Category Archives: Singer/Songwriter

Folk, Indie Folk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Mike Paterson ‘Loose Change’

Indie Folk singer songwriter Mike Paterson has released his new single ‘Loose Change’. Originally the frontman of the rock group Travis Oaks. Paterson toured Ireland and abroad, playing venues such as The Olympia in Dublin, to the prestigious Dublin Castle in London. Travis Oaks developed a solid reputation for energetic shows, but focusing on solid songwriting, along with performance. Since departing from the band in the Summer of 2016, Paterson has been hiding out in his native county of Cavan, contemplating his role in the music scene. He has taken a stripped back approach to live shows, with live recordings and videos taking priority over studio recordings. His new single is also a live recording from Displace Studios.

‘Loose Change’ is a warm melodic sweet toned passionate track. Peeled back to a bare simple arrangement with just acoustic guitar accompaniment, its organic and wholesome. Paterson’s vocal display is rich with depth and sharp lush highs, there is no need for fuss. Laid back and soothing it’s perfect for summers evenings with a  glass of wine, sunset and relaxation. It’s peppy with a nice bounce keeping the mellow tone without becoming sluggish. Patterson has a knack for creating songs that evoke every emotion in the listener and this mellow little ditty doesn’t stray from that emotional connection. Instantly balmy and calm his simplicity is just heaven. With a honey glazed melody ‘Loose Change’ gives a sense of blissful peace and modest purity. It’s honest, nourishing goodness and quite the breath of fresh air.

Mike Paterson has a few shows coming up the first is in Spirit Store, Dundalk tonight then Whelan’s Dublin on the 25th and Workman’s Club Dublin on the 14th of September, make sure to head down and check him out. I had the pleasure of catching him live a little while ago and he’s one not to be missed.

When asked about the track Paterson told us “Loose Change is dedicated to my friends, with the track focusing on the importance of friendship and knowing we have someone there when times are tough.”

Watch his live performance of ‘Loose Change’ at Displace Studios below


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Charlie Millikin ‘All These Things’

Ohio soulful singer-songwriter Charlie Millikin has recently released his newest single ‘All These Things’. Being born into a family of musicians, singers and songwriters, it was only natural that Charlie grew a strong passion for music and after being inspired by the likes of Ed Sheeran, Gavin DeGraw and Eminem, Charlie chose to put his focus on his songwriting talent. ‘All These Things’ is written about the feeling of waking up every day under the weight of a combination of these mental illnesses and continuing to live with it rather than working towards getting better because of becoming comfortable with the feeling in a paradoxical sense.

‘All These Things’ is a sweet feathery light little ditty. This easy listen track displays Millikin’s warm smooth soulful vocals which soothes and adds a tone of positivity to the lyrical theme of the perils of anxiety and depression. A bouncy beat, honey soaked melody, sing along infectious chorus and bright tones add a sun kissed vibrancy and heart-warming vibe. This heartfelt track reaches out and speaks to everyone, its deeply moving and honest but also hopeful and comforting. Millikin is a versatile artist and uses his sincere writing skills to approach a tender delicate emotional theme in a wholesome passionate yet peppy manner.

When asked about the track Millikin said “This song, to me, paints the picture that no matter what you’re dealing with, it will pass and you’re going to be alright.”

 

Stream ‘All These Things’ below


Indie Soul, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

ScttWlkr ‘Sleep Cycle Cyanide’

Alaska based singer-songwriter ScttWlkr has recently released his newest single ‘Sleep Cycle Cyanide’. As an artist, ScttWlkr is notorious for his use of soulful lyrics and his powerful raspy voice and although he’s experimented with different instruments, as every good artist does, he’s built a following around his bare bones acoustic music, allowing the focus to remain on the lyrics that he pours his soul into.

‘Sleep Cycle Cyanide’ is a warm melodic treasure packed with passionate soulful vocals depicting heartfelt emotional lyrics. Sweet guitar twangs as ScttWlkr’s soothing raspy tone creates a beautiful tender scene and candle lit delicacy. With soft acoustic guitar strums throughout it’s cosy and intensely moving and captivating. With a stunning gentle melody and toasty mellow exterior wrapped in nostalgic tones its wholesome and pure. It’s simply presented but extremely effective.

