Category Archives: Live Music Review

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

Mini Mansions Live At Whelan’s Dublin With Support From Sons Of Raphael

“Loud generous and mysterious” is what LA’s Mini Mansions promised for their show last night in Whelan’s Dublin and the trio plus guest drummer Jon Theodore (Queens Of The Stone Age) didn’t disappoint. Blushed cheeks and giggles came from the queue of fans waiting to enter the venue as they talked about Theodore’s appearance (he has that effect on people), their favourite Mini Mansion’s song, many fans saying it was ” impossible to choose just one song as they are all just brilliant” and who was the coolest member of the band. The Mini Mansion’s trio have made a big impact on the indie scene. Their charm causing many (both male and female fans alike ) to gush “I love them” as they stand in anticipation for the show to start. There is a change in the air… Mini Mansions have returned to Dublin more confident and proficient than ever, ready to take the venue by storm.

But first, London duo Sons Of Raphael swagger on stage to warm up the crowd. Ambitious, relentless and fierce these guys exude energy as they prance about, spring-boarding from one song to the next with little breath between. Their energy and charisma pours onto the stage as they douse their shrilling guitar refrains and melodies in distortion and reverb. They fill out their sound with a backing track played on a reel-to-reel tape player behind them creating the most unique and thrilling listening experience. The two brothers, comprised of Loral and Ronnel Raphael bash into and ricochet off each other as they bounce about the stage. At first the crowd are bewildered by what their eyes behold until the band showcase their raw psychedelic tunes with incredible enthusiasm and chaotic control. ‘Rio’ kicks the mania off, the razor sharp guitar lacerating through the thick air with refined precision while the quirky sharp vocals yelp and coo through the retro melodies. The tracks travel full throttle as the crowd bop and mosh between entranced sways for tracks like ‘A Nation Of Bloodsuckers’. There is something quite mesmerising about this young band and with their drive, blistering tunes and eccentric stage presence they are ones to keep an eye on.

The crowd stand in dimmed lighting awaiting their exalted trio to arrive while still recuperating from the trance-like daze they were under just moments before, courtesy of Sons Of Raphael. Suddenly they hear the blazing intro and psychedelic whirl of ‘This Bullet’ before the sweet tone of Tyler Parkford’s voice sparks whoops and cheers from the crowd. The band tease the audience allowing them to only hear them before calmly walking on stage to play it out in true, fierce Mini Mansions manner. With Theodore behind the drum kit the band is unstoppable. The tracks take a new lease of life, blossoming under the strong drum foundation allowing the immaculate guitar flurries, athletic key progression and elastic bass to flourish beautifully on stage. Michael Shuman no longer shackled behind a cocktail drum kit spins, kicks and prances about the stage showcasing his compelling front man persona in all its glory. He interacts with the crowd venturing to the edge of the stage as they gaze upon him enthralled. ‘Death Is A Girl’, ‘Creeps’ and  ‘Midnight In Tokyo’ all have the crowd eating deliriously out of the palm of the bands hands as the trio exude and seep swagger into the venue. Zach Dawes is exceptionally light on his feet, as he flutters and almost pirouettes about the stage with refined elegance and grandeur while executing some pretty snazzy guitar poses. The trio treat us to a cheeky listen to a new track ‘I’m In Love’ as a member of the crowd shouts “thank you”. This thumping dynamic track bounces upon a nectarous melody and has the crowd excited for what’s to come on their upcoming album ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar’ on July 26th.Their sound translates superbly live and the band appear comfortable and suave – executing their rich sound as chiming keys twinkle between sharp guitar shards and fuzzed bass flirtations seamlessly. They keep their fans hyper with tracks like ‘Monk’. To the crowd’s shock Parkford takes on Alison Mosshart’s part for the steamy single ‘Hey Lover’. His sweet falsetto blending perfectly as always with Shuman’s smoky deep whispers. Beloved ‘Any Emotions’ and ‘Vertigo’ go down a treat with the crowd as they bellow back the lyrics singing the riffs and keyboard melodies .

Many tasty guitar embellishments, delicious melodies and sugar soaked bass lines later – which has fans crowd surfing and a rogue fan standing on the stage (for some reason he just looks back at the crowd and does nothing else) the band come to their final track ‘Bad Things (That Make You Feel Good)’. This fizzing shimmy-ready infectious gem is exhilarating live. The gritty guitar riff slices boldly through the track while the driving beat, fuzzed bass and dynamic keys create the perfect backdrop to lose your mind to and lets not forget the clap along feature – who wouldn’t love that.

The crowd plead for one more song chanting “Olé, Olé, Olé” until the band return for their triumphant encore of ‘Freakout ‘, ‘Honey I’m Home‘ and ‘Mirror Mountain‘ which sees the trio and audience go absolutely nuts. Shuman and Dawes flaunt about the stage kicking and spiraling. Dawes even bends his back in some sort of an impressive contortion as Shuman ventures into the moshing crowd while onstage Parkford goes all crazy ”Phantom Of The Opera” on us. They always deliver a brain fermenting finale to their shows and last night didn’t disappoint.

