Category Archives: electro- pop

electro- pop, Electronic, New Music

rvstless ‘Wanna Be Free’

Irish artist and multi-instrumentalist rvstless has released his new single ‘Wanna Be Free’. rvstless is the new moniker of Steven McCann, an R&B/Soul project which found its feet throughout lockdown 2020. No stranger to the live music scene, McCann has played Electric Picnic, Body&Soul, Latitude in the UK and a whole host of festivals and tours, with his previous artist project TooFools and as an in-demand session musician. After touring extensively over the past few years as a session musician, previously working alongside the likes of JyellowL, Melina Malone, Phil Coulter, Booka Brass, Ralph Rolle (Nile Rodgers & CHIC), and Lisa Hannigan to name a few, rvstless will release a debut EP later this year. 

Within ‘Wanna Be Free’, rvstless spreads infectious laid back electronics over a mellow R&B backdrop to make an ambitious and incredibly catchy new single. The song has a sleek coating with an energetic underbelly as a skipping rhythm and rippling bassline pairs well with McCann’s smooth vocal performance. Featuring a dreamy melody and carefree sun-kissed atmosphere, the song is masterfully poised and crafted to balance chic cool and emotional sincerity in one buoyant, infectious gem. Exuding jaunty guitar, echoed soundscapes, and tight grooves weaved between lush pop melodies ‘Wanna Be Free’ is the perfect summer chilled bop.

Stream ‘Wanna Be Free’ below 


Author : Danu

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

The Crayon Set ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’

Dublin-based The Crayon Set have released their second single ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’ taken from their forthcoming album ‘Downer Disco’ which is set for release in September 2021, supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture,  Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media.The first line-up of The Crayon Set released their eponymous debut album in 2013 – it was recorded with Nick Brine (Teenage Fanclub, Super Furry Animals). It’s follow-up ‘Lost Languages’ was recorded with Gavin Glass (Lisa Hannigan, Villagers) and released in 2017 and featured Kate Dineen on guest vocals who later became a permanent member of the band. 

Driving on a pulsing bassline and rippling electronics, ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’ is a shimmering disco ball of alternative pop. The song fleshes out The Crayon Set’s lush sound with layers of palpitating synths, propulsive rhythms and a dash of Americana glimmering through on guitars. As the song progresses, it slips into psychedelic hues, creating a laid-back, carefree vibe that ebbs and flows throughout. The Crayon Set have become known for their hook-laden sound, and ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’ follows this trend wonderfully. Press play and enjoy.

Speaking about their new single, Robert explains “I was pleased when this song came along – I think it helped signal a new direction for the band. It had more of a groove to it – and it had a melancholic atmosphere that drew you in. Lyrically it is about feeling down and losing a sense of yourself and your role in the world. It probably inspired the ‘Downer Disco’ album theme – a bit depressing, but you could dance to it…”. 

Stream ‘Don’t Step Back Too Far’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, New Music

Zach James Douglas ‘Something / Anything’

Zach James Douglas has released his debut single ‘Something / Anything’ featuring guest vocalist Kintsuku, via ZJD records. Zach James Douglas is an indie/alternative producer and songwriter, hailing from the South Dublin suburb of Tallaght. Having previously had the pleasure of playing festivals such as Glastonbury and Electric Picnic with former band “Little One”, Douglas now steps out alone for the first time, with his debut single ‘Something / Anything’ released everywhere April 28th on ZJD Records via Faction Records. 

‘Something / Anything’ is an earthy tune laced in rich electronic soundscapes and Zach James Douglas’ intricate production skills. The song has a balmy atmosphere with dance elements infused between tropical tones and warm guitar embellishments. Kintsuku’s soft vocals add sweetness and emotion to the songs fluttering backdrop as Douglas builds ‘Something / Anything’ superbly. He injects a dash of spice on percussion and elegance on keys to create a wholly immersive song for listeners to indulge in. ‘Something / Anything’ is a timeless and wonderful tune from Zach James Douglas.

About the song, Douglas says...”Something/Anything deals with the bitterness and the anger that began to engulf mine and my Ex’s relationship, as she struggled to come to terms with her own personal demons and issues at home. It documents how my role in her life began to change from one of positivity, comfort and reliability, to the new position of the perpetual scapegoat.”

Stream ‘Something / Anything’ below


Author : Danu

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

Five Days North ‘Colours (In My Mind)’

Immersed in memories of pre-pandemic life, ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ is the new single from Manchester indie pop band Five Days North. From winning the 2017 Best Unsigned Band at the UK Unsigned Music Awards, Five Days North have gradually evolved into the encompassing and emotionally charged outfit they are today. Their heart-on-their sleeve lyricism combined with their infectious brand of indie pop has turned heads in their home city of Manchester, as well as further afield. With festival spots at Dot To Dot Festival and Kendal Calling, headline shows at Gorilla and Manchester Academy 3, as well as radio support from BBC Introducing and Co-Op Radio, Five Days North are winning hearts and minds up and down the country as well as on the international stage.

