Category Archives: Live Music Review

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

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

modernlove. Live at The Workman’s Club Dublin With Support From DeCarteret

Right underneath The Workman’s Club a charming haven for live music has been created; Workman’s Cellar. With its lounge bar-esque decor, fireplace collection and rustic underground vibe it was here last night an eager buzzing audience witnessed the magic of Drogheda’s indie-pop gems modernlove. supported by the Dublin based groove sensations DeCarteret.

The mesmerising musicians DeCarteret strolled on stage to rapturous cheers. They took the challenging job of warming up the crowd in their stride. From Bricknasty’s warm vocals and quirky banter to the jazz-toned piano and swagger of Tadhg Griffin between the tight drum and bass interplay of Korey Thomas and Dara Abdurahman their set was a thrill ride from start to finish ( it also included a welcome surprise appearance from the audacious Khakikid ). Aided by the charismatic backing vocals of Becca Daly and Killian Corless, Amelia DeCarteret unleashed the full power of her sensational voice. Her soft croons and rich tone resounded throughout as the band filled the venue with their delightful brand of neo-soul with hints of R&B and pop. It was a whirlwind set that left the audience enamoured by the bands tight and absorbing sound. Looking forward to hearing more from these talented artists.

Enter modernlove. – With the glorious guitar jingle of their infectious track ‘Us’, the band unleashed frenetic energy that had fans dancing in unison. Their irresistible brand of indie-pop filled the venue with fan favourites ‘Bop’ and ‘Liquorice’ evoking deafening deliveries of the chorus from the audience. The quartet have mastered their live presence and stand confident and energetic on stage, each of them engaged in banter with the crowd. Last nights set displayed the versatile sound of the band. They veered into new yet to be released songs (‘Oh My Mind, in particular, is a lush little gem) that provided glimpses into a more funky, electronic sound to come in between the indie-pop sheen of their recently released EP, ‘monochrome blue’.

Immersed in his drumming, Cian McCluskey smiled at the crowd between the rapid ebullient beats he created. It’s his rich drumming that coaxed the crowd’s hips to wiggle and shimmy, while Graham Fagan’s slinky guitar riffs and swift synth adornments embellished the band’s sound in rich luxurious tones. modernlove. paced their set perfectly, subtly moving from energetic tunes (‘2 Missed Calls’) to more chilled songs (‘Famillar’) with ease while tracks such as ‘lmk (if you wanna see me) bridged the gap in between. With sleek guitar poses and deft changes to synths, Danny Rooney provided the all-important suave-filled bass groove that knits the rhythm and earworm melodies together while Barry Lally cooed the catchy lyrics between beckoning sing-alongs. It was a polished passionate performance from the four-piece.

modernlove.’s show in The Workman’s exceeded expectations. The band carried the weight of their treasured songs and fans expectations with poise, dignity and charm. They had the audience eating out of the palm of their hands, enjoying every melody and singing heartily along as if their lives depended on singing the songs as loud and enthusiastically as possible. modernlove. are a band that have limitless talent and ambition. The four-piece display a deep understanding of their craft that many a more seasoned outfit would be envious of. Check out modernlove. live, you won’t be disappointed.


Author: Danu

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Columbia Mills and Dunx Live At Sin É

Sin É reopened its doors this October for “In Through The Out Door”, a month-long series of standalone shows with some of the best acts in Ireland. This series was made possible with support from The Live Venue Collective and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media and features artists such as Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra, Hazey Haze, Toshín, Chrome, Vulpynes, Dani Larkin and much more. With such an extensive line up it’s been an exciting month for Sin É but lasts nights show with Columbia Mills supported by Dunx had everyone excited. The buzzing energy from the eager audience was felt even before the doors were open. People hovered around the front door of Sin É in the rain waiting impatiently for the venue to open so that the night’s revelries could begin. There was something in the air last night that had everyone ready to celebrate the glorious live music Sin É had in store. 

