Category Archives: New Music

Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Giorgio De Palo ‘Rails’

Italian singer-songwriter Giorgio De Palo has released his debut single ‘Rails’. The song is the last goodbye between two soulmates waiting for a train. With this romantic cliché Giorgio represents his very own anxiety towards love linked to the passage of time. ‘Rails’ is an expression of this insecurity and the loss of control through the metaphor of farewell. Born in Rome, raised internationally and currently based in Berlin, his new single is taken off his upcoming EP ‘First Waves’, which will be released in the first months of 2019.

‘Rails’ is a sweet ditty that floods with passion and tenderness. Warm twinkling guitar embraces the soft melody with a melancholic tone as Giorgio caresses this lamentable scene with his gentle vocals. The soft beat is blended through the wistful sting on guitar while sway-able soundscapes create a cinematic gripping atmosphere.It’s emotional and elegant all while surging bittersweet tones of romance and loss through every pulse and sublime note. This easy going rich indie pop track is a sublime debut from the Italian singer songwriter.

Watch the video for ‘Rails’ below

 

 


Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Edits ‘Cold’

Manchester synth pop duo Edits have released their new single ‘Cold’. Formed in the legendary crumbling walls of Salford Uni’s Adelphi building, Liv Westhead (Vocals/Synths) and Chris Abbott (Guitars/Programming) provide their D.I.Y. aesthetic; producing everything themselves, including their music videos. Their latest single follows on from January’s ‘Re-Surface’ EP and the accompanying video takes the viewer on a journey through snow-covered mountains.

‘Cold’ is an endearing, breezy synth pop number that chills and swirls with kinetic icy adrenaline. Twinkling synths glitter and glisten through the brooding melody as Westhead coo’s over the spine tingling melody. Her vocal command is mesmerising as she sweetly and effortlessly shifts into her falsetto holding a soothing yet ominous tone. The track flurries and dances about dark soundscapes as it becomes heavier towards the crescendo. The slapping beat flashes dazzling trip hop hues throughout as Edits use their electronics to their full potential- creating a cinematic icy number to chill you to the core yet entice you into the track depths. It’s a mature, bold track that slides this duo’s charming glacial sound into your frostbitten ears with ease.

Stream ‘Cold’ below

 


EP Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jane Willow ‘Onward Still’ EP

Dublin-based folk singer Jane Willow is set to release her debut EP ‘Onward Still’ on November 22nd with a full band show in The Sound House, Dublin.In recent years Jane’s played an incredible amount of gigs, performing at Vicar  Street, Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, Galway’s Roisin Dubh and Electric Picnic. In August 2017 she opened for Glen Hansard in Vicar Street. She followed this gig with a full band show in the Grand  Social.She has been featured on RTE Radio 1, BBC Radio Ulster, Lyric FM and recently won the Intercollective Competition ‘Best Musician’ (2018).On her debut EP she collaborates with Dave Hingerty (drums: Kila, The Frames), Vyvienne Long (cello: Damien Rice) and regular band members Joanna Marie Burke (backing vocals), Eoin  Healy (bass), Derek Copley (mandolin) and Scott Flanigan (keys).

‘Onward Still’ is a precious collection of tracks that flow on sweet luscious melodies, pristine musicianship and a purity that is mesmerising. Title track ‘Onward Still’ kicks the EP in motion filled with wholesomeness as a glistening guitar weaves its playful way between warm mandolin, vibrant drum taps and elegant string injections. Jane’s vocals on this EP are enchanting. Throughout ‘On My Mind’ she coos and beautifully expresses the vivid lyrics with an elegance and passion that stops time as the melancholic cello laments through twinkling keys and gracefully plucked guitar. Each track is meticulously crafted for a satisfying listen.From the perky earthy ‘Nobody Knows’ and buoyant joyful ‘Hannah’ to the delicate tender ‘If I Did Love You’, the EP floats upon a dreamy state of majesty and refined grandeur. There is a maturity and genuine purity about each track as the guitars, bass, drums, keys and cello blend perfectly with Jane’s vocals making each stride, flicker and note captivating and magical. ‘Comfort’ brings us to the end of the EP with warm guitar glimmers between Jane’s immaculate vocal delivery. The harmonies are lush as this track does exactly as its title suggests,  it soothes the soul and gives a comforting hug to your ears.

Jane Willow has provided a warm cosy collection of tracks  filled with delicacy and joy while vivid lyrics, beautiful vocals and sublime instrumentation establish her enthralling sound perfectly.

