Category Archives: Alt- Pop

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

Five Days North ‘City of Wonder’

Manchester-based indie pop band Five Days North have released a music video for their new track ‘City of Wonder’. Comprised of members Darryl Messer (Vocals, Synth), Dave Urwin (Guitar/banjo, Backing Vocals),Sam Taromsari (Guitar, Backing Vocals), Lewis Howells (Bass) and Zoravar Bakshi (Drums) Five Days North are an energetic indie pop band creating music that centers around powerful vocals, catchy choruses and memorable melodies. In the summer of 2016, they released their debut EP ‘Past Times’ which contained the single ‘Won’t Stop for Nothing’ which has featured on ITV’s This Morning and was released with an accompanying music video. Their second single in April 2017 ‘Shapeshifters’ was played on BBC Introducing in Manchester. They have played a multitude of live events around the UK, alongside performing on festival stages such as Dot to Dot 2017, Warrington festival 2016 and multiple performances at Pangaea Festival.

‘City of Wonder’ is a breezy indie pop dazzler. A buoyant beat sets the foundation for this spirited elastic track. Shimmering synths sparkle throughout the sticky beat while sharp stings on guitar pierce through the syrupy soundscape. Smooth vocals soothe throughout with passion as the nostalgic soaked sweet melody oozes emotion. It’s a catchy tune complete with tight production and vibrancy. Melodic and sugar drizzled it’s a sweet moving little gem.

Watch the lyric video for ‘City of Wonder’ below

 


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Pop Rock, Rock, Synth-pop

Wild Youth ‘Lose Control’

Dublin band Wild Youth comprised of members David Whelan (vocals/guitar) Conor O’Donohoe (keyboard/vocals) Ed Porter (guitar/vocals) and Callum McAdam (drums) have released a video for their upcoming new single ‘Lose Control’, which is set for release this Friday 8th September. ‘Lose Control’ is an instantly catchy radio ready surge of indie pop. Sweet vocals caress  a smooth feathery light melody. The rich clap along finger clicking rhythm makes this track danceable and breezy. Twinkling guitars and soft shimmers on keys create a floaty blissful melty atmosphere and rush of youthful adrenaline while the steady beat pulses throughout. This dreamy ear worm will have you dancing and grooving in no time. It’s a sophisticated, intricately layered, sublime track that is sure to be a hit.

You can catch Wild Youth live at

12 Sep Cyprus Avenue, Cork

13 Sep Abner Browns, Dublin

19 Sep Trinity Freshers Ball, Dublin

22 Sep Grand Social, Dublin

23 Sep Roisin Dubh, Galway

Check out the video for ‘Lose Control’ below


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

ZEALS ‘Ready To Fly’ EP

Somerset based three-piece, ZEALS have released their second EP ‘Ready To Fly’. The EP was recorded over the last few months at Longwave Studios in Cardiff with producer Romesh Dodangoda who’s best known for his work with the likes of Bring Me The Horizon, Motorhead, Funeral For A Friend, Lower Than Atlantis and Twin Atlantic. The follow up to their ‘Playing Games’ EP, the new collection features five pop flavoured and addictive indie – rock tracks and includes live favourite and lead single ‘Feel It’ which is accompanied by a stunning video. ZEALS current line-up of Harrisen Larner (Vocals & Guitar), Rob Whelan (Drums)and Toby Andrews (Lead Guitar & Vocals) formed eighteen months ago in Weston-Super-Mare after taking inspiration from and sharing a mutual love of acts such as The 1975, Fickle Friends, Prides and One Republic to heavier bands like Bring Me The Horizon, Don Broco, Lower Than Atlantis and Fatherson. Since then the band have developed a truly exciting and powerful live set that sees them play to ever growing and excitable audiences from around the Bristol area to as far afield as Austria and Hungary. This new found fanbase ensured that the aforementioned eight track long ‘Playing Games’ EP peaked at number 59 in the iTunes Rock Album Charts on its release last year.

