Category Archives: Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With, Alt- Pop, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With: LYRA

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Irish pop-dance sensation LYRA has released her new single ‘Chess’, which is taken from her highly- anticipated upcoming album. I caught up with the singer-songwriter to discuss the new single, what we can expect from the album and what she has planned for her upcoming tour. 

“So this song is about the mind games I was going through at the very early stages of my career in the music industry trying to make it as a female artist. I wanted to write about it but I didn’t want to write about it in the way of like pointing the finger and being like, Oh, I can’t believe you all told me to lose weight. How dare you kind of finger wagging style. I wanted to do something that told the message, through my style, which I suppose in this song a bit darker, a bit poppier. My dad taught me how to play chess when I was younger, and I was like, Well, this is a perfect way to say what I want to say, but not have to do the whole finger-wagging thing. So I sat down on my sofa and put the two concepts together and started writing about my experience. The lyrics say exactly what I want to say so there’s no hiding there, so it’s all out there like, “Would it make a difference if I was the same sex” It’s unfortunate us poor women seem to be pitted against each other? I don’t know why because I would love if we all got the lime light, it would be fantastic. And actually another one; “I dont want the lime light I just want a fare fight”, you know, I just wanted my chance, my opportunity to show them what I could do. So that’s the main inspiration behind the whole song, just me wanting to get there.”

 Whether it’s energetic dance elements, bright pop soundscapes or moving ballads, LYRA’s music is filled with dynamic and passionate instrumental arrangements that express the tone of the track.  ‘Chess’ is a fine example of this. LYRA has wrapped the darker subject matter of the lyrics in pulsing beats, tense synths and ethereal soundscapes to create a track that is mesmerising and moving while balancing darker tones throughout.

“Yeah, I knew that I wanted to have dark elements in it, but I also didn’t want it to go too dark. Because obviously with the message being dark, you don’t want the instrumentation to completely go to the dark side because you just end up with a track that you know, it’s not very uplifting and I didn’t want it to be a woe is me kind of thing. I also wanted to have the uplifting side of it. So when I was going about producing this with Dan Priddy, who is a producer on it, I was very much expressing that to him. There are certain sounds that I knew would sound good in this track, like, the bass and clicks and stuff like that. So, I’m very, confident in myself to be able to express that when I am in the studio, in order to make my songs sound very much like me. I have had a massive input in it. When I’m writing songs and when I’m sitting at home on my iPad, when I was coming up with the lyrics and the melody, I can almost hear how the song should sound. So it’s very easy for me then to just portray that to a producer and be like, Okay, this is how this song needs to sound because that’s how it will get the story across the best.”

“ I’m not going to sugar coat it. It is telling a darker message. It is telling a message of, being a woman and, being kind of battled up against other women, which is something that I am not for. I am all for women supporting women and, you know, going through being told to lose weight to fit in this box that they wanted to put me in or you know, things like that and it was a struggle, so that’s why I did want to bring the production down the darker side of things because it is a dark side of the industry.”

The melody within ‘Chess’ is luscious and oozes emotion. It’s a powerful pop song that boasts a catchy refrain and striking melodic flow.

“With this song when I sat down at home, I knew what I wanted to write about and I had written down some words. Then I just started singing the words and the melody just came. I actually didn’t have the chorus for a while, which actually is the easiest part of the song because it just says “chess you want to play chess”. I don’t know how I didn’t come up with that at the start. But it was more about telling the story for me in this one than finding a melody and then hoping that the words fit. For me, this one was all about the lyrics. So I started with that. Then I just threw down a few chords on my iPad, and it just came about. They just all seemed to match together. It didn’t take me that long to write which is great when you have one of those. Not all of them are like that, but this one, I think I was so passionate about what I wanted to say that I was like, right? Here are the lyrics, lets find the melody for it and that was it. “

‘Chess’ is an exciting glimpse into what we can expect from LYRA’s upcoming album.

“Oh, that album. It’s gonna be so bloody juicy. It’s a nice little introduction to the album for sure. This is the start, it’s kind of like okay, we have a little flavor here. The flavour is gonna get more and more and more intense until your mind is blown.”

“I’m really excited for it. I actually had to stop myself from listening to them, like don’t listen to it now you’re gonna ruin it. You’re going to ruin it for yourself and I keep picking out things. I’m like, oh, that bass could have been higher. Oh, that beat or whatever and I’m like stop listening to it now. But I’m very excited for everyone else to listen to it. It’s definitely gonna tell a journey and it’s going to tell people a lot about me and my life. So people are going to get to know me and I can’t wait to tell them what every song means and why I wrote it and where I was in my life when that happened to me etc. All of them are personal journeys to me. It’s what I’ve been through the past couple years so I’m looking forward to sharing it with you in a musical way because it makes it not so scary when its a musical way”

UK producers Mark Crew and Dan Priddy who have also worked with Bastille, Rag ‘n’Bone Man and Freya Ridings, worked on the record with LYRA. We discussed what they brought to the songs and how they influenced her sound.

