Category Archives: Indie Pop

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Wild Youth ‘Can’t Say No’

Irish indie-pop band Wild Youth have released their latest track, ‘Can’t Say No,’ which will be taken from their forthcoming new EP ‘Forever Girl,’ set for release on March 26th. Comprised of lead vocalist David Whelan, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Conor O’Donohoe, lead guitarist Ed Porter and drummer Callum McAdam, Wild Youth have collected over 10M streams on Spotify alone, as well as supported the likes of Mumford and Sons, The Script, and Niall Horan on international tours.

‘Can’t Say No’ is a satisfying cinematic collision of disco, funk, and R&B. The track expands on Wild Youth’s irresistible, indie-pop sound to create one explosive bop for the listener to indulge in. The song radiates a tense and dark persona as gravelly backing vocals meander through the verses and haunting spacious soundscapes.

Doused in the stomping swagger of Wild Youth, the chorus boasts the bands lush musicianship in all its grandeur. A rich rhythm bubbles through the chorus with ground-shaking potency while a dark, pulsing bass seduces in the background. With glitzy 80’s hued synth and funky guitar providing an edge to the track, ‘Can’t Say No’ is remarkably infectious. The upbeat synths and funky guitar embellishments contrast the lyrical content within. Lyrically the track calls out an unfaithful partner. There is an ache to Whelan’s resilient, soulful vocals as he sings, “ Saw you delete the message on your phone, Swear I can even smell him on your clothes.”

Versatility is key in the music industry, and Wild Youth have demonstrated that they are more than adept at using various styles. ‘Can’t Say No’ is a genre-blending tune that surges with the earnest and rich musicianship of the band without becoming overpowering. The precise layering, rich percussion, and deft use of instrumentation make the track absolutely thrilling.

Stream ‘Can’t Say No’ 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

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

Thom Southern ‘Soul Singer’

Belfast-born Liverpool-based songwriter Thom Southern has released his new single ‘Soul Singer,’ which was produced in collaboration with Peter Kember, a.k.a Sonic Boom.

 ‘Soul Singer’ is a luscious burst of fuzz-pop from Thom Southern. With the aid of Peter Kember, Southern creates a refreshing and vibrant new track laced in rich melodies and refined musicianship. He takes a delicate 60’s-esque pop melody and merges it into a vibrant psychedelic backdrop of bubbling electronics and rich rhythms to create a song full of life and energy. Skillfully produced the song’s sonic wall expands with intricate guitar embellishments and sweet key refrains while the drum grooves and pulsing bass lines, flutter throughout.

Southern’s velvety vocals croon and whisper over the melody creating a dreamy haze throughout. The verses fizz and simmer under his warm coos before the vibrant chorus erupts with clapping rhythms, lush melodies, and uplifting tones as Southern sings, “where ever you go I’ll go there too.”

Thom Southern is crafting his sound meticulously, creating heartfelt vibrant tunes that get better with each new release and ‘Soul Singer’ follows this trend spectacularly.

Stream ‘Soul Singer’ 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

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

Arthur Valentine ‘Dream About You’

Arthur Valentine has released his latest single, ‘Dream About You’, the lead single from his forthcoming debut EP, ‘Splitscreen’.

‘Dream About You’ blends Arthur Valentine’s luscious alternative pop with bubbling R&B and hip hop elements to create a cohesive, mellow, and infectious number for listeners to indulge in. The song maintains a sunkissed dreamy soundscape throughout filled with woozy synths and bright glistening indie guitar. As the track progresses sticky beats are added into the mix to flesh out the song’s expansive sonic sound.

Valentine layers the backdrop in thick hip hop beats and rippling bass and contrasts this with a wistful melody. The wispy, light texture of the melody immerses the song in a carefree, laid-back tone as Valentine displays his tight and ambitious production skills. Valentine’s soulful vocals ooze tenderness throughout as his laid back tone and the care-free instrumental backdrop gently paces the listener into the songs hypnotic crescendo.

‘Dream About You’ is an irresistible gem and a fine display of Valentine’s cool musicianship. His alternative pop aches with sincerity over sugary arrangements and deft production. There is a compelling and soothing effect to Valentine’s songs and ‘Dream About You’ follows this trend superbly. Arthur Valentine is an artist to treasure.

Stream ‘Dream About You’ below. 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Bobbi Arlo ‘Feel It’

22-year-old pop-rap artist Bobbi Arlo has released her new single ‘Feel It’. 2021 started off with a bang for new wave pop artist Bobbi Arlo with the announcement that she was selected by RTÉ 2FM as one of their ‘Rising Acts’ for 2021.

Saturated in infectious melodies and juicy pop, ‘Feel It’ is a glistening well-crafted gem from Bobbi Arlo. The song sparks into life with a dance-floor ready rhythm section before shimmering synths open up to provide a lush backdrop to Bobbi’s unmistakable vocal delivery. Her smooth, soulful voice glides effortlessly upon the bubbling foundation while the velvety melody seeps into the ears with a honey-sweet tone. Laced in swagger and upbeat, feel-good vibes, the track struts and flexes with funky grooves while oozing a 70’s chicness within the disco-esque rhythms, chiming keys, and jaunty guitars – Love it!