Explaining the inspiration behind the release, ScttWlkr said,

“I wanted to capture the feeling of sadness, and write a song that could be felt and related to by anyone who has ever been through a rough patch in relationships. Whether it be family, friends or significant others.” 

The track was released in late June and is available to stream or purchase via all major media providers. For more information about ScttWlkr, his future releases and any upcoming live shows, follow him on his social media pages here https://www.facebook.com/scttwlkr

Stream ‘Sleep Cycle Cyanide’ below

 


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

 James Walker ‘Weathered’

British singer-songwriter James Walker has released  his new single ‘Weathered’. The track is taken from Walker’s forthcoming album ‘English Bones’ due for release later this year and is the follow-up to his recent single ‘Next To Me’. Originally a session musician, James Walker performed as a piano player for a number of touring artist’s, spending the past six years playing across the world.  Soon after, Walker developed a rare heart condition, which resulted in a year-long battle and major surgery to save his life. Earlier in 2016 he released his debut EP ‘Modern Medicine’ drawing on influences from the likes of Conor Oberst and The Weepies.  Following its launch, Walker announced a UK and US tour to support his debut EP, which was his first chance to play to an audience as a solo artist. The shows became a great success and enabled him to build up an international fan base.

‘Weathered’ is an emotional blow and hard hitting melodic track, with warm acoustic accompaniment and ethereal breezy soundscapes. Smothered in emotional depth and tender passionate vocals it’s sweet soul searchingly striking yet heartwarming and strongly moving. Sweet falsetto vocals pull at your heart strings while lush harmonies fill out the sound with warmth and compassion. A sway-like tempo and touching lyrics make this track instantly stand out. It stops you in your tracks, makes you listen and pulls every feeling out of your soul and lays it in front of you. Packed with simple raw emotion which Walker carefully portrays in a soothing tender manner. It’s a beautiful experience.

James Walker’s first full-length album ‘English Bones’ will be released via Wild Native Records and was produced by Sam Winfield (Amber Run, Bring Me The Horizon). ‘English Bones’ is a step away from Walker’s debut EP, both thematically and stylistically and for the first time will be accompanied by a full band. To support the release of his new album, Walker has announced a 35-date tour across the UK and Europe this year, kicking off in the Netherlands this August. More information and tour tickets can be found on his official website here http://jamesreklaw.wixsite.com/jameswalkermusic

 

Stream ‘Weathered’ below.


Folk, Indie Folk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Ben Bateman ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’

Ben Bateman is a singer/songwriter from the northeast of UK. He began playing guitar at the age of ten and writing songs at thirteen. He travelled to New Zealand at the age of 17 to perform music and develop his live performance skills, which he brought back to the UK shortly after and began performing at all the folk clubs in the north east.He is releasing his new single ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ on July 31st. Its a warm dreamy folk pop track. Swoony and light doused in gentle romantic tones with a sweet melty melody it’s a tender delicate delight. Reverb laced guitar adds a mellow comforting tone as Bateman’s smooth slightly rasped vocals coo and soothe you into a gentle swaying lull. The subtle bass adds depth to the feathery light fluttering heart track. It’s simply composed and as sweet as pie.

‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ is the first of six songs Bateman will be releasing monthly over the next half-year so keep an eye out for those.
You can hear ‘Don’t Breathe A Word’ on YouTube below

 


Dream Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Lana Del Rey ‘Groupie Love’ and Summer Bummer’

