Tag Archives: indie pop

Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

modernlove. ‘monochrome blue’ EP

Photo Credit: Marc Shelly

Irish four-piece modernlove. have released their new EP ‘monochrome blue’ on Akira Records (Henry Green, Zola Blood, Shura, CHINAH). To celebrate the EP release, the band will be playing a Dublin headline show on November 6th in the Workman’s Club and their first London show at The Social on November 12th.

‘monochrome blue’ is creative, alluring and an utterly intoxicating EP that solidifies modernlove.’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting indie-pop bands. The four-piece are known for creating eargasmic tunes brimming with sugar-sweet melodies that hook the listener instantly and ‘monochrome blue’ follows this trend perfectly.

From the explosive rush of opener ‘2 Missed Calls’, the band flesh out their lustrous wall of sound with rich percussion, gleaming guitars and irresistible bass grooves that lure and entice from the start. Dealing with some heavy and intriguing lyrical content that details with the complexities of a love triangle the track is an excellent start to the EP.

The production throughout the EP is immaculate. The band venture between indie-pop bangers and synth-pop gems to create a seamless and enjoyable listening experience.‘Liquorice’ sounds fresh on the EP. This shimmering track with its glittering synths, punchy drums and rumble on bass sits comfortably on the EP and is a fantastic lead into the latter half of ‘monochrome blue’. Each song floods with adrenaline and youthful vigour. ‘come over x’ is a fine example of this where lush sonics, vibrant 80’s pop elements, and soaring melodies create that heart-racing effect and keeps the listener hanging on to every note. 

An exciting element of the EP is the hypnotic vocal aspect of each track. Barry Lally’s smooth vocals drift across bittersweet melodies effortlessly while conveying oodles of passion. He spits out brisk lyrical flows in ‘Bop’ while crooning with emotion through the cinematic ‘I know it’s tearing you apart’. The latter track is filled with chiming guitars, a tight rhythm section, soaring chorus and epic crescendo and is the pinnacle moment on the EP. Within this track modernlove. excel both musically and lyrically – from evocative turns of phrase to richly textured soundscapes and heart rushing melodies, the tune showcases the band’s boundless musical talent in glorious detail.

‘monochrome blue’ is a sublime collection of tracks that displays the blossoming sound of modernlove. Each track is a gem to treasure and beckons repeat plays. The band’s approach to songwriting, production and sound is a breath of fresh air and leaves much to be admired. Press play and enjoy.

Stream ‘monochrome blue’ below


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Candy’s Guilt ‘blue ivory’

Candy’s Guilt have released their new single ‘blue ivory’. Candy’s Guilt is a four-piece band from North Dublin. The band was founded by Sean Walsh (guitar) and John Kennedy (vocals) when they met in secondary school. The band also consists of Oscar Geraghty on drums and percussion and Pearce Fitzpatrick O’Donovan on bass.

‘blue ivory’ is a melodically lush tune from Candy’s Guilt. The band craft the song around mellow twinkles on guitar and soft percussion while supple soundscapes exude a majestic sense of euphoria throughout. The song has a retro 50’s-esque quality within the melody as Candy’s Guilt take a minimalist approach to the song to create a dreamy and pacifying listening experience for listeners to indulge in. ‘blue ivory’ is an intriguing and enjoyable display of musicianship from Candy’s Guilt. Looking forward to hearing more from the four-piece.

Watch the video for ‘blue ivory’ below


Author: Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

FRUITZ ‘Set The Motion’

Photo Credit: FRUITZ

FRUITZ are set to release their new single ‘Set The Motion’ on 20th August. ‘Set The Motion’ is the second single from the band’s upcoming debut EP ‘The Pits and The Glamour’ following the massively successful indie banger ‘Be Like This’. Recorded in Dublin’s famous Windmill Lane Recording Studios, FRUITZ teamed up with producer Cian Synott and mastering engineer Fergal Davis on this song, as well as Gareth Halliday ( Noel Gallagher) for the artwork. Dubbed as one of the most exciting bands in Ireland right now, FRUITZ launched into the music scene in late 2017, quickly making a name for themselves as an exciting live band. The Dublin trios first release was hard-hitting single ‘KNOTZ’, which was followed up by ‘U & I’ and ‘Girl Around The Corner’. FRUITZ earned themselves an international following, playing their UK debut to a sold-out headline show at Liverpool’s Zanzibar Club and playing Gullivers’ in Manchester for renowned indie label Scruff Of The Neck. FRUITZ carried big hype into 2020, releasing the anthemic ‘DayDream’ early on prior to a sell-out home town show at Whelan’s and a support slot with Louis Berry.