‘Ready To Fly’ is a blood pumping rush to the head of indie rock that makes you feel every note from delicate tender to ballsy energetic anthems. It’s a youth filled five track collection to enjoy and hold dear. Lead single ‘Feel It’ kicks off the EP with bright bubbly vibes surrounded by squirts of zesty guitar and hip shaking rhythm. It’s light warm and sun kissed with a catchy chorus that displays a grittier sharp side without becoming overpowering. The sweet honey drizzled melody is so infectious and dreamy and with Larner’s velvety smooth soul infused vocals, it’s the perfect start to the EP. ’Do You Really Care’  is a massive passionate track brimming with punchy drums, razor sharp guitar and adrenaline pumping energy. It’s mosh pit, crazy jumping ready with feathery light blissful guitar and a hefty meaty rhythm. Dancing embarrassingly around the room is guaranteed with this emotionally and instrumentally explosive track. ‘Paddles’ is oh so slick. This track really shows off the sensual bluesy tinged sound of ZEALS. Swagger soaked and fiery with shredding guitars crashing against pummeling drums and a groovy hip shakingly smooth bass line. It’s a scorching, blistering Lower Than Atlantis- esque sizzler. ‘Dark Waters’ cools the tone and takes the role of the slow burning tender mood shifter. Sway-like and sweet with a punchy bopping rhythm it’s nostalgic and delicate. Lush “oooh” vocals create a sing along friendly quality to the heart-warming track. The song builds becoming a little more heavy and emotional but still maintains a light bounce and breezy vibe. ‘Ready To Fly’ brings us to an explosive end to the EP. Flickering soundscapes flash bright scintillation while punchy drums, glistening guitars and fist pump anthemic chorus create a powerful energetic rush of intensity.

ZEALS have created an EP that shows their tight plucky musicianship. It’s a treasure of tunes glowing and sparkling packed with emotion and passion that makes the listener feel every note like a spark of electricity. Each track maintains a powerful explosive stamina to keep you pumped throughout. It’s bright, light indie pop grounded by some heavy elements adding a bit of punch and gravity. Overall a sublime satisfying listen.

Stream ‘Ready To Fly’ below

 


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

Beachwood Coyotes ‘I’m Tired Of Rolling My Eyes’

Indie rock four-piece Beachwood Coyotes have released their new single ‘I’m Tired Of Rolling My Eyes’. The new single features socially conscious lyrics, critiquing race relations in America. The Los Angeles based band have received acclaim from KROQ, Huffington Post, Wonderland Magazine and XS Noize among other tastemakers.

‘I’m Tired Of Rolling My Eyes’ is an energetic explosion of luscious indie pop soaked in electronic retro 80’s sounds. Rich rhythm and flickering soundscapes  create a lavish texture and blinding bedazzlement. With a vocal melody that rushes through like a surging flood, pumping adrenaline through your veins and an anthemic powerful chorus, these guys have written a track that is so intense and mighty yet glides with effortless breezy cool tones. With funky elements and hip hop hues it’s a multi faceted spurt of infectious songwriting and craftsmanship.

Beachwood Coyotes EP ‘Scrubby’ is set for release this Wednesday  September 6th  with a special release party at the Satellite in Los Angeles, California so make sure to check that out.

Stream ‘I’m Tired Of Rolling My Eyes’ below


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

James Ghareeb ‘Do It With Luv’

Singer-songwriter James Ghareeb has announced the release of his new single ‘Do It With Luv’ from his forthcoming EP available later this year. Ghareeb first found success after becoming a social media breakout star through his Vine videos. He started making short clips covering the likes of Justin Bieber, surpassing over 6 million views along the way.  In 2015 James recorded his first EP ‘Hanging From The Stars’ which debuted at number 4 on the iTunes chart upon release. During that time, the Lebanese American, caught the attention of critically acclaimed produced Tony Ghantous (Kris Allen, Disney), who quickly began work on Ghareeb’s sophomore release.