Global superstar Lana Del Rey has unveiled two new singles ‘Groupie Love’ and ‘Summer Bummer’ with further details of her upcoming studio album ‘Lust For Life’ which is set for release July 21st via Polydor Records. Alongside the full tracklist and list of featured artists, ‘Lust For Life’ is now available to pre-order which will unlock instant downloads of her new singles.
‘Groupie Love’ featuring A$AP Rocky is sweet smooth dreamy coated retro tinged pop. Del Rey’s reverb glazed vocals croon with a sultry soft sweetness while breezy wispy soundscapes and pulsing beats create the perfect narcotic backing. It’s majestic and beautiful gliding with elegance around A$AP Rocky’s rap which adds a favourable dose of hip hop swagger.
‘Summer Bummer’ has a heavier hip hop influence with snappy floppy beats and a larger verse for guests A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti. Del Rey croons with a smokey lull and sultry swagger. Backing vocals wail adding a ghostly haunting atmosphere to the dark drenched track. This track gives us a summer haze with a shadowy opaque stained hue. Lana Del Rey presents us with two new luscious dreamy tracks with ‘Groupie Love’ and Summer Bummer’.

Including the already-released singles ‘Love’ and ‘Lust For Life’, the full album tracklist is as follows:
1. Love
2. Lust For Life (ft. The Weeknd)
3. 13 Beaches
4. Cherry
5. White Mustang
6. Summer Bummer (ft. A$AP Rocky & Playboi Carti)
7. Groupie Love (ft. A$AP Rocky)
8. In My Feelings
9. Coachella – Woodstock In My Mind
10. God Bless America – And All the Beautiful Women In It
11. When The World Was at War We Kept Dancing
12. Beautiful People Beautiful Problems (ft. Stevie Nicks)
13. Tomorrow Never Came (ft. Sean Ono Lennon)
14. Heroin
15. Change
16. Get Free

Stream ‘Groupie Love’ and ‘Summer Bummer’ below


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Aaron Espe ‘Heidi’

Raised in small-town northern Minnesota, singer-songwriter Aaron Espe got his start by opening for the folk duo Storyhill in Minneapolis before dropping out of college to tour on his own. His career has taken him across the U.S. and overseas, playing in coffee shops, bars, churches, and even the occasional yoga studio. He has released five solo albums, a Christmas EP, and several singles. Nettwerk Records released the EP Through Frozen Forests in 2012, which peaked at #7 on the iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart. In October of 2015, his song “Beyond the Sun” was recorded by the Nashville Cast (feat. Lennon Stella) and aired on ABC. Among other coveted placements, Espe’s recordings have been featured on Grey’s Anatomy, The Fosters, and the documentary film Where the Yellowstone Goes, as well as commercials by Sainsbury’s, Volkswagen and Toys “R” Us. A resident of Nashville, Tennessee, Espe often performs songwriter rounds at local venues The Basement and Bluebird Café. He has released his new single ‘Heidi’ taken from his upcoming LP ‘Passages’ which is out September 8th via Nettwerk.
‘Heidi’ is a sweet honest wholesome track richly satisfying but so tender and beautiful. Gentle elegant acoustic guitar caresses Espe’s lush delicate vocals creating a sublime dreamy atmosphere that oozes rose petal sweet scented romance. Instantly catchy this hum along worthy tune is blissfully lovable and comforting. Simple and passionate, it’s a treasure that will melt any heart. This song is pure and true unadulterated romance, clean and crisp with warm raspy tints it’s simply heavenly. So beautiful and touching it stops time while you are listening to it.
When asked about the track Aaron Espe said
“Heidi is my wife. One of the first times we talked in depth was beside a campfire in Jackson Hole, Wyoming at a KOA campground. This song is about that time, more than 10 years ago now. I was so damn in love. It wasn’t requited for a while, but as you can see, things worked out. Besides literally being a tribute to that memory, I suppose this song is about the moment you know you’ve already chosen somebody, but they have to choose you back. You have no idea if that’ll ever happen. It’s way out of your control. But the weird thing is, even though your life is basically in someone else’s hands, you feel so good.”

