Tag Archives: Americana

Alt Rock, Americana, Indie, New Music

Bright Falls ‘The Widows Homes’

Bright Falls has released his new single ‘The Widows Homes’. Bright Falls is the project of Thurles, Co. Tipperary, singer-songwriter Eddie McCormack, who blends Americana with alternative rock, while taking a narrative approach to songwriting. Bright Falls debut E.P ‘Logging’ which was produced by Martin Quinn (Aine Cahill, The Strypes), was released in July 2019 . After the release of ‘Logging’, Bright Falls, with a full band, was asked to open Féile ’19, in Semple Stadium alongside acts such as Sinead O’Connor and The Stunning. Bright Falls have also supported artists The Frank & Walters, Ryan Sheridan and David Keenan.

Oozing Americana tones and icy synth progressions, ‘The Widows Homes’ is a lush and passionate song from Bright Falls. Bittersweet melodies drift over a warm alternative backdrop accompanied by a chiming guitar which weaves through 80’s-esque shimmering synths.The production is clean and precise resulting in a solid heartfelt tune which displays Bright Falls beautiful earnest songwriting. With a soothing vocal delivery, McCormack effortlessly coos over the simmering backdrop and lush arrangements while a chugging beat maintains the track’s relentless drive.The song recounts the aftermath of a love lost, building up to the chorus which sees the protagonist long for reconciliation of the relationship which they know will never return. As the track builds the synths flourish and blend into the songs emotive Americana tones to create a touching and wholly soothing listening experience. Boasting tight animated instrumentation ‘The Widows Homes’ is an impressive and extremely compelling track from Bright Falls.

Stream ‘The Widows Homes’ below

https://open.spotify.com/track/6244M2hrSS4mm2IZjiAEZJ?si=CpjOISeUQHCHjHnz2NVseQ


Author : Danu

Americana, New Music

The Star Prairie Project’ Steady As She Goes’

The Star Prairie Project have released their new single ‘Steady As She Goes’ which follows on from the success of their last single ‘Sophia’ which has amassed more than 110,000 streams on Spotify and reached #48 on the DRT Top 50 Adult Contemporary chart. The Star Prairie Project gets its name from the village of Star Prairie outside of Minneapolis and the AlanParsons Project. The Star Prairie Project is made up of Nolen R. Chew Jr. and Rick J. Vogelpohl. Their upcoming album ‘Panacea’ will see them teaming up with more vocalists and musicians as they create a truly collaborative and highly polished album.

‘Steady As She Goes’ is a warm upbeat Americana number as The Star Prairie Project create a smooth flowing track that is sweet and melodic. This charming ditty drifts effortlessly into the ears as the tender vocals and lush harmonies warm the cockles of your heart. With cruising guitar strums and mellow twangs along with soft keys and spongy beat its a velvety cosy track for easy listening. 

About the track Nolen recalls “the lyrics to the song came unusually fast” with the main idea of the song being written in under 20 minutes! “Steady As She Goes’ brings the best of Americana with its infectious melody and rhythm. Teaming up with vocalist, session musician and producer Rudiger (All American Rejects, Foghat) who delivers the smooth top vocal line, ‘Steady As She Goes’ invites listeners with its slick instrumentation and lyrical story.”

Stream ‘Steady As She Goes’ below 


Author : Danu

Americana, EP Review, New Music

Paula Standing ‘Truth and Trickery’ EP

Modern Americana talent, Paula Standing has released her latest EP, ‘Truth and Trickery’. Songwriter and performer, Paula Standing hails originally from North Queensland but now resides in Southern Australia where she spends time perfecting her written craft and building upon her roster of original music.

