Category Archives: electro – rock

electro - rock, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Synth Rock

Columbia Mills ‘Heart of a Nation’

Single Artwork,Credit: Colum Jordan

Columbia Mills have released their new single ‘Heart of a Nation’. ‘Heart of a Nation’ is the title track and first single from the band’s third album scheduled for release in September this year. Described by John Kennedy (Radio X) as Ireland’s answer to The National, Columbia Mills are regulars at festivals such as Indiependence, Longitude, and Electric Picnic and have supported world-class acts like Ride, Public Service Broadcasting, and Palace. On top of this, they have also toured Ireland & the UK with a string of headline shows at venues such as Whelans, King Tuts, and Sebright Arms.

 ‘Heart of a Nation’ is a thrilling new song from Columbia Mills. Dealing with dark themes, in particular Ireland’s housing crisis the band highlight failures in our society. Fiachra Treacy’s vocals croon moving lyrics and drive home the songs stark lyrical content “A mother in a hotel raising her kids she’s not on holiday how did it end up this way …….sleeping in a Garda station, living in the heart of a first world nation”.

‘Heart of a Nation’ is a wonderfully expressive piece of music. The band create a soundscape filled with lush instrumentation, dark undertones and dazzling moments of evocative musicianship through the use of chiming guitars, bass rumbles and beautiful key arrangements that deftly convey coiling emotion, innocence, and anger.

The enthralling sound of Columbia Mills is one to be admired. Each of the band’s releases are a joy to listen to again and again. ‘Heart of a Nation’ is an excellent display of Columbia Mills’ masterful use of instrumentation, sonic finesse and eloquent songwriting.

Speaking about ‘Heart of a Nation’ lead singer Fiachra Treacy said: “Heart of a Nation” documents the housing crisis in Ireland, with each verse tackling a different aspect of the problem.  From a mother sleeping with her children in a Garda station to the crooked businessmen and politicians that have caused the housing crisis in Ireland.  Heart of a Nation peels back the political rhetoric and looks at the real people affected when the ruling class looks out for themselves.”

Stream ‘Heart of a Nation’ below 


Author: Danu

electro - rock, New Music

Última Conexión ‘Identidad’


Inspired by the constraints of a routine, ‘Identidad’ is the latest song to come from Peruvian Electro-Rock duo Última Conexión. Fronted by Ana Alvarez (vocalist, composer) and Jim Bravo (bassist, composer), Última Conexión began making music together in 2010. They released their debut album ‘Señal’ in 2013 and have gone on to release a number of singles. Active participants of the live music scene, Última Conexión built up their fanbase performing at concerts and festivals around Lima. Their songs speak of social change and issues that face our modern society.

‘Identidad’ is a vibrant and upbeat tune that explores the rich sonic sound of Última Conexión. With 80’s – esque synths shimmering between a sticky beat and reverb laced vocals, the track has a quirky and energetic sound. The band mix elements of alternative rock with edgy jabs on guitars and slick riffs throughout to create a full-bodied and dense sound. The lyrics explore the contradiction between the exciting life we create for ourselves on social media and the ordinary and often boring reality while bright and dynamic instrumentation provides a sleek and swagger dipped soundscape that will have you bopping along in no time.

Stream  ‘Identidad’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, electro - rock, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Slaney ‘Love Is Like A Drug’

Irish electro-pop artist Slaney has released her new single, ‘Love Is Like A Drug’. The song follows the release of her previous single ‘Chameleon’, which dropped in February and picked up excellent radio and press support in Ireland and the UK.

‘Love Is Like A Drug’ is a refreshing guzzle of electronic pop that bubbles with the infectious musicianship of Slaney. She spreads ethereal electronics over a sticky beat creating a muggy and dance-infused backdrop for her sweet vocals to coo over. There is a beautiful contrast between Slaney’s hypnotic vocals, the honeyed melody and effervescent electronics that adds a bite and edge to the tune. Slaney pulls these different aspects together with the use of soft pop elements and catchy hooks allowing listeners to appreciate and immerse themselves in the tracks’ addictive and enticing soundscapes. ‘Love Is Like A Drug’ showcases Slaney’s musical prowess and sublime knack for melodies, marking her an artist to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Love Is Like A Drug’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, electro - rock, New Music

Royal Blood ‘Limbo’

Photo Credit : Mads Perch

Royal Blood have released the video for their new single ‘Limbo’, which is taken from their forthcoming third album ‘Typhoons’. The track has been premiered as Annie Mac’s Hottest Record in the World, making it the duo’s third consecutive release to be rewarded with that accolade. The band’s return has been further heralded with ‘Trouble’s Coming’ hitting #1 on US rock radio (their fourth single to achieve that feat) and achieving the highest US alternative radio chart position of their career to date. It has also provided their biggest moment so far in Canada, where it became their first #1 on the rock chart and remains at #3 after a 24-week run. 

