Category Archives: Live Music

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

Emily 7 Live At Whelan’s With Support From KLDD and Curtisy

Whelan’s plummeted headfirst into an energetic maelstrom last night as Dublin indie rock band Emily 7 took to the stage for their eagerly anticipated headline show. The crowd and band were hungrier than ever for this performance as the show was two years in waiting due to covid. 

Against a backdrop of helium balloons spelling Emily 7, the two support acts KLDD and Curtisy tackled the task of warming up the crowd. Sleek sounding, tight and exuding an impressive nonchalant stage presence, four-piece KLDD had the crowd eating out of the palm of their hands. Comprised of Kilian Callegari on bass, Liam Bennati on drums, David Bradford on lead and Davy O’Toole on vocals and rhythm the band blend moody indie rock with grunge hues and glimmers of punk-pop to create a dynamic sound filled with vigour. The crowd bopped, cheered and some even fangirled over this budding band’s sound. With driving basslines, a fantastic rapid drum assault and some pretty slick guitar work there was plenty of talent on stage – an impressive performance from the four-piece.

Filled with some pretty sleek hip hop backing tracks, Curtisy‘s set followed. Curtisy’s loose performance style, fun attitude on stage and wandering wordplay made for an intriguing listening experience. With raps drifting between topics of girls, drinking and social insights; the artist’s swaggered rhymes and repetitive “yeah, yeah” phrase lingered in many of the crowd’s heads for the rest of the night. Curtisy is fleshing out his style and refining his sound, it will be interesting to see what the hip hop artist does next.

‘Put ’em Under Pressure’ triumphantly introduced Emily 7. The crowd bellowed “Olé Olé Olé Olé, Olé Olé” while clapping and cheering as the band took to the stage. It was a whirlwind of antics, frantic post-punk and sweaty moshing from the get-go. Whelan’s shaked beneath our feet as the cheeky resounding sound of ‘Stephanie’ caused a dance frenzy from the crowd. Filled with thrilling rhythms, soaring wails on guitar and roaring bass grooves the band’s sound is impressive and the four-piece wasted no time in delighting the crowd’s ears with a constant glorious onslaught of instrumentally riveting tunes.

Kyle Bellew and Daniel Clarke are charismatic frontmen who share lead vocals. They exuded a charming persona throughout the set while subtly fighting off the entangled helium balloons behind them. Scott Bellew’s charismatic drumming was a joy to witness and perfectly complemented Brandon Carrig’s superb laid back bass. It was fun chaos all around that was rapturously well-received by the audience. This was particularly evident when the band played ‘Oh Me, Oh My’; the crowd bellowed back the catchy lyrics with such vigour and enthusiasm that made it a memorable moment on the night.

Like all good shows, a broken instrument or two is the norm and a kick drum malfunction,- “we f*cked the kick drum” saw the band styling out the brisk repair with a sleek instrumental jam. The four-piece were comfortable on stage and a broken instrument hiccup was nothing to these guys, within seconds they were back, filling the venue with more blazing tunes.

Emily 7 are a must see live act. They delivered a fantastic live show with an intense conviction that few bands can muster. There are exciting things to come from this band, and I for one am looking forward to it.


Author: Danu

Indie, Live Music, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Pauric O’ Meara Live At The Workman’s Club Dublin With Support From Sophie Doyle Ryder

Against the odds, and with a quick venue change to The Workman’s Club Dublin Pauric O’ Meara rose to the occasion to ensure his headline show last night would go ahead. The venue erupted with energy as the artists performing and the audience were determined their party spirit wouldn’t be dampened as the crowd danced at their seats, sang loudly and cheered for O’ Meara and his band.

Sophie Doyle Ryder warmed up the crowd with her infectious brand of R&B/Pop. With just gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment by Stephen Carolan her powerful soul-filled vocals reverbed throughout the venue, and charmed the crowd instantly – songs about “clingy boys” (The Boys) and a mesmerising cover of Lianne La Havas’ ‘What You Don’t Do’, had the crowd cheering and bopping in no time.

