Category Archives: indie rock

A Chat With, Album Review, indie rock, Interviews, New Music

A Chat With: The Wombats’ Dan Haggis

The Wombats are set to release their fifth studio album, ‘Fix Yourself, Not The World’ on the 14th of January. I caught up with Dan Haggis to chat about the album, it’s recording and Murph’s falsetto range. 

“It’s about looking inwards to solve and confront your own problems rather than avoiding your demons by filling your time with endless distractions. I think we’ve always had an introspective side to our songs but after going through the pandemic where most distractions were taken away, there was nowhere else to look other than inwards and I think a lot of people went through some tough times mentally trying to reevaluate who they were and what they need to function. When Murph [Matthew Murphy], suggested the title we all had lots of thoughts about what it means. We really wanted an album title that made people think. Everyone will hopefully have their own take on the title and album and with any luck a few conversations will be started as a result.”

The album was recorded remotely from the band’s respective homes over the past year. They discussed each day’s plan via Zoom, then recorded separately, and sent individual files to producers. I wondered how the band found the remote process and if Dan thought the album would have sounded different if the band had been able to be together in the same place writing and recording.

“We’ve lived in different countries for over 6 years now so we’re used to sending ideas and files back and forth but we’ve never done a full album! As with most things in life there were upsides and downsides, fortunately we had some really organised producers working with us so keeping all the parts in the right folders, everything recorded at the same bit rate, at the right tempo etc was pretty smooth. It was fun hearing the songs come together in a slightly different way than before too. We always have pretty solid demos of the songs we’re recording by the time we make an album and this was more important than ever on this album. We had worked out what we needed to re-record, what we were going to keep and what needed work, our producer even made a nice pdf sheet with each track and the notes we all had!”

“We did write half the album all together in LA throughout 2019 which was great and gave us a good platform for the album once the pandemic hit. Of course the album would’ve been a bit different, you can’t help but be influenced by where you are and who you’re with. Just being in a different studio usually means you have access to slightly different microphones, instruments and outboard gear, not to mention the room itself sounding different so I actually think this album sounds even better and richer than it otherwise would because of that! There was a sitar lying around in Murph’s studio so that is on a few songs, if it hadn’t been there I’m not sure we would’ve necessarily hired one in! (It’s on ‘Ready For The High’ and ‘Wildfire’ for sure if anyone wants to try to listen out for it!)”

‘Fix Yourself, Not The World’ is a vibrant album that boasts The Wombats’ dynamic indie rock sound. The album is awash with irresistible musical gems for the listener to indulge in again and again; for example, ‘Flip Me Upside Down’, ‘Ready For The High’ and ‘Wildfire’ all highlight the infectious, fun and insatiable groove-filled sound we have come to love from The Wombats. It’s a cohesive collection of tracks. 

“Thanks! Yeah we always write between 20-30 songs for an album then the album usually starts emerging from the songs and towards the end of the process we get an idea of what’s missing.”

There are such great guitar moments in the album. The Wombats allow the guitar to flourish within each of the songs. The guitar has always been an enticing factor in the band’s sound and within this album, they venture into many genres with the guitar from indie elements to heavier rock, psychedelic and more. 

“The first song we made for the album was Ready For The High, I started playing the opening riff on acoustic guitar and we built the song around it, it felt like it could be grungy so we plugged in to this little cigarette packet sized amp which sounds insane and that was the sound we kept for the album. The guitar sounds in the chorus changes completely from the opening, we tried to make all the transitions as dramatic and drastic as possible on this album, Basically, each song we make, we imagine what we’re aiming for sonically and then start playing with guitar sounds, sometimes we’ll use references from other genres to help us find the right sound, it’s such a fun process.”

Throughout the album, The Wombats fill out their sound with experimental synths. ‘Work Is Easy, Life Is Hard’ has a subtle electronic punk/indie vibe. I wondered if the band have multiple versions of each song as they figured out what they wanted.

“We do have pretty solid, well thought through demos of all the songs but yeah, when we record we often do LOTS of options for each section just we try enough ideas and make sure we’re not missing any mind-blowing sounds or moments.”