“Yeah, you know, in fairness credit to the boys. I started Chess at home on my ipad and it literally was just a melody, lyrics and chords. When I brought it into Dan he was like, this idea is amazing, lets go with it. I know the production I want and I’m very good at vocalising it but it was you know, trying to go through the libraries and catalogues of sounds and stuff like that. It’s fantastic to have him on board saying, okay, I get what you mean there, I think this sound is what you’re looking for. So to have that from them is really good. Sometimes I suppose, me being so close to the music, I need somebody on the other side to have a fresh set of eyes and ears. I really appreciate [them], they’ve worked on songs with Rag ‘n’Bone Man, Bastille the new Shania Twain stuff. I know they know what they’re doing. So it’s really nice to also ask their advice and pick their brains with things like, oh, how would you think this would sound bigger or wider or what reverb do you reckon we should use on my voice? I love things like that. That’s why I love collaborating and finding new people and it originally started with me and Dan creating Chess. Then when I went to reproduce it for the album, Mark Crew came in, so it was really nice to have another fresh take.  It’s nice knowing that they’re so well up in their game, and I feel very confident with the choices that we make together as a team, which I love.”

To celebrate the release of ‘Chess’,  LYRA will be heading out on a twenty-two-date Irish Tour this Spring including two dates at 3Olympia Theatre in Dublin. This is huge for the singer-songwriter and a wonderful opportunity for her fans to see her charismatic stage performance and mesmerising presence.

“Oh my god. I’ve actually started to do spin classes because my mom was like, you’re doing 22 shows and I suppose I didn’t really sit down and let that sink to my mind. I was like, oh my god, I’m doing 22 shows. I’m going to be found dead in the bush somewhere if I don’t get my cardio up because getting on stage in thigh high boots, heels, and belting out the songs is a lot. So I was like, right, I need to get myself in shape. So I actually started these spin classes. I hope they don’t mind me there in the back and any track that I know I’m like trying to sing along quietly to try and get my lungs working while I’m sweating myself on the thing. So it’s going to be a great tour. I think [the] tour is actually one of my favorite times because you get to sing your songs. You get to see the audience you get this initial reaction and communication with them and its such a life experience. I’m always bawling, crying when I come offstage. Everyone’s like, oh my god, you give her a minute. She’s bawling. But I’m never sad. I’m so overwhelmed with happiness just seeing people have your back. It’s a very lonely industry that we’re in. So to get on stage and see all these people who have come to support you, and love you is just mind bloody blowing, like the best ever. So it’s my favourite time. I’m going to really live up these 22 days.

LYRA is a passionate and compelling songwriter who pours all she has into her art. ‘Chess’ is a fine example of first-rate musicianship and is a delight to listen to. With this track as a tantalizing appetiser, it’s sure the album is going to be a triumph for her. LYRA is gaining momentum and has a lot more exciting things to come.

“When we’re selecting the album, we had so many tracks to choose from. So this is chapter one of LYRA. Then I’m just going to keep going and spend this whole year doing my album, it’s all about my album and it’s all about getting out there singing it for people, getting people to know it. Getting people to know me as an artist. This is what this year is about. It’s about everything LYRA and I’m so excited I finally get to do this. I’ve been waiting for so long. I feel like this is the time now. It’s so exciting. I just feel I’m living the dream.”

“Obviously, all this was supposed to happen the year that we were stuck inside and covid got us all locked down. I thought that maybe that was me done. I thought I’m never going to build up momentum again. Two years of lockdown. I’m not very great at social media. People are gonna forget about me and I couldn’t get into the studio and do my album. The bans got lifted. I had to go back out on the road just to get people re-familiar with me. So the album took another backseat. Now I’m finally happy to say that this year, we’ve spent so many months working on it and it’s actually coming out. It’s weird. It’s actually so surreal. Every time I post anything about it. I say to my sister, I feel sick. I can’t believe this is actually happening. Even yesterday when I posted the album cover for the first time I was like I feel sick. Eight months ago I was in a photo shoot and now with one click of a button everyone has seen it. It’s just weird, but it’s great. I’m really just going to enjoy it and live it up because you never know when it can be taken away from me again so I’m just going to go hell for leather girl.”

