Alexis Kings are set to release their new single ‘Cali Girls’ on Friday the 3rd of December along with a launch gig at West Kensington’s Nell’s London. Alexis King’s delivery is that of quintessential British rock & roll with a contemporary undertone made up of catchy hooks and melodic vocals. The band consists of Brendan Aherne (Vocals) and Fabio Bocca (Drums). Taking aspects of each members influence and fusing each style with elements of Country, Soul, Hip-hop and Funk sitting on top of a solid Rock n Roll base, they aim to create a sound distinctive to Alexis Kings.
‘Cali Girls’ glistens with feel-good indie as Alexis Kings flesh out their infectious knack for melodies and tight musicianship to create a euphoric burst of alternative pop for listeners to enjoy. Aherne’s vocals exude warmth as he croons over a melodic wall of sound filled with funky bass lines, soul peppered guitars, rich rhythms and shimmering electronics. The song is tightly layered with subtle illuminations on guitar sprinkled throughout to provide an ethereal laid back atmosphere between the funk strutting bass and rhythmic elements. Within ‘Cali Girls’, Alexis Kings present a luscious tune that boasts swagger, refined musicianship and kinetic energy.
North London band KAWALA made their triumphant return to Dublin last night in The Academy. There was certainly a celebratory atmosphere in the air as excitable fans trickled into the venue to see the genre-blurring band and soak up the sweet party vibe this band radiated.
But first, support act, singer-songwriter Oscar Blue took to the stage. His warm, heartfelt tunes drifted through the venue and oozed an indie-folk undertone. With little effort, he had the audience in the palm of his hand as they sang back the lyrics to his songs; a particularly memorable moment was when the crowd sang the “Ooh oh ooh oh” lyrics of ‘Sober from You’. It was a tight wholesome performance from Oscar Blue that showcased his emotiveness and passion perfectly. Tunes such as ‘Silhouettes’ and ‘NYC’ were stand out moments last night, each tracks poetic lyrics, textures and tones sounded more rich within the live setting enhanced by Oscar Blue’s mesmerising vocals, Rob Kennedy’s sprightly drum rhythms, and Geoff Warner-Clayton’s hearty guitar melodies and ethereal keys. Oscar Blue’s music is quite special. His passionate earworms are a joy to the ears. Check him out live. You won’t be disappointed.
KAWALA spiralled on stage to a mass of cheers. Jim Higson sprang off the drum platform and leapt into the air for what was to become the first of his dramatic high kicks of the night. The band’s performance was a jubilant, fun-filled spectacle as the sugar rush ‘Funky’ kick-started their set. The crowd erupted as they danced and sang along. A sea of heads bopped in time to Ben Batten’s intricate drumming and Dan Lee’s sleek guitar while Reeve Coulson laid down an irresistible groove on bass. Daniel McCarthy and Jim Higson exuded an infectious and bright persona. Their charming banter, strutting dramatic dances and fiery unyielding energy put a smile on everyone’s face instantly.
These guys are not just a charismatic indie band, they possess impressive musical talent that boasts deft lyrics, glorious melody arrangements and wonderful vocal harmonies (Daniel McCarthy’s velvety tone complements the tenderness of Higson’s croons perfectly, it’s a vocal match made in heaven). Glad to be able to experience the bands vibrant sound live again the crowd enjoyed every minute of KAWALA’s set. They shouted “I love you” to McCarthy and Higson or requested songs. It was an all-inclusive party – at one point everyone sang Happy Birthday to a fan called Holly. “My dancing has not improved a single bit, it’s still awful” Higson announced before breaking into a wiggling dance and high kick extravaganza for ‘Pure Desire’. The stage could barely contain his boundless enthusiasm as he spiralled about, his colourful shirt billowing around him while McCarthy ( sporting white sunglasses ) quipped “I can’t see anything at all, I feel cool, can’t see, I have suffered for fashion” before the “KAWALA classic” ‘Animals’ which sparked fans into a deafening sing-along frenzy.
A run of buoyant heart-on-sleeve indie-pop, a sneaky play of unreleased tracks from their upcoming album and a fantastic rendition of Griff and HONNE’s 1000000 x Better is only broken by a time stopping rendition of ‘Heavy In The Morning’ and ‘Back Of My Hand’ which showcased the full spine-tingling majesty of the duo’s harmonies. KAWALA’s set was euphoric, carefree and a whole lot of fun. The crowd lapped up the performance, singing every song, embracing their friends and dancing without a care in the world. They couldn’t get enough; shouting for “one more tune!” and screaming the “Olé, Olé, Olé” chant to summon the band back on stage for that all-important encore. KAWALA gave their all last night and a joyous mass sing-along of Neil Diamond’s ‘Sweet Caroline’ at the end of the set showed just how at one the band is with their fans.