Stream ‘Heidi’ below


New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Olly Flavell ‘Caged’

Olly Flavell a Manchester-based singer-songwriter currently studying at British and Irish Modern Music (BIMM) Institute, has released his new single ‘Caged’. Olly has obtained slots at festivals such as 2000 trees and has played iconic venues such as Birmingham’s Genting Arena and the ICC Symphony Hall. Olly’s skillfully crafted songs have earned him the opportunity to write toplines for Swedish dance music and also write for the likes of Little Mix. Collaborations with Tim Lord and Ben Newbury, stylist and video director to artists such as James Bay, also feature on his list.
‘Caged’ is a sweet melodic emotion- filled track that just warms the cockles of the heart. Candied mellow toned guitar twinkles throughout adding vibrant bursts of light to the cosy track. Soft drums wrap the song in a comforting blanket while adding a strong rumble -like beat. Olly’s passionate vocals display tender raw emotion as he wears his heart on his sleeve. It’s filled with hope and bright scintillation soaked in longing wistful tones. This track is bouncy light and passionate with a catchy chorus – its a sweet little ditty.

Stream ‘Caged’ below

 


Indie, Indie Folk, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

James Holt ‘Whatever Happened to John?’

James Holt is a singer,songwriter from Manchester whose unique alternative rock sound, is receiving attention and praise from music industry giants and the listening public alike. He has recently released his new single ‘Whatever Happened to John?’ which was chosen by world-renowned producer Brian Eno for the NOISE arts festival.Holt performs regularly at venues and festivals in towns and cities across the UK including prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall in London.
‘Whatever Happened to John?’ is a speedy energetic track blended with rich varieties of euphoric sounds, from country twangs and rock and roll bounce to sensual ethnic sensibilities and loads in between. With a snappy beat and mellow harmonica twangs, it’s an infectious relentless brisk ball that constantly rebounds back with infectious enthusiasm. Slick guitar flickers and mysterious ethnic feature provides a sultry steamy bridge with psychedelic delusional hints. The track continues it’s steam engine pace laced with adrenaline and heart stopping excitement. It’s a refreshing cracking track smothered in bustle charm and staggering swagger. This guy has some talent.

Stream ‘Whatever Happened to John?’ below


Folk, Indie Folk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Lisa Loughrey ‘Coming Up’

Irish Singer Songwriter Lisa Loughrey has released her debut single, ‘Coming Up’ today. Loughrey has previously written songs that have featured in documentaries (RTE Radio1), radio, music blogs (Folk Radio UK, Tradconnect) and local and national press.Up until now, she has been primarily known for her work with Dublin based Alt Folk outfit, The Mariannes. She also won the inaugural Clancy Brothers Award for Songwriting in 2014.The track was recorded in The Nutshed Studios, and was mixed and produced by Nathan Maher and Joe Egan. Performing on the track with Loughrey is multi-instrumentalist Nathan Maher (Buffalo Sunn, Slackers’ Symphony), veteran bassist Damian McMahon (formerly of Tupelo), percussionist/drummer Jacob Fry (BIMM graduate) and Eoghan Keane on trumpet.
‘Coming Up’ is a track that holds the weight of the world on its shoulders but withstands its brutal force. Buoyant light guitar twangs and lush soft lull on backing vocals set the track afloat creating a weightless warm feel while throbbing bass and steady drums add a heavy pulse and thud. Coated in dark tones this track gives a sense of endurance however the elasticity and spring adds hope and strength. Loughrey’s hazy raspy vocals simmer with moving emotion. Simple and smooth the track is foot tapping friendly with an authentic country tone however with striking lyrical depths that hit you hard and cast an eerie shadow. ‘Coming Up’ is richly textured and sophisticated displaying a compelling vocal expression from Loughrey .
When asked about the track Loughrey said “‘Coming Up’ plays like a confessional and deals with the universal themes of disillusionment and remorse, it acknowledges a person’s constant struggle to get ahead in life despite facing withstand from both outside and within. The song itself is also a hat-tip of sorts to the 1970’s folk song ‘Sonny’s Dream’, written by Ron Hynes”
‘Coming Up’ is the first release from Lisa Loughrey’s forthcoming solo album. The single release will be followed by a launch on 8th June at Arthur’s Music Venue, Dublin 8 so make sure to check that out.
Stream ‘Coming Up’ below