‘Set The Motion’ showcases a smooth, more ethereal facet to FRUITZ’ sound. Dripping in soft keys and atmospheric soundscapes with airy chimes on guitar, the song has a dreamy and ambient atmosphere. FRUITZ coat a sweet, catchy melody in tender vocals and a soft instrumental allowing the band to present a sensitive and moving pop sound for listeners to enjoy. FRUITZ are a talented band who showcase their diversity and mature musicianship with each exciting release, and ‘Set The Motion’ is a magnificent example of this. Filled with a delicate sun-kissed tone and lush harmonies, ‘Set The Motion’ is a sublime slow jam that charms its way into your head leaving you craving to hear more from this talented band.

About the track, frontman James Keegan said: “The song was a product of the first lockdown, I didn’t plan to stray from our sound or anything like that, it just felt right. It is a shot in the dark for us but I feel as a songwriter it’s very refreshing to do a song that’s not what people are going to expect from us.” 

‘Set The Motion’ is set for release on 20th August. For more follow FRUITZ on Facebook here https://m.facebook.com/FruitzOfficial/


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Somebody’s Child ‘CRAZY’

Dublin-based indie rock five-piece Somebody’s Child have released their new single ‘CRAZY’ – the first piece of material following the band’s critically lauded second EP ‘Hope, Amongst Other Things’, which was released earlier this year. The song is the first single to be taken from a new Somebody’s Child EP –  ‘Staying Sane’,  which is set for release this autumn. More conceptual than anything the band have done to date, Staying Sane is written from the perspective of a long road trip along the west coast of Ireland, with the new single kicking things off.

Layered in vibrant indie, earnest lyrics and richly layered soundscapes, ‘CRAZY’ is a triumph from Somebody’s Child. Within this catchy laid back tune filled with sun-kissed vibes, the band lay bare honest emotions as Cian Godfrey ruminates on self-isolation. “Have you ever questioned if you’re crazy?. They all say I’m a waster ’cause I’m lazy. I’m terrified of strangers I thought maybe, That I need help”. These well-coined lyrics provide depth while contrasting the light and upbeat tone of the song. With subtle elements of R&B peering between juicy guitar bounces and slick beats, Somebody’s Child creates a relatable indie bop for listeners to enjoy. The chorus ripples with rich percussion, funky bass lines and uplifting melodies as the band push past all expectations to deliver a euphoric and impressive earworm that will chime in your head for days.

Speaking about ‘CRAZY’, Godfrey says: “CRAZY is definitely from the depths of my thoughts. A throwback to my school days mixed in with my deepest fear – going crazy.”

Stream ‘CRAZY’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

N.O.A.H ‘Hands Up’

N.O.A.H return with their new summer anthem, ‘Hands Up’. The highly anticipated track was produced by the Grammy-Winning Ruadhri Cushnan in Camden Studios and mastered by John Davis (The Killers,U2, Dua Lipa). To mark the release of ‘Hands Up,’ the band will perform one of Ireland’s first indoor shows on July 24th at The Solstice Theatre in Navan, which will also be streamed live. The band are currently working on their debut EP, ‘Echoes of the Night’, which is set to be released on vinyl on 1 October 2021, and will play their first headline show of 2021 in LostLane on 2 October, followed by another show in The Fiddler London on 8 October. The now Dublin-based band hail from County Meath, and comprise of lifelong friends Ryan Hill, Adam Rooney, and Ronan Hynes.