Watch the video for ‘Onward Still’ below

 

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Album Review, Blues, Folk, Folk and Soul, Indie, New Music

Magpie Diaries ‘Sanctuary’ Album

Country/folk group Magpie Diaries have released their long-awaited 11-track debut album ‘Sanctuary’ via Dashville. Originating in Hunter Valley, Australia, singer-songwriter Matt “Magpie” Johnston unassumingly founded Magpie Diaries as a coping mechanism for the loss of a dear friend, channeling his grief into the band’s signature brand of smooth alternative country music, bolstered by a tinge of folk and psychedelic rock straight out of the 70s. Motivated to continue this musical journey, Johnston set to work on the songs, recording Sanctuary with producer Matt Sherrod (Crowded House, Beck, William Crighton), over the next 3 years. Alongside his own musical endeavours, Magpie hosts a festival in his family property once a year. The festival titled The Gum Ball started over 10 years ago and today brings in crowds from around the world.
‘Sanctuary’ is a laid back mellow collection of tracks that melt gloriously into the ears creating a rich easy listening experience. The tracks swoon and glide about melancholic tones and dreamy vibes. Opening track ‘Beat Myself Up’ creates the swaying calm atmosphere with warm raspy vocals, lush harmonies and bittersweet guitar twangs. The guitar melodies in the tracks creates a sweet euphoric tone throughout the album from pining laments to steamy whines in ‘Irresistable Pie’ – the guitars flood each track with rich and varied characters. The album ranges from the upbeat soulful folky tones of ‘When Love Comes, ’10 Honey’ and ‘Beetroot’ to the tender ‘Strawberries & Cream’ and ‘If You’re Hurting’.When Magpie Diaries wants to lull you into a dreamy melancholic country toned stupor they do it superbly with sweet lyrics, beautiful melodies and soft passionate instrumentation and when they want to add a dash of shimmying vibrancy the shift is seamless and joyous without ruining the easy going mood of the album. The foot tapping infectious ‘Mumma’s Right’ and the delicate emotional ‘This Spring’ show this perfectly. The shift in tone is refreshing yet subtle. ‘Wastin’ Time’ thuds in on a darker tone as a stomping beat backs a sultry bluesy guitar and luring mysterious atmosphere. The brass elements through the album are simply sublime and lace each track with a juicy sultry persona. The raw ‘Don’t Give Up’ closes the album on an emotional vibe as glistening keys twinkle softly between strong guitar chords and lush vocals. It’s a passionate bruised end to the album that hits you hard in the chest and pulls at those heart strings. It’s a comforting track that gives hope and motivation in difficult times.

‘Sanctuary’ blends, churns and glides through a multitude of emotions from sensual, melancholic to cheery effortlessly while creating the perfect relaxed atmosphere to submerge yourself in.

Magpie Diaries will support the release of Sanctuary with 4 shows at the prestigious Woodford Folk Festival over New Years, along with an Australian East Coast tour throughout January – March. More information can be found on their socials here https://www.facebook.com/magpiediaries/

 

Stream ‘Sanctuary’ below

 


Alt Rock, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Badhands ‘Monday Morning’

Badhands (aka Daniel Fitzpatrick) has released his debut album this week along with the video for the lead single, ‘Monday Morning’.Badhands is the musical project of Dublin songwriter and musician Dan Fitzpatrick. His recently completed debut album, entitled ‘Predictable Boy’, began as a collaboration with producer and bass player Tom Cosgrave (The Minutes), then quickly evolved in to a more expansive project with the enlistment of multi-instrumentalist Aoife Ruth, drummer Ken Mooney, and engineer Chris Barry. With a strong focus on lyrics and vocals the album explores themes such as laziness, loneliness, loss and madness. Badhands debut single ‘Waves’ was released in November 2017, and was soon followed by an impressive run of live gigs, namely a performance at the Whelan’s Ones to Watch festival, a packed headline show in The Workmans Club, and a sold out gig at Vicar Street supporting Michael McDonald.Predictable Boy marks Fitzpatrick’s first venture as a solo artist, having previously worked as a musician and songwriter for years with the likes of The Mighty Stef, The Last Tycoons, Paddy Hanna and Maud in Cahoots.

