Tag Archives: indie rock

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Afterbliss ‘Remnants’

Indie rockers Afterbliss are back with their third single, ‘Remnants’. After a discussion on an online discussion forum, and comprised of members from across Ireland, Scotland and Romania, the indie rock band formed in June 2019. The group is made up of Evan Cassidy on lead vocals, Alex Burcea on lead guitar, synths and backing vocals, Ally Pender on drums, James O’Gorman on rhythm guitar, and Shane Waldron on bass. After 18 months of writing songs, November 2020 saw them release their debut single, “Until Sunrise”, which received acclaim on local and national Irish radio play. Their music has already accumulated over 27,000 streams between Spotify and YouTube. “Remnants” was recorded in the legendary Windmill Lane Recording Studios, Dublin (Rolling Stones, U2). It was mixed by Alan Kelly (Kings of Leon, Herbie Hancock), and mastered by Fergal Davis (Muse, Sinead O’Connor).

‘Remnants’ is a dazzling disco ball of synth-driven indie rock that continues Afterbliss’ run of knockout tracks. The song is a potent and well crafted tune that moves at a brisk hair-raising pace enhanced by disco flirtations that weave between the raw guitar riffs. The band take their impressive knack for anthemic melodies and combine this with a dynamic sequence of epic synth progressions and pummeling drums to create a soaring new single that is a joy to listen to and a wonderful assault on the senses. Afterbliss are making a name for themselves with their tight, ambitious sound and deft musicianship and ‘Remnants’ takes this to a new and awe-inspiring level.The track is a must-listen.

Stream ‘Remnants’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, indie rock, New Music

Pacific ‘Spiral’

Manchester-based band Pacific have released their new single ‘Spiral’. Few can lay claim to achieving so many accolades in such a small space of time but in 2021 alone, Pacific have gained Apple Music’s backing, playlisted in their Breaking Rock and New In Rock editorials, as well as from their hometown club Manchester United, who are using the band’s songs in online video content and stadium pre-match playlists. They have also garnered tremendous radio support from Amazing Radio, BBC Introducing Manchester, Merseyside and many more. Plus, Huw Stephens has given them a spin, and XS Manchester had them as their ‘Record of the Week’.

‘Spiral’ is a piano-led tune doused in the anthemic alternative rock of Pacific. This dramatic song swarms in on a dynamic backdrop of gritty guitars, raw bass grooves and powerful drum progressions to create a dense and adrenaline rushing soundscape that is euphoric to the ears. Containing a wonderful icy piano feature amidst the heavy rock onslaught, the band showcase their deft musical prowess superbly. The massive production, synth embellishment and hook-filled pop melodies make ‘Spiral’ an exhilarating listening experience and a wonderful example of Pacific’s powerful musicianship. Boasting passionate vocals and a mighty chorus, ‘Spiral’ is a fantastic new single from Pacific. 

Stream ‘Spiral’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Kevin Casey ‘The Whole World Is Watching’

Dubliner Kevin Casey has released his new single ‘The Whole World Is Watching’. A long-standing regular in the Irish music scene, Kevin Casey has released several singles, two EPs, and a full-length album since 2014. He has done two European tours and gigged extensively across the country and Germany, the U.K, and the USA, including two consecutive years at Electric Picnic.‘The Whole World Is Watching’ was inspired by the tragic events that led to the Death of George Floyd on May 25th, 2020.

Filled with striking lyrical content, ‘The Whole World Is Watching’ is a passionate and powerful tune from Kevin Casey. With haunting harmonica pines which open up to chilling audio samples, the song hits hard right from the start as the track drifts atop a heartfelt power ballad-esque backdrop filled with lamenting guitars and sparse country elements. Casey’s rasped vocals exude emotion as he questions how our protectors can be those who harm us “A sentence without a crime is how it seems to me…“. With an off-beat drum sample reminiscent of a fading heartbeat and chants panning out the song, Casey presents his most compelling and moving tune yet. 

Stream ‘The Whole World Is Watching’ below

https://open.spotify.com/track/7K85arpo7P7kWdfN0C13Ge?si=8cb967e3e73b438f


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Murmurs ‘Not My Girl’

Liverpool band Murmurs have released their debut single ‘Not My Girl’. Murmurs came together through a sheer passion for music. The band is composed of lead singer and guitarist Kieran McKenna, drummer Kevin McKay, John Bradley on bass and Josh Ferrigan on lead guitar,

‘Not My Girl’ is a bright slice of indie rock that displays the catchy and tight sound of Murmurs. The band spread lush harmonies and warm vocals over a sweet radiant melody while weaving light indie guitar jingles through a buoyant drum backdrop to create an upbeat, bop-ready wall of sound that is a joy to listen to. This infectious tune is sure to have you singing along in no time with its catchy qualities and sun-kissed charm. Oozing a 90’s rock undertone and boasting a shredding guitar solo, ‘Not My Girl’ is a satisfying listening experience and strong debut single from Murmurs.