‘Hands Up’ is a refreshing burst of indie pop as N.O.A.H showcase their hook-filled musicianship in one irresistible gem. With bubbling synths, glistening guitars and shimmering beats, this bright, upbeat tune oozes luscious soundscapes and feel-good vibes. Smooth vocals drift over a dreamy melody while the jangly backdrop creates a humid intoxicating atmosphere for listeners to indulge in. N.O.A.H’s diverse and captivating sound is blossoming superbly with each release, and ‘Hands Up’ is a sublime example of their glorious upbeat pop. Press play and enjoy.


Stream ‘Hands Up’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

HVNTER ‘Breathe’

HVNTER has released ‘Breathe’, the 3rd single from his upcoming EP ‘You Don’t Know Love’ – Out July 30th. HVNTER is an electronic singer-songwriter from Pontypridd, South Wales who found his love for music uploading self-taught acoustic covers to YouTube at 16, where he began to craft his songwriting skills. He soon found his feet and after just 3 years had surpassed over 250,000 views. His debut track “Blood” quickly racked up over 30,000 plays on Soundcloud within the first few weeks of release. Over the years HVNTER bloomed as a live performer. HVNTER has performed with and supported touring artists Bright Light Bright Light, Into The Ark (BBC The Voice), Let’s Eat Grandma, Gabriel Garzon Montano, Tinchy Stryder and Chris Stark (BBC Radio 1), to name a few alongside landing slots at Young Peoples Village and Truck Festival.

‘Breathe’ is a refreshing guzzle of electronic pop that boasts HVNTER’s emotive and irresistible sound. The artist spreads a bittersweet melody over an effervescent backdrop of fluctuating beats and swirling synths to create a heart-rushing soundscape that is sure to guarantee repeat plays. Soothing vocals glide over the melody with tenderness and emotion as twinkling keys create an element of innocence between biting grooves and heavier electronic moments. HVNTER is an ambitious artist whose deft musical ability creates compelling tunes that are easy on the ears, relatable and exciting to listen to. Oozing an infectious chorus and surging soundscapes, ‘Breath’ is an irresistible and passionate new single from HVNTER.

Stream ‘Breathe’ below


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets ‘shine’

Limerick-based alternative rock outfit Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets have released their new single ‘shine’.This is the third single from their ‘crazy, how we live like this’ collection. As per usual the band recorded and produced the track themselves, with their drummer, Gavin Murray, mixing it. The track is set to come out under the Limerick-based collective, BitDepth.The band have been busy the last six months gaining over 18k on Spotify. They have released three singles and an EP with collaborator and producer, Culla. They also have plenty more to come, with three more singles set to come out from their ‘crazy, how we live like this’ collection. 

‘shine’ is an anthemic tune that boasts the emotive and stirring musicianship of Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets. The band caress the ears with a soothing sweet melody while bubbling rhythms create a tense and melancholic atmosphere to start before the chorus reveals a more uplifting undertone. Flynn’s smooth vocals exude tenderness and emotion throughout as he coos, “are we getting there?, are we losing our sweet time?. We’re going nowhere” over a building flurry on guitars and synths. The track gives way to a mighty, heartfelt crescendo as delicate guitar plucks and lofty western-esque refrains chime between cinematic builds on synth and driving drum progressions. Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets pack oodles of passion into their songs. This richness in emotion expressed through moving lyrics and evocative instrumentation is what makes Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets a band to treasure.

About the track, Flynn said:“This track is one that I’ve had for a while. I wrote it when I was going through a really tough time mentally, and it helped see the light at the end of the tunnel. We have been playing it live for some time, so I’m delighted its finally out in the world.”

Stream ‘shine’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

LHD ‘Growing Up’

Brisbane indie-pop band LHD are back with their new single ‘Growing Up’. This shimmering indie-pop gem showcases LHD’s eargasmic, nostalgic sound in all its glory. The band injects intricate percussion and buoyant beats into a radiant synth backdrop to create a bubbling, ethereal atmosphere filled with lush harmonies and balmy guitar riffs. Intense brooding verses give way to dreamy melodies and humid soundscapes while velvety vocals frankly express the tracks motivational theme “raise the figurative middle finger to those people who judge you”. LHD have meticulously crafted this tune. Their skilful use of pacing, glorious melodies, and surging instrumentation makes LHD a band to keep an eye on. Boasting an uplifting chorus with passion bursting from every note, ‘Growing Up’ is a fresh guzzle of indie-pop that leaves you craving for more.

