Alt Rock, EP Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Minus Ten Thousand Hours ‘Could Be Worse’ EP

Photo Credit : Arielle Croitor

Minus Ten Thousand Hours have released their new EP, ‘Could Be Worse’.Minus Ten Thousand Hours are a Dublin-based band. Formed in 2013, MTTH has evolved from a punk/metal band to a hard-hitting, hook-focused alternative rock band. The band have built a reputation as a live force on the Dublin music scene and are starting to show that around the country.

Blazing on a crushing wall of solid no-nonsense riffs and pounding rhythms, ‘Could Be Worse’ is a mammoth EP from Minus Ten Thousand Hours. The band deliver an onslaught of lean mean alternative rock throughout this EP to create a mosh-ready listening experience. Each song exudes attitude and power from roaring angst rock vocals to catchy melodies and blistering crescendos; it’s a mighty collection of tracks. This EP screams with slick guitar work and insatiable bass grooves. With tunes like ‘Wicked’ and ‘The Fear’ full of smouldering emotions, fiery guitars and ravaging drums the band create a full-bodied soundscape that is thrilling and explosive to listen to. 

There is a dark undertone within the tracks especially through ‘Fad Haircut’. The band creep a chilling grunge tone over jagged slicing guitars and pummeling drums while a moody melody haunts throughout. It’s a memorable moment within the album as the crescendo builds becoming more harsh and harrowing with fierce vocals and aggressive riffage. 

Minus Ten Thousand Hours present a rip-roaring EP that is exciting to listen to. These guys are a talented bunch and their gritty alternative rock will thrill you to your core and send shivers down your spine with their dynamic musicianship. Keep an eye on these guys.

Stream ‘Could Be Worse’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

N.O.A.H ‘Stay Here’

N.O.A.H have released their new single ‘Stay Here’.’Stay Here’ was self-produced by the band, with mixing and finessing by Grammy Winning Ruadhri Cushnan. N.O.A.H comprises of three lifelong friends Ryan Hill, Adam Rooney, and Ronan Hynes.  N.O.A.H formed back in January 2020, on the cusp of a global pandemic! (Great timing) After finishing in college (BIMM Dublin and MU) the group decided to reform an old musical endeavour. Obsessed with the idea of creating something new and a relentless desire to be heard, a fresh canvas was needed. Thus the band took inspiration in its naming from the biblical story of ‘Noah and the Ark’, the ultimate new beginnings story. Already N.O.A.H, have garnered thousands of streams, sold out multiple venues, signed with a major UK agency, supported The Coronas in Ulster Hall, played Main Stage at Sea Sessions 2022, and announced for Ireland’s leading festival Electric Picnic.

Draped in shimmering synths with an 80’s pop sheen ‘Stay Here’ is an emotive new single from N.O.A.H as the band delve into a new facet of their catchy indie sound. With a dreamy melody drifting atop glittering guitars, spongy beats and an irresistible bass groove the band have created a tune that boasts their tight musicianship and refined songwriting. It’s a sweet and comforting track with lyrics that offer an unconditional, selfless vow to help a friend in need. Ryan Hill croons,” I’ll take your pain if it means that you would stay here” over a supple warm melody while the bubbling backdrop creates an ethereal atmosphere throughout. Tender and earnest with a lush instrumental backdrop ‘Stay Here’ is a sublime glimpse into the boundless talent of N.O.A.H

Stream ‘Stay Here’ below


Author:Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Omar Addis ‘Never Let You Go’

Omar Addis has released his new single ‘Never Let You Go’. Addis is an artist from Cardiff, Wales, who has been making music for almost 10 years and has collaborated with artists such as Julian Lamadrid and Heavy Pulse. Addis produces, mixes and masters his tracks so he has complete creative control.

‘Never Let You Go’ is a beautifully crafted tune as Addis takes supple melodies and delicate soundscapes to create a track that is a soothing listening experience from start to finish. With pulsing beats, chiming guitars and wispy synth the song has an ethereal atmosphere that is utterly captivating and wonderfully compliments the artist’s warm expressive vocals. Addis blends hues of R&B with pop and indie elements within ‘Never Let You Go’ to create a timeless song that takes away all your worries and soothes the soul.

Stream ‘Never Let You Go’ below 


Author: Danu

Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music

Wider Than Pictures Concert Series With ALT-J and Just Mustard At The National Museum of Ireland

Alt-J and their fans know how to party. Originally planned as a seated show, Wider Than Pictures concert series kicked off on Thursday at the National Museum of Ireland with Alt-J and Just Mustard. However, being seated was not what the audience had in mind and before long the fans grew tired of bopping in their seats and flooded to the front of the stage to dance and sing along with Alt-J while others stood on their seats to get a better view of the band’s mesmerising performance. This sight would make you think the show was total anarchy however the gentle attitude of the fans and well-structured organisation of the event meant this little rebellion was good-natured fun against the backdrop of Alt-J’s compelling set. 