Within the live setting, the artist’s music and contemporary songwriting comes to life and is more dynamic. A fine example on the night was ‘Mood’; which had the crowd in awe of the musician’s deft lyrical depth and vocal delivery. Sophie Doyle Ryder’s irresistible earworms and impressive vocal display make her a compelling singer-songwriter and a must-see live act.

Pauric O’ Meara and his band (Ronan Quinn on Bass, Eoghan Barrett on drums and Liam Smith on guitar) swarmed the stage to a mass of cheers. O’ Meara began with a strikingly beautiful vocal delivery with just soft guitar to accompany him before blasting into an invigorating tune. O’ Meara’s songs are vibrant and more edgy live and his performance instantly had the crowd on their feet as the band’s rich rhythms, earworm melodies and intricate lush layers of guitar caused the crowd to become feverous with dance tendencies. It was a hearty set filled with sing-alongs, clap-alongs and fun banter.

O’ Meara played new unheard songs that went down spectacularly well with the crowd. The audience was in top form on the night and performed every clap, wave and sing-along that was asked of them. O’Meara even managed to get the crowd to spell out the “Illusion” part from the track ‘Love Illusion’, as a sing-along which is impressive considering illusion is a slippery spelling test when alcohol is involved. Live the singer-songwriter’s music is more expressive; ’Waisting Time’, ‘All Alright’, and ‘Techno or RnB’ all exuded a mesmerising and vigorous indie edge that elevated the tracks to glorious new heights.
O’ Meara’s vocals are very impressive live. On the night this was aptly shown when his full band sound was stripped back for the soul-infused performance of ‘Adore’. O’ Meara oozed emotion and warm tones as his vocals glided over the smooth melody with ease – it was a time-stopping and passionate moment within the set that had the crowd enamoured from start to finish.

The atmosphere was electric in the Workman’s last night. Pauric O’ Meara put on a fantastic, fun-filled show that was a joy to experience. His charming persona is utterly infectious and his passionate performance left much to be admired. Check him out live, you won’t be disappointed.


Author: Danu

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

JyellowL Intimate Show in The Workman’s Dublin

The night before the release of his new tantalising single ‘Appetiser’ featuring UK-based artist Antigoni JyellowL marked an incredible year and the single launch with an intimate invite-only show in association with audiomack in The Workman’s Club. His critically acclaimed debut album ‘2020 D|vision’ was nominated for Irish album of the year 2020 at the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Awards and debuted at number two on the official iTunes album charts as well as number 1 in the hip hop category and the best way to celebrate these achievements was a blistering performance ( with special guests ) displaying a diverse array of the artist’s phenomenal tunes.

Paro Pablo and JR took the task of warming up the crowd in their stride. They beckoned the audience to the front of the stage and boosted the JyellowL morale by getting the crowd to chant with them, “when I say Jyellow you say … L”. Their performance as a whole was an energetic and at times, emotional rollercoaster as they rapidly rolled out lyrics about abuse and heartbreak with frantic stamina. With hip hop tunes that packed a punch, Paro Pablo and JR got the audience energised and ready for JyellowL. 

As the chants for JyellowL resounded throughout the venue (provoked by Dendo), the artist emerged on stage to a mass of cheers. A JyellowL show is an experience. The artists’ songs are more zestful, vivacious and fiery live and his larger than life persona and charismatic stage presence had the crowd immediately enamoured. He moved with ease through his diverse array of tunes that included an intense rendition of 2018’s ‘Medusa’ and immersive tunes from the artists’ spectacular debut album ‘2020 D|vision’. JyellowL was in top form on the night, slickly wrapping his tongue around his agile lyrical flows without fault. The crowd lapped up the energy in the room, bouncing off the heavy hip hop vibe while bopping and dancing to the lighter feel-good tunes such as the heavily requested ‘Oh Lawd’. Filled with catchy bars and heavy hip hop fused with R&B, the set was a clean sweep of knock out tunes from start to finish. ‘Ozone’ in particular was jaw-dropping live. The crowd shouted back the lyrics as JyellowL danced on stage – it was a magnificent and jubilant moment in the show. 

