rua and Kit Major.

The song is about feeling empty and unable to connect to people in romance due to past traumas. “I sort of envisioned myself as this cold, unfeeling creature while trying to form relationships,” says Jack, who wrote the bulk of the lyrics. “If I ever felt I was connecting with someone, this defense mechanism within me would pop the feeling like a dart to a balloon.” Despite the dark theme, Kit Major contributed to the more hopeful ending. “Jack and I have a shared love for wrapping open wounds in glimmer and Pop”, she said. “We all heal from heartbreak differently, and this song is an anthem to breaking down the barriers of love”.

Stream ‘Vacuum’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Aonair ‘Think Twice’

Off the back of a near sold-out Button Factory show and a headliner show in Sin E this October – Aonair has released his penultimate single ‘Think Twice’ taken from upcoming EP ‘Loveheart Birthmark’. ‘Think Twice’ ft. Caoimhe from Wyvern Lingo (vocals) was written, recorded, produced and mixed by Aonair . Aonair has received praise from Ed Smith on Today FM, Totally Irish on 98fm, Across The Line on BBC Across The Line, RTE 2FM, Nova FM, 8Radio, Flirt FM, and so much more.

‘Think Twice’ is a thrilling alternative pop anthem. This shimmering indie-pop gem surges with mouth-watering melodies and is doused in effervescent synths and danceable qualities. Bright guitar lines sprinkle a dash of zest into the track to create a refreshing and vitalising 80’s soundscape as Aonair wraps this passionate, heartfelt tune in strutting instrumentation and disco hues, leaving the listener craving to hear more. His smooth reverb coated vocals blend superbly with Caoimhe’s emotive, soulful tones as the duo harmonise beautifully while a catchy rhythm pulses within the track, radiating passion and youthful adrenaline throughout. Filled with warm saxophone, chiming keys and lush production, ‘Think Twice’ is a knock out bop sure to brighten any day. 

Stream ‘Think Twice’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

FKB ‘Beautiful Fantasy’

FKB have released their new single, ‘Beautiful Fantasy’.FKB is a high-energy, four-piece, alternative rock band based in Edmonton, Alberta, influenced by the mystique, glamour, and excess of the 1960s-1980s entertainment business.

Doused in prismatic shimmers on synths, funky flexes and glorious pop melodies, ‘Beautiful Fantasy’ is an upbeat and fun new single from FKB. The band create a swagger drenched tune that boasts their rich, feel-good sound in all its glory. Filled with groovy guitar embellishment, tight and danceable rhythms the track is a glittering and infectious tune that beckons repeat plays. FKB layer the song superbly to unveil new lush melodies and textures with each subsequent listen while the glam stomping beat, sun-kissed pop melody and suave presentation gives ‘Beautiful Fantasy’ a charm that is difficult to resist.

Stream ‘Beautiful Fantasy’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

onedaybear ‘Swim (ODB remix)’

Mancunian artist, onedaybear, has released his new single, ‘Swim (ODB remix)’.onedaybear began posting tracks on Soundcloud in 2010 while studying at The University of Manchester. He was inspired by the city’s rich musical heritage to start making music and started out his musical career by uploading demos to Soundcloud whilst being a part of other bands (La Dharma and a few smaller projects). This year, he decided to go into the studio as a solo artist for the first time to record the single ‘Swim’. 

‘Swim (ODB remix)’ is a dark and brooding concoction as onedaybear ferments alternative pop melodies under moody grunge/ post-punk sounds to create an enthralling and mysterious listening experience. The song has a tense wall of sound and is simply a joy to listen to; punchy beats create a sturdy foundation as biting guitars soar through a haunting backdrop while onedaybears nonchalant spoken vocals cut through the tracks eerie soundscape. ‘Swim (ODB remix)’ is a well-crafted tune filled with slicing riffs, moody melodies and exhilarating musicianship, marking onedaybear an artist to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Swim (ODB remix)’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Kynsy ‘Mr Nice Guy’

 Photo Credit: George Voronov

Kynsy has released her new single ‘Mr Nice Guy’. Kynsy is the solo project of 23 year-old Irish multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer Ciara Lindsey. The song is co-produced by Kynsy and James Dring (Gorillaz / Jamie T / Sorry).”Mr Nice Guy” is the first new single from Kynsy since the release of her critically acclaimed debut EP, Things That Don’t Exist released in January of this year.  

Surging with tightly weaved instrumentation ‘Mr Nice Guy’ is an irresistible indie-pop tune that boasts the ever-evolving sound of Kynsy. Within ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ we see Kynsy smother a groovy indie foundation with lashings of synths and pop- esque melodies to create a tantalizing tune brimming with sass and vigour.

Skillfully produced the song’s sonic wall of sound expands with zesty stings on guitar and sweet key refrains while drum grooves and pulsing bass lines flutter throughout. The upbeat nature of the instrumentation contrasts Kynsy’s nonchalant vocals as the artist croons out some pretty hard-hitting lyrics “Hey there Mr. nice guy, f*cking with your stuck fly. Have you got no class at all”.

Kynsy is an immensely talented musician who is creating an impeccable track record of invigorating tunes for listeners to enjoy. The artist possesses an unnatural and enviable gift for creating catchy earworm melodies filled with sharp witty lyrics and jubilant instrumentation; the result is a sublime display of musicianship that leaves much to be admired. ‘Mr Nice Guy’’ is a spectacular example of this.