This is Wider Than Pictures’ inaugural year, presented by Singular Artists and last night was one not to miss. Nestled in the beautiful grounds of The National Museum of Ireland eager fans sat comfortably with refreshments nearby awaiting the stellar lineup. I was surprised by how relaxed and pleasant the atmosphere was as I entered the grounds and found my seat.

Alt-J’s performance was brilliant. An enchanting blend of captivating visuals, hypnotic lights display and eargasmic music marked the night as a memorable event. It was easy to notice how much the fans treasure this band, every tune on the set list was met by cheers, screams of joy and mass sing-alongs. ‘Bane’, ‘Matilda’ and ‘Deadcrush’ all went down a treat with the crowd as they embraced and danced with friends and strangers. Throughout the night there was a communal sense of togetherness that was so unique and special. 

Joe Newman [vocals, guitar], Gus Unger-Hamilton [vocals, keyboards, bass] and Thom Sonny Green [drums, percussion] have a captivating stage presence. At times their figures were shrouded in darkness with gripping visual effects behind them while strobe lighting bathed their silhouettes in prismatic colours; it added an exciting visual element to the set and had the audience enamoured from start to finish. With little effort Alt-J proved why they are one of the most successful British bands of the millennium. Their impressive repertoire has seen them release four studio albums that, between them, have sold in excess of two million copies and their songs have been streamed over two and a half billion times. However, it’s their live shows where they truly shine. Alt-J and Just Mustard put on a phenomenal performance and made the first night in the new exciting series, Wider Than Pictures a hit. With acts like Simply Red with special guest Ryan Sheridan tonight,  RTE Concert Orchestra performing the music of Thin Lizzy and Fleet Foxes with special guest Uwade in the coming days there is something for every music lover. 


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jim McHugh ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’

Jim McHugh has released his new single ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’.This is the second single from Jim’s upcoming fourth album ‘I Whisper to the Dawn’.  ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ was recorded, produced and mixed by Alex Borwick (Niamh Reagan, James Vincent McMorrow) at Transmission Rooms Studios, Drumlish, Longford and The Stables Studio, Castleblayney, Monaghan. It was mastered by Fergal Davis (Sinéad O’Connor/Muse). ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ features Jim McHugh on Vocals/Backing Vocals, Electric Guitar, Paul McCabe on Bass/ Backing Vocals, Paul Sherry on Electric Guitar, James ‘Butch’ McNeill on Drums, Alex Borwick on Trombone and Ronan Morgan on Backing Vocals.

Riding on a relentless buzz of biting guitars and punchy rhythms, ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ is a fiery anthem from Jim McHugh. Showcasing the artist’s powerful indie rock in all its glory the track discusses social media influencers and the artist’s disdain for the power they yield and their negative influence on society, “Do your followers conform?Oh yeah, they’re all under control with a flick of my hand, But your selling lies online, Oh yeah, I’m an influencer and I’m influencing you”.With swaggering rock bravado, infectious melodies and invigorating soundscapes ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ is a catchy musical delight from Jim McHugh.

Stream ‘Can’t Feel Anymore’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music

Skinner ‘Dog Daze’

Photo Credit- Niamh Barry

24-year-old, DIY slouch rock musician Skinner (Aaron Corcoran) has released his second single ‘Dog Daze’ on Faction Records. Previous singles ‘Dislocation’, ‘Beer Me, Jim’, ‘Sometimes My Brain is Goo’, ‘Slouch’ and ‘Headroom’ were compiled on the Gunge EP, a 2021 vinyl release. The songs have received airplay from KCRW, BBC Across the Line, RTÈ 2FM and 98FM’s John Barker. Skinner was also featured on Fred Perry Subculture. Spotify chose Skinner as the main cover art for their popular An Alternative Eire playlist and has featured Skinner songs in playlists such as Fresh Finds Rock: Best Of 2021, Post Punk 2K and Hot New Bands.

Filled with intricate melodies and oodles of groove-infested instrumentation,‘Dog Daze’ boasts the swaggering sound of Skinner. The track pivots around a funky guitar riff that weaves its way between buoyant rhythms, brass bursts and wriggling bass lines while hard-hitting lyrics express annoyance at the tedious struggles of life at the moment. “I’m just a good guy that got sick of the rules. “

Skinner’s musicianship is on point and each release shows his talent for production. His ability to take chic retro sounds and blur them with indie rock/grunge elements is impressive and makes for one thrilling listening experience. Skinner is a talented artist that everyone should know about. 

