Category Archives: Alt Rock

Album Review, Alt Rock, New Music

Sotu Self Titled Album

Australian rockers Sotu have released their debut self titled album.The Australian five piece was initially formed in the 90s, and reformed in 2016 with a new drummer, new name, and a new drive for making music.Emerging partly as a lifeline for one of the band’s members as he climbed out of a dark place, Sotu’s debut album is a reflection of the joy of rediscovering music coupled with the intense journey of recovery and thriving in life after bouncing back from the brink of despair. 

With kinetic energy bursting from the seams Sotu provides a powerful rock album filled with infectious grooves and swagger. The band pack oodles of slick guitar and passionate bass lines into their debut album.

‘Killing Me’, ‘Don’t Feel So Bad’ and ‘Cornflakes’  all rush through with adrenaline inducing instrumentation and fluctuant groovy rhythms. It’s not all rock and roll though ‘Eyes To Dry’ and the piano led  ’World Turns’ showcase the bands emotional, more rock ballad – esque persona. There are plenty of visceral jolts throughout the album with melancholic guitar melodies, haunting backing vocals and sombre themes about dealing with cancer, domestic violence and relationships.

‘Gods Of Humility’ and ‘Alive’ are a joy to listen to. The tracks thrive on raw sharp guitars which meander between crashing lacerations, slinky flirtations and soft twinkles while animated drums and bass groove create the songs buoyant backbone.

Sotu present a sound filled with 90’s rock elements with a nod to Foo Fighters at times.The tracks are dripping in passion with shredding solo’s, blistering licks and powerful rasped vocals. Sonically the band weave between scorching alternative rock with some grunge elements and even a glimmer of jazz and funk. It’s within the sublime guitar work and ground shaking bass lines where this band shine at the moment.Gritty tracks such as ‘Neighbours’ and ‘Black Hole Cryptic’ showcase the bands darker side while ‘Timmy’ has a twanging country bounce. However these tracks blend seamlessly with the softer ballads within the album.

Sotu’s self-titled debut album is a thought provoking collection of tracks displaying fine musicianship and artistic promise. Oozing maturity and mosh-ready frenzy swirling beneath infectious grooves and dizzying psychedelia ‘Sotu’ is a well rounded debut album.  

Stream ‘Sotu’ below 


Author : Danu

Album Review, Alt Rock, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music, Post Punk

ALRIGHT brother ‘REDEEMER’ Album

ALRIGHT brother has released his latest Post Punk Album ‘REDEEMER’.ALRIGHT brother is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and visual artist living in LA. His music comes with short hand drawn animated promos that ALRIGHT brother creates himself. Receiving recognition for a lofi cover of a Kendrick Lamar track, ALRIGHT brother has been steadily building up his portfolio of music, taking inspiration from punk, hardcore and grunge.

Mangled between raw post punk and alternative rock ‘REDEEMER’ displays ALRIGHT brother’s coarse unadulterated musicianship in a unique collection of tracks. ALRIGHT brother smudges pop melodies through a harsh, bombarding backdrop in ‘The Last of the Famous International Dirtbags’ and ‘Redeemer’ to create a full bodied striking sound. This full bodied sound is carried throughout the album with ‘Lounge Act’ taking a more grunge-like stance.

There is a lot going on in each song with entwining key refrains mangled beneath bombarding punk, crashing guitars and drums. These moments provide wonderful embellishments throughout the album. However ALRIGHT brother provides some release from the frenzied onslaughts with the melancholic cool tones of ‘Cold Falls’.

The tracks are well layered as the fuzzed backdrops are embroidered with frenzied and sometimes ethereal synths. ‘REDEEMER’ exposes the paranoia and frustration of the modern condition and ALRIGHT brother conveys this superbly with intense synths and bass moments coiling beneath rowdy explosions.The vocals throughout are very distracting they sort of contrast the sweeter moments with a clamorous outburst while a sublime guitar flourishes beneath. From the sprightly jog of ‘Last Watch’ and sweet lament of ‘The Daily Star Mirror’ there are nimble and glorious guitar elements sprinkled throughout while ‘Random Access Misery’ brings an angsty rap quality to the album with a thrilling rumbling bass line.

‘REDEEMER’ is a tight album and a whirlwind journey through onslaughts of emotion and soundscapes. For me it’s the instrumental arrangements where ALRIGHT brother excels. He ferments harsh post punk with bittersweet grunge stained pop elements and huge, sometimes epic moments of rock to create a striking album which tells short stories with a different perspective on life.

Stream ‘REDEEMER’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

The Stoned Crows ‘Madman’

The Stoned Crows have released their new single ‘Madman’. The Stoned Crows formed in 2017. Aged between 21 and 23, The Stoned Crows have developed a unique, jet-fuelled Rock N Roll sound with matching energy and attitude. The band are preparing to release their debut album, ‘Urban Delirium’, this year and they have already released two singles alongside music videos which will also feature on the album. 