Dunx and his desert-rock toned guitar kicked the night’s music into motion. His deep croons brooded over blues-hued tunes backed by hefty drums and slick bass manoeuvres; the effect was a wholly immersive sound for listeners to indulge in. It was a chill set that sparked cheers and sways from the crowd who loved every minute of it. Dunx is a must-see. His songs are well crafted and display the effortless charm, confidence and musical prowess of this talented artist. 

Filling the venue with rumbling rhythms, dance-infused indie, soaring guitar and the full majesty of their sound Columbia Mills took to the stage. The bittersweet melodies of ‘Strange Game’ and ‘Who Am I Supposed To Talk To Now? came to life within the live setting. The shadowy dark undertones within the band’s songs were perfectly translated through Fiachra Treacy’s intense delivery; eyes closed he was consumed in each song’s immersive hypnotic sound and so was the crowd who danced, swayed and stomped throughout the set. 

The band’s sound is absolutely bewitching. They blend electronic fused melodic pop-rock with dance, and like masterful puppeteers had the audience in the palm of their hands dancing uncontrollably when beckoned.

“We are going to pretend this is our last song”, Treacy announced before the ethereal ‘Never Gonna Look At You The Same’. The serotonin levels soared from this point as both the band and audience gleefully cheered for the encore as fits of dancing and sing along’s en masse reverbed throughout the venue. Columbia Mills know how to put on a show, the encore sent Sin É into glorious chaos. Amidst the crowd one fan was seen with the stool he was sitting on raised above his head, punching the air and proudly marching in time to the rhythm of the music. 

Columbia Mills put on a fantastic live show on Saturday night. They are a band that never disappoints. Their music is well-crafted, passionate and intoxicating and in some cases simply time-stopping ( ‘You’re Not The Answer’ is a fine example of this ). In a live setting, this band is unstoppable. Treacy is an effortless frontman and his irresistible persona is infectious and awe-inspiring to behold. Columbia Mills are a band not to miss live.


Author: Danu

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

SoFFT Nights Festival Review

SoFFT Nights made their highly anticipated return to Dunderry Park, Co. Meath yesterday and I headed down to experience the event in the flesh. I watched the live stream last year and was impressed by their approach to hosting the event and with Soda Blonde, Maija Sofia, and Callistan providing the live music on the day I simply couldn’t miss it. 

Yesterday 27th August, the festival had a day of interesting activities that included Sound Meditation, Reggae Yoga, Children’s Well Being Workshops and Shamanic Drumming Workshops. There was something for everyone at the festival to enjoy before the evening of music began.  

With an impressively talented band behind the musician, Callistan kicked the live music section of the day in motion. The artist crooned a sweet brand of grunge alternative rock, filling the tent with hypnotic, moody bliss. Callistan exudes a nostalgic 90’s tone that captivates and lures the listener deeper into the artist’s immersive songs. From awe-inspiring guitar intros and slinky bass lines to groove infested drums and lulling melodies, the set was the perfect pairing for the chilled atmosphere within the tent and for a 90’s grunge lover like myself, absolute manna from heaven. Callistan finished the set on the most perfect tune to match the vibes in Dunderry Park, The Smashing Pumpkins ‘1979’. It was a time-stopping moment that everyone in the crowd enjoyed to the fullest, appreciating the experience of live music in a wonderful setting. 

As the sun began to set and the evening chill crept in Maija Sofia took to the stage. Sofia is mesmerising to watch. An artist of boundless talent she swooshes her arms and quips her vocals with a Kate Bush-esque flair while providing insightful introductions to her songs about great love stories in paintings, the stark murder of ‘The Wife of Michael Cleary’ and obsessions with Saint Sebastian. Her songs flow like old folk tales told on dark nights, and Sofia is the master narrator.