Mini Mansion’s are the crème de la crème, there is no band like them and their talent, sheer skill and magnetic aura is astonishing. However, there was something different about the band last night, a glint in their eyes and a different confidence and suaveness than before that I can only hope means these melody-connoisseurs have big things to come. Perhaps the release of the new album ‘Guy Walks Into A Bar’ will reveal more.

Mini Mansions
Mini Mansions
Mini Mansions
Mini Mansions
Mini Mansions
Sons Of Raphael


Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Black Honey Live At The Grand Social Dublin With Support From Chappaqua Wrestling

It was a Brighton take over Thursday night in The Grand Social Dublin. With sparkles at the ready, swagger in tow and Guinness ready to guzzle. Indie rock, rising deity, Black Honey took the venue by storm equipped with everything to make the night memorable.

One of those was fellow Brighton gems Chappaqua Wrestling who flooded the venue with the sweetest, most delicious tunes as their musical prowess pleasantly wafted delicately about our ears. Each tune brought their sound to a new delightful level. Both Jake Mac and Charlie Woods take turns on vocals as they coo and softly lull through tracks like ‘False/Blue’ and ‘Wait To Form My Head’ while ‘Football’ blows our minds with blistering instrumentation. Their tracks are laid back, sun soaked and infectiously groovy. The duo are accompanied  by Jude Lilley and Josh Cassidy-Stone who maintained the joyous buoyant foundation and rhythmic bliss superbly. Their breezy tracks melt exquisitely into the ears with ease as the honey drizzled melodies float upon their edgy indie backdrop. Each track was tight and utterly mesmerising with a 50’s melodic hue floating about them. You can’t fault their slinky solos and thrilling riffs as they flesh out the bands intricately weaved sound beautifully.This duo’s easy going charm is infectious as they banter with the crowd  “ I tried my first Guinness today …. I love it so much” as well as jokingly haggling on the price of their EP as members of the crowd try to create a bit of currency exchange confusion. The band are talented and down to earth with some really infectious tracks . They even hug each other after their set, it was pretty moving. Chappaqua Wrestling are definitely ones to see live.

Black Honey take to the stage triumphantly as the crowd’s cheers resound through the venue. The ever so spellbinding frontwoman Izzy B Phillips parades in a sparkly pink dress and flashy sunglasses which she presents to a thrilled fan at the front with a wink and greeting smile before belting straight into ‘ I Only Hurt The Ones I Love‘. Flamboyant and sassy she struts about the stage executing every pose, stride and wiggle with a precision that leaves the crowd in awe. She has a mesmerising effect on the audience as they gaze upon her in all her glittering glory. The band is brimming with charisma, guitarist Chris Ostler prances about as he performs those sublime, ornate and golden soaked spaghetti western melodies and refined solos with finesse and grandeur. His smiling face a joy to see as he bops and hops along to their lavish tunes. The band give us a sneaky listen to the cinematic James Bond – esque new “not on the internet yet” single ‘ I Don’t Ever Wanna Love’.

“Girls come close, come in, lads step aside, girls at the back come up…. Cos this song is for you ” Izzy calls as she moves closer to the crowd hugging her stunned fans while they sing the chorus for the beloved ‘Corrine’. This is something she regularly does throughout the set, she stays with the crowd embraces and dances with them before returning to the stage to wiggle and shimmy to the bands infectious tasty tunes. The tracks take a new dimension live, the disco funk speckled delight ‘Midnight’ becomes more gritty and raw within the live setting while a slower start to the exhilarating ‘Spinning Wheel’ teases the fiery frenzy to come. Drummer Tom Dewhurst lays down that all important meaty foundation and punchy beat that keeps tracks like  ‘All My Pride’ pounding through your soul as he grins to the coolly composed Bassist Tommy Taylor who’s slinky bass lines make tracks like ‘Teenager’ and ‘Midnight’ swelter their way to epic status.

A beautiful rendition of ‘Baby’ allows Izzy to showcase her flawless vocals while ‘Bad Friends’ and ‘Into The Nightmare’ wallop through with attitude and fiery instrumentation. Their setlist powers through at an unstoppable speed, it almost feels like no time has passed when the band announce their final track of the night ‘Somebody Better ‘ as the crowd cheer and dance along.

Black Honey put on one heck of a performance. One of the best live shows of the year so far.


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Punk Rock

Vulpynes With Support From I AM A Car Crash & The Lord Reverend Mongo Joans and the Coat Hanger Solution In The Academy Dublin

A night of blistering cutthroat alternative punk rock pounded through our ears on Saturday night as Dublin’s Vulpynes headlined The Academy 2 with support from I AM A Car Crash and The Lord Reverend Mongo Joans and the Coat Hanger Solution.