 ‘Do It With Luv’ is a crisp fresh sun soaked tune that radiates laid back vibes and good times. Laced in tropical rhythms with rock pop elements and an infectious delicious melody it’s slick cool and oh so catchy. Sharp zests of guitar squirts between rich clap along rhythms and velvety vocals. Lush backing vocals “woo” adding colour and vibrancy. The track cruises with mellow easy-going euphoria and elastic bounce. It’s breezy sun kissed and mind numbingly dreamy all while packing some nice perky stabs of R&B and soul. Tightly wrapped in intricate sleek production and fine musicianship this track rolls in on a wave of carefree bliss. I’ll look forward to hearing more from James Ghareeb

Stream ‘Do It With Luv’ below


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

Indie Buddie Introducing: MRYGLD

MRYGLD (pronounced ‘marigold’) is a rock band from Birmingham, Alabama formed in 2017. This band is as fresh as they come, formed by Brandon Snipes (vocals, guitar) and the musical “dynamic duo” of Shane (lead guitar) and Alyssa Jewell (vocals, keys). After recruiting drummer Kyle Blair and bassist James McCauley, the lineup was set and MRYGLD was born. They have released their debut music video for their single ‘Cool Kids’.

‘Cool Kids’ is a dynamic infectious indie track bursting with oodles of catchy melodies honey coated and smothered in sweet heartfelt nostalgia. Sharp zealous riffs drive the track, cutting through the bubble bouncy beat and sublime melody. The blend of Snipes warm vocals with Jewell’s light sweet vocals creates a unique beautiful tone. It’s a delicious can of sugar coated indie pop with a refreshing sharp sting. Dreamy harmonies create a laid-back vibe while the driving rhythm adds a bounce quality and bop. Its instantly likable, gentle and gripping with a sway like quality and ear worm infectiousness. It’s a dainty melodic gem. Snipes vocals at times remind me of Brandon Flowers from The Killers and the guitar work is majestic, that solo is bright vibrant and energetic all while flooding you with nostalgia and reminiscence. These guys have written a track that makes you feel something. It’s pretty impressive.

Watch the video for ‘Cool Kids’ below


Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Ben Stevenson ‘Yellow Bird’

Toronto-based musician Ben Stevenson has released his new single ‘Yellow Bird’. The track is taken from his upcoming LP ‘Cara Cara’ which will be released on September 22 via Culvert Music. It’s a dreamy melodic song gentle and calm gliding on a soft cloud of bliss. With delicate acoustic accompaniment it wisps around in a feathery light flow of elegance. Slight sweet twangs add a hazy wobble and sharp zest while Stevenson’s velvety vocals coo throughout. With a soft melody it’s honey sweet and sensitive, a beautiful delight and perfect for lazy laid back days.

When asked about the track Stevenson said: “I wrote Yellow Bird in the California desert high above Joshua Tree where I was working with Adam Pavao in his desert hideaway studio. I feel the expanse of the land in the song, a song about freedom. It’s about realizing that reality is undefined, not fixed, and to experience liberation you have to rid yourself of attachment and expectation.”

Stream ‘Yellow Bird’ below


Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Rock, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Adventures in the Underground

Adventures in the Underground is a new band from LA made up of collaborators Kevin Hinman and Luke Richmond. They have released their new single ‘Streetlight’ which was produced by Mario Borgatta and Steve Pagano from the band thanks. ’Streetlight’ is a sleek stretchy delight that fuses honey drizzled pop melodies with classic rock punches. The first thing that hits you with this track is its instant likability and sweet toned catchy hook melody. The sticky beat slaps while a funky groovy rhythm adds a strut quality and swagger soaked confidence to the track. Powerful vocals with raspy hints give a swanky rock infused prance while guitar strides and ear worm chorus add that fist pump classic rock anthem vibe. Slick and cool it flows with glossy grandeur and polished smoothness. Seamlessly layered and oozing oodles of panache mixed with explosive passion, this is a tune that makes you feel something. With sweet subtle shifts that create nostalgic tender moments to mighty dynamic bursts these guys know what they are doing. It’s smooth with just enough flamboyance to make you groove while packing some indie rock punches and edgy splinters along the way.