Sofia’s songs are rich in depth and her interaction with the crowd is refreshingly honest and fun, “there is a really beautiful sunset which you can’t see and you shouldn’t look at because this is your time to look at me, however, this is a love song and I very rarely write love songs”. It’s easy to get lost in the captivating, soothing tone of Sofia’s voice. Her vocals gently drift atop soft piano, guitar or harp (by harpist Méabh McKenna), the latter enhancing the calming atmosphere Sofia creates with just her voice. However, behind those beautiful vocals is striking and raw lyrical content. Tracks such as “Smile Please” showcase this perfectly and in a live setting the emotive weight behind these stark lyrics comes to the fore, “When I met a man with long-fingered hands he picked me apart like the meat from a crab claw”. Her set was thoroughly enjoyable and in a live setting, her talent truly shines. Sofia is a one of a kind artist. 

Soda Blonde bring the crowd to the front with just a small beckon from Faye O’Rourke as the sweet sound of ‘Tiny Darkness’ wafts through the tent to joyous yelps and cheers. Children dance with glowing solar lights as the band’s glorious grooves resound throughout the grounds. This band are masters of their craft and their musical prowess has to be commended. Dylan Lynch exudes a cool air of nonchalance from behind the drum kit as he creates an irresistible rhythm that commands the crowd to dance while Donagh Seaver-O’Leary executes the groove inflicted bass lines and sharp smouldering poses with masterful precision. 

“Does it feel like a festival?… It feels so good” Adam O’Regan declares as the crowd cheer. O’Regan is perhaps one of the most underrated artists on stage. His versatility is impressive – he skillfully drifts between guitar and keys while harmonising with O’Rourke with effortless ease. Especially within ‘Perfume’; just an acoustic guitar and the duo’s vocals make for a captivating treat to the ears. Their voices blend beautifully. O’Rourke’s vocals exude strength and floods of emotion ( ever so slightly reined in ) while O’Regan’s velvety tone slips underneath creating warmth and complementing her range perfectly. It’s another magical moment that can only be truly appreciated within the live setting. 

The band are in top form smiling and engaging with the dancing crowd. O’Rourke has a bewitching stage presence. Her theatrical gestures and potent vocals make for a powerful yet vulnerable set. She dances while executing some pretty hefty notes without a quiver or falter through ‘Don’t Mind Them’ and ‘Terrible Hands’. The band’s dreamy alternative pop is difficult to resist especially within the live setting. Soda Blonde ooze larger than life persona. Their masterful musicianship and poetic lyrics make them a very special band that has the ability to capture the hearts of many with their rich melodious tunes. 

SoFFT Nights pulled out all the stops with this festival from magical lighting throughout the beautiful grounds to a fire display at the end of the night as well as mindfulness sessions and fantastic music. It’s the most charming, chilled and enjoyable festival I’ve experienced in a long time. It was good honest fun and I’ve never returned home from a festival more relaxed, content and elated all at once, plus no one spilt their drink on me, that alone is a win. 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Soda Blonde ‘Love Me World’ Single Launch

Soda Blonde presented a visually stunning and musically majestic performance last night. With a setlist adorned with their captivating alternative pop tunes along with artistically clever visuals, they pulled out all the stops to provide an awe inspiring livestream which sets the bar high. The band played in a beautiful period house, performing in different rooms throughout the set while changing lighting and clothes for some of the tracks creating almost music-video quality footage for each song.

Soda Blonde meandered through their musically rich and diverse sound with warmer Fleetwood Mac tunes like ‘June’ seeing jazz-hued wizardry on keys while the disco drizzled ‘Motion’ and emotive melodic swoon of ‘Terrible Hands’ sees bassist Seaver O’Leary swagger through elastic grooves and rhythmic hooks with ease. The band make the most of this live stream freedom using various lighting effects to create a sultry, dazzling and atmospheric ambiance to enhance their enticing alternative pop. Each song flows like a scene from a movie as the band use sharp clips and deft use of framing to add depth and perspective to their performance. At times we see the band shrouded in dense lighting which paints their dark silhouettes against a deep red backdrop, each songs visual drizzles layers of mystery into the performance as a whole while highlighting the band’s musical prowess at the same time.