Punk band The Lord Reverend Mongo Joans and the Coat Hanger Solution kick started the night. A comical bunch on stage these guys whack straight into their riotous tunes with crashing guitars, pummeling drums and feisty growlish vocals. Each track travels at neck breaking spreed as they blend their feisty punk with fiery mosh pit ready rock. One particular crowd member was really enthusiastic. He took selfies with the band while they played on stage. Their set was brimming with numerous shredding guitar blasts and rooted bass grooves which set the crowd alight as they bopped along to the “fu*ck you” lyrics of ‘Best Worst Thing’. Their tunes have a bop factor that can coax your hips to wiggle while their gritty ferocious exterior packs some serious punch. A fully entertaining band to watch live.

I AM A Car Crash follow the punk vibe. Taking a darker twist on the genre their distorted guitars, gripping wall of sound and mesmerising drumming has the crowd utterly entranced. The majestic guitar work is impressive and builds their sound perfectly with a sophisticated flurry of finesse over the rambunctious drumming gliding through the air and slapping into our ears with blissful intensity. These guys know how to make an impression. Attitude soaked vocals smoothly drift through the melody while the lyrics are spat out at a brisk expressive pace. The banter is minimal so the band can pack in as many tunes as possible. ‘Eric’ in particular is a blinder. Shrilling guitars pierce and soar elegantly over the fantastic drum rumble as the track builds to its explosive crescendo. Final track ‘Carnival Ride’ a track dedicated to  “any would be rapists …. We are coming for you mother f**kers” is absolutely captivating and gripping. The gentle vocal melody seeps and bleeds with tender emotion. It’s a striking and heartbreaking track superbly crafted to extract, display and expose the raw harsh emotion and turmoil within, while icy guitars flicker between the brewing and bubbling drums creating a striking backdrop for the affectionate vocals. The track builds to a shredding dazzling crescendo filled with distortion and expressive guitar whines. It’s a mind blowing end to their exquisite set.

The fiery duo Vulpynes take to the stage to the ominous whistle of the x files theme song. Not ones for banter they belt straight into their vicious battering tunes with relentless stamina and swagger. Vocalist and guitarist Maeve Molly’s stance is cool, composed and fierce as she executes the shredding riffs and gritty licks with effortless panache. She has really grown into her frontwoman role.Though she doesn’t move or prance about the stage often her simple stance commands awe as she bellows out the lyrics. Kaz’s powerful drumming pounds deep through your very soul, ‘2 Cents’ and ‘Silica’ resounds through the Academy. The crowd stand and watch the duo blast through their bloodthirsty tunes as if hypnotised. I was expecting total anarchy and moshing however each member of the crowd stood rooted to their spot soaking up the savage tunes as if in a trance. Maeve Molly calls the crowd to move about “start rocking out now… stop f*cking standing there … that’s an order” snapping them out of their blissful daze. They begin to mosh and dance creating a sea of bopping movement and mania at the front. Vulpynes have created a delicious recipe for a thrilling live show with their catchy tunes, driving adrenaline, whirling scuzzy riffs and alternative punk anthems – this duo are a lean mean force to be reckoned with.

Vulpynes closed their set with the explosive ‘OCD’. However, the crowd demanded more and the  duo obliged returning to mass cheers for a vigorous encore. Vulpynes have proven they can create frenzied barbarous tunes that stick in your head for days and Saturday night proved they can deliver one hell of a live show to accompany these savage tunes.


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Munky ‘Un, Deux, Trois, Cat’ EP launch in the Grand Social Dublin With Support From The Family Dog and Skinner

Munky pulled out all the stops for their debut EP, ‘Un, Deux, Trois, Cat’ launch in the Grand Social Dublin on Friday Night. Setting the crowd up for a night of dancing, hugs and funky tunes the quartet had their swaggering shirts on and their slick tunes ready.

Luscious French tunes played through speakers welcoming the crowd into the venue setting a sweet calming ambiance before the frenzied mayhem began.

Skinner take to the stage to kick things off. Skinner is the solo recording project of Aaron Corcoran playing live as a band with members Jack Tobin (drums) and Daniel Butler (bass). Their punk/ grunge tunes resonate through the room… seeping into our ears with biting sweet shrills of youthful adrenaline. The band didn’t waste their time ranting and raving on stage. They walloped straight into their rambunctious tracks. Sweet toned guitar melodies weave tasty threads of glistening delight between the punchy drum assaults and groove infested bass lines as Skinner whack out a professional and thrilling set of tracks. Corcoran spits out his lyrics with attitude and panache between the slick guitar refrains and solos. There is impressive skill with this trio – with catchy tracks and blistering instrumentation Skinner is one to keep an eye on.