‘Monday Morning’ is a gloriously melodic number which floats upon a rich energetic backdrop of jagged guitar injections, punchy drums and an elastic rooted bass line that weaves and twirls its way into your spine making you groove and dance along. With a bitter sweet melancholic melody drizzled into your ears by Fitzpatrick’s warm raspy vocals, this track is drenched in passionate tender moments that are incredibly relatable and touching. With sombre tones perfectly contrasted against vibrant lush instrumentation, Fitzpatrick presents a wholly consuming, mature number full of gusto and honesty. His musicianship is refined, pure and brimming with opulent textures as he wavers between the darker tones of the brooding Monday monotony and the lively foot tapping energy seamlessly to create a charming little ditty that is sure to make your day better.
Badhands ‘Predictable Boy launch is at The Workman’s Club in Dublin this coming Saturday, November 17th make sure to check it out. More live dates below

November 16th – Bennigans, Derry
November 17th – The Workmans Club, Dublin
November 22nd – The Roisin Dubh, Galway
November 24th – Broken Home, Newbridge
December 7th – Pharmacia, Limerick
Plus More TBA

Watch the video for ‘Monday Morning’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Jade Bird

London-based songwriter Jade Bird has made a blinding return with her new single ‘Love Has All Been Done Before’. Fast-becoming a household name with her beautifully distinctive voice and fiercely raw pop songs that tell unforgettable life-stories, Jade Bird is firmly in ascent. Her recent single ‘Uh Huh’ took up residency on the Radio 1 B-list as Bird toured America, playing sold out shows to doting crowds everywhere she went.The 20-year-old has toured profusely across the world with her band, performed her breakthrough single ‘Lottery’ on Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and the UK’s ‘Later…With Jools Holland’ too and most recently gone into session at Maida Vale with Annie Mac for Radio 1. This month, Bird will embark her biggest ever UK & Irish headline tour – an 11-stop run taking in all the major cities including a stop-off in Dublin, where she plays Whelan’s on November 30th .

‘Love Has All Been Done Before’ is a powerful splurge of alternative pop. Brimming with fiery attitude Bird’s raspy vocals coo and belt out with demanding charm and charisma as she calls for more respect and romance in a relationship that is becoming depressingly monotonous. Swept up in a whirl of crashing drums, vibrant guitars and exhilarating soundscapes this track rushes with high voltage adrenaline while a sweet cheery melody hops along with a peppy infectiousness to remain in your head for days. The verses skip around her commanding bright vocals with an innocent cheeky bop before the chorus explodes into a mighty intense outburst. It’s an electrifying track that oozes passion and vigor with a dynamic rich instrumental backing to have you instantly hooked on Jade Birds irresistible sound.

You can catch Jade Bird live at:

20/11 The Globe – Cardiff

21/11 Electric Brixton – London

22/11 The Haunt – Brighton

24/11 O2 Institute3 Birmingham – Birmingham

25/11 Deaf Institute – Manchester

26/11 Rescue Rooms – Nottingham

28/11 The Wardrobe – Leeds

29/11 King Tuts Wah Wah Hut – Glasgow

30/11 Whelan’s – Dublin

08/12 Southampton Engine Rooms – Southampton

09/12 The Cavern – Exeter

Stream ‘Love Has All Been Done Before’ below

 


EP Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Emilio Pinchi ‘Holiday’ EP

Emilio Pinchi has released his new EP ‘Holiday’. Pinchi is a twenty-something year old living in Liverpool. With previous releases picked up by BBC 6 Music, Pinchi announced his latest EP ‘Holiday’, available digitally and on limited edition metal tin cassette, through Klee Music. Influenced by the likes of Elliot Smith and Car Seat Headrest, Pinchi offers an introspective view on life, nostalgia and consumerism in an anonymous city. His previous singles ‘High Times’ and ‘Paint By Number’ were accompanied by several live dates around Europe and the UK, including performances at Liverpool Sound City 2018, Zizkovska NOC 2018 (Prague), and support slots with the likes of Beans On Toast.

‘Holiday’ is an easygoing sweet collection of tracks to lull you into a sun sprinkled daydream. Title track ‘Holiday’ sets the mellowness in motion with twinkling guitar between a steady beat as Pinchi coo’s over a honeyed melody while buoyant keys playfully bounce around this sparkling gem. The tracks have a unique dreamy effect as they float along cheery melancholic tones with the lyrics sometimes taking a sarcastic outlook. ‘Coffee’ twangs with a sweet lamenting harmonica element while ‘This Machine’ strolls along with lush harmonies and glorious supple guitar elements. Pinchi manages to fill the tracks with bitter sweet tones as he glides along peppy backdrops of daisies and delicacy contrasting perfectly with his heart pining melodies and soft vocals. Elegant guitar strums and a steady beat keeps the tracks trudging along while the keys, harmonica and smooth melodies display the yearning and heart wrenching tones.’White Wine Water Bottle’ brings the EP to a glistening end. There is some beautiful guitar moments in this EP and this track shows this in all its radiant glory. It’s an honest track brimming with superb instrumentation as jangly keys keep the peppy tone throughout while a solid beat maintains a steady foundation for this effortlessly flowing delight.

‘Holiday’ is a charming, authentic EP that rests comfortably on the ears caressing and soothing you with meaningful melodies and subtly luscious instrumentation which envelopes the touching lyrics.