This platform presents Faye O’Rourke as a spectral beauty. She swishes in a red leather-like dress on a raised platform with Donagh Seaver O’Leary poisly placed behind her like a watchful angel for the sumptuous new single ‘Love Me World’ while Dylan Lynch lays down the bubbling beat on drums and Adam O’Regan struts on guitar. O’Rourke’s vocals are something to behold. Her sultry coos, haunting rasps and powerful tones make her voice bewitching and seductive. There is a residue of Kate Bush about her performance while shimmers of 70/80’s icons such as Debbie Harry pepper the bands synth pop gems in panache. ’Swimming Through The Night’ brings the performance to a close. Just as gripping and exhilarating as ever, the song drifts with ethereal synths floating through a rich tapestry of percussion and drums. The chiming guitars and intricate bass tie all the elements together while adding a dash of edge and raw vigor.

Soda Blonde have a timeless enthralling sound that blends warm elements of folk with clean synth pop sensibilities. Their first class musicianship, masterful songwriting and vibrant soundscapes teamed with passionate vocals make Soda Blonde a band to keep an eye on. 

Stream the new single ‘Love Me World’ below


Author : Danu

Check Out Some More Images From The Show Below

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Brian McGrane Live On Virtual

Having spent the last five years touring the world’s most iconic stages from the Sydney Opera House to Radio City New York, Dublin based musician Brian McGrane takes to the zoom platform to perform this week’s Virtual, an online event organised by Fluttertone and DootDoot Records. 

McGrane’s set was brimming with heartfelt emotive tunes and light hearted banter. His warm vocals incorporate ample nuance and expression into his performance. However it’s the quirky moments between the emotive tunes that make his show so charming for example he laughs about forgetting the lyrics to his newly written ‘Just Like You’. He gives thoughtful anecdotes and introductions to his tracks as well as reads out the comments from the audience, explaining “sure it’s the same as people heckling me onstage”.

From the soothing tenderness of ‘Miracle’ to the ethereal ‘Take Your Time’ McGrane demonstrates his ability to write sweet pop songs with catchy melodies which drift into the listeners ears with ease. He plays guitar and keys for this performance as the viewers sway and bop to his beautifully crafted tracks clapping and waving between them to show their support and flooding the comment section with compliments.

The audience last night was treated to songs which are freshly written. ‘Inside Out’ (co written with Roseanna Brown and Hannah Avison) is a beautiful example of the magic created within McGrane’s collaborative writing sessions. This romantic gem wonderfully builds into a cinematic delight as McGrane’s soulful vocals do a fine job of creating a welcoming, warm atmosphere. Not even his dad walking past and knocking at his window affects his performance of this track. The Coldplay -esque ‘Bubbles’ brings the show to a powerful end – a beautifully uplifting track which is just as intimate as it is anthemic. I for one enjoyed his set so much it felt as if time flew by.

A Q&A follows the performance with fans asking McGrane about his favourite piece of gear, advice for a songwriter going into a session for the first time and what one album he would bring if he was stranded on an island. McGrane answers every question honestly and in great detail.

McGrane put on a professional and entertaining show. His performance was clean, passionate and earnest and his tunes hold their own charm and grace. It’s difficult to see how anyone wouldn’t be blown away by his ambition and talent. 

Brian McGrane is set to headline Whelan’s on Friday, November 6th he hopes he can do this in some shape or form so keep an eye out for more details. Until then stream his new single ‘Out Of Control’ below 


Author : Danu

Blues, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Tony Villiers Live On Virtual

Fluttertone and dootdoot Records have come together to create an online live music venue, called Virtual using the Zoom platform to host a series of intimate evenings of exclusively live and interactive performances and this week’s Virtual saw Tony Villiers take to the platform for an exclusive performance.