‘Truth and Trickery’ is a wholesome Americana collection with hues of county rock as Paula Standing fleshes out her musicianship and rich sound.This six track collection shines a light on the modern phenomenon of fake news. ‘A Good Day’ kicks the EP off with sway like tones as a warm guitar creates a sweet waltz-like tempo. With elegant piano and lush backing vocals complementing Standing’s sweet strong vocals its an easy listening ditty. Standing plays about with instruments and genres  throughout the EP as ‘All Over By Christmas’ introduces a steamy string melody while the country twang of ‘ Heartaches’ Coming Around’ ,‘Oh Baby (Why Am I Thinking of You)’ and ‘The War Ain’t Over Remix’ adds warmth and depth. There are some sublime guitar melodies sprinkling lush qualities and sun kissed vibes into each track while the passionate vocals coo and caress the catchy melodies. ‘Beautiful Remix’ brings the album to a sweet and delicate end as a soft beat bounces behind twinkling guitar. Standing’s vocals are the main striking point throughout the EP however the injections of strings and luscious guitar melodies are what makes these track stand out. Not my usual cup of tea but ‘Truth and Trickery’ is a charming sweet EP filled with sophisticated laid back tunes.

Stream ‘Truth and Trickery’ below


Alt Rock, Americana, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Bane Riff ‘Less Than Enough’

Pop rock artist Bane Riff has released his debut single ‘Less Than Enough’, a catchy rock track written to inspire his listeners to pursue those unforgettable moments that we sometimes forget about in the madness of every day life. Fairly new to the industry, Bane Riff came from a background in finance industry. Although running his own successful insurance business, Riff realised that he wasn’t happy and felt that something was missing in his life, from then he decided to act quickly and pursue his true passion. ‘Less Than Enough’ was written over a couple of hours by Riff himself, and recorded in studio with producer Martin Daus, guitarist in several popular Danish pop rock bands. Inspired by a hilarious moment experienced in a restaurant with the restaurant owner and his wife, the track reminds us that life comes down to the moments that you won’t forget. For him, the song is an awakening.

‘Less Than Enough’ is a swagger soaked country drizzled rock track. Riff’s raspy vocals flood warmth into the song while a punchy drum beat, and golden guitar lines add a whack of rock and roll strutting grit. It’s a charming number with a sing along ready Bon Jovi- esque chorus that will have a live crowd bellowing from the top of their lungs. This bright peppy tune will fill you with that get up and go stamina as it exudes good heart warming vibes while packing in some mighty brawn to have you tapping your foot and dancing carelessly in no time. With an irresistible melody and tight production it’s infectious for sure.

Stream ‘Less Than Enough’ below


Americana, Indie, Indie Folk, New Music

Vickers Vimy ‘Mermaid Of Luna Park’

Vickers Vimy have released their new single ‘Mermaid Of Luna Park’, the second single off ‘Atlas Of Hearts’ album and follows hot on the heels of RTE Radio 1 playlisted single ‘Keep Your Eye On The Road’. Hailing from Mayo, Vickers Vimy craft songs that dwell on the borders of folk and Americana. Rich eclectic sounds anchor lyrical themes of scratched vinyl nights and hazy Sunday mornings. Vickers Vimy have collaborated with Colm Mac Con Iomaire (The Frames & Swell Season) and had the pleasure of recording in the studio of Nick Seymour (Crowded House). They had the amazing fortune to support the late John Martyn and have also supported the Hothouse Flowers, Maria Doyle Kennedy, and Mundy. They have shared the RTE Music Train with Christy Moore, Paul Brady, Kodaline, Lisa O’Neill and Jack L.

‘Mermaid Of Luna Park’ sweeps in with golden warm tones and delightful melodies. It’s a wholesome little ditty – pure, honest and true with luscious pop elements richly blended into Americana-esque hues. The buoyant rhythm bounces along at a sprightly peppy pace while bright saxophone blasts and organ jingles fill the track with a warm-hearted goodness that is just sublime. Vickers Vimy swirl some psych-ish features in there too,  as winding keys add a dash of obscurity between the opulent twangs and Celtic glimmers. These guys flesh out their sound beautifully with a meticulously crafted layering of each melody, instrument and genre-  taking their time, building it sweetly and delicately to create the most beautiful honey drizzled balmy number. The smooth vocals glide upon the catchy sway-able melody elegantly. It’s a laid back vibrant gem that holds a steady positive pace which is so infectious you almost crave to hear the song again. The jazz feel is the icing on the cake and really displays the subtle splendour of this band. It’s a charming track that warms and nourishes your soul.