About the track the band said “Growing Up” raises the figurative middle finger to those people in your life that always seem to have an opinion about what you are or aren’t doing, and love to criticise others. Although this is the case, the song is ultimately motivational, and listeners will find it brings a message of hope and a confidence in staying true to yourself, despite what others think.”

Stream ‘Growing Up’ below 


Author : Danu

Electronic, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Arthur Valentine ‘Splitscreen’ EP

Arthur Valentine has released his debut EP ‘Splitscreen’.Taking its cues from 90s arcade classics like Daytona USA, a Splitscreen video game was used to create the EP’s artwork, and is available for download to coincide with the EP’s release.

Doused in chilled R&B and speckles of soul, ‘Splitscreen’ is Arthur Valentine’s ambitious debut. The level of production on this EP is masterful and well thought out. From gentle guitar glimmering through lush washes of electronics in ‘Track 3’ to the sun-kissed tones, bubbling percussion and airy synths in ‘Dream About You’, the EP surges with lush arrangements and glorious mellow tones. With each subsequent listen, a new melodic embellishment, guitar flurry or percussive peppering is unveiled as Valentine takes his laid back sound to exciting new heights. Even the brooding ‘CHOKER’ unfolds into a treasure of doo-whop -esque melodies, heavy electronics, and biting voice samples as Valentine showcases his fusion of hip hop hued R&B. 

Each track holds its own within the EP with Valentine’s immaculate and smooth vocal delivery tying everything together. His voice croons over velvety melodies in ‘Rainbow Road’ with a soft, soulful tone creating a relaxed evening atmosphere while using autotune backing vocals to add a bite and graceful shift in texture. The subtle contrasts and embellishments within the track are an absolute joy to experience again and again.

‘Splitcreen’ concludes with ‘Ministry Of Happiness’ – the most lush tune on the EP. Valentine infuses sensual jazz elements with R&B before a cinematic crescendo elevates the song enhanced by tropical hues and soft whistle moments of joy. This rosy-hued tune is an absolute delight and a fantastic finale to this special EP.

‘Splitscreen’ is an emotive and utterly compelling body of work. Arthur Valentine is a talented artist and one to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Splitscreen’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Mustafa Sal ‘johnnysixteen’

Alternative pop artist Mustafa Sal has released his new single ‘johnnysixteen’. Under his old pseudonym, Sal the Musician, Mustafa released four singles in 2019/20 to great avail, with the tracks getting plenty of radio play and press buzz. Mustafa also spent the latter half of 2019 playing a number of support shows for touring artists, including Australian alt-rock legends ‘You Am I’. Thus far, he has released two singles in 2021 under his new artist name ‘Mustafa Sal’ and garnered Spotify Editorial playlist support for his most recent track ‘Spaceship Boy’.

‘johnnysixteen’ is a buoyant alternative pop number that showcases the emotive songwriting of Mustafa Sal. This catchy bop rides on a bubbling beat while soft electronics wisp in the backdrop creating a bright soundscape filled with warm guitars and shimmering synths that weave between a catchy chorus and luscious arrangements. Mustafa Sal’s warm vocal coo’s melt into a dreamy melody while his sweet tender lyrics convey emotions of loneliness “we are the stimulation generation. We don’t know how to make real friends, so we fake real friends”. The bittersweet lyrics of isolation are wonderfully contrasted by the energetic instrumentation and crisp production in the track. Mustafa has crafted a meaningful and charming tune ready for repeat plays.

About the track, Mustafa says: “The track itself discusses loneliness in the digital age under this cloud of technology. We are so connected yet so distant from one another- a crippling factor in the development of Generation Z as a whole.”

Stream ‘Johnnysixteen’ below 


Author : Danu