Together with his band ‘The Villains’, Tony Villiers has released three studio albums, receiving ‘Honourable Mentions’ in The International Song Writing Competition, judged by Tom Waits, Robert Smith, Jerry Lee Lewis and Black Francis amongst others as well as a ‘Daily Discovery’ feature by American Songwriter Magazine. On the road with ‘The Villains’ he has played many festivals in Ireland including Kilkenny Roots, Electric Picnic and Stendhal as well as radio plays by Ricky Ross on BBC Radio Scotland, Fiachna Ó Braonáin on RTE Radio and BBC Radio Ulster with Ralph McLean. With an artist like Villier this week’s Virtual was sure to be one heck of a show. 

Villiers’ soothing vocals delight the swaying viewers as his warm croons drift through enigmatic tracks like ‘Mexico’. He dedicates songs to friends as he banters about The “Old” American Bar in Belfast, reminiscing on a time someone bravely danced barefoot there as well as discussing the memories he has of jamming with his band.

Accompanied by his trusty old Spanish guitar ( which was made in 1983 and Villiers claims is “temperamental, doesn’t like the Irish weather” ) teamed with his busted harmonica the show is relaxed and effortlessly fun. Villiers is a passionate and professional performer. His buoyant blues-hued folk songs will charm your foot to tap along or entice you to get up and sway around the room. He bewitches with his smooth melodies, witty lyrics and majestic musical display. Once Villiers begins to play, a cloak of good times nostalgia hides and covers everything hectic that could have happened that day and leaves you in a state of elated jubilation.

With blues elements coupled with indie folk undertones and country twangs along with glorious blasts on harmonica he provides a wonderful and relaxed atmosphere. There is something enthralling about his performance style; maybe it’s the uplifting cruising tunes or the laid back soundscapes of his acoustic set up but Villiers set was a special moment for sure.

He occasionally sips red wine as he greets and gives shout-outs to the viewers while playing recently written tracks such as ‘The End of The World Blues’ and old favourites ‘Rock Salt’ as well as a smashing rendition of Bob Dylans ‘Dream’. 

Villiers has a knack for presenting relatable themes through his charming songwriting however it’s his likable character and effortless persona which ignites his tracks and makes them so enjoyable. The new music he is jamming and working on at the moment is an exciting glimpse of what is next from Tony Villiers.

An intimate Q&A follows the performance with Villiers talking about his biggest obstacles, his new album and how he got through lockdown as well as some wonderful anecdotes about his life. This is an invaluable aspect of Virtual, for fans to get to talk to the artist and have a personal chat in a relaxed environment. Virtual is proving to be an excellent opportunity for both fans and artists alike.

You Can Follow Tony Villiers on Facebook here

https://www.facebook.com/villiersandthevillains


Author : Danu

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

LIVE With Saibh Skelly Review

Fluttertone and Dublin Concerts have come together to present LIVE. A special interactive intimate show on the zoom platform. Dublin singer-songwriter and busker Saibh Skelly headlined last night’s show. Blending sensitive acoustic vibes and irresistible melodies with sweet passionate songwriting along with a healthy sprinkling of covers, it was a tight and enjoyable set. She performs pristine covers of Ed Sheeran’s ‘Best Part of Me’, ‘Tenerife Sea’ and a hair-raising rendition of Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’, however, it’s the mesmerising effect of Skelly’s warm emotive vocals and calm persona which catches the audiences attention.

Last night we witnessed a budding artist’s growth as Skelly performed her original songs and even some she has not fully finished or named yet. Her own songs are of course the highlight of the show. Skelly displays maturity and tenderness with ease through her charming lyrics and wispy ballads, ‘Be Mine’ a new “mom approved” song and  ‘What If’ all flow with grace and subtle pop sensibilities.

At such a young age she is quite the impressive artist. Displaying such confidence, charm and knack with ear worm melodies, it’s easy to imagine Skelly’s songs bellowed back by a swaying arena crowd as she holds the same melodic prowess and emotion as one of her influences, Ed Sheeran. Her tunes are a hit among the viewers, they comment with praise and adoration for her and her songs. Some said they could listen to her all night and that “someday when she is playing stadiums we will be able to say we were fans when she was performing on zoom” and “ we were fans even when she had a pink guitar”. 