Next up were The Family Dog. A band of five brothers, these guys know how to put on a show. Their frontman role is taken by the ever eccentric youngest of the pack Hector Dogliani who is at the tender age of 12/13. He struts about the stage with ‘James Brown – esque’ scorched swagger. Although he is quite mesmerising to watch he also sings the sweetest harmonies and vocal leads while stomping and strutting about. However Hector is not the only charismatic member of the band, each brother exude their own charm while showcasing their sleek instrumental prowess.They even manage to get the crowd to roar as they shout “let me hear a Dublin roar”. But all the pizzazz aside, these guys can play some soulful groovy tunes.The Dogliani brothers lay down a scorching set of raw blues-hued fluid tunes that get the crowd riled up and eager to dance. Each track follows its predecessor with grace while displaying slick instrumentation and infectious melodies.The Family Dog’s sound is tight. The vaporous guitar lines entwine the elastic bass grooves and meaty drum foundation with finesse and grandeur while the jazzy keys provide a playful bounce and classy element to the tracks. I highly recommend you see them live.

Finally Dublin’s Munky take to the stage as members of the crowd chant “Munky!, Munky!, Munky!”. The bands funky, grungy disco with some psychedelic rock translates superbly live. Munky are a prime example of a band who put their all into their live shows and the result is magnificent. Mesmerising characters onstage, guitarist Conor Lawlor and vocalist Zachary Stephenson playfully interact with the crowd as Lawlor implements every guitar pose known to man to heroic cheers while Stephenson prances about the stage.The band open with searing guitars, a thrilling drum roll and passionate vocals. They ferment the atmosphere with little banter to start allowing the crowd to lap up their gritty tunes. Not letting a few sound issues ruin their moment – they tighten their grip on the audience with the blitzing ‘Zordon’ and the high-speed hammering of ‘Cuck Rock’ which provokes cheers from the crowd. Niall Donnelly appears to wander in and out of consciousness as his bass groove consumes his attention. He wiggles to each track, happily laying down that all important elastic bass that loosens the crowds hips and entrances their minds into the depths of each tune. ‘You’ve Got Male’ sparks a mass sing-along but not as much as the notorious  ‘Ms. Communication’. Donnelly and Sam Russell lay down one hell of a rhythmic backbone. Russell smashes the drums like a man possessed and together their groove consumed wall of sound is fully immersive and utterly mind-blowing.

Lights dim as the band leave the stage. Only Stephenson and Munky’s glorious backing singers Edwina Van Kyuk and Sinead McConville remain for a stripped back rendition of  ‘Just Can’t Quit’.Bathed in a soft spotlight hue,Stephenson pines out the track in this new refreshing manner before the rest of the band return to blast out the passionate crescendo. ‘One In Five’ brings us to the intense and emotional finale of the bands set as they perform an immaculate version of this gripping track. However, the crowd refused to allow the quartet to leave it there. They demanded “one more tune!” and Munky did not disappoint. Lawlor takes the vocals on a jubilant cover of Bill Withers ‘Lovely Day’ while Stephenson encourages the crowd to part – readying for a circle pit ( with a difference! ) ….he beckons the crowd to part and on his say so, run into each other and hug….and of course they did. It was a special moment,even  onlookers hugged the person nearest them. ‘Hunter Gatherer Blues’ brings the bands triumphant set to an end as Stephenson shouts “let me see y’all square dance”.

Munky squeezed mayhem and elation into one set of fiery enjoyable tunes while maintaining and balancing their professionalism and fun attitude. It was a fantastic start to the weekend. All the acts were thoroughly entertaining and are definitely worth checking out live.


Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Alexis Kings Live Show at The Workman’s Club Dublin

London band Alexis Kings were playing their first ever Dublin show last night.This was a show I couldn’t miss. The blustery weather, traffic nor an old woman slowly crossing the street could stop me from getting to The Workmans Club ( I did wait patiently for her to cross though ). Walking through the venue I could hear the blistering melodic sound of the end of Galway band D – Day’s set. These guys are spectacular live. I only caught the last two songs but Darragh Whyte’s vocals are pretty impressive and this stylish four piece sure can write and perform some slick tunes.

Alexis Kings take to the stage. They waste no time in getting straight into their sweet tunes. Brendan Aherne has become quite the frontman. Mesmerising to watch he struts about the stage spinning the mic around his waist and into the air. ‘The Enemy’ starts their set. Once the drum kicks in and the track begins the entire atmosphere blossoms into a mellow balmy haze of delight. These guys are professional on stage and their love for performing radiates profusely. Sam Privett’s honey dripped guitar lines are even more delicious within the live setting. While drummer Fabio Bocca and bassist Kalyan Rogers allow their groove infested sound, pound through your body coaxing and enticing you to dance. There is power behind these tracks as Alexis Kings weave their bewitching enticing tunes into our very souls.

Live, the tunes take on a heavier sound giving a meatier grit to their nectarous sun kissed tunes. ‘Addict’ in particular translates superbly live with the rumble on drums and weaving guitar echoing through a darkly coated atmosphere. The shrilling psychedelic guitar is mesmerising. We get an exciting glimpse of some new tunes ‘Johnny True Love’ has a reggae feel to it as a sultry groove rebounds and slaps off the steamy guitar whines while ‘Spaceships’ brings that exhilarating rush of indie, injecting youthful adrenaline into your veins. Aherne’s vocals are filled with passion which smoothly caress the velvety melodies with hints of soulful tenderness.