Stream ‘This Machine’ below

https://soundcloud.com/user-177042204/this-machine-011018


Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music, Punk Rock

Indie Buddie Introducing : doops

Reading based three piece doops have released their second single ‘Laika’.The band comprised of Andrew Bingham (Guitar, Vocals), Chris Crouch (Drums) & Luke Connor (Bass)  have already supported the likes of ‘Touts’, ‘King Nun’ and ‘Saint Agnes’.They have also played packed slots at Are You Listening Festival, Readipop & Oxjam along with a sold out release show for their debut single ‘GUSHROOM’ at the Monto Water Rats in Kings X.

‘Laika’ is an abrasive, raw gash of alternative rock at its most blistering, mind dissolving best. These guys whack out this hyperactive number as it travels at a brisk speed ready for a brawl and jam packed with shrilling guitar distortion and a snappy exhilarating rhythm. Coming in at a short 1 minute and 25 seconds, this song is one pure concoction, distilled to its finest dizzying dosage. The punk attitude is doused on top of raw guitar lacerations. Heavy, meaty beats push the track into your head with a thrilling, bashing force while spacey acid fizzling riffs keep everything at a dynamic high. The rapid lyrics spit through the frenzied soundscapes with an effortless ease as the track builds to a paralyzing guitar solo. These guys have a fresh penetrating sound that is sure to drive your blood pressure to the roof in the most invigorating way.

Stream ‘Laika’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

RAFFER ‘Can’t Resist It’

Clean-cut, indie/pop artist RAFFER is back with yet another dazzling independent release -the self-produced single ‘Can’t Resist It’.This tutti- frutti gem floats upon a sweet nostalgic soundscape as rich rhythms slap and groove between swirling electronics.It’s a tight number that glows glorious radiant vibes as zesty guitar melodies entwine the luscious backdrop adding a refreshing burst of vitality while Raffer’s velvety vocals glide effortlessly and tenderly over the candy coated melody. It’s a compact, danceable indie pop delight that wraps your ears in luxurious sweet tones and delicious melodies.

Stream ‘Can’t Resist it’ below


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

whenyoung ‘Given Up’ EP

Limerick’s finest indie-poppers whenyoung have released their new EP ‘Given Up’ released through Virgin EMI. This follows  their recent singles ‘Heaven on Earth’ and their cover of the Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’. The trio also recently released a stunning video for the title track, filmed in London’s iconic Peckham Liberals Club and directed by, Dazed editorial director, Bunny Kinney. It shows the band as a conduit for escape from banal, suburban living.The band have performed in Dublin as part of Shane Mcgowan’s 60th birthday celebration alongside the likes of Nick Cave and Sinead O’Connor. They’ve also supported the likes of Dream Wife, Declan McKenna, The Vaccines and Peace.Having already played storming sets at this year’s Electric Picnic, All Together Now Festival, Great Escape, Latitude, Kendal Calling and Bestival the band are also supporting Blossoms on a nationwide tour in December.

‘Given Up’ is a perfectly balanced EP showcasing the refined and mature musicianship of whenyoung. They jump straight into their bubbly infectious indie with title track ‘Given Up’. Stinging guitars jaggedly slice their way through this Pixies-esque number as the entire track revolves around a driving drum and bass groove with the honey drizzled melody gliding above like a soothing blanket from heaven.The harmonies in this track are just so luscious. ‘Heaven on Earth’ follows. It’s another tasty indie banger filled with vibrancy, shedding guitar lines and the perfect sing along anthemic chorus. Having featured both of these tracks on Indie Buddie this year I have come to appreciate the intricacy within this trios musicianship. Aoife Power’s vocals are immaculate throughout the EP her voice filled with sweet coos, luscious tones and yet she holds a powerful and demanding air that is mesmerising. However it is their ability to create an upbeat tune with darker underlying tones adding depth that sets these guys apart. The sweet ethereal cover of The Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’ lies comfortably nestled in the middle of the EP. Passionate, pristine and touching whenyoung present the track exquisitely- balancing the tender delicacy with edgy rawness seamlessly. It stops time. ‘Sleeper’ brings us to the end of the EP – flawless, sweet and emotional, this track shows us the sombre, majestic side to whenyoung. Reaching into the depths of your mind they find the tender moments, gently draw them out and sweetly lament them back to you. A soft guitar melody mournfully pines behind Power’s beautiful crisp vocals while a delicate tapping beat sets a steady thud and mournful tone to this magical number.

whenyoung didn’t disappoint they lived up to the hype of their singles and even threw in a blinder in the form of the enchanting heavy-hearted ‘Sleeper’.

Stream ‘Given Up’ below