Skelly has established herself as a intelligent storyteller. ‘Do You Love Me’ in particular broods with a wistful melody while the raw emotion in Skelly’s vocals hits the listener to their core. There is innocence and maturity within this simple acoustic performance as Skelly holds herself without fuss or fanfare, allowing her songs and voice to speak for her. Skelly planned to close her set with ’Mistakes We Make’ however the viewers had other plans, they surge the comment section with requests for “one more tune!” so she sweetly obliges with another not yet finished, un-named and heartbreaking original track. This un-named and not yet finished gem is a wonderful example of Skelly evolving her craft and songwriting into something very special. Last night Saibh Skelly proved she is an artist to keep an eye on.

An exclusive Q&A followed the performance where viewers could purchase VIP tickets to enter another zoom session after the show to ask questions and have a chat with Saibh Skelly. She answers the questions with ease, from when did she start playing music to how she subtly encrypts her songs so it’s not obvious who they are written about. She explains how helpful and valuable her parents are to her as well as how often she practices for busking. It is through this special Q&A we get a glimpse of her bubbly character and persona. In my opinion this part of the show is a great way to get to know the artist performing on the platform. Topics such as overcoming writer’s block, dealing with nerves as well as the honest details about getting songs on Spotify all come up on the Q&A making it an invaluable platform and community for both fans and artists alike. 

To get an idea of how talented Saibh Skelly is check out her track ‘Do You Love Her’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Rebekah Fitch Live On Virtual

Belfast alternative pop singer/songwriter Rebekah Fitch was the star of last night’s Virtual show organised by Fluttertone and dootdoot Records. With her merch strategically placed on the wall behind her and basked in golden-hued lighting the multi-instrumentalist takes her place ready to perform. The first bars of ‘Another Show’ which opens her set, displays her soulful R&B voice which is a shock to the system – pitch-perfect and masterfully balanced between angel-like sweetness and powerfully demanding. She weaves a few lines from Gnarls Barkley’s ‘Crazy’ into the crescendo before bringing the track to a hair-raising finale. It is a fantastic opening song, and the rest of Fitch’s set only gets better and better.

Utilizing loops, drum machine and keys Fitch provides a knockout set with a full uncompromising sound. Virtual once again pulls in another outstanding tech genius to perform and boy does it make a difference. There is something special about an acoustic set but it’s these engaging live performances filled with a full bodied sound that ignite the platform.

Fitch makes music composition look easy as she wonderfully blends flute melodies into alternative pop and R&B tracks.This clash of earthy almost classical pop with contemporary allows Fitch to create a collection of compelling music to delight listeners with. ‘Guns With Guns’ is the most acoustic we see Fitch. A simple emotive piano ballad, the track showcases her voice in all its beauty and glory.

Her tracks flourish live and for the first time we get to hear ‘Take Me Apart’ played on piano. This passionate and tender track discussing her feelings during lockdown is a real treat. Fitch possesses all the criteria for major alternative pop stardom, her ability to write songs ( which hit you hard in the chest, exposing feelings you never knew you even had ) is mesmerising while her ear worm melodies, expressive vocals and rich compositions leave all her contemporaries behind. The maturity and understanding in her songwriting is such a soothing and beautiful comfort while the refined layering and instrumentation displays her creative genius.

Fitch is an intense performer sprawling her arms out while soaring through her perfect falsetto and sultry lower range. From the power of ‘Fake Smiles’ to the haunting ‘Not Myself’ we get to see Fitch multi task between loops, flute and big drum and synth builds.This set list is a reminder of the fantastic tunes she has in her arsenal and the new unreleased track ‘Dust’ is an impressive display of her songwriting prowess. Words cannot express how special this song is. It floored me. It’s a  moving track about losing someone you thought you would always have and almost hurts to hear. Each word feels fresh and painful for Fitch as she lays emotion over a bittersweet melody while a building piano graces the backdrop in an equal measure of strength and tenderness.