‘Squire’ was received by tremendous applause. A melodic luscious rendition of this beautiful track has the crowd swaying bopping and singing along as Aherne reaches out as close to them as he can. Who can resist the divine guitar melody in ‘Squire’ it’s as close to God as most of us will ever get.  I for one was eagerly awaiting ‘Velvet’ and boy it didn’t disappoint. The London boys play this track with a particular air of class and chicness as Aherne flaunts about the stage while the crowd sing along to the infectious chorus. It’s the perfect show closer. The crowd had other ideas though, they demanded ‘Brothers’ as they shouted the lyrics “get in your taxi”. It was quickly apparent the band would not get away without whacking out the fiery track. So, in true rock and roll manner the band belt out this boisterous track with slick precision and swagger-drenched attitude as the audience bellowed the lyrics back joyously.

It was a fantastic night of live music. If you haven’t seen Alexis Kings perform live I highly recommend it. They radiate an effortless aura of relaxed charisma while executing slick, polished and absolutely thrilling tunes.

‘


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Barefoot Magicians’ ‘I’m Hooked’ and ‘ It’s all take’ singles launch in SIN É Dublin

“I’ve just got out of hospital after having an operation, had a bad accident on Saturday so  I’m pretty high on morphine…. so it’s all good times” Dave Greene announces before thanking the crowd for their attendance at Barefoot Magicians’ ‘I’m Hooked’ and ‘ It’s All Take’ singles launch in Sin E, Dublin on Friday night. But he needn’t have apologized. Except for a vocal break in ‘The Awakening’ the band sounded on point with lush grooves, tasty guitar lines and blues tones filling the room with the most delectable dance-able aroma. What Greene may have lacked in physical energetic display ( understandably ) they made up for with their proficient delivery of their groovy tunes.

The crowd pack to the floor to wiggle to ‘Shakey Ground’ “we’re here till after midnight so come and go as you please” Greene assures. There is definitely that vibe about their set- as if we are here not exactly to see them. They are the perks, those melting melodies, shrilling thrills of guitar and jazz infused piano jingles are the delightful soundtrack to a night of friendly chatter,  drinking and spontaneous dancing as the crowd wander in and out as they please. A set filled with mostly original music goes down well with the crowd and the sweet twang of harmonica sounds are enchanting within the live setting. The band regularly blast into heart-pounding blues instrumentals that linger with slick guitar solos, dramatic drum pops and animated keys playfully meandering through the elastic bass grooves while the harmonica whacks out riff worthy refrains. This is where the band showcases their prowess.

A sweet cover of Cage The Elephant’s  ‘Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked’ sparked the audience to get up and dance as Barefoot Magicians cruise through a swagger drenched rendition of the steamy track loosening up the crowds hips. This cleverly placed track and a cover of Fatboy Slim’s ‘Praise You’ (which was dedicated to the women for International Women’s Day) are the final ice breakers that pulled the crowd to the dance floor. New single ‘I’m Hooked’ translates superbly live. The band themselves become more playful and energetic for their shiny new single and that vaporous break in the track causes the perfect shift for those getting close on the dance floor. Greene wiggles back and forth to each track. He is the bands metronome ticking left to right- keeping their groove filled time in check as Graham Stewart on Guitar, Brian Steemers on drums & percussion, Fergal Mulligan on bass and Hugh Caren on keys remain immersed in their performance. Another play of ‘I’m Hooked’ provokes twerking, thrusting, bopping and feet shuffling as audience members swarm from all corners of the venue to join the mass dancing. Those hiding in the corners, among the shadows and hovering around the bar are coaxed to the dance floor as the band play the sought after one more tune….  a shredding cover of Chuck Berry’s Johnny B. Goode.

It was an energetic, professional show from Barefoot Magicians. They are growing nicely and have ace tunes that hook you into their infectious sound. The only downside was ‘Cruel Mistress’ didn’t make the set list … i’m gutted.



Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Gorilla Troubadour ‘Tom Cruise Does all his own stunts’ single launch in Whelan’s Dublin

Funk flavoured sounds, hefty rich rhythms and lush guitar refrains fill the room for Gorilla Troubadour’s ‘Tom Cruise Does All His Own Stunts’ single launch in Whelan’s Dublin. I entered the venue as their second song ‘Hey Hey’ wafted around my ears. Its charming strut quality and swagger drenched bass groove walked me through the bopping crowd. The tasty guitar lines, tight presentation and punchy drums were a delightful welcome. These guys have a fun approach to their live show as banter with the crowd is plentiful. The band played through their set creating a soothing sense of mellowed out hysteria through the crowd. They build their tracks perfectly providing something for every music lover from swoony melodies, intricate guitar lines and lush wails to a sublime hip moving rhythmic section.These guys are tight. They smother their songs in a wispy smoke of darkness – ‘Ophelia’ in particular is one hair raising gem. For such a young band their sound is sophisticated and mature. There are no holes, no lapses, just solid rich tunes ready to mosh, wiggle and sway to. To get a band this tight with a sound this compelling is a special find but then for them to be great live as well- that’s pretty fantastic.