Stream ‘Streetlight’ below


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

Kid Luna ‘Alive’

Last year, we featured a solo artist under the name of Lewis Murphy and his EP ‘Lighthouse’. Well a lot has happened since then, Lewis has now formed a full, four piece band under the name Kid Luna. Comprised of members Lewis ( Guitar/Vocals), Kieron (Guitar/Vocals), Declan (Bass) and Matt (Drums) the band have just released their debut single ‘Alive’ with an accompanying music video, which is soon to be joined by a debut EP, due for release in September. Fresh from a short spree of UK dates, playing alongside the likes of Wild Front and Misfires, Kid Luna are the new kids on the block and they are taking it in their stride.

‘Alive’ is an infectious blast of sparkling indie rock. Smothered in a toothsome sugar-coated melody it’s a delightful ear worm that oozes oodles of bright fun youthful vibes. Catchy hooks laced with sharp zealous tones and shrilling zest add a free soaring lift to the track while the rich meaty elastic rhythm gives it a bouncy vitality and spring. The soothing soft vocals are sweet and dynamic. It’s the perfect young fresh indie sound that will have you bopping and dancing in no time. Heck it’s a catchy little summer tune with raw fiery energy and pumping beats.

Watch the video for ‘Alive’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Galapagos ‘Potential Space’ EP

Canadian band Galapagos have released their new EP ‘Potential Space’. Band members Adam Ferris (vocals/guitar), Jamie Orser (drums), Matthew Wood (lead guitar), and Gerardo Mantecon (bass) play gritty rock songs laced with Capital City strut and Midwest mosey mixing honest lyrics with jagged guitars and syrupy melodies.

Potential Space’ EP  is a lush bubbly collection of tracks laced in beautiful zealous guitar lines and heavenly melodies blended with some grittier elements at times that keeps the sound refreshing and radiant. ‘Bike’ kicks off the EP with bright sparkling indie soundscapes. Sharp guitar jingles playfully throughout with the sweetest tone and refreshing spurts of zest while the soft beat and honeyed melody glide with a daydream tempo and hazy atmosphere. It’s smooth and soothing while also packing a nice little punch between the dreamy wisps.‘What I Deserve’ bursts with oodles of catchy upbeat guitar lines while the track bounces with a peppy beat and lush melody soaked in a lazy day somber tone. It’s a bopping sway like delight packed with emotion and lush sweetness. Smooth vocals ooze passion while instrumentally this track places you in a mellow state of melancholic peace. ‘Again’ takes a heavier approach. Jagged guitars and punchy drums add a danceable quality and gritty texture. Snippets of distortion give a thrilling dramatic effect while the melody and candied guitar elements glimmer through with bright upbeat scintillation and sun kissed luminosity. A little more aggressive than its predecessors this mosh friendly track displays Galapagos heavier punk-like side with sprinkles of indie pop embroidered on top. ‘Lungs’ closes the EP with tender delicate guitar flickers between acoustic strums and sweet dainty vocals. It’s a twinkling beautiful and emotional track that pulls at the heart strings and places you on a soft fluffy cloud of euphoria. Cool breezy tones, sweet lush harmonies and call and response vocals create a floaty feathery light approach with very subtle hints of flower power psychedelia.

Galapagos ‘Potential Space’ EP takes you on an emotion journey while showcasing their knack for sweet delicious melodies nimble refined guitar work and slick musicianship. It’s a laid back beautiful EP that is perfect for summers evenings or that all important unwind time.

Stream ‘Potential Space’ on Bandcamp here https://galapagos613.bandcamp.com/releases