‘Madman’ is a swinging rock n’ roll number with a heavier alternative twist brewing underneath as The Stoned Crows put their swagger stamped musicianship over a 60’s slicked back backdrop. With steamy guitar lines, gritty riffs and a foot shuffling beat the band lay down an infectious charming foundation. They surge the track with oodles of energy and panache as slinky guitars weave between a sassy melody and dynamic vocals.The brisk guitar and bass injections flood the track with swanky flamboyance and sleek tones while the tight instrumentation and vibrant wall of sound scorches through with enough edge to keep the track refreshing and fun. There is a touch of The Clash and The Rolling Stones within this bands sound as they create a sleek well rounded track which showcases their talent and powerful musicianship. With oodles of vigor and rich production teamed with finely blended alternative rock n’ roll tones ‘Madman’ is a wild thrilling ride for sure. 

You Can Watch the video for ‘Madman’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Sugarwolf ‘Changes’

Derry/Belfast based quartet Sugarwolf have released their new single ‘Changes’. Led by front woman Emma Gallagher the band previously secured a reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting rock outfits and plan to continue to do so. Sharing the stage on tours with the likes of Fightstar, Black Peaks, Queen Zee, Employed To Serve and Skindred helped earn the band the reputation as one of the best live acts in the country and have since gained the support and endorsement deals with Jägermeister, Orange Amps and Ruach Music.

‘Changes’ is a robust, raw number dripping in Sugarwolf’s coarse and ferocious musicianship as the band swirl exhilarating soundscapes into abrasive rock to create an electrifying new single. There are rich and explosive elements packed into this fiery track however the band manage to rein it in and control the eruption within their masterful thrilling soundscape. The pulverising demonic rumble on drums splinters the track while the darkly smeared guitars soar, crash and ricochet off the merciless backdrop.

There is a The Prodigy feel to this frenetic track. Emma Gallagher’s vocals are powerful, she bellows, coos and screams through the catchy melody. This band exude scorching swagger while maintaining a cool yet mysterious aura as they present a song with oodles of power both sonically and vocally. The turmoil and frustration presented within the music is complimented by the lyrics which depict emotions of loneliness, yearning, heartache and anger “I need somebody somebody to love You’re alone like me…Wish i, wish i could hate you” . It’s utterly mind blowing.

Sugarwolf have a full bodied, relentless and savage sound. They merge the gusto of Bring Me The Horizon with clever ambient soundscapes reminiscent of Wolf Alice with some Within Temptation sprinkled on top. I love how this band build and layer the track for maximum impact. The raw strikes on guitar teamed with wriggling bass create a superb ominous atmosphere as the track flourishes into a frenzy of mammoth alternative rock. The deft musicianship within this song is outstanding. Sugarwolf are ones to keep an eye on. Their ability to flood a track with so much angst and emotion with rich textures and shimmering undertones is a joy to the listeners ears and impressive to say the least.

Stream ‘Changes’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Inhaler ‘Falling In’

Taken from their forthcoming debut album which is currently in the works ‘Falling In’ is the latest release from Dublin quartet Inhaler. The band worked with renowned filmmaker & former Jesus & Mary Chain bassist Douglas Hart (Paul Weller, The Horrors, The Libertines) and Antony Genn on the song’s video, which was shot entirely over Zoom with each member in isolation.The band have amassed a die hard fanbase and their tracks have been streamed over 25 million times globally.

Filled with swirling synths and exhilarating youthful indie ‘Falling In’ presents Inhalers ever growing sound with a dash of 80’s swag. Shimmying percussion and an enticing bass groove create the tracks irresistible rhythmic flow. Robert Keating plays bass like the best of them; his ability to fluidly slide slinky bass grooves into a fuzzy dazing soundscape or rocking indie pop gem is impressive. While Keating’s bass is responsible for the smooth swanky gloss of each Inhaler track, Ryan McMahon whacks out that all important nimble yet all powerful drum backbone.

The track lifts to ebullient heights as it progresses to the euphoric crescendo. Josh Jenkinson’s free flying sleek guitar refrains soar and squall through the infectious beat. His shredding guitar solo ignites with a vaporous sting while Elijah Hewson’s warm and passionate vocals melt with a cool tone over the catchy bubbling backdrop.

Inhaler have created a psychedelic-hued track with dizzying synth swirls and grounding funk flexes to soundtrack the lyrical document on how their lives have changed over the past year as they reflect on the pitfalls of success. Lyrically the track shows great promise and growth in the band. Their songwriting displays depth, perspective and maturity. There is oodles of vibrancy and potential blossoming beneath the raw moments within the song while the effortless charisma the band members themselves exude, makes the song charming and instantly mesmerising.