‘A Love So Crazy’ brings the set to an epic end, leaving us craving for more. This was a professional, fun and engaging performance from a remarkable artist.

In true Virtual manner a Q&A follows the performance allowing fans to ask questions and get into the details of tracks. Fitch’s bubbly persona makes this a seamless and fun engagement as she discusses all from how she creates her tracks, the biggest obstacle she’s had to overcome and how she got into music as well as some technical intricacies about her set up for the live performance. Rebekah Fitch is an amazing artist and one everyone should check out. 

For a taste of the compelling songwriting of Rebekah Fitch check out her track ‘A Love So Crazy’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Sam Wickens live on Virtual

AER Music, Fluttertone and dootdoot Records have come together to create a series of intimate evenings of exclusive live performances from the best emerging and established artists.Last night they had the music sensation that is Sam Wickens.

Sam Wickens enchanted the viewers of Virtual last night.There is nothing more special than a performance from Wickens. We saw him in his home studio all geared up and tech savvy. He ventures through tunes with acoustic guitar, synths and reverb as well as some haunting effects. He has become known as the “tech wizard of Oz”, for he has been helping other artists that have performed on Virtual making sure their sound is crisp and clear. However tonight it’s all about the beauty in his songs and majesty of his voice.

Wickens is a passionate performer and exceptional instrumentalist ( he made his synth himself) however it’s the moments of heightened emotion and depth within his songs that takes your breath away – tracks such as ‘I Was’ breaks your heart in a swift, raw and striking instant.His performance is wholly consuming as he ventures between country, soul and folk with ease while subtly adding delicate textures in the background. While having a cheeky little vape during the set as well, Wickens explains he is “mathematically challenged when it comes to song length times “ and planning his time for shows.

Wickens shows the tenderness and emotion in his voice through the immaculate ‘Winter’ while ‘Oh Mother’ displays the rich and soulful marvel of his vocal range. He uses synths and effects to create a haunting atmosphere and reverb. The synths fill out the sound while at the same time emphasising the purest form of his music. Wickens treats us to some new tracks from an EP he will be releasing later this year.Yet to be released ‘Murky Waters’ in particular is perfection.The lush falsetto, foot tapping tempo and soothing melody creates a heavenly melodic ambience while ‘Cliff Side’ is a folk-hued number that has Wickens “trying to be a didgeridoo”. The set continues with fans asking him to do four more… five more songs, Wickens jokingly replies “I’ll do none, I’ll feck off now” before delving into the latter half of his set. 

There is real serenity to the performance, a great relaxation that’s beautiful to witness as Wickens plays guitar and keys with ease. Not only can Wickens present moving and lyrically poetic songs he can drift through some pretty slick covers as well. A time stopping cover of Tom Petty’s ‘Crawling Back To You’ graces the setlist however it is the much sought after ‘Jericho’ which leads to revered appreciation and adoration from the viewers. 

Sam Wickens is an artist to treasure. His songs form their own universe, primed for the listener to dive in and find their own little corner to indulge and delight in. His technical virtuosity and moving vocals are incomparable and this Virtual medium gives a real frisson of excitement and thrill to Wickens performance creating the space, silence and mood to truly appreciate his beautiful songs.

A Q&A follows the performance which satisfies the insatiable need of the viewers to ask and connect with Wickens. Questions from what’s your favourite fruit, favourite burger joint to how does he get into the head space for his songs, inspirations as well as more personal topics such as him being a “sober little pickle”.He has fans in Canada and America watching. Unfortunately “Sammy” is “too cool to say it back” to fans declaring their love for him however this does not halt the flood of compliments and love for Wickens from pouring in.This Q&A in particular is lively and Wickens banters and chats honestly to his fans providing them with a more personal one to one conversation approach which is a special feature of this Virtual medium. Another mind blowing performance on our weekly fix of Virtual.

Stream Sam Wickens new single ‘Eden’ below


Author : Danu