LYRA’s grandmother has been at the forefront of her mind and career since she started releasing music. Her first single ‘Emerald’ was about her grandmother and even today as we discuss her stunning album cover she feels her grandmother is watching over her and blessing her music endeavours.

“Thank you. I think it was like one of the first shots that we actually took and we all, well I didn’t because I couldn’t bloody see it. I was bloody blinded by that light that was in my face. But everyone in the crew just went, that is it. I was like surely not. We’ve literally just started, that can’t be it and they were like, that’s it. I looked at it and I was like yeah, that’s the one. I’m all about my nan being with me for this whole experience because I wrote Emerald about her which was my first song which started my career. So I feel like she’s been there and that happening, I was like yeah, for me, she’s making it happen.”

LYRA is a diverse and captivating artist who isn’t defined by a genre. ‘Chess’ showcases an emotional and powerful ballad aspect to her sound and teases an exciting glimpse into what is sure to be a brilliant album.

Stream ‘Chess’ below


Author: Danu

A Chat With, EP Review, Indie, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With: Pa Sheehy

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Former lead singer of Walking on Cars, Pa Sheehy, has released his new Christmas EP ‘The Christmas Fool’. I caught up with the Kerry songwriter to discuss his musical inspirations for the EP, his European and UK tour, his plans for next year and what sparked the decision to release a Christmas EP.

“Basically what happens to me almost every year, well the last couple of years.I get this lovely notion to release Christmas music around November time, but by the time November comes, it’s too late.So I found myself a bit more organized this year. I spent half the summer working on Christmas tunes.The weather wasn’t great anyway, so it wasn’t too difficult to get into the swing of things and pretend it was Christmas. So yeah, I always wanted to write a Christmas song and I just felt that it needed to be part of something bigger. So I found some songs that felt right and I’m happy to have something out there now.”

The Title ‘The Christmas Fool’ comes from one of the musical gems on the EP, ‘Abigail’ we discussed the track and why it sparked the title for the EP.

“[The title] is a lyric in a track called ‘Abigail’. I suppose for me ‘Abigail’ represents a symbol of Christmas or a symbol of sadness, loss, its a symbol of home, craic, all the things that represent Christmas. That tune is about looking back at simpler times, and times like for me probably early 20s when all your friends are in the same room at Christmas but life is very simple. It’s all about just going out and having the craic and being with your friends and it’s all easy. Then you fast forward a couple years, where everybody has their own life and everybody’s doing their own thing and that room suddenly becomes a lot smaller and the people in it become far less and it’s just a different place that everybody’s in their lives. So ‘Abigail’ represents what we had back when I guess.”

‘Abigail’ is a beautiful track. With delicate instrumentation encased in strong drums and icy piano. Sheehy eloquently captures that sort of chill and cold harshness of Christmas while balancing a warmth and cosy contrast showing the many emotions that Christmas can bring.

“Thanks very much. I had that motif, for ‘Abigail’ for like two years. I knew it was a Christmas song, but I didn’t know what to do with it or how to approach it. So I met a friend of mine one day this year, and we sat down and we got on it. Yeah, delighted to evolve into what it is now.”

Within this EP, Sheehy manages to keep the instrumentation and production sparse and organic. It is never overpowering yet is filled with emotion. The production, his voice and his choice of instrumentation all ooze passion and tenderness. Sheehy takes the time to allow the music to evolve naturally and form relatable images of Christmas within the listener’s mind. 

“Thanks for noticing that. That is something that I was very, very mindful of. I suppose a lot of my earlier career was around making songs as big as possible and like throwing the kitchen sink at it production-wise. I often look back at the music I made my early days and think its over produced and it hasn’t aged well because we used modern production a lot. Whereas I really want to just keep it as organic as possible. Because in 10 years time, a drum kit is gonna sound like a drum kit. A real piano is gonna still sound like a piano or the guitar is gonna sound like a guitar. I feel the minute you start adding too much modern sounds to it you’re going to walk away and look back in a couple of years time and think why did I do that? So I was always mindful to keep it real and keep it really organic and acoustic “

Sheehy provides a wonderful cover of ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ on the EP. Again he provides a timeless and moving version of this song. With warm vocals and expressive instrumentation, he creates a soothing, warm and sombre rendition. 

“I think it was one of those Christmas songs that like its Christmassy but it’s not cheesy. Because there’s a lot of cheesy Christmas songs and they’re all great, but this one just has a little bit of class to it, I think. Yeah, to be honest, the guys that produced that track, John Bird and Jake Curran. They really brought that to life with the fretless bass and just had the little fire in the background and it feels nice Christmassy. They did really well and they didn’t overcook it”

Sheehy was in the airport heading to one of his shows while we were chatting and we discussed how the European and UK tour was going.