JyellowL knows that a live show is as much about the spectacle and occasion as it is the music and he delivered on this front too – with an array of special guests, there was no shortage of talent on stage and we even got an appearance from the music master (and ‘2020 D|Vision’s producer) Chris Kabs. With plenty of encouraging crowd interaction from sing-alongs to arm waving and synchronised clapping, JyellowL had the audience gleefully doing his every bidding for the glorious reward of a few unheard tunes and boy! it was worth it. All I’ll say for now is, JyellowL has some pretty sleek gems on the way. 

The party atmosphere was enhanced by a glorious version of his recent single ‘See Me Finish’ which had the floor of The Workmans bouncing and bending under the weight of the crowd as they danced to the tracks afrobeat, sweet synth embellishments and electronic dance sound. The track is more kinetic and vibrant within the live setting as is the new single ‘Appetiser’. Performed without the beautiful Antigoni, JyellowL showcased a dynamic and powerful version of this sultry tune that oozed lush hooks and velvety vocals from JyellowL. It was a time-stopping moment on the night. 

JyellowL’s intimate show was every bit the crowning triumph. He blew the roof off The Workmans with an unrivalled performance that gave a keyhole glimpse into the sky-scraping future of this artist. His fluidly-evolving raps teamed with textured soundscapes and tight production makes him an unstoppable force to be reckoned with. 


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

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

Event News, Live Music

Event News: Cuan Dingle Announce Three Live Streamed Concerts From 30 – 31 October

An Online Celebration Of Artists Based On The Dingle Peninsula

Featuring Dréimire, Dairena Ní Chinnéide, Niamh Varian Barry, Gerry O’Beirne, Billy Mag Fhloinn, Maggie Breen, Pa Sheehy and Julie Jay

Cuan Dingle have just announced three live-streamed concerts from the Dingle Hub on the 30 – 31 October. The series is an online celebration of artists based on the Dingle Peninsula and features Dréimire, Dairena Ní Chinnéide, Niamh Varian Barry, Gerry O’Beirne, Billy Mag Fhloinn, Maggie Breen, Pa Sheehy and Julie Jay over the two days.

Tickets priced at €10 are on sale now fromhttps://tvlive.ie/ Each concert will run for 1 hour, featuring one music act (45-minute live performance) and one non-music act (15 minutes pre-recorded segment).

Cuan Dingle kicks off on the 30 October at 9 pm with innovative guitar duo Dréimire who are joined by guest singer Clodagh Kearney, as well as internationally renowned and award-winning poet Dairena Ní Chinnéide who will perform some of her work.

Sunday 31 October sees two concerts take place. At 6 pm critically acclaimed singer and violinist Niamh Varian Barry and renowned guitarist and singer/songwriter Gerry O’Beirne are set to perform, followed by folklorist Billy Mag Fhloinn and poet Maggie Breen. At 9 pm Cuan Dingle present Pa Sheehy whose recently released Debut EP ‘The Art Of Disappearing’ hit the Top 10 Irish Charts, followed by one of the most exciting new voices on the Irish comedy scene, comedian Julie Jay. 

The performances will take place in the Dingle Hub which overlooks the beautiful Dingle Marina. The Dingle Hub has a strong creative connection to the community on the Dingle Peninsula. The concerts will highlight the incredible views of the Dingle Marina with a multi-camera production, paired with the highest professional sound and lighting. Being part of the Corca Dhuibhne Gaeltacht, Cuan Dingle is honoured and proud to incorporate the Irish language into the series with a number of performers fluent in Irish. 

The Cuan Dingle series is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, under the Live Performance Support Scheme 2021.

The Cuan Dingle have put together a diverse and eclectic lineup that is sure to put on a riveting performance. Make sure to check it out 


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

Event News, Live Music

Event News: IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR  ‘Live and in person from inside the hatches of Sin É, Dublin…’

///   IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR  \\\

‘Live and in person from inside the hatches of Sin É, Dublin…’

Sin É will host a month-long series of standalone shows with some of the best acts in Ireland. Coming through the doors of Dublin’s iconic Sin É and happening throughout the month of October, this series was made possible with support from The Live Venue Collective and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media.  