‘Don’t Poke The Bear’ is another great track. Witty lyrics and jaunty guitar drive the track while rooted bass and buoyant drums create an upbeat foundation. Dan explained to me what inspired the song.

“I wanted us to make a bouncy swing song and so we started messing around and before long we had the music pounding, then we usually make a rough backing track for Murph to listen to and he walks around writing lyrics. When we were making this song he had a cold and his wife was worried he’d give it to his daughter so it was a little bit stressful for him. I’m guessing it was about not pushing people too far and knowing when to give each other space.”

Murph’s vocals slip into falsetto for a few tracks on the album. The effect creates a dynamic texture within each tune. The band’s ability to produce fresh and exciting elements in their sound is inspiring and Murph’s sweet falsetto adds an impressive aspect to the album. 

“Yeah it’s fun messing with range and melodies, we’d never really done full verses (apart from maybe Emoticons) with just falsetto so on this album Wildfire and Ready For The High it was fun to go from falsetto in the verses to full voice in the choruses. You ultimately come up with slightly different melodies depending on whether you sing full voice or falsetto so it keeps us, and hopefully the fans, on our toes.”

The Wombats bring the album to a close with ‘Fix Yourself, Then The World (Reach Beyond Your Fingers)’. The track is a subtle psychedelic gem and the perfect end to this riveting album. Deciding on an album track list is a gruelling task especially the closing tune. Dan explained how the band decided on their closing song.

“Yeah we always spend a while going back and forth with the track listing, we always try to make album’s that you can listen to all the way through from start to finish. The album closer was potentially going to be an interlude on the album at one point but we realised that Method to the Madness did a similar job on giving the album a couple of minutes breathing space so then we realised it was the perfect album closer. From the chaos of Flip Me Upside Down to the eventual calm of the last track. It was actually a jam we had in Murph’s studio after smoking a little CBD stick and it felt so good we just left it as it was originally recorded.”

The Wombats have announced a series of eleven exclusive UK intimate shows which started on January 6th, 2022 at PRYZM, Kingston to celebrate the album’s release. This is an extraordinary opportunity for fans to catch the band in such an intimate set-up before they go on the road for their biggest ever UK headline tour set for 2022. Dan told me what fans can expect from their upcoming shows.

“Lots of energy and new music!. Yeah we can’t wait. Playing the new album live is the final piece in the jigsaw for us so fingers crossed we get to play the shows!”

With five album’s under their belt since forming in 2003 and numerous shows and tours to date, I wondered what advice Dan would give to an aspiring musician or band beginning their career in music. 

“Just enjoy and focus on making music with your mates, don’t worry about getting signed or anything other than being the best musician you can and expressing yourself honestly through your art. If anything else comes along it’s a bonus.”

The Wombats are notorious for their dynamic indie anthems, irresistible hooks, and glorious dance floor boppers. ‘Fix Yourself, Not The World’ follows this trend superbly and highlights the band’s knack for insatiable melodies, witty lyrics and refined musicianship. The album is a thrilling listening experience.

‘Fix Yourself, Not The World’ is set for release on the 14th of January. You can pre-order/pre-save the album here  https://thewombats.ffm.to/fyntw.oyd

Watch the video for ‘Everything I Love Is Going To Die’ below. 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

SUNDOWN ‘Pirate’

Dublin quartet SUNDOWN have released their new single ‘Pirate’. ’Pirate’ was recorded and produced in-house over three sessions in Pirate Studios. The band have been featured on editorial playlists like Alternative Eire, Discover Weekly and Release Radar, with over 213,000 collective streams to their name.

‘Pirate’ is a psychedelic-tinged tune doused in retro tones, funky swagger and the lavish musicianship of SUNDOWN. Creating a lush well-layered wall of sound, the band weave thick funky bass lines through a chic shuffling rhythm while sleek guitars strut throughout. The song has a retro atmosphere that washes over your ears with soothing psychedelic vibes between sweet pop melodies while a smooth vocal delivery reinforces the guitars swaggered sashay movement. Filled with shimmering synths, ethereal textures and a sassy saxophone embellishment, SUNDOWN presents an irresistible, confident tune that showcases their refined songwriting, blossoming talent and infectious musicianship in all its glory.