“Yeah, really enjoying it we had our first gig last night in Berlin and that went really well it was a nice really warm welcome and the crowd were unbelievable. So really nice way to kick off things. We’ve just landed in Amsterdam now and ‘Abigail’ and ‘So Much Wine’ are the two tracks that are on the setlist and yeah it feels really good to play live. “

“I think we’re just in time. I think if we were on tour last week, it would have been too early for Christmas songs. But it’s just the right moment I think we got lucky with the tour dates”

With a fantastic Christmas EP just released, I asked Sheehy if he plans to release more music in 2024.

“I have a song coming out on the 12th of January. Its a  cover. Myself and my friend Hannah Cullen have recorded an acoustic version and its set for release on the 12th of January and then after that, I’ve got loads of music on my laptop and I have made no plans. I need to make January my planning month so at the minute I just have loads of music but no plan as of yet.”

Pa Sheehy is a musician to treasure. His ability to evoke raw images and capture emotion within his songwriting and musicianship is captivating and makes his music timeless and relatable on many levels. His songs are heartfelt, raw and catchy. ‘The Christmas Fool’ is a glorious listening experience and a moving example of his talent.

Stream ‘The Christmas Fool’ Below


Author: Danu

A Chat With, Indie, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With: Isaac Butler

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Following a whirlwind summer of songwriting, performing, and charting, Isaac Butler has released his new single ‘Heart of Gold’, ahead of the upcoming headline show at Dublin’s Academy on December 1st. I caught up with the singer-songwriter to have a chat about his upcoming show, his plans for the rest of the year and how he created his new single.

‘Heart of Gold’ is a wholesome heartfelt tune brimming with anthemic melodies and passionate songwriting. Butler explained the personal story behind the track.

“Yes, so it’s a funny one. It actually came about from a conversation that I had with my dad. The pre-chorus leading into the chorus, those lines are: “my dad said son you’ll find the one but love is never easy” and this whole conversation came about because I had just ended a relationship and I was feeling almost worried and anxious about like, oh my god I’m getting on. I’m into my mid to late 20s and I’ve just broken up with or from a long relationship like, what’s the story? Am I going to dial up? I was freaking out, I suppose and he let me have my panic, kind of 10 minute rant. Then he just looked at me and said right are you finished? and then gave me some advice and he said, Look, you need to relax. Just chill out. It’ll all happen. If you get out of your own way. I suppose it was those two lines. My dad said son, you’ll find the one, love is never easy and then I wrote the song around that idea.”

As in all of Butler’s songs, the lyrics are relatable, express a sense of vulnerability and are deeply honest. This earnest quality enriches his songs and makes the listener really connect.

“Is it hard for me to put out there? Yeah, it probably is. But I’m getting much better at it. I think I fell into this trap when I was first releasing music of, well not a trap but I suppose this works both ways. But I was writing songs that weren’t too personal. There were stories that I heard or even things sometimes that I just kind of created and what I found is in recent years is the songs that really connect are the songs that I can talk openly [ about ], like this. I think it comes [ across ] in the actual recording. Then when I’m speaking about them, like in this situation I can really get into the deep tissue of what the songs actually mean to me. I think that’s what connects with people more so than catchy melodies all that kind of thing.”

‘Heart of Gold’ has Celtic elements sweeping between indie guitars, pop melodies and an anthemic chorus. We discussed the production and how Butler envisioned the song’s sound when he first wrote it.

“I started with those two lines. Obviously, that’s what I build the song around, but I had the “My Heart of gold” I had that chant in my head on the first day and I again, tried to build the chorus around that big chant because I always come back to the reason I’m doing this is I want to play big shows. I want to have people belting out these songs and I think the best way to do that is, there’s three things that I’ve put it down to; tell the truth. Number two, make them anthemic and three, make them emotional. But yeah the big guitars and also all the vocals was definitely a very important part to me even from day one of writing the song and I made that very clear when we went in to produce it.”

The new single is released ahead of what will be Butler’s biggest headline show to date at Dublin’s Academy on December 1st. 

“I’m very excited. Yes, I’m very excited. I got some tickets to sell, but I’m very excited. So Whelan’s obviously was in March. That was great. So they seemed to really enjoy it. I loved it and then yeah, moving now towards The Academy. It’s going to be obviously my biggest headline to date, but my biggest production to date as well. I’m bringing in some lights guy, sound team and stuff. So yeah, it’s really going to be a level-up. So for anyone listening that wants to come along, it’d be great to have you there because it’s really going to be I suppose my best showcase to date”

Upon listening to Heart of Gold, the listener gets an instant feeling that the song is going to be epic live. Its powerful chorus sparks images of crowd’s bellowing it back live. I wondered if Butler had a particular track that he is excited to perform in The Academy.