You can catch Vickers Vimy live at:

June 2nd House Concert, Limerick
July 6th Roisin Dubh, Galway
July 13th McCarthys, Dingle

Watch the video for ‘Mermaid Of Luna Park’ below


Americana, Indie Folk, New Music

Little Blue Thula ‘River and a Creek’

Hull band Little Blue Thula have released their new single ‘River and a Creek’. The single is taken from the duo’s (Niall Tennison -Vocals, Guitar and Toby Needler -Guitar) upcoming debut album ‘Things You Hear Down the Road’ which will be released on the 8th June. ‘River and a Creek’ is a passionate twanging number with wholesome melodies doused in warm Americana elements. The sweet toned guitar twinkles and whines longingly throughout the bluesy hued melancholic melody while Tennison broods and pines flooding the track with emotion. The lush backing vocals provided by Sarah Shiels add a heavenly sweetness to the track while the tapping beat provides a steady foundation for the mournful guitar to weave between. This track holds a purity that is quite gripping as light instrumentation glides and wisps about building in intensity to the the passionate fist pumping your chest crescendo. A solid new single for this duo.

Stream ‘River and a Creek’ below


Alt Rock, Desert Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Willie Breeding ‘Ride On’

Nashville based newcomer Willie Breeding has released his new single ‘Ride On’ with his debut album ‘Big Sky’ set for release later this summer. This lonesomely haunting western- esque track is immersed in rich wavy melodies seeped between gritty guitars that churn and coil around Breeding’s deep country baritone. The ghostly yet sweet backing vocals provided by Emily Hagihara create a chilling atmosphere as they wisp about the track while the Americana- esque sound fills it with a head strong lone ranger vibe. The guitar riff instantly grabs attention as it builds into a shrilling cinematic tremble on guitar before the guns and holster showdown. It’s nostalgically sweet yet dangerously gripping and dramatic while the melty melancholic melody flurries along-lighthearted and carefree. Perfectly crafted this track is both picturesque and musically exciting. Willie Breeding is one to keep an eye out for, his style is magnificently unique and utterly thrilling.

When asked about the track Breeding explains “It’s a song making fun of myself, When I first moved to Nashville, I used to go out and often when I would walk into the bar, I would walk straight through it and out the back door. It wasn’t a conscious thing, I almost wouldn’t even remember being in the bar. Then I would have no idea where to go or what to do. Living in New York, I always loved going out by myself. Did it for years. Nashville seemed very different. So I wanted the music to sound huge, and I had this big riff. Seemed appropriate for a song making fun of myself.”

Stream ‘Ride On’ below

https://soundcloud.com/williebreedingmusic/ride-on


Alt Rock, Americana, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Blake Brown & The American Dust Choir ‘Stop Shakin’

Blake Brown & The American Dust Choir have released their new single ‘Stop Shakin’. Blake Brown is an American singer-songwriter from Denver, Colorado. After participating in many collaborative projects, he started Blake Brown & The American Dust Choir in 2013. The idea was to have the flexibility of playing solo, but to also include a revolving cast of musician friends when they were able to join him. Part of the cast includes close friends and musicians of groups, The Fray, The Films, and Tennis. After 3 EP’s, countless shows, and a debut full length, ‘Long Way Home’, to be released in March 2018, Brown has found mainstay players. His wife, Tiffany Brown and long time friends Jason Legler, Adam Blake and Trent Nelson make up The American Dust Choir, creating a blend of indie-rock and Americana. Brown’s music is rooted in acoustic sounds, and characterized by his seemingly simple, yet complex melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