Stream ‘Pirate’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

KÎND ‘Stripped Away’

KÎND have released their new single ‘Stripped Away’.KÎND are a five-piece melodic progressive rock band made up of members from all over Ireland. Led by songwriter Matthew Redmond, the band consists of Ryan McClelland on drums, Jane Patterson on lead vocals, Charlie McCarthy on bass and Eoin Butterfield on guitar and keys. ‘Stripped Away’ marks the 3rd release for the band following their release in conjunction with Devoy Records: ‘Piercing Light Live at Sun Studios. and their debut release ‘Fix of Dopamine’

‘Stripped Away’ is a brooding alternative rock track that boasts the majestic and impressive sound of KÎND. The band create an expansive and atmospheric wall of sound that haunts with chiming guitars and wispy soundscapes and tender vocal delivery. As the song progresses, the band slip into a more rock peppered aesthetic as sharp guitars weave between a pounding drum beat and intricate percussion. KÎND take their time buliding the song allowing it to unfold into a heavy alternative rock tune while still maintaining the ethereal aspect introduced at the beginning. With beautiful vocal harmonies and moving melodies, ‘Stripped Away’ is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that ebbs and flows with rich musicianship and dynamic textures. KÎND have created one heck of a tune that perfectly displays the potency of their sound.

Stream ‘Stripped Away’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Nially ’Four Years’

Hailing from Co. Kerry, 22-Year Old Singer/Songwriter Nially has released his third single ’Four Years’. While originally written on acoustic guitar in May 2021, the song was quickly brought to life in the studio by top producer Brendan O’Connor. From the age of 16 Nially has gigged extensively across Kerry, Cork and as far afield as Augsburg, Germany. His debut single, ‘I Want It All’ released in January 2021, amassed over 10,000 streams in it’s first 4 weeks and received support across a number of radio stations in Ireland such as Spin South West, Radio Kerry, Red FM, Dublin City FM and FM104 and also reaching listeners across Europe, the UK and the US.

’Four Years’ is a rush of passionate indie as Nially takes a heartfelt melody and douses it with vibrant instrumentation to create an anthemic bopper for listeners to enjoy. With strident guitars pining between a steady beat and soaring soundscape, ‘Four Years’ has a dynamic indie rock wall of sound while raspy vocals exude emotion throughout. It’s an earnest and relatable tune that describes the experiences, relationships and events a person explores throughout their college years through suspenseful and compelling musicianship.

Stream ‘Four Years’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

The Love Handles ‘Little Yellow Jacket’

Bristol-based premier indie trash quartet The Love Handles have released their new single ‘Little Yellow Jacket’. This blistering tune boasts the dynamic sound of The Love Handles in all its splendour. The band saturate the song in strident jaunty guitars that ricochet off pummeling drums and driving bass lines to create a turbulent indie rock sound. The song travels at a brisk pace; racing from the zest-filled intro right to the scorching rock smacked crescendo without a breather. This tune is sure to be manic live. With driving melodic hooks teamed with garage elements and subtle pop flirtations ‘Little Yellow Jacket’ is a blistering anthem ready for repeat plays.

Stream ‘Little Yellow Jacket’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Alexis Kings ‘Cali Girls’

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.

‘Cali Girls’ is set for release on Friday, the 3rd of December. You can get tickets for the band’s show at West Kensington’s Nell’s London here https://www.seetickets.com/tour/nells-presents-alexis-kings

For more follow Alexis Kings on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/alexiskingsmusic/


Author: Danu

Alt Rock, Blues Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

New Valley Wolves ‘Cancel Culture’

New Valley Wolves have released their new single ‘Cancel Culture’. New Valley Wolves are Jonny Lucey and Baz Joyce. Since exploding onto the Irish music scene, NVW have scorched a path across the globe. Their debut album ‘Refusal is our Weapon’ was released to critical acclaim at home and abroad. Their 2018 EP ‘Gospel’ contained the #1 rock single: ‘Cut-Throat’.