“There’s a few unreleased ones, you know super emotional ones I’m gonna probably chat about a little bit before I play them on the night. I’m excited to see how they go down. There’s going to be a couple where [ it’s ] myself and the guitar. I always liked doing that. But yeah  ‘Heart of Gold’, ‘On The Run’, ‘Devil on my Shoulder’ they’re always just so much fun to play”

Butler is becoming quite the confident performer on stage and we discussed how he approaches his interactions with the crowd at his shows.

“ I really used to struggle with it quite a lot and that’s only because I felt like it was a little bit ill-prepared. I’m kind of comfortable enough now where if something happens, I can pick up on it. I think my starting out or even up until a couple of years ago, I probably rushed through the sets quite a lot, just a little bit of nerves, a little bit of anxiety, but now I feel I’m more mature, more confident and able to control myself a little bit more as well.”

“It’s a funny one even as an up and coming performer. For instance you can’t do full band shows three or four times a week unless you’re doing a tour but you need to do that to get to that level. It’s a funny chicken-and-egg situation. I’d love to be doing full band shows three or four or five times a week. But you have to create that demand first and then hopefully the demand is there and like, oh god, I’ve only done a few full band shows but you got to roll with it a little bit.”

Butler’s upcoming headline show at Dublin’s Academy on December 1st comes fresh off the heels of a sold-out performance at Whelan’s main room in April. December is always a good time for shows as everyone is in high spirits and love a good December show.

“I think so. I was lucky enough to get a Friday, which is great. The Whelan’s headline was 31st of March as well. So it was a nice gap. But yeah, it felt natural to have that on the first of December.”

Butler has previously sold out shows in ‘Whelans’ main room, ‘The Grand Social’ and ‘The Soundhouse’ and amassed 3 million spotify streams for his singles (including ‘Moon Song’, Just One Night’ and ‘On The Run’). He is growing his following more and more each time I speak to him. We chatted about how he is finding getting this recognition for his work.

“ We probably first chatted five or six years ago, which is pretty crazy. Maybe five years ago. It was definitely before Covid Anyway.. But yeah its nice. Obviously Covid in between that and that was a major deal obviously for everyone for lots of reasons. But now the last couple of months it really seems to be growing nicely. So yeah I can’t complain. All I can do is keep doing what I’m doing,  chip away and hopefully get a bit lucky.”

Isaac Butler’s music is a delight to listen to. The artist has a wonderful ability to create expressive soundscapes and emotive lyrics that connect with the listener with ease. ‘Heart of Gold’ gives Butler the chance to showcase how he can take these qualities and deliver them through an exciting energetic and blistering sound. I have no doubt his show in The Academy in December with be one not to miss and Butler has some exciting plans for the rest of the year as well.

“ I’m supporting True Tides and their tour, their Irish tour. So that’s six dates in November, which should be great. Then leading up to obviously the Academy show on the first [ December ] and then I’m going on tour with Ryan McMullanin in December. That’s all of the support shows. I’ll be doing some smaller acoustic shows. I’m playing a few in the Hard Rock Cafe in October and November in Temple Bar. I’m toying with the idea of releasing another song before the gig. We’ll see. We’ll see.”

Stream ‘Heart of Gold’ Below


Author: Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

BECAH ‘Freak’ EP

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Northern Irish alternative indie artist BECAH has released her highly-anticipated debut EP ‘Freak’. BECAH has supported notable acts such as Aslan, The Four of Us, and Brian Kennedy. Her music has received critical acclaim. Collaborating with renowned producer Michael Mormecha on her latest project, BECAH’s single ‘Freak’ is an extraordinary and deeply personal introspective piece that delves into the feeling of being different and questioning one’s worth. The accompanying music video is a compelling visual representation of the song’s powerful message adding an extra layer of emotion to the already gripping track.

‘Freak’ is a mesmerising display of BECAH’s earnest songwriting and wonderfully emotive musicianship. From soulful R&B tones mixed with an indie edge in ‘Ghost’ and the heavy fuzz-filled indie rock of the title track ‘Freak’ to the pop ballad-esque ‘Fool’, Freak is a unique and memorable EP. 