‘Limbo’ provides a disco stomp and glam rock shimmer to Royal Blood’s immense sound. With battering drums holding down the lean, mean foundation while glittering synths swell, ‘Limbo’ is the band’s most genre-fluid track yet. This dynamic tune boasts the raw rock bravado we have come to love from the duo, with flirtations of electronic dance and disco bolstering the duo’s crashing wall of sound. Mike Kerr coo’s the infectious melody while Ben Thatcher’s tight relentless drumming remains at the helm for the verses, controlling the heavy mosh rhythms with his battering assault before luminous dance floor elements flash through for the chorus. The movement from dark luring verses to the lustrous chorus is invigorating to the senses and a joy to listen to. As the song progresses, the gritty fuzzed bass slices through the soundscape with abrasive gashes leading to the tracks spiralling crescendo that contorts all the songs previous musical elements into an almost acid-soaked psychedelic trip. ‘Limbo’ boasts a full-throttle wall of sound that glimmers with the sleek and raw rock facets to Royal Blood’s sound.

About the song, Royal Blood commented, “It is without a doubt the most ambitious and wildest we have allowed ourselves to be, and we can’t wait to invite you this far down the rabbit hole with us.”

Watch the video for ‘Limbo’ below 


Author : Danu

electro - rock, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Pecking Party ‘Descendant’

Dublin-based electronic band, Pecking Party have released their latest single ‘Descendant’. The track is accompanied by a stylised sci-fi-influenced video directed by Richard Harvey (winner of First Cut Youth Film Festival Music Video competition).

Luring, dark and superbly composed ‘Descendant’ displays the raw electronic rock of Pecking Party in all its glory. This sinister concoction blends swirling electronics with heavy, gritty rock and acute trip-hop to create an enthralling listening experience. The sheer terror and assault provided on bass and drums is masterful as the band create a harrowing coarse wall of sound for the shadowy, almost futuristic toned electronics to ricochet and swirl around.

The band balance their harrowing heavy sound with ethereal elements allowing glimmers of lightness and innocence to flicker within the muggy atmosphere. As harsh guitars gnaw through the track’s intoxicating soundscape, the delicate melody and soft vocals provide a refreshing contrast.

Ciara Ryan’s smoky lulling tone carries the track’s lighter moments – with sweet haunting coos on backing vocals she discusses themes of intergenerational dread and fear for the future. Ciara Ryan ventures into a menacing tone as growling backing vocals howl before the striking perilous chorus. 

Pecking Party have crafted their sound masterfully creating an enticing and frenzied sound sure to ignite the senses and leave you craving for more. 

Watch The Video For ‘Descendant’ below 


Author : Danu

electro - rock, indie rock, New Music

Dr. Craves ‘Free It’

‘Free It’ is the anthemic new track from Mexican artist Dr. Craves. Created in the full spirit of DIY recording, ‘Free It’ was recorded on a laptop with bathroom reverb and cheap microphones. After years of experimenting with music and playing in punk bands, Dr. Craves is stepping out on her own with her slick new sound. Creator of electronic music with slick audio production, Dr. Craves refuses to be boxed into one genre and consistently pushes the boundaries of her creativity. 

‘Free It’ is a raw piece of experimental electronic rock. With an intricate sticky beat slapping between acute swirling electronics, the track has an edgy wall of sound. Dr. Craves’ rasped vocals provide a rock vibe to this attitude driven track while dark guitars rumble through the reverb laced soundscape. Written as a “way to confront her demons”, the track exudes 90’s dance elements soaked in electronic rock with unique wobbly and distorted synths interspersed throughout. Pushing through to a crazed crescendo ‘Free It’ is an engaging and energetic debut from Dr. Craves. 

Stream ‘Free It’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, electro - rock, Electronic, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music

Indie Buddie Introducing : Kynsy

Kynsy is the solo project of rising 23 year-old multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Ciara Lindsey – who today has released her debut single, ‘Cold Blue Light. Having previously performed on the Other Voices Music Trail and at Ireland Music Week, the Dublin artist kicked off this year with a whole host of 2020 Hot List features.

‘Cold Blue Light’ is a fermenting blitz which evokes a thrilling sense of anticipation while Kynsy carries herself with a vivid coolness through a fizzing raw soundscape. The track is dark with a cold embrace as the song punches with effortless rock stamina through a nonchalant delivery. With sharp guitars saturated in distortion the track ventures into psychedelic territory.There is substance to this track as well, the wry lyrics depict fading chancers and their last grasp at relevance. The soft pop melody has a dreamy delicacy as shimmering synths sweeten the tracks ominous undertone which is provided by the sluggish drum beats and sinister foundation.

‘Cold Blue Light’ exudes a residue of St. Vincent flair albeit with more edgy rock elements as Kynsy builds and creates distinct moments of brilliance within the track which set the bar high. Kynsy is an impressive artist to keep an eye on. 