London up and coming three-piece The New Twentys have released their new EP, ‘Power’. After racking up support on their singles from Chris Hawkins, at BBC 6 Music, Radio X’s John Kennedy, Jake Peach at BBC Intro Essex, Melita Dennett BBC The South and XS Manchester, few can lay claim to having such an instant global impact, yet The New Twentys are being heard on a global scale, including heavy rotation at LA’s Idobi Radio, Sirius XM with the Rodney Bingenheimer show and Australia’s Triple J & Banks Radio too. The indie-pop rockers have opened the stage this summer for the likes of Primal Scream, Fat White Family, Scouting for Girls and McFly. They have also just sold out their debut London headline show.
‘Power’ is a vibrant collection of catchy tunes that boasts The New Twentys exuberant and charming musicianship. From the jangly guitar riffs, sunkissed atmosphere and quirky backing vocals of title track ‘Power’ to the bass-driven rush of ‘The Way’, the band pack this EP to the brim with sunkissed radiant tunes. The trio display a knack for melody and rhythms as they entwine intricate grooves between a light guitar display in the carefree, ‘Dancing On A Sunday’ while breezy keys glide through the funk hued ‘Brazilianaire’. Each song surges with earworm melodies that beckon repeat plays (Brazilianaire is a fine example of this).
‘Power’ is a carfree, fun EP that exudes sun-kissed vibes and tight musicianship. The New Twentys’ catchy tunes and dynamic sound is impressive and marks them as a band to keep an eye on.
Limerick’s Laura Duff has released her new single, ‘Easy’.Following ‘Wayside’ and ‘Good Form’, ‘Easy’ is the final single from her upcoming sophomore EP entitled ‘Heavy Summer’. The EP was recorded and produced by Christian Best of Monique Studios, Midleton, Co. Cork, and mastered by Richard Dowling of Wav Mastering, Limerick. The band lineup features Laura Duff (vocals, keys, acoustic guitar), JJ Lee (bass), Christopher O’Sullivan (drums), Finn Fogarty (lead guitar). ‘Heavy Summer’ is due for release before the end of the year.
‘Easy’ oozes mellow melodies, soft instrumentation and the glorious laid back sound of Laura Duff. The band create an exquisite backdrop of supple beats and warm guitar while Duff’s sweet vocals lull the dreamy melody. ’Easy’ creates a pacifying and soothing atmosphere as the band flesh out the backdrop in ethereal velvety soundscapes and tender harmonies before the beautiful guitar solo kicks in to add a slight edge to the track. Filled with oodles of emotion and warm tones ‘Easy’ is a graceful delight to the ears.
Irish electro/pop duo Elephant in The Room has released their new single ‘Hollywood Hills’. Hollywood Hills is a personal account of how Elephant in the Room struggled with expectation versus reality, moving from Ireland to New York. Elephant in the Room is an electronic/soul/pop duo comprised of Ireland natives Marty Mullally and Keenan Copas. The group has worked with a number of artists as ghostwriters and producers, most notably Josh Gray, co-writing and producing his track ‘Come Home’, which has reached over 370,000 streams on Spotify. After college they moved to New York City, where they have honed and refined their sound.
Filled with bittersweet melodies and an ethereal synth-driven backdrop, ‘Hollywood Hills’ is a sublime example of suspenseful electronic pop. Deft lyrics express themes of doubt and loneliness that is enhanced by a lamenting piano feature and mournful undertone. The track is irresistibly catchy and a passionate display of musicianship from Elephant in The Room. Boasting smooth vocals, catchy pop hooks and pepperings of R&B ‘Hollywood Hills’ is a compelling new single that marks Elephant in The Room ones to keep an eye on.