BECAH’s vocals are an utter treasure. Her ability to convey so much emotion from many of the heartbreaking lyrics within the EP is simply breathtaking. ‘Reminders’ is a beautiful example of this. Her sweet delicate tone floods with emotion as sparse ethereal soundscapes move between a heartbreaking bittersweet melody. The track is a delight to listen to and a wonderful moment within the EP. 

An exciting aspect of BECAH’s musicianship is her ability to convey emotion, not just through her voice but also her music. She trickles soft piano and gentle guitar into tender ballads like ‘Lost’ and jazzy elements with R&B beats in ‘Ghost’ to create surges of emotional movement making each song captivating and magical in its own way.

‘Freak’ is a deeply personal EP filled with raw lyrical content and immersive soundscapes. The EP is a glorious collection of refined musicianship and moving songs that marks BECAH as not only an artist to keep an eye on but one to treasure.

About ‘Freak’ BECAH says, 

“I think we all can feel sometimes as though we’re not quite “normal”. The people that surround us can make us question ourselves and our worth. ‘Freak’ is about my battle with that. It speaks of a time my mind was busy with self-deprecation and a submission to the belief that I was just a ‘freak’, different from everyone around me and struggling with the noise inside my head.”

Stream ‘Freak’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Isaac Butler ‘Just One Night’

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Irish Pop Rock artist Isaac Butler has released his new single ‘Just One Night’, following a sold-out Whelan’s main room headline show. Butler is no stranger to the stage or the airwaves amassing over 2.5 million Spotify streams and selling out shows in ‘The Grand Social’ , ‘The Soundhouse’ and ‘Whelan’s’ while also playing various festivals such as Electric Picnic around the country. He has just sold out his first headline show in Whelan’s main room and is all set for a summer of festival slots.

‘Just One Night’ bursts with youthful energy and the wonderful songwriting of Isaac Butler. Teaming jangly guitar hooks with shimmering synths bubbling beats and an utterly compelling melody the track is a glorious earworm. An exciting aspect of Butler’s musicianship is the artist’s uncanny ability to create wonderfully expressive soundscapes to accompany his relatable, poetic lyrics and emotive vocals. A fine example of this is ‘Just One Night’; filled with catchy lyrics, luscious euphoric soundscapes and an irresistible vocal delivery this song leaves you craving to hear it again and again. ‘Just One Night’ is a vibrant new bop that is sure to be epic at his live shows. 

Stream ‘Just One Night’ Below 


Author:Danu

Electronic, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Faraway Martin ‘I Got Fire’

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Photo Credit: Josh-Lee

Irish singer-songwriter (currently in Qatar), Faraway Martin has released his new single, ‘I Got Fire’. The track featured in a Hyundai Commercial for their FIFA World Cup Ad which gathered a lot of attention for the Irishman abroad. Following this, he headlined the opening night of the FIFA Fan Festival to 40k people where artists such as Calvin Harris, Sean Paul, Paul van Dyk and Irish throwback Boyzlife performed during the World Cup.Faraway Martin has played some massive shows abroad including Qatar’s Formula 1 Grand Prix and The Qatar MotoGP. Last year he performed at Sea Sessions, Claremorris Folk Festival and various local festivals in Ireland. He has also played Electric Picnic and opened for Toploader, Aslan, Mick Flannery, Mundy, The Blizzards and Hermitage Green.

 ‘I Got Fire’ is a dynamic tune that boasts the powerful and catchy sound of Faraway Martin. The track travels at pulse-racing speed and showcases infectious dance elements and driving keys as the artist presents a passionate tune full of rich instrumentation. The song builds in intensity as Faraway Martin’s smooth vocals ooze emotion and kinetic energy. Filled with expressive soundscapes and soft bass embellishments ‘I Got Fire’ is one mighty tune from Faraway Martin.

Stream ‘I Got Fire’ below 


Author: Danu

A Chat With, Indie, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With: Isaac Butler

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Irish Pop/Rock artist Isaac Butler has released his highly anticipated new single ‘Good Enough’. Last week I caught up with Bulter to discuss how he crafted the song, his plans for the coming months and his upcoming headline show in Whelan’s main room on Friday, 31 March.

“I actually wrote it on a piano with a good pal of mine. He plays with me live as well, Jake Richardson. We wrote it together on the piano. Then I wanted to have that big live feel to it so for me electric guitars are just the way forward. I’ve kind of fallen back in love with them and I think everyone’s gonna see that. It’s very obvious in the upcoming tracks and stuff, I’m kind of going for that big live sound vibe. Obviously, the electric guitar lends itself to that, but yeah, exciting stuff, really.”

Within the track, Butler takes a tender stance and highlights it with vibrant indie pop instrumentation. The result is a glorious sing-along anthem that is a joy to listen to. 