Talking about the new song and video, Kynsy says: “It’s a song about money and working and having one of those horrible bosses who tells you he’s trying to be ‘the nice guy’ while he goes through you outside on the street. It’s mostly based on an encounter I had in a waitressing job. I suppose there is a message in there about the power of empathy and kindness in how you deal with people. The video echoes a lot of the themes in the song just pushed to an extreme level. Working with Dave and Conor we created a surreal world that’s really colourful but eerie at the same time. The master [me!] is on a constant power trip and forces her minions to endure some pretty awful treatment for her own gratification. To honour the positive message in the song we get to see how treating people like this will come back to bite you one way or another. “

Kynsy has also announced a series of tour dates taking place this December with shows at Upstairs Whelan’s, Dublin on 9th December, Kasbah Social Club, Limerick on 10th December and Connolly’s of Leap, Cork on 11th December.

She will perform her debut international live shows this November, with dates at the inaugural Pitchfork Music Festival London at The Roundhouse on Sunday 14th November and Pitchfork Festival Paris on 19th November. 

Watch the video for ‘Mr Nice Guy’ below 


Author: Danu

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

The Crayon Set ‘Downer Disco’ Album

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.

Stream ‘Downer Disco’ below 


Author: Danu

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

modernlove. ‘monochrome blue’ EP

Photo Credit: Marc Shelly

Irish four-piece modernlove. have released their new EP ‘monochrome blue’ on Akira Records (Henry Green, Zola Blood, Shura, CHINAH). To celebrate the EP release, the band will be playing a Dublin headline show on November 6th in the Workman’s Club and their first London show at The Social on November 12th.

‘monochrome blue’ is creative, alluring and an utterly intoxicating EP that solidifies modernlove.’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting indie-pop bands. The four-piece are known for creating eargasmic tunes brimming with sugar-sweet melodies that hook the listener instantly and ‘monochrome blue’ follows this trend perfectly.

From the explosive rush of opener ‘2 Missed Calls’, the band flesh out their lustrous wall of sound with rich percussion, gleaming guitars and irresistible bass grooves that lure and entice from the start. Dealing with some heavy and intriguing lyrical content that details with the complexities of a love triangle the track is an excellent start to the EP.

The production throughout the EP is immaculate. The band venture between indie-pop bangers and synth-pop gems to create a seamless and enjoyable listening experience.‘Liquorice’ sounds fresh on the EP. This shimmering track with its glittering synths, punchy drums and rumble on bass sits comfortably on the EP and is a fantastic lead into the latter half of ‘monochrome blue’. Each song floods with adrenaline and youthful vigour. ‘come over x’ is a fine example of this where lush sonics, vibrant 80’s pop elements, and soaring melodies create that heart-racing effect and keeps the listener hanging on to every note. 

An exciting element of the EP is the hypnotic vocal aspect of each track. Barry Lally’s smooth vocals drift across bittersweet melodies effortlessly while conveying oodles of passion. He spits out brisk lyrical flows in ‘Bop’ while crooning with emotion through the cinematic ‘I know it’s tearing you apart’. The latter track is filled with chiming guitars, a tight rhythm section, soaring chorus and epic crescendo and is the pinnacle moment on the EP. Within this track modernlove. excel both musically and lyrically – from evocative turns of phrase to richly textured soundscapes and heart rushing melodies, the tune showcases the band’s boundless musical talent in glorious detail.

‘monochrome blue’ is a sublime collection of tracks that displays the blossoming sound of modernlove. Each track is a gem to treasure and beckons repeat plays. The band’s approach to songwriting, production and sound is a breath of fresh air and leaves much to be admired. Press play and enjoy.

Stream ‘monochrome blue’ below


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

AONAIR ‘Bad Decisions’

Fresh off the news of being selected to appear at this year’s Ireland Music Week, Irish multi-instrumentalist Aonair has released his second single, ‘Bad Decisions’, from his upcoming sophomore EP ‘, Loveheart Birthmark’ – due for full release later in 2021. 

‘Bad Decisions’ is a powerful, heartfelt tune that showcases Aonair’s melodic prowess and irresistible musicianship. Surging with epic 80’s drenched guitars, heart-racing rhythms, and Aonair’s warm vocals, the track is an ultimate power anthem that exudes a charming dynamic persona. The song is an absolute delight to listen to and beautifully captures escapism through rich instrumentation while the hook-filled chorus evokes images of a live audience jubilantly bellowing back the lyrics. ‘Bad Decisions’ is a fearless piece of music that marks Aonair as an artist to keep an eye on. Looking forward to the EP.

 Stream ‘Bad Decisions’ below 


Author: Danu

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

FYA FOX ‘Need It’

Returning from a slight breather after the recent release ‘Sunset’, FYA FOX is back with her new single ‘Need It’. FOX’s previous two singles ‘Body’ and ‘White Lies’ have already been supported by 2fm, Today FM and many more. ‘Body’ was added to the BBC Radio Ulster ‘Where Music Matters’ playlist which features ten new tracks across the BBC Radio Ulster playlist each month and her debut, ‘White Lies’ received its world exclusive with Radio 1’s Gemma Bradley on BBC Across The Line. As well as being added by Hattie Pearson to the influential Co-op Edit UK playlist, her music has featured on a number of prestigious Spotify playlists including ‘Fresh Finds’ (750K followers).

‘Need It’ is an impressive tune that pulsates with FYA FOX’s unmistakable alternative pop sound. The song simmers with tense electronics and sultry bass lines as FOX coos over the infectious melody creating an intoxicating heart rushing soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. With soft keys chiming between dense electronic palpitations and sticky beats ‘Need It’ blossoms to become a power-pop anthem brimming with vigour. FOX creates expressive tunes that boast irresistible hooks and crisp production. She is an immensely talented artist, and ‘Need It’ perfectly displays her infectious musicianship and deft musical prowess. Press play and enjoy.

Stream ‘Need It’ below 


Author: Danu