‘Falling In’ hints Inhaler’s instrumental prowess is becoming more refined; subtle layering and musical treats are hidden and weaved throughout the track’s exhilarating soundscape.Another fine addition to Inhalers catalogue.

About the track frontman Elijah Hewson says :  “Falling In is a song about the battles that we all have with our own ego.I think being a young band on tour, and seeing our music connect with audiences from different parts of the world has opened our eyes to the excitement and exhilaration of life and being up on stage and feeling wanted and loved can be a very powerful drug. We are just beginning to encounter our own egos and becoming aware that allowing it to be in charge of who you are can be your downfall. You can cut yourself on its sharp edges and bleed to death if you’re not careful. We want to meet our egos head on, shake their hands and give them a hug. We are not afraid of them… we know we need each other. Your ego can be your friend, but you need your mates to make sure it doesn’t boss you around.”

Stream ‘Falling In’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, electro - rock, Electronic, indie rock, New Music, Rock, Single Premiere

KOU ‘Burn’ Permiere

Jon Wilkes, formerly the drummer in The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus has released his new single ‘Burn’ under the name KOU, his new musical revolution. Wilkes was a key member of The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, recording albums with hit producers such as David Bendeth (Paramore, Papa Roach, Underoath), Howard Benson (Daughtry, Kelly Clarkson, The All-American Rejects) and John Feldman (Goldfinger, Good Charlotte, The Used). With WILKES on drums, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus released 3 full-length records: Don’t You Fake It (2006), Lonely Road (2008) and Am I The Enemy (2011).Don’t You Fake It featured the hit single “Face Down” and was certified gold in November 2006 by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies and in June 2016 was certified platinum for selling over 1,000,000 copies.

Ignited with passionate and raw alternative rock ‘Burn’ is a wholly immersive and explosive track from KOU. Wilkes uses light twinkling soundscapes to begin the track, swirling airy synths into a flashing beat, creating a delicate intro before erupting into a mammoth outburst of pounding drums and sharp guitars. His powerful vocals express painful emotion as they bellow and coo the heartfelt lyrics.

There is plenty of verve, emotion and instrumental prowess in this track to make it relatable and a feature on every alternative rock playlist. The lyrics depict how cruel humans can be and how hatred can consume everything. Wilkes calls for everyone to revolt against this bitter hate and as he does so the song becomes more intense and animated. With an acute rough wall of sound battering the backdrop with alternative rock,Wilkes portrays the raw unadulterated hatred while using majestic guitars and ethereal synths to create tender delicate moments between the chaos. Lushly intricate and well layered ‘Burn’ is a beautiful fusion of electronic and alternative rock.

About the track and his new project Wilkes said : “KOU Stands for “Kingdom Of Us” and The idea of running a (KOU)coup in defense of our livelihood as humans and anything that holds us back. It’s about following your dreams no matter the cost.“BURN’ is about how as humans we have let hatred and the media consume us for decades and it’s time for a transformation.”

Watch the video for ‘Burn’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Worth A Listen – SICK LOVE

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From SICK LOVE

Dublin band SICK LOVE have released their new single ‘I’m So (Fucked Without You)’. Following a string of acclaimed single releases, the track is the final installment of their new EP, ‘Baby, It’s You.’ 

Wrapped in a blistering swarm of raw indie rock ‘I’m So (Fucked Without You)’ announces SICK LOVE’s return. This band has always created a thrilling wall of sound and this new number doesn’t disappoint. Blending the pulverizing gorilla might on drums with shredding blazing guitars SICK LOVE provides an exhilarating soundscape for listeners to immerse in. The acute assault of alternative rock blends with the smattering of sultry indie pop seamlessly.

Rebecca Geary’s vocals are uncompromising and dynamic as she pines and bellows with attitude and aggro between sultry coos. The band layer the track superbly. They create explosive moments between brooding elements within the ragged and tattered backdrop while a wriggling dark bass line grooves underneath.

‘I’m So (Fucked Without You)’ takes the band’s raucous sound to a new, intoxicating level reminiscent of Blondie’s swagger and the brooding deft sound of Garbage yet with SICK LOVE’s own personal musical stamp. Their sound is getting better and becoming more unique with each release.

There is something invigorating about the tracks SICK LOVE creates. ‘I’m So (Fucked Without You)’ takes their messy explosive sound and refines it into rich elements of heavy slick guitar work, ravenous bass and fierce drums to create a sound laced in controlled emotive anarchy. This loud angst-filled track is the power song I needed today. 

Stream ‘I’m So (Fucked Without You)’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Chris Birdsall ‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’

Alternative rocker and songwriter Chris Birdsall has released his latest single ‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’. Coming from a string of bands in his youth, Chris Birdsall struck out on his own and released his debut solo album ’13 Songs’ in 2015. With his sound influenced by Eric Clapton and John Martyn, he continues to explore the bounds of his musical talent, pushing it further each time. ‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’ is the first single to come from his upcoming album.

‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’ is a slick rock track that thrives on a bluesy refrain and Chris Birdsall’s raw musicianship. With a stomping beat, swagger drenched guitar and powerful vocals the track is brimming with oodles of brawn.Birdsall builds the track from a groove infested sultry number into a ballsy power anthem. With a twanging western-esque guitar creating scorching fragments of delight between the muggy humid beat the song’s simplistic approach is quite versatile and striking. The mighty crescendo and sheer swagger dripping from this track is impressive. ‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’ is catchy, fine blues rock tune sure to be stuck in your head for days. 

Stream ‘Deaf, Dumb and Blind’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Atticus ‘Tony’

Atticus are set to release their new single ‘Tony’ on May 22nd. Atticus are a four piece alt rock band from Dublin, comprised of Dan Wigglesworth, Steph Comiskey, Daragh O’Connor, and Paul Gleeson. They strive to take the best aspects of pop, rock, metal and rap to create an energetic and intriguing sound that is brought to life with riveting live shows. They have released 2 EPs to date: “Coherence” and “Deadlines”, both of which were self produced and recorded by the band themselves.

With a swarm of raw alternative rock Atticus present their most invigorating release to date with ‘Tony’. This track was destined to be blasted from the speakers. With dark murky soundscapes swirling through a crashing hyperactive wall of sound, Atticus have created one heavy mosh smothered anthem. The band pummel and pulverise with ground shaking drums and a dynamic dirty bass line that could summon the dead while harsh guitar lacerations cut shreds into the beefy backdrop. The band create wonderful tension through the acute luring verses while the explosive chorus erupts with a harsh shrill and enraged fury. Showcasing their refined majestic side the band embellish the song with rich rhythms and slick precise guitar maneuvers that boasts the quartet’s musical bravado in all its glory. Blending swagger saturated rock with moody grunge hues, dynamic rasped vocal howls and alternative rock anarchy, Atticus have created another thrilling banger. 

‘Tony’ will be released on May 22nd for more you can follow Atticus on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/atticustheband/


Author : Danu

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

The Burma ‘Sugar Moonlight’ EP

Photo Credit : Ciara O Toole

Rising Indie Rock band The Burma have just released their new EP ‘Sugar Moonlight’. At various stages over the past year the Irish indie band have holed up in Monique Studios with producer Christian Best (Mick Flannery, O Emperor, Jack O’Rourke, Marlene Enright) writing and recording their latest release. 

‘Sugar Moonlight’ is a tidy collection of tracks exuding passionate pop melodies and blazing alternative rock with a healthy dose of indie rock at its heart. The band go all out with this EP – luscious textures and melodious highs, psychedelic rawness and tender broods create a well rounded enjoyable listening experience.

The jubilous indie guitar jingle of ‘Same Again’ kick starts the EP. It is light and infectious as the ethereal guitars create a wonderful animated bounce. The Burma construct tracks with a rich rhythmic foundation of rippling bass lines and buoyant snappy drums allowing the charming guitar refrains to soar and flourish off this backdrop with majestic tonalities. The band swoon smooth melty melodies into their vibrant indie sound effortlessly. ‘Quicksand’ shows this superbly as the soft bubbly melody wisps delicately through a crashing psychedelic backdrop of airy stings on guitar and rumbling drums.

With a refreshing bite, each track rolls coolly into the next. Whether it’s the icy sting of the melancholic ‘When You’re Gone’ or the darker synth swirling prance of  ‘Phoney Personality’, the band use their ability to intricately weave multi layered synth textures and melodies to create a seamless transition between tracks while still maintaining each songs own identity. Final track ‘Buried Alive’ closes the EP on a high. It’s not a sugar rush but a sweet tender and mesmerising high as The Burma present their most delicious emotive and beautiful melody yet. Caressed with soft tender vocals and slow brooding instrumentation the track flurries on a light airy soundscape of glistening guitar and pulsing beat. Each timeless twinkle and bass wriggle coils and curdles the backdrop in sombre wistful tones. The track builds superbly becoming more dynamic as, in true The Burma fashion the song reaches its hair raising crescendo.

The Burma have a wonderful ability to create rich proficient tunes with first rate instrumentation, exhilarating guitar lines and intricate bass lines that surge with character. Their melodies are irresistible, oozing emotive, dreamy and sweet tones while the lo- fi grooves and heavy rhythmic pulses provide the element that hooks your ears and leaves you craving more. ‘Sugar Moonlight’ is a mature and impressive EP that makes The Burma ones to keep an eye on. 

Stream ‘Sugar Moonlight’ below 


Author : Danu