“Yeah, it’s funny that the song started out quite sad. It’s a sad song if you really break it down. It’s funny when I wrote it, it came from quite a vulnerable place. But we came back to that when we were producing the five or six songs and obviously “Good Enough” was one of them, but we came back to it at a time where I was very much over what had happened and where that song came from. So it turned from this tender, vulnerable side to this kind of more brash, angry thing. Production-wise and even performance-wise that song, it’s angry, you know, there’s a bit of grit there. So yeah, it was an interesting exercise really going from that tender spot to one of I suppose, anger really, is the word.”

Butler has a knack for releasing wonderfully crafted videos to accompany his songs. I asked if he has one planned for ‘Good Enough’.

“Yeah, actually funny enough we’ve done a live band performance, which I’m going to probably release on Monday, I think. Then I’m actually headed off, so, the opening verse line is “that weekend in Paris”. So myself and Peter are heading off to Paris tomorrow morning, we got some cheap flights so we thought why not? Let’s actually lean into this a little bit and get some authentic vibes in there. But yeah, so we’re off to Paris to film. It’s gonna be a simple, enough video, but yeah, looking forward to that and I’m excited to share.”

Lyrically the song is powerfully emotive, relatable and honest. I wondered if Butler was unsure whether he was going to release this song or if its earnest lyrical content was difficult to put out into the world.

“No. It is definitely my most honest and probably my most personal song I’ve released to date but I knew once it was written that I one hundred percent wanted it to be out. I performed it live a lot and I love performing it live because it is so honest. I connect to it quite strongly and then obviously, in that live setting people understand and connect to it when I’m singing because I am so passionate about it. It’s a true story so it’s easy for me to really get into it and I think people appreciate that. So yeah, it was a no-brainer for me to be honest. I love it.”

Like all of his previous songs, this single has a wonderfully catchy chorus that evokes images of live crowds singing back the lyrics. Butler is set to headline Whelan’s main room with a full band on Friday, 31 March and I wondered what his hopes were for the show.

” Well first of all, thanks so much. That’s a really nice compliment. I hope and pray that they do. But yeah, Whelan’s is coming up soon. This show is definitely going to be for me a complete level up. Not that I don’t always put a huge amount of effort into the shows but this one in particular we’ve really been behind the scenes working hard on getting everything right from the production to different instrumentation and even lighting and stuff like that. So I  think people will be excited to see that we’ve really levelled up here. So yeah, I’m really excited to just get out there again. Whelan’s is such an important venue to me. I’ve seen so many people that I love there and I’ve been there probably nearly 100 times. So to actually get on that main stage and headline it is pretty amazing to me. I’m very, very happy.”

Butler recently performed at the Ruby Sessions and we discussed how he found the experience.

“Yeah, I did the Rubies a couple of weeks ago. I love the Rubies to be honest and everyone there is so passionate about playing music, hearing music, listening to it so you really get that attention from everyone which is great. I think as an up-and-comer you get used to not being heard quite a lot in different shows and different gigs. So that’s one that really is close to my heart and I love the guys in there as well. They’re great.”

Butler is no stranger to the stage or the airwaves amassing over 2.5 million Spotify streams and selling out shows in The Grand Social, The Soundhouse and Whelan’s while also playing festivals across the country including Electric Picnic. Two of his previous singles have also been chosen as the ‘Select Irish’ Single of the Month across the Wireless Group and Butler told me how important that support is to him.

” Yeah, it’s amazing, it’s really amazing. To be perfectly honest, I was quite nervous to put myself out there and announce the Whelan’s headline, I was kind of like maybe I should test the waters a little bit more. So yeah, I do feel honored people are listening to me. I’m really hoping to get a whole host of new kind of listeners over the next couple of weeks and months. I think the summer is gonna be really, really important for me to get out there and I’m just looking forward to playing live again and meeting people as well. That’s such an important aspect to me. I love chatting to people after shows and hearing about different stories they have and all that kind of stuff. It is probably my favorite part. “

The first time I interviewed Butler, he was gearing up for a big summer of festivals and then COVID put a halt to his plans. We discussed the impact of COVID and how he overcame the shock of all those plans being pushed down the line.

” It was honestly, lots of people had awful times but yeah, it was heart wrenching to be honest. Everybody had to cancel shows. I had a clear plan and then for that to be taken away was difficult. But I suppose the other side of that is I got to write a lot of songs. I got to meet a lot of different writers, different musicians even and that really has developed me quite a lot. I think I’m much more mature now in my sound, and in the way I’m writing even the way I’m performing. I think I’m in a much better place to hopefully get in front of some more people and get more people listening and connecting. I think the songs are at a place where people will start hopefully connecting to them like I do.”