A few well known covers pepper the bands set list – a bass slicked rendition of Royal Blood’s ‘Figure It Out’ goes down particularly well with the crowd while a refreshing cover of Joy Division’s ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart‘ (which sees frontman Dylan Kearns take to the keys) also graces the set list. The band are all impressive performers, Dylan Kearns plays the frontman role well. His smiley persona comes across bubbly yet relaxed as he tackles the crowds song requests for ‘Esmeralda’.Eamon Ganley lead Guitarist has some shredding solo’s and boy does he execute them well, (perhaps playing up to the crowds enthusiasm) he strikes and wiggles with precision and panache while bassist James O’ Connor is immersed in his grooves as he majestically and nimbly swoops and glides through the bass lines. With a slightly deflated “confetti cannon” pop (more like a glorified party popper) the band introduce the most mesmerising artist to sing with them, Cat Doran. Her soulful vocals are hair raising, chilling and utterly enthralling as she ever so coolly blends with Kearns sweet falsetto.There is a mystical,enchanting yet haunting quality to her voice that lures and entices you into every note. Kearns’ vocals are pretty outstanding for ‘We Drove For Miles’ which was my favourite track of the night. This smoky gem features a sultry guitar solo, a spellbinding melody and oodles of passion.

‘Tom Cruise Does All His Own Stunts’ translates magnificently live. Drummer Eric Walsh puts on a gorilla mask and the track whacks into fruition. This track coils and uncoils itself ever so confidently live- it feels like it could be the work of a band with twice the experience.Walsh is quite the proficient drummer. He lays down their meaty foundation and executes it with a fluidity that is first rate, showcasing he can maneuver a pounding assault or a sweltering lighter tap-tap-tap with finesse and gusto. ‘The Apple Truck’ is the final track of the night and Kearns introduces this before he takes a memorable and lasting picture on his disposable camera – “your looking well” he glints at the crowd before they cruise into the sizzling track which once again shows the bands striking musical talent.

Gorilla Troubadour are definitely a band to keep an eye on. They have their heads screwed on. They know what they are doing, what works, what sounds good and then they turn that up a notch and make it theirs. The cool swagger with which they dispatch their meat-cleaver riffs, slick musicianship and catchy choruses is what makes these guys pretty special.


Alt Rock, Hypnotic, Indie Psychedelic, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, psychedelic

Sun Mahshene’s ‘Come Alive (Leave This City)’ single launch at The Grand Social Dublin with support from The Thrash Blues

Nestled in the heart of a rainy Dublin city The Grand Social Dublin host psychedelic band Sun Mahshene’s ‘Come Alive (Leave This City)’ single launch. A projected mirage of kaleidoscopic colours, swirls and patterns decorated the stage wall creating a prismatic dreamy atmosphere as we eagerly waited for the nights music to begin.

Rock n’ roll duo The Thrash Blues cooly take to the stage to ignite the night with their burly grooves and slick riffs. Not one’s for banter they whack into each track with surety and vigor loosening up the crowd’s hips with their swagger steeped richly developed tunes. Liz and Ro have finely chiseled their sound for maximum impact. The beefy riffs, slick guitar licks and melodic purrs weave their way suavely through the punchy drums superbly to create a thrilling contrast. Their raw yet refined sound is perfect to dance to. The Black Keys – esque ‘Wicked Man’ blasts out the energised and playful loose musicianship of this band with an edgy punk whack that hits you in the mouth half way through. There are lush guitar twangs, riveting drum rumbles and warm smooth vocals throughout the set filling each track with its own unique and vibrant character. For bluesy tinged, punk slapped rock n’ roll The Thrash Blues are the ones to call.

Poised on stage amidst the purple hued smoke of dry ice, Sun Mahshene stand ready to melt our mind with their glorious psychedelic drenched tunes. The dim lighting causes their silhouettes to haunt through the smoke providing a spooky, eerie atmosphere.Their set is brimming with malleable elastic soundscapes weaving their way through sharp slinky guitars, elastic bass grooves and chiming keys as Nathan Henderson coos and warmly caresses the euphoric melodies with his velvety vocals. The distorted whines introduce opening track  ‘Making The Call’ as the band peer through the shadowing mist. These guys bend their shredding raw rock and delightful sweet psychedelia seamlessly making for a gritty and diverse listening experience. Sun Mahshene are musical guru’s who leave a trail of sugary sprinkles throughout their tracks which lead you down a delicious rabbit hole craving for more. ‘The World Will Grind You Down’ and ‘This Girl I Know’ are mesmerising live as the band entwine each track in glorious layers adding rich depth to each component. There are three guitarist on stage Ryan Daffy, Ian McGinn and vocalist Henderson – this brings a new dimension and thrilling intensity to each track. These guys are also fun to watch on stage bassist Darren Hughes dances, executes all the suave guitar poses and hair flicks known to man while hopping, bopping and wiggling along to the tunes – he only stops to place a can to his brow to cool himself down while Dave Murray’s proficient drumming is a joy to watch and listen to. Backing vocals and percussion were provided by Ray Burke while Rob Crosbie took to the keys to help flesh out and adequately translate Sun Mahshene’s stunning sound.