About the track and video, Kynsy said: ‘’Cold Blue Light’ is about the bullies we all encounter in life and looking for meaning in the darkness they create. I wanted to write a song that held some sort of balance between destruction and hope. It’s based on an encounter I had at a new year’s eve party where there was a guy spouting racist remarks at people and it was quite upsetting and stuck with me. The result was a rowdy pop song truck full of sticky anger and synth pop goo. The video was filmed just with a camera on a tripod in my back garden, I wanted it to be direct and simple so people could focus on the music.”   

Watch the video for ‘Cold Blue Light’ below


Author : Danu

electro - rock, Indie, New Music, Synth Rock

Chris Conroy ‘Dive’

Originating from the town of Portlaoise, Chris Conroy has released his debut single ‘Dive’. Conroy presents his passionate and melodically rich musicianship with this single. As a debut it is quite the mature songwriting display. With warm guitar accompaniment the track begins light and breezy as cheery guitar strums bounce behind Conroy’s velvety vocals while wispy soundscapes lead the track into its invigorating chorus. Conroy creates a dynamic pop track with ‘Dive’ which ventures sonically into R&B tones with skittish beats fluttering between strong piano chords and climatic electronics. The song builds in intensity with heavier hip hop elements while the sweet lyrics talk about the excitement and nerves at the start of a relationship. ‘Dive’ is a sublime debut from Chris Conroy.

Stream ‘Dive’ below


Author : Danu

electro - rock, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – The Post Romantics

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Post Romantics

The Post Romantics have released their new single ‘bad friend’ via DEADBOY$CLUB. Self-produced under lockdown at the band’s home in Liverpool, the track showcases the band in their purest form. The Post Romantics is formed of brothers Connor Cockbain, Cameron Cockbain and Liam Cockbain along with their childhood friend, Sam Barton. Championed by BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Introducing, last year saw the band cut their teeth supporting the likes of Wolf Alice and Larkins, selling out headline shows in Liverpool and London. 2020 sees the band follow up this release, embark on their now rescheduled UK tour and perform at Liverpool Sound City and Hit The North Festival.

Warped in a deadly concoction of haunting electronics and mysterious production, ‘bad friend’ sees The Post Romantics continue their sublime dark aesthetic where contemporary R&B rubs elbows with moody twisted emo pop. The track is an anti-love letter to the liars, users and other fake friends. Following the tale of two people who got too close for their own good, ‘Bad Friend’ offers an honest insight into the world of toxic relationships.

With heavy sticky beats slapping between an asphyxiating soundscape the track swirls in a mysterious and ominous atmosphere while the emotive smooth vocals melt over the punchy bubbling backdrop and vaporous electronics. The reverb laced backing vocals create an ethereal breezy tone to the track that provides a breath of air between the tracks muggy compression. With elements of The Weeknd within the songs production ‘bad friend’ has a crisp and polished coating with coiling and twisting undertones creating the tracks underbelly.

With labyrinthine hooks nourished between sultry production and gritty heavy beats, The Post Romantics are harnessing their sound, becoming bigger and better with each release.

About the track lead singer, Connor says :  “I wrote this song after I realised that people are snakes.Relationships are complicated and people catch feelings and shit, I get it, but, be honest about it at least. Don’t play games.  People say one thing but mean another and, eventually, when they don’t get what they want, they’ll turn around and bite you. Maybe I’m just a sucker for people who want to f*ck my life up…”

Stream ‘bad friend’ below 


Author : Danu

electro - rock, Indie, New Music, Synth Rock

Jack West ‘The Last Arcade’


Jack West has released his new single ‘The Last Arcade’.15 year old Jack West has already performed with grunge  icon Eddie Vedder before 30,000 at a festival in Nashville as well as collaborated with renowned Seattle producer Barrett Jones ( Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Jawbox) at his famed Laundry Room Studio on West’s debut eight song offering ‘For The Record’.

‘The Last Arcade’ takes a step away from West’s rock n’ roll style and ventures down a psychedelic-tinged rabbit hole into more 80’s synth pop/ rock. West’s smooth vocals coo and drift softly over the melty melody with breezy tones and feathey lightness as he creates a cool and chilled atmosphere through tightly layered musicianship. Weaving synths and wispy soundscapes encase the track while a steady beat and sprightly retro synth refrain brood in the backdrop. The bubbly keys and cheery buoyancy of the track contrasts the breezy tone of West’s voice and lush harmonies superbly. ‘The Last Arcade’ is a well crafted delight on the ears.

Jack West is developing his style and sound superbly. He has already shown he can rock out like the best of them but ‘The Last Arcade’ glimmers with a rich timeless capacity. West takes his time to groove and slide with precision utilizing synths and 80’s pop rock with a retro jazzy piano tone to flesh out his unique and ambitious sound. You can expect great things to happen for this budding young artist.

Stream ‘The Last Arcade’ below 


Author : Danu