Isaac Butler is an ambitious and talented artist. His catchy indie pop songs showcase his depth, honesty and maturity. ‘Good Enough’ is a fantastic example of his earworm magic and diverse musical range. I’m looking forward to hearing the tunes Butler releases next.

Stream ‘Good Enough’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Rowlette ‘Dreamer’

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Photo Credit: Joanna O’Malley

Rowlette has released her new single “Dreamer”. 2022 was a busy year for the artist who hosted a packed-out headliner in the British capital with fellow musician Faraway Martin, supported CMAT, Rofi James and Junior Brother, and released a string of new tracks.

‘Dreamer’ is a song that displays Rowlette’s ability to capture the heart of listeners with her wonderful storytelling and warm musicianship. The song twinkles with soft guitar and folk tones over supple orchestral arrangements, and elegant piano creating a soothing backdrop for her sweet vocals. In the unusual setting of a discount store, the song captures the beauty in the everyday moment, and the feeling of knowing someone truly believes in you. Rowlette tells this story through charming melodies and comforting soundscapes making ‘Dreamer’ a delight to listen to.

About the track Rowlette said:  “I love this song because of its simplicity. I wrote it about a day a friend of mine came to visit me in my hometown. It was a wintery Sunday evening during the pandemic and there was really nowhere to go. We ended up going to Mr. Price and having a great time – it’s one of those places you always find things you didn’t know you needed! I got a lovely journal to write down what I wanted for the year, and I assumed he would think I was a bit silly, but instead he was just really supportive. Obviously big gestures and that are nice, but I think there’s nothing better than when you can tell someone really believes in you and has your back.”

Stream ‘Dreamer’ below


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Isaac Butler ‘Good Enough’

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Irish singer-songwriter Isaac Butler has released his highly anticipated new single ‘Good Enough’. ‘Good Enough’ marks the start of a new musical journey for Isaac Butler as he embarks on what promises to be a very exciting 2023 – with the first quarter of the year seeing him set to headline Whelan’s main room with a full band on Friday, 31 March. Isaac Butler is no stranger to the stage or the airwaves amassing over 2.5 million Spotify streams and selling out shows in The Grand Social, The Soundhouse and Whelan’s while also playing festivals across the country including Electric Picnic. Two of Isaac Butler’s previous singles have also been chosen for as the ‘Select Irish’ Single of the Month across the Wireless Group.

Within ‘Good Enough’ Butler fleshes out his earnest songwriting over an intense backdrop of driving instrumentation and powerful melodic surges. The song boasts warm guitar refrains, driving beats and ethereal soundscapes that lift the track into an anthemic sing-along chorus. Butler’s soulful vocals create an emotive yet, warm atmosphere that carries the story along as he questions himself after a breakup, “maybe I did something wrong… maybe I just was not good enough”. Filled with lamenting keys, a hair-raising crescendo and an irresistible melody that will revolve in your head for days, ‘Good Enough’ is a compelling new single. 

Speaking of the single Isaac Butler said: “Good Enough is the result of some post-relationship self-doubt. I think it’s only human nature to question yourself pretty intensely after something doesn’t work out. I love this one because there is what feels like a good balance of nostalgia and anger in there. The verses have a softness that describe those happy memories while the choruses are pretty gritty”

Stream ‘Good Enough’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Moncrieff ‘What Am I Here For’

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Following his acclaimed 2022 EP ‘Warm’ and a massive series of spectacular, sold-out shows across Europe, Irish-born singer and songwriter Moncrieff kickstarts 2023 with a sonic declaration of love – his new single ‘What Am I Here For’ out via German label energie. 

Filled with 80’s tones, glistening guitars and a sense of urgency ‘What Am I Here For’ is a gripping and utterly invigorating new single from Moncrieff. It’s easy to get lost in the lush intricacies of ‘What Am I Here For’ as the track builds into a sing-along delight and fist-pump anthem. As a songwriter, Moncrieff continues to showcase his impressive ability to capture emotion through gripping and earnest lyricism. His passionate vocals perfectly express the intensity of the lyrics and instantly create a vivid image for the listener of a person rushing to save a relationship before it’s too late “running every red light and stop sign just to realise what I’m fighting for, cos if I’m not here to love you what am I here for”. Moncrieff crafts this track beautifully creating a light indie pop number that boasts the artist’s expressive and infectious sound in all its glory.

Stream ‘What Am I Here For’ below 


Author: Danu