Exuding a progressive 80’s synth-pop persona filled with melodic pop hooks and indie glimmers, ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ shows Five Days North are a band cultivating their sound into something unique and expressive. The track broods with a dark undertone as bubbling rhythms simmer under the atmospheric synth explosions. With brisk drum beats creating a pulse and rush of adrenaline, Five Days North present a fresh and biting tune brimming with passion. The band blend a whirlwind of expressive instrumentation with soft eerie twinkles on keys to create a wonderful contrast as the track reaches its dynamic crescendo. Saturated in lush textures and sounds ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ is a magnificent new single from Five Days North.

Stream ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ below  


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Post Punk

Apella ‘Buried You’

Photo Credit : Ray Keogh

Apella have released a limited edition vinyl and CD of their debut album ‘1963’, alongside the brand new single ‘Buried You’. Since the album was digitally released on January 29th, it has been going from strength to strength with a whopping 500,000 streams racked up to date. Pre-orders for the physical release launched in January via apellamusic.com with 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this album going directly to The Marie Keating Foundation specifically to help fund the outstanding support services they provide to women affected by Breast Cancer.

Bouncing between an effervescent pop chorus and earnest verses, ‘Buried You’ is a fizzing electronic-infused pop-punk/ indie banger from Apella. The band depicts heartbreak through this dynamic tune as brooding verses, that are smeared with dark undertones simmer into a bright pop chorus that is so catchy you will have to prise it from your head. The song displays the expressive songwriting and ever-shifting musicianship of Apella. Venturing into heavy electronics the track whirls and coils around dizzying synths and a hyper wall of sound. As a rampant bassline weaves between punchy drums and effervescent electronics the track spirals into the exhilarating chorus. Apella blend lush textures with rich soundscapes and shake them up to create a fizzing anthem while heart-stopping melodies and meaningful lyrics add weight and depth “I trembled at the thought of moving on, you surrendered all hope before hope was gone”. Dara Quilty’s vocals balance the tender lyrics and explosive soundscapes with ease. His coo’s ebb and flow with the instrumental turmoil providing emotion and anthemic power throughout. The track is such a joy to the senses and a fine display of musicianship from Apella.

‘Buried You’ is accompanied by a vigorously high energy, vivacious music video directed by Ray Keogh. Talking about the video Director Ray Keogh said: “I have been part of the Apella journey since inception and this music video captures everything they represent. Quilty and Nolan are two extraordinarily talented performers. We set it up and executed this video just like we were headlining a music festival! This is Apella. I am incredibly proud of this.”

Speaking of the album Dara Quilty said: “The response to the album on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube has been overwhelming. I still enjoy opening up my phone and simply seeing it exist in the world. As I mentioned before, we’ll be donating 100% of all the physical sales proceeds directly to The Marie Keating Foundation. Up against COVID-19 and BREXIT, I am delighted that production is complete and we can finally release our beautiful Vinyl and CDs! I am eternally grateful to everyone who has pre-ordered and we’ll continue to donate sales after the release date!”

100% of the proceeds from this album bought on apellamusic.com will go directly to The Marie Keating Foundation’s Positive Living support group, Survive and Thrive programme, BRCA awareness and support programme and School’s Cancer Awareness Programme.

Watch the video for ‘Buried You’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, Singer/Songwriter

Riley Holland ‘Say it First’

Riley

Riley Holland has released her new single ‘Say it First’. Riley Holland is a songwriter and performer from Co. Down, Northern Ireland. Riley has achieved much in her early career. In 2019 she was a semi- finalist in the Belfast-Nashville Young Songwriter Of The Year, making her live debut during this festival. She was also a finalist in the All-Ireland Star Nation competition. This earned her recording time in Ireland’s famous Windmill Lane studio.

‘Say it First’ is an infectious electronic pop tune saturated in Holland’s emotive songwriting. The track surges with luscious sun kissed electronics that wisp through balmy tones and sticky beats as Holland uses her knack with bittersweet melodies to create one heartfelt breakup bop. The tender lyrics contrast the song’s effervescent radiant backdrop; the warm guitars, tropical tones and bubbling rhythms make ‘Say it First’ a refreshing piece of pop perfection. Holland’s warm vocals coo “ don’t call me and tell me it’s over and we should just be friends”, over an intricately layered electronic pop backdrop creating a danceable radio-ready gem for listeners to indulge in.

‘Say it First’ is a slick, well-crafted earworm that marks Holland as an artist to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Say it First’ below


Author : Danu

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

Luke Power ‘Drinks’

Luke Power has released his latest single, ‘Drinks’. After touring with Irish pop and rock band Picture This and performing in venues like The Olympia, Luke Power returns after a three-year hiatus with an arsenal of over 20 tracks ready to go. Born in 1999, Power grew up in Dublin, Ireland, surrounded by music. Both his uncle & grandfather are experienced vocalists and heavily influenced his decision to pursue music. Power started playing the guitar at the age of eight and began learning the basics of production when he was ten. Becoming skilled at Logic X and Pro Tools, he then began to mix and master tracks for various artists in Ireland.