Irish indie-rock outfit modernlove. have released their soaring new single ‘Us’ through Akira Records (Phoria, Henry Green, Mt. Wolf, Rosie Carney, Shura).’Us’ follows on from the enormous success of their recently released EP ‘monochrome blue in September this year, which found support across countless tastemakers both here and abroad. Featuring the singles ‘Liquorice’, ‘2 Missed Calls’ and ‘lmk (if you wanna see me)’, they received strong playlist support, landing on New Music Friday UK, Fresh Finds, Alt-Pop and The Pop List amongst others on Spotify, as well as New Music Daily, New in Alternative and Breaking Alternative on Apple Music. They have also received strong radio support with 2FM, BBC R1, BBC R6, BBC Ulster, XS Manchester, Across the Line and Radio X giving them regular airtime and live sessions with BBC Introducing and Seconds Away with Gemma Bradley
With its immense euphoric pop soundscapes and irresistible jangly guitar hooks, ‘Us’ triumphantly continues modernlove.’s run of knock-out tracks. This song is shamelessly catchy. With lofty soundscapes expanding the track’s sonic sound while elevated synths weave sugar-coated melodies between hyper beats, the track offers perhaps the greatest endorphin release you’ll find this year. Barry Larry’s expressive vocal flexes from heartfelt suspended notes to warm velvety croons allowing the relatable vulnerability to creep through the lyrics “love, what have we done to us”. Boasting glittering guitar, rushing rhythms and heart-racing melodies ‘Us’ displays modernlove.’s refined musicianship and sleek instrumental prowess in all its glory. This band just get better with each release.
Fya Fox has released her new single ‘Numb’.Fya Fox is the exciting new prospect from Ireland. A classically trained vocalist straying beyond Ireland’s traditional country/folk scene, Fya’s previous singles ‘Body’, ‘Lies’ and ‘Sunset’ have already been supported by BBC Radio 1, 2fm, Today FM and many more.
Earnest, tender and strikingly emotive, ‘Numb’ is a moving display of alternative pop. An intriguing aspect of Fya’s music is her vocals. Her rich tones have the power to ignite emotion within the listener and create a wonderfully hair-raising listening experience. ‘Numb’ is a fine example of this; Fya displays raw emotion within this powerful tune, her immaculate vocals convey a crippling sense of loss “paralysed now that I’m alone should feel more, but I’m scared I don’t” that is enhanced by a lamenting piano feature. The track is an absolute gem to treasure and a wonderful display of Fya Fox’s eloquent songwriting and exquisite musicianship.
Speaking about her latest track ‘Numb’, Fya said: “I was standing there singing at this funeral watching from the gallery and just couldn’t understand why I was so numb. I kept my composure the entire ceremony but as the coffin was being carried out I suddenly got this feeling, this is it, this is the last time I see you. My Granny who was a major inspiration in my life passed away. A few days later I had a zoom session with an artist in the US who I’d never written with before so didn’t want to cancel. Brompton the legend didn’t know what he had himself in for, we wrote NUMB and 5 days later I went into the studio with the incredible Matt Weir to record a rough demo. NUMB is very different from my previous tracks, it’s the most honest! I really didn’t think I was going to release it but I feel so many people can connect and relate with it especially after the year we’ve had!”
Critically acclaimed American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Ryan Egan has released his new single ‘Alone For the Last Time’.The song is the second single off Ryan Egan’s debut LP Soft Power which is due out April 8, 2022. The song was produced by Egan and Kevin Basko (Foxygen, Rubber Band Gun). This arrives shortly after the album’s debut single ‘Weeknights’ generated immense buzz, with features including Spotify’s New Music Friday.
‘Alone For the Last Time’ is a brooding slow-burner that boasts the silken, chic sound of Eagan. The song builds superbly, its laid back atmosphere and lush swooning soundscapes are filled with saxophone pines, washes of synths and sharp guitars while Eagan’s soft croons create a tender and soothing tone throughout. The track is a joy to listen to and is a fine example of Ryan Egan’s exquisite musicianship. Blending elements of psychedelia with lo-fi indie, dream pop and 70’s embellishments ‘Alone For the Last Time’ is a bittersweet anthem to immerse yourself in and enjoy.
California-based indie electro-pop act Margot Polo has released his new single, ‘it’s my birthday.’ This sweet tune is a quirky, witty and melodically lush display from Margot Polo. Blending slide guitar with a dreamy melody and buoyant beat, Margot Polo creates a glorious tune for listeners to enjoy. His smooth vocals croon through 50’s-esque doo-wop harmonies while warm acoustic guitar exudes a folk-like hue. There is something compelling and joyful about this tune as jangly percussion and carefree, fun lyrics maintain a sing-along charm throughout “Honey, I try so hard to make believe, I’m only 27, can’t you see?, I ain’t goin’ gray, But baby, my back aches”. It’s the perfect birthday song – true, honest and wonderfully nostalgic. Love it.
About the track, Margot Polo said: “Crazy story about this song: On the morning of my last birthday, October 14th, 2020, I woke up from a dream in which I was around a campfire with all my close friends and family–including my great-grandma, who had passed away just some years ago–and we were all singing the chorus melody of this song. Entirely from this dream, I had almost the whole song: melodies, production, arrangement, entirely laid out for me in my head. “
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
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