Oozing raw alternative blues rock ‘Cancel Culture’ announces the glorious return of New Valley Wolves. New Valley Wolves serve up some powerful, no-nonsense rock with this bruising tune; ‘Cancel Culture’ travels at a brisk neck-snapping speed as the song spirals into coarse riffage with Jonny Lucey’s bass roaring over a demolishing drum assault from Baz Joyce. The duo create a thick and fury filled wall of sound that evokes images of sweaty mosh pit mania while Jonny’s gravely voice expresses biting lyrics with an unrivalled ferocity. ‘Cancel Culture’ is an intense new single from New Valley Wolves ready for blaring out of your speakers. Enjoy.

New Valley Wolves have a headline show in Whelans on December 16th. Make sure to check it out. Their shows are always a fantastic live experience.

Stream ‘Cancel Culture’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Soda Blonde ‘I Still Have Feelings for You’ EP

Following the release of their debut album,’Small Talk’, Soda Blonde are back with a special stripped-back EP, ‘I Still Have Feelings for You’, via Velveteen Records. The EP features four beautiful, never-before-heard versions of four tracks from the album. All four band members of Soda Blonde (Faye O’Rourke, guitarist Adam O’Regan, drummer Dylan Lynch and bassist Donagh Seaver-O’Leary) are seasoned musicians, despite their youth. They have been playing together since their early teens, with their previous band –the internationally renowned Little Green Cars, whose seminal debut album skyrocketed to number one on the Irish album charts. 

‘I Still Have Feelings for You’ presents a new facet to Soda Blonde’s exquisite sound. Featuring the single version of  ‘I Still Have Feelings for You’ and swoon-worthy string versions of ‘Tiny Darkness’ and ‘Choices’, the band create a lush listening experience while highlighting the richness and warmth of O’Rourke’s vocals ( her subtle vibrato floods the melodies with incomparable passion and emotion ). The deftly placed strings within ‘Tiny Darkness’ and ‘Choices’ exudes elegance and a cinematic effect that enhances the tracks poignant lyrical content while at the same time highlighting the diversity within the band’s musicianship. An early demo of ‘Swimming Through the Night’ strips back the dark disco soundscapes we know from the album version. The track is an absolute gem to the ears that oozes ethereal synths, chiming guitars and intricate rhythms. This version sees the band brood within the tracks delicate soundscapes allowing the earworm melody to take the main focus. 

Just when you think you can’t love these songs anymore Soda Blonde waltz in and lather our ears in a new and glorious way to enjoy their tunes. Press play, sit back and enjoy.

Stream ‘I Still Have Feelings for You’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Downtown Patriots ‘Bob Crane’

Downtown Patriots has released his new single ‘Bob Crane’.Hailing originally from Colchester, Essex, Downtown Patriots was willed into being by Danny Watts, a solo multi-instrumentalist who was passionate to release his music under the anonymity of a ‘band’. After many years working behind-the-scenes in one of the most prestigious studios in the world, London’s Mayfair Studios, as well as later opening his own recording studio in Southwark, Danny Watts finally took the leap of faith and acted on his concept for the Downtown Patriots project. “It’s a musical idea that allows me to bring in musicians to come and go as they are needed without the restrictions of being in a single band. Socially, #IAmDowntownPatriots could be any person who can connect with the music.” ‘Bob Crane’ is the first single to be released from the Downtown Patriot’s highly anticipated sophomore album.

Doused in blazing alternative rock with blues undertones, ‘Bob Crane’ is a feisty new single from Downtown Patriots. Sharp riffs lacerate through a brawny rhythmic wall of sound as the track ventures through dense, heavy rock moments while thick muggy synths create a dramatic 80’s – esque soundscape. As the rasped vocals depict a story of a shady character, “he was a mean old bastard by the name of Bob Crane,” the song builds, becoming more frantic and mosh ready for the energising chorus. Showcasing refined musicianship, ‘Bob Crane’ is a dynamic power tune from Downtown Patriots. 

Stream ‘Bob Crane’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/downtownpatriots/bob-crane/s-B6K7BulCJno?si=39e19657ceb449319abcc44d213f02a4


Author: Danu

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

KAWALA Live In The Academy Dublin With Support From Oscar Blue

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.  


Author: Danu