‘The Righteous One’ is one beautiful 60’s – esque gem. Distortion on guitars fizz and bubble over a dreamy vocal and euphoric melody while punchy drums and enchanting soundscape create a dizzying sweet wall of sound to encapsulate your mind, soothing, sedating and enlightening you all at once. It’s pretty magnificent. I forgot where I was for a brief moment – the tracks are so luscious and consuming. The new single ‘Come Alive (Leave This City)’ was equally as gripping. Its anthemic chorus had members of the crowd jumping and throwing their arms in the air while that defiant beat thumped through our chests invading and controlling every bounce and bop. There was no lag or cavity in their set. Every track was engaging and blissful on the ears. These guys are growing and flourishing beautifully and with a sound that leaves you thirsty to hear more their live show is the perfect medium to guzzle up their dazzling sound and refreshing tunes.

The band closed their set with the effervescent ‘When The Bomb Drops’. However the crowd refused to allow that be the end, they demanded the band return for an encore. As they shouted for “No Control”  Henderson shrugs and timidly obliges “Right we’ll do it”. ‘No Control’ takes the roll of the final track in its stride. Sulky and brooding it swarms in with dark tones, shrilling guitars, reverb vocals and a magnificent wall of sound that rushes adrenaline and fiery intensity into your veins. This exhilarating track was the perfect closing tune.

‘Come Alive (Leave This City)’ is released on 15/02/19 make sure to check it out. These guys have something special.


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Fangclub at The Sound House Dublin with support from The Winter Passing

“Keep an eye out for next year cos something f**king huge is happening” Steven King declares to the crowd amid the sweaty mania and it definitely felt that way on Friday night as Dublin’s Fangclub returned home for their show in The Sound House. The band were excited about something and you could feel it in the sticky air.

Dublin indie band The Winter Passing kicked the night off with their dynamic indie punk tunes resonating through the venue filling it to its capacity with the bands delightfully catchy and powerful tracks. Guitarist and vocalist Rob Flynn jumped literally into the first song as he exuded a mammoth amount of energy throughout the set bantering with the crowd and performing every possible guitar pose. The band whack out a healthy dose of emo-flavoured tunes with a dash of dreamy indie pop sprinkled on top. Throwing in some new tracks along with tasty older tracks like the buoyant ‘Significance’ and the upbeat melodic ‘Daisy’ it was an engaging and enjoyable start to the night. Their sound is hook filled, melodic, hefty and full of gusto and Kate Flynn’s sweet airy vocals contrast the stomping, distortion and gritty background perfectly. There is something for everyone here – meaningful lyrics, a fantastic tight wall of sound brimming with punchy drums, groovy rhythms, twinkling keyboard, shredding guitar hooks and The Winter Passing tie all this together with a compelling stage presence.

The Fangclub trio along with Long Tail’s Ed Scanlan on guitar calmly take to the stage with a suspenseful wail of distortion creating that all important tension and excitement before they whirlwind into ‘Knife’. The universe’s apparent attack to disrupt them throughout their set with technical difficulties doesn’t faze the band, they whack on regardless humorously and lightheartedly joking through the stumbles. There is a glint in their eyes shimmering and blazing behind the mass of hair over their faces. Appearing more comfortable, confident and oozing that rock star quality they are evolving and maturing nicely. ‘All Fall Down’, ‘Follow’ and ‘Dreamcatcher’ from their debut album evoke a massive sing along among the crowd. Kevin Keane jumps, hops and ricochets of each bass slap and groove that he proficiently produces with ease and grandeur while Dara Coleman’s concise epic drumming keeps the crowd at a constant relentless high. Their darkly intoxicating tracks from the new EP ‘True Love’ translated superbly live, better than I could have ever anticipated. ‘Heart Is A Landmine’ in particular was spine chilling, goosebump inducing bliss – Coleman’s drum roll just resonates though your very core. Frontman Steven King oozed effortless swagger and charm throughout the set as he smiled, joked and pranced between Keane and Scanlan. High-fiving members of the audience and shaking their hands the atmosphere was friendly yet electrifying. Each track traveled with sweet brute force. Their vigorous wall of sound wrestling your ears while the smooth melodies caress and entice you into submission. Crashing guitars, distortion, and pulverizing drums create this blood thirsty sound that Fangclub do superbly and its wholly satisfying. The crowd lapped up every guitar strike, drum pound, vocal wail  and every spin executed by Keane. A cracking-ly dark rendition of Babylon Zoo’s ‘Spaceman’ sat snugly between ‘Better to Forget’ and ‘Lightning’ as the crowd moshed, danced and flapped about. New track ‘Viva Violence’ in particular is a spectacular track and one to get excited about. It’s sinister bewitching verses glide easily into the ear while the jangly guitar weaves a golden cheeky thread between the buoyant beat and groovy bass as the feverous chorus explodes with Fangclub’s manic brand of chaotic grunge. It’s well crafted, steamy with a hint of sass through the instrumental anarchy- no wonder the band were excited for next year. ‘Bad Words’ spirals the crowd into a frenzy of blissful turmoil as they prepare for final track of the night, ‘Bullet Head’. Flailing limbs, crowd surfing and beer raining down from a disheveled souls jumping hand among the mosh pit is how the set list ends. Once ‘Bullet Head’ springs into their ears the crowd erupt. ‘If anybody falls pick them up” King shouts as they bash in to a frantic instrumental which ends with King and Keane lying on the stage as a bruising mosh pit worships over them.