Kicking off the series in Week 1 from October 1st will see songstress Bróna Keogh, sharing the bill with Tallaght singer-songwriter Russell Hogg. Indie Rock Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra double headliner with Melter, while new project ANDI is set to wow alongside incredible folk singer Dubh Lee on the bill. Closing the opening week is none other than Sean O’Meara with juicy duo Ispíní na hÉireann.

This is an exciting lineup for the month with artists to suit all music tastes and genres. Sin É have pulled out all the stops to ensure October will be a fantastic month for live music.

FULL SCHEDULE

  • Friday 1st October – Bróna Keogh | Russell Hogg
  • Saturday 2nd October – Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra | Melter
  • Thursday 7th October – Andi | Dubh Lee
  • Friday 8th October – Sean O’ Meara | Ispíní na hÉireann
  • Saturday 9th October – Yankari
  • Sunday 10th October – The Des Hopkins Dixieland Jazz Band
  • Thursday 14th October – Toshín
  • Friday 15th October – Hazey Haze | Citrus Fresh | Krome
  • Saturday 16th October – Columbia Mills | Dunx
  • Sunday 17th October – Varo & Friends | Laura Ann Brady
  • Wednesday 20th October – Vulpynes | Evelyn Finnerty
  • Thursday 21st October – The Dead Fox Sisters | Caoi De Barra
  • Friday 22nd October – Mick Pyro | Gaolbyrd
  • Saturday 23rd October – Special Guest – Bronagh Gallagher and Leila Jane
  • Sunday 24th October – Shy Mascot | Djackulate & H-Ci
  • Wednesday 27th October – Monstera Deliciosa: Fiach O Briain Group | Niwel Tsumbu
  • Thursday 28th October – Dani Larkin | Oscar Blue
  • Friday 29th October – Jackie Beverly | Aonair
  • Saturday 30th October – Yenkee | Five To Two

Tickets for all shows are on sale NOW via Eventbrite.

Full listings here : https://www.eventbrite.ie/d/ireland–dublin/sin-e/ 


Author: Danu

Indie, Live Music, New Music

Laura Duff ‘Wayside’

Limerick’s Laura Duff has released her new single, ‘Wayside’.‘Wayside’ is the debut single from her sophomore EP entitled ‘Heavy Summer’.The EP was recorded and produced by Christian Best of Monique Studios, Midleton Co. Cork, and mastered by Richard Dowling of Wav Mastering, Limerick. The band lineup features Laura Duff (vocals, keys, acoustic guitar), JJ Lee (bass), Christopher O’Sullivan (drums), Finn Fogarty (lead guitar). Laura is a past student of University College Cork’s Music Department and an award-winning songwriter. She was named the Paul Clancy Songwriter of the Year at 2015’s Irish Youth Music Awards. More recently, she was selected as Circuit Arts Festival Music Project Awardee in April 2021. Following the release of ‘Wayside’, the band are set to play Pot Duggan’s in Ennistymon, Co. Clare in October, with more shows and releases to be announced.

‘Wayside’ broods with intoxicating tones as Laura Duff presents her luring indie noir pop sound through this easy on the ears gem. This mellow tune balances dark smoky melodies with subtle glimmering guitar and keys to create an enticing rabbit hole of tantalising soundscapes. The song ventures between laid back psychedelia and indie effortlessly to create a fluid sultry tune for listeners to immerse themselves in. Duff’s smooth vocals smoulder throughout, while the sharp twinkles on guitar and layered backing vocals create a prismatic psychedelic effect with undertones of desert rock rumbling beneath. Within each verse and musical embellishment, ‘Wayside’ reveals new and captivating sounds that are a delight to listeners ears. Laura Duff is quite an exciting artist. 

Stream ‘Wayside’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/laura-duff-1/wayside/s-s6Rjlt1UGTo


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