With lush backing vocals, catchy hooks, and infectious groove, ‘Feel It’ is an instant shot of enjoyable synth-pop at its finest. Bobbi Arlo is confirming herself as a diverse and compelling artist with each release. Looking forward to hearing more from Bobbi Arlo.

Speaking about the song Bobbi Arlo says: “Feel It is an infectious feel-good anthem for anyone who remembers the feeling of falling in love unexpectedly. When writing the song, I wanted to portray how it felt to fall in love with someone I never thought I would fall for. When I hear the song, it reminds me of how amazing that feeling really is”

Stream ‘Feel It’ below 


Author : Danu

Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Caravella ‘the way that it is.’

Bath-based band Caravella have released their new single ‘the way that it is.’

Shrouded in a bright yet gloomy soundscape while warm nonchalant vocals coo sullen lyrics, “I can hardly feel since she broke me, I’ve not been ideal” over a bittersweet melody, ‘the way that it is.’ is an intriguing display of Caravella’s musicianship. The glum retro- esque soundscape is contrasted by delicate bouncy drums and soft radiant guitar which inject a dash of indie into the track’s mellow dream pop exterior. With glimmers of hope and uplifting tones building in the background for the song’s crescendo, ‘the way that it is.’ is a sublime and tranquilizing new single from Caravella.

Caravella are developing their sound superbly showcasing their refined ability to express emotion through their intricate musicianship. ‘the way that it is’ expresses the journey of acceptance, numbness, and glimmers of hope one feels after a break up through the band’s unique and compelling songwriting. 

Stream ‘the way that it is.’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Seasonal Music

Mustafa Sal ‘Wait For You’

Indie pop artist Mustafa Sal has released his debut single ‘Wait For You.’ Mustafa flew to Ireland in 2018 and spent the early part of 2019 writing music and finding his sound. Under his old pseudonym, Sal the Musician, Mustafa released four singles in 2019/20 to great avail, with the tracks getting plenty of radio play and press buzz. Mustafa also spent the latter half of 2019 playing a number of support shows for touring artists, including Australian alt-rock legends “You Am I.’ 

‘Wait For You’ boasts the bright electro-pop and emotive songwriting we have come to love from Mustafa Sal. The song has a soothing and romantic tone enhanced by bubbling beats that cushion the sunkissed synths over a dreamy smooth melody. Within the melody, intricate layers of electronics provide a rich and engaging sound for the listener to indulge in. The song ripples and pulses through the verses with a wistful tone as Mustafa Sal coos, “Though we’re far away And I am here to stay, Love me for forever, Love me for today.” The lyrics of longing contrast the upbeat and catchy chorus and make for a satisfying listening experience. Rich in texture and tone, ‘Wait For You’ is a beautiful and charming new single from Mustafa Sal. 

Stream ‘Wait For You’ below.


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Lost Boys ‘Honey Mustard’ EP

Limerick indie-Pop band Lost Boys have released their debut EP ‘Honey Mustard.’ Starting initially as an indie band back in 2018 – Lost Boys have consistently looked at new ways to create more meaningful and modern music, most recently with the introduction of Hip-Hop/New Wave instrumentation into their songs.

‘Honey Mustard’ is a beautiful EP. Lost Boys display their exquisite musicianship by putting together a satisfying and cohesive collection of tracks that are sensitive and carefree while richly displaying the band’s musical prowess. They showcase their ability to find the sweet spot between genres to create luscious tunes for the listener to indulge in. Each track is saturated in lovable heartfelt melodies and peppered in reggae rhythms, 90’s rock embellishments, and sweet indie-pop with hip hop and new wave blending everything together. Even though the band move through different genres, it’s a seamless transition each time.

Slick R&B and hip hop elements create a smooth glossy soundscape in ‘Hindsight’ and the groove-infested ‘Best Friend’ which keeps the EP’s atmosphere light to begin with. However ‘Karma Girl’ kicks things up a notch. Thick electronics flurry around a hypnotic guitar refrain throughout the song while sticky pulsing beats create a suspenseful and intense backdrop. With reverb vocals, a cinematic chorus, and gripping instrumental builds, ‘Karma Girl’ is a magnificent track and a pinnacle moment in the EP. 

The beautiful ballad-esque ‘Sadie’ brings the EP to a wonderful finale. A warm acoustic guitar strums atop elegant strings and delicate picks on electric guitar. The mellow soundscape is tender, evocative, and simply divine. Oozing lush harmonies and a subtle country tone, it’s an emotive end to a magnificent EP.

Lost Boys have outdone themselves with ‘Honey Mustard.’ Boasting rich soundscapes, skillful use of instrumentation, and lush harmonies, teamed with earnest lyrics, ‘Honey Mustard’ marks Lost Boys as a band to keep an eye on. 

Stream ‘Honey Mustard’ Below 


Author : Danu