Fangclub’s set was mind blowing and majestic. Their live shows exude swagger and fun while the tracks hook you firmly into their tasty  brand of garage rock leaving you craving for more. I’m looking forward to what this three piece have in store for us next year. 


Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Kyle Falconer At The Bowery, Dublin With Support From TADGH and Cult Called Man

The Views frontman Kyle Falconer attracted a friendly charming crowd into the Bowery last night the kind of audience who care for the person behind them, making sure they were not restricting anyone’s view. It’s a refreshing and welcome attitude if only all audiences were as caring for each others enjoyment. With some Scottish accents gracing our ears it’s apparent Falconers fans are willing to travel a bit to enjoy his performance.

TADGH the “all-round decent young fella” from Dublin kicked the night off. After ensuring we know exactly how to spell his name correctly he begins his set flooding our ears with glorious grooves swirled blissfully between luscious soul and funky flecks. ‘Danger’ and ‘Live Like You’ give an uncanny Justin Timberlake vibe with a subtle nod to Jamiroquai. His vocals are impressive as he slides effortlessly into his falsetto with such graceful ease. His stance is simple as he allows his soulful vocals exude funky swagger. ‘Same To You’ a sweet little ditty about the relationship you have with your dog displays his quirky songwriting while instrumentally his faultless sophisticated approach keeps things classy. It’s a set brimming with buoyant guitar licks, groove infested bass lines and lush synths. Each track glows with a feel good sheen, full bodied funk and hip hop edge that keeps it refreshing and ensures there is something for everyone within each tune.

The wonderfully eccentric Cult Called Man follow. The colourful attire is on display as they stroll in with a sound and persona that is so cool and sweet it’s like a sliding glacier of Mr Freeze pops. These guys are pretty adept at commanding attention. With luscious guitar melodies weaving their golden psychedelic fuzz through the mind melting backdrop and quirky powerful vocals, there is something mesmerising about this band. Not even an electrical problem keeps them from doing their thing. Three songs in their sound goes and  after a brief waiting period (as some audience members encourage them on) finally with the words  “and god said let there be sound”  the band were off again belting out their strutting glossy tunes. ‘Welcome To The Island’ was my favourite of their tracks last night. With its rooted elastic bass line driving through slick guitar licks, its a flamboyant track saturated in 80’s – esque bliss steeped in a somewhat creepy vibe. It was this track that won me over once and for all. Blending a razor sharp alternative edge with a glam rock persona these guys have something unique. The slippery melodies slide into your ears with effortless charm leaving us captivated and consumed in their sleazy gritty mayhem.

Kyle Falconer takes to the stage to massive applause and cheers whipping straight into the infectious ‘Poor Me’. The crowd bellow back the lyrics, dancing and jumping joyously- they really get involved with each and every track as if Falconer is singing to them personally or narrating details of their own lives.They point to him and sing the lines they relate to the most – as loud and as proudly as they can. ‘Family Tree’ and ‘The Therapist’ go down particularly well with this cheerful crowd- they sway and hold each other looking at strangers like old chums as Falconer coos and floods the air with sweet uplifting bliss. The jubilant atmosphere increases with each song leaving everyone smiling, basking in the radiance that Falconer produced. Every song was bellowed back to him with utter passion and heartfelt emotion- it was amazing to watch. Falconer takes to the keys for a tender delicate rendition of ‘Tacky Tattoo’ as the crowd swayed and some even attempted to harmonise along. ‘Avalanche’ was stomped to while ‘Face For The Radio’ sparked a mass sing along and final track ‘Grace’ created a sort of wiggle mosh frenzy. The crowd lapped up the old tunes and new with great enthusiasm and energy. They tried calling for  “one more tune” as the last song came to its final note but Falconer shook hands with the audience at the stage, handed out set lists and left, grateful for their calls and appreciation for his tunes.

Leaving the venue I saw fans clutching merchandise they had just bought, hugging t-shirts, absolutely devoted to this Scottish lad and why not he put on a crisp show oozing as much love for his fans as they had for him. It was quite a special heartwarming show.