‘Drinks’ is an energetic electronic pop track dripping in the tight musicianship and lush melodic prowess of Luke Power. Spreading swirling synths around bubbling beats and flickering electronics the track has an effervescent soundscape that surges with adrenaline. Throughout this dance floor smasher, Power adds emotional lyrical content to provide a satisfying listening experience. His smooth vocals caress the dreamy melody while the dynamic production flurries with a hurried urgency behind his moving lyrics “ I don’t feel real”.

Power displays his ability to craft an engaging and musically deft tune that exudes heartfelt lyrics and emotion at its core. Keep an eye on Luke Power.

About the track Power said, “It is an ode to the good times pre lockdown, where you can go out to create new memories with friends”.

Stream ‘Drinks’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Robert O’Connor ‘Too Late’

Robert O’Connor has released his new single ‘Too Late’ to celebrate the release of his deluxe nine-track EP ‘Transcendence.’ The EP was originally released in November 2020 to a rapturous response from fans and widespread critical acclaim and this expanded edition celebrates that.

‘Too Late’ takes O’ Connor’s infectious sound to a darker, more sombre dimension. With swirling electronics creating a thick muggy atmosphere while soft lamenting synths glisten throughout, he crafts an infectious, melancholic brooding number for listeners to indulge in. O’Connor keeps the dance momentum from his previous releases going in ‘Too Late’ with bubbling beats and infectious hooks weaving between the icy electronics while his warm vocals coo the catchy melody. With intense verses building to an anthemic chorus and energetic crescendo, ‘Too Late’ is a well-crafted, electronic pop tune that boasts the lush musicianship of Robert O’ Connor.

Stream ‘Too Late’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Noah Elliott ‘Never Know’

Oregon Pop-R&B artist Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Know,’ produced by Nashville hit-maker Jon Santana (Phangs, SuperM).

 ‘Never Know’ is a piece of softly glittering pop prowess as Elliott swirls sweet melodies through bubbling electronics to create an ethereal and tender number. With R&B elements weaved through fresh synths and spacious soundscapes, Elliott builds the track superbly. Weaving soft guitar between bubbling beats and a laid-back tempo, the song floats into a dreamy atmosphere allowing the electronics to unfold and create a soothing sense of nostalgia.

Elliott’s soulful vocals coo throughout, creating a melancholic and sweet tone to the track. His lush falsetto and velvety tone adds to the track’s overall sulky yet dreamy atmosphere. As Elliott builds the song, he layers bouncy synth elements into the catchy chorus and airy soundscape. Here the electronics become a little darker and sticky while the R&B elements kick in for the finger-clicking beat and the smooth vocals. 

Elliott’s songwriting excels in setting vulnerable, personal themes and lyrics to his minimal radio-friendly pop. It’s this exposure of his heart that gives the track its power and beauty  “Romeo and Juliet I envy what they had, thought we would have that or was it unrealistic “….. “But your doors are always closing when I keep mine cracked open waiting for you to walk in”. Elliott wears his heart on his sleeve for each song he releases, and ‘Never Know’ is a superb example of this. 

Elliot’s spacious yet intricately weaved musicianship and heartfelt lyrics make each release engaging and utterly compelling. Within ‘Never Know,’ we see this through beautiful melodies, meaningful, honest lyrics, and a gripping wall of sound. 

About the track, Noah Elliott said “The song is about the confusion and heartache that results from having no idea as to why someone left you.”

Stream ‘Never Know’ below


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Midnight Wayne ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’

Having cut his teeth in one of the most well-loved live bands of their time on our festival circuits and live scene, former Hot Sprockets frontman Wayne Soper is no stranger to the Irish music scene. Now focusing on his solo artist project, Midnight Wayne, Soper returns with ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ boasts the impressive genre-blending musicianship of Midnight Wayne. Melding 80’s synth-pop with crisp sparkling production, Soper adds layer upon layer of beautiful luxuriant sounds for the listener to indulge in.

The song flows upon a kinetic groove and pulsing bass while sweet synths chime throughout. Soper uses a tight beat to pull against a funky flex on guitar, and loose electronics to create a tantalizing, irresistible sound to tease and entice the listener with. The result is a mesmerising display of musical prowess and an enjoyable listening experience.

From panache-soaked breathy whispers to velvety croons, Soper’s vocals ooze a charming tone while delivering the uplifting lyrics “seek the fire that you’ve lost inside”. The upbeat lyrics are highlighted further by the tracks infectious jangly guitars and rhythmic bounce.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ is a gem to treasure. Midnight Wayne is refining his sound into something special and something to get excited about. Looking forward to hearing more from Midnight Wayne.

Stream ‘It’s Alright Hold on Tight’ below 


Author : Danu