‘Stop Shakin’ displays their meticulously created indie Americana simply and sweetly portrayed as a infectious tune. This foot tapping gloriously twangy little ditty is a radiant ball of vitality. Sharp golden guitars illuminate the track with an instant shot of pizzazz and stinging zest while a buoyant beat and raspy warm vocals create a laid-back fun danceable vibe. This track radiates sun kissed tones and easy-going attitude. It’s definitely one to get you up shimmying and shaking. It is well layered with each intricate guitar melody adding a fantastic new dimension and sparkling facet to the track while the rich rhythm livens up the song adding a meaty groovy texture. The luscious honey drizzled melody in so catchy and vibrant it’s a joy to listen to and will be stuck in your head all day.

Stream ‘Stop Shakin’ below

 


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Rock, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From FAMILY JOOLS

Bristol’s FAMILY JOOLS have release their fourth single ‘American Dream’ on End Of The Trail Records. ‘American Dream’ is blissful sun soaked nostalgia in the form of blistering alternative rock smothered in unadulterated Americana. With a honey drizzled melody that is instantly catchy and euphoric, it’s a sweet luscious two-minute nostalgic dose of heaven. A sharp stinging guitar riff announces this track triumphantly with piercing scorching humidity. Spikey, jagged and a bit The Strokes- esque, its instantly thrilling and wholly satisfying. Punchy drums add a sticky elasticity while smooth vocals coo with a soothing warmth and passion. It’s fiery and tightly knit. This sweltering track exudes soul yet is fresh and modern. There is no doubt about the slick musicianship of these guys.
FAMILY JOOLS are now working on completing their debut LP (still unnamed) which will be released before the end of the year. So, keep an eye out for that.

In the meantime, watch the video for ‘American Dream’ below


Folk, Indie Folk, New Music

Divining Rod ‘Hemlock Blues / Love Come Tumbling’

Americana, folk singer-songwriter Miyuki Furtado has announced the release of his debut EP with his newest band Divining Rod, a new direction for the previous member of popular post punk band The Roger Sisters. The double A side single was released yesterday and it illustrates the earliest and the most recent paths Miyuki’s songwriting has taken. Released under Killipaki Records, Divining Rod take inspiration from the likes of Bert Jansch, Stephen Stills and Fairport Convention to present a soul tinged, country sound and a taste of what is to come from their full album, ‘Return to Crystal Cove’ which is  set to be released later this year. During his upbringing in Kauai, Hawaii, Miyuki was surrounded by live music and the inspiration from that environment carries through to the tracks in this EP. Recorded by grammy-nominated Brian Forbes (Emily King, Bilal), both tracks on the EP have an interesting story behind the lyrics, with Hemlock Blues being a story of the sensationalism of news in the modern day and the repercussions it can have and Love Come Tumbling inspired by a dream of Miyuki’s which lead him to put pen to paper.
‘Hemlock Blues’ is bouncy soul infused Americana that rushes through you like blood in your veins, it’s wholesome and honest with dark sinister tones lying beneath its rooted sound. Rich country twangs fill the track with sharp bursts of refreshing zest while smooth vocals and soft beat add warmth and comfort. Dramatic stops and vibrant guitar twinkles create a delicate yet striking track that is foot tappingly good.
‘Love Come Tumbling’ is a melodic gripping track with a kick drum acting as the heartbeat of the song. Once again sharp bright guitar melodies flicker in and out adding bright little speckles of luminosity. With a sweet instrumental feature Divining Rod display their slick refined musicianship as lush guitar lines and mellow harmonica twangs blend seamlessly with sweet tones creating a well layered lavish experience. Its vocal melody is simple but with a hearty wholesome sound backing this track it is sublime and warming.

These intricate well layered tracks act as the perfect appetiser for the album ‘Return to Crystal Cove’.

Stream ‘Hemlock Blues / Love Come Tumbling’ below