About the song, Skinner says “The song was inspired by the movie ‘Dog Day Afternoon’.  The main character of Sonny was someone that really resonated with me. Nearly everyone my age is stuck between a rock and a hard place where everyday the news just gets worse and worse.  The police want to do you over, the landlords want to rip you off and the government wants to crucify you. It’s at a point where everyone’s just like “I’m tired man” and when you’re tired you’re in no mood to put up with bullshit so you tell it like it is. That’s what I wanted to do with this song, tell it like it is.”

Stream ‘Dog Daze’ below 


Author: Danu

Electronic, Indie, New Music

Columbia Mills ‘Momentum’

Columbia Mills have released their new single ‘Momentum’. Columbia Mills are regulars at festivals such as Indiependence, Longitude, and Electric Picnic and have supported world-class acts like Ride, Public Service Broadcasting, and Palace. On top of this, they have also toured Ireland & the UK with a string of headline shows at venues such as Whelans, King Tuts, and Sebright Arms. On the band’s previous tracks ‘Heart Of A Nation’, ‘Addiction’ and ‘Nevada’  they have garnered huge support from the UK and Irish radio such as BBC Radio 6, Radio X, Amazing Radio, Radio Nova, 8 Radio, Indie Rocks, RTÉ 2FM, Today FM and RTÉ 2XM. 

Dripping in hypnotic electronics and infectious grooves ‘Momentum’ is a euphoric number from Columbia Mills. In true Columbia Mills manner, the song is richly textured and contains numerous musical treats that are revealed with each subsequent listen. Eerie, dark undertones brood throughout the track contradicting the upbeat dance soundscapes that effortlessly draw the listener further into the song’s expressive immersive sound. As ‘Momentum’ builds the band release lush sounds and textures into the soundscape that is simply goosebump-inducing; pulsing bass lines, chiming keys and intricate guitar melodies are just the tip of the iceberg of the musical delights that await the listener as the band’s deft musical prowess leaves much to be admired. Columbia Mills have knocked it out of the park once again with ‘Momentum’ the track is irresistible and leaves the listener craving to hear more.

Speaking about the track, ‘Momentum’, Fiachra Treacy said: “Momentum is all about keeping the mind occupied and avoiding the traps that an idle mind can set for us.  Sometimes it just takes one person to come along and lift us from that deluge, but there are dangers in having your happiness dependent on one person.  The music is upbeat to represent that momentary feeling you are hoping will last forever, gaining momentum as we go.”

Stream ‘Momentum’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Pop Punk

Cuecliché ‘The Last Dance’

London three-piece pop-punk band Cuecliché have released their new single ‘The Last Dance’. This dynamic pop-punk tune bursts with the energetic and emotive sound of Cuecliché as they spread a heartfelt melody over a blustering backdrop of punchy drums and shredding guitars. Teaming slick riffs with buoyant basslines, the song is upbeat and travels at a brisk pace and is an exciting glimpse into the band’s musical talents. Filled with a shredding solo, a suspense-filled crescendo and anthemic tones ‘The Last Dance’ boasts a powerful wall of sound throughout.

Stream ‘Last Dance’below


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Hawke The Band ‘Miracles’

Hawke The Band have released their new single, ‘Miracles’. Hawke The Band was formed in 2018 by two friends in the shadow of the world-famous Guinness Brewery (in the south of the city) and features Richie Power (vocals/keyboards) and Eoghan MacMahon (vocals/guitar). Irish rock legends Aslan quickly declared themselves major fans, with frontman Christy Dignam proclaiming Hawke The Band “the next big thing” to emerge from a country that consistently punches above its weight in terms of quality music.

Propelling at an exciting pace ‘Miracles’ is a highly charged shot of adrenaline from Hawke The Band. The jubilant tune showcases Hawke The Band’s distinctive melodic prowess and anthemic, infectious sound in all its glory. The song starts off unhurried with just guitar accompaniment and warm vocals before springing into motion with driving rhythms and a vibrant wall of sound that is sure to have listeners dancing and singing along in no time. The charm of this band’s sound is irresistible and ‘Miracles’ is a fine display of this. The track is a joy to listen to and beckons repeat plays. Turn it up loud and enjoy.

Stream ‘Miracles’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Shane Beirne ‘Anymore’

Shane Beirne has recently released his new single ‘Anymore’. Beirne is a rising 21-year-old singer/songwriter who is signed to Hasard records in Zürich, Switzerland. ‘Anymore’ is a beautifully emotive and compelling tune that boasts the earnest songwriting and powerful sound of Beirne. This piano-led tune is laced with supple soundscapes and delicate melodies as Beirne uses his warm tender vocals to convey the heartfelt lyrics. He croons “ I’m tired all the time it’s like I don’t even feel what I see. Maybe because it’s not real “ over minimalist arrangements while the sweet melody swoons with bitter-sweet tones. Well-crafted and timeless ‘Anymore’ is an enjoyable new single from Beirne. 

Stream ‘Anymore’ Below 


Author: Danu

Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.

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