No Tie Friday is a four piece Indie Pop / Alternative band from Wicklow. The band consists of Keith Molloy (Vocals + Rhythm Guitar), Matt Morgan (Drums), Niall McGurk (Bass) and Barra MacMahon (Lead Guitar). With only a few gigs under their belt they have already started making an impression on the Irish music scene. The band have recently released their debut EP ‘Long Drives and Sunsets’. A five track collection of sweet tunes and intricate glistening instrumentation, this EP is pure wholesome honey drizzled indie pop. From the first crashing intro of ‘Seasons’ No Tie Friday have you firmly hooked. This bouncing little gem rumbles and rushes through with a driving rippling rhythm while glistening jangly guitars create the perfect glossy backdrop for the vibrant infectious melody. It’s anthemic and punchy wrapped up in a whirl of youthful adrenaline rushing instrumentation. They definitely kicked the EP off with the right track- it’s sun soaked and vibrantly dynamic. This little charmer has you eating out of the palm of their hands eager for more. ‘Forest’ continues the indie pop buoyancy, as thumping drums set a steady foundation for the shimmering golden guitars to sparkle between. There are plenty of blissful guitar moments in this EP and the quartet show off their knack for crisp sweet toned guitar lines throughout each track creating special little luscious twinkles that lift each tune and add glorious scintillation throughout. Title track ‘Long Drives And Sunsets’ marks the halfway point in the EP with a fluctuant rhythm and delicate instrumentation to start. Ethereal guitars lament behind a sombre tender melody while Molloy’s vocals reach their most emotional we have heard yet. It’s a passionate display as sharp guitars and punchy drums bring us to a powerful intense crescendo. If you are looking for the perfect hazy sunny day tune filled with mellow tones with some melancholic hues ‘Working Title’ is the one for you. Again it features some sublime guitar work and a smooth, silky melody while the vocals add a hint of soul, its soothing, chilled, breezy bliss. ‘Delay’ which fast became my favourite track, closes the EP much like ‘Seasons’ began it – with a surge of peppy jangly indie intricately weaved and tightly compact to create a satisfying listen. It is filled with dazzling soundscapes, whirring guitars, an infectious chorus and a stomping singalong ready bridge that will have a live crowd bellowing out at the top of their lungs.
‘Long Drives and Sunsets’ is a wholly enjoyable, charming collection. This bands laid back, dreamy approach gives each track space to flourish and blossom and this really adds something special to the overall enjoyment of the EP. These guys have created something glorious. It’s perfect for summer days and youthfulness. Keep an eye out for No Tie Friday.
Stream ‘Long Drives and Sunsets’ below