Stream ‘Not My Girl’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Late Night Pharmacy ‘Slacktivist (Normalise This)’

Dublin-based alternative rock band Late Night Pharmacy are set to release their new single, ‘Slacktivist (Normalise This)’ on June 11th. It is the band’s second single of 2021, following April’s ‘Too Late for the Rickshaws’. Recording the single was only possible due to the generous financial support of the Department of Culture, who last year announced the creation of a Music Industry Stimulus Package (MISP), intended to help keep the Irish commercial music sector afloat during Covid-19. In November 2020, Late Night Pharmacy were awarded funding under the MISP, and hired Aidan Cunningham (Wheatus, The Scratch, Nealo, Overhead the Albatross) to produce and mix three singles.

Riding on a jagged riff and machine-gun rhythmic jabs ‘Slacktivist (Normalise This)’ is a heavy alternative rock tune that packs one heck of a punch. The song is a fantastic, intense, and thrilling sonic assault on the senses filled with crashing guitars and pounding drums that create a dense and mind bombarding soundscape that is simply a joy to listen to. An eerie undertone rumbles underneath the track’s kinetic soundscape and is greatly enhanced by the use of synths, jolting time signature changes and tempo shifts. This choppy effect within the track’s sound is an intriguing display of musical prowess and complements the lyrical theme wonderfully.‘Slacktivist (Normalise This)’ is an excellent display of deft songwriting and impressive musicianship from Late Night Pharmacy.

About the track the band said: “In Orwell’s “Politics and the English Language”, he described how journalists use clichéd, shopworn phrases to write sentences almost unconsciously (“They will construct your sentences for you – even think your thoughts for you”), hence psychologically protecting them from considering the full implications of their opinions. 1984 features a character who speaks so orthodoxically as to resemble an automaton: “It was not the man’s brain that was speaking, it was his larynx.” Today, most communication originates not in the brain, but in the thumbs: social media discourse is an endless deluge of the same handful of clichéd expressions repeated ad nauseum, and conveying no real sentiment other than smug condescension. In this environment, even the crudest artificial intelligence could pass the Turing test with ease. As a commentary on this trend, the lyrics of “Slacktivist (Normalise This)” are entirely made up of overused social media expressions, assembled in no particular order as a series of empty, vapid non sequiturs. “

‘Slacktivist (Normalise This)’ is set for release on the 11th of June for more check out The Late Night Pharmacy on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/latenightpharmacyband/


Alt- Pop, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Thrillhouse ‘Take Care’

Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse have released their new single ‘Take Care’. ‘Take Care’ races to glory as Thrillhouse continue their run of anthemic, ethereal indie rock through this majestic tune. With an electronic glitzy soundscape that is broken by shimmering guitars and desert-esque elements, the band create a sun-kissed nostalgic gem that pulses within a heart-pounding backdrop. Rumbling basslines ride along snapping beats and whirring synths to create an all-consuming sound that oozes suspense while showcasing the band’s deft musical prowess. Boasting sleek production and tight musical layering that is teamed with a deep brooding vocal delivery, ‘Take Care’ is a rush of heartfelt indie that leaves you craving to hear more. Thrillhouse are fast becoming known for creating infectious, musically lush bangers and ‘Take Care’ is a sublime example of this.

Stream ‘Take Care’’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Cold Comforts ’Turn Back Time’

Cold Comforts have released the first single,’ Turn Back Time’, from their debut album. In their first two years together, they have already released three singles, gone on a nine-date tour of the UK and been longlisted for Glastonbury’s Emerging Talent Competition.

’Turn Back Time’ is a driving 90’s alternative rock anthem that boasts the blistering sound of Cold Comforts. The song rides on dynamic guitar riffs while punchy drums and blazing bass grooves saturate the backdrop in energy and angst. Cold Comforts thrilling wall of sound is instantly vibrant and energetic, evoking images of live crowds jumping and singing along as the band blast out the catchy chorus. Lyrically,’ Turn Back Time’ is an anthem of defiance and never again living in fear of the past or the future. Cold Comforts present this theme through relentless, mighty musicianship and hook-laden soundscapes. Well crafted and drenched in exhilarating instrumentation, Cold Comforts knock it out of the park with this new tune.

Stream ‘Turn Back Time’ below 


Author: Danu

EP Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music

The Zen Arcade ‘High Fidelity’ EP

Photo Credit: Paula Trjoner 

Formed in late 2019 following the dissolution of The Strypes – Cavan, Ireland’s The Zen Arcade have adopted an independent approach that extends far beyond their musical output. Today Friday 4th June via their own Dental Records they release the new EP ‘High Fidelity’; including the brand new single ‘High Fidelity’ alongside last year’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’, and an exclusive episode of their own podcast – ‘Higher Fidelity’.  The band’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ released in October 2020 saw The Zen Arcade pick up extensive airplay in Ireland and the US, peaking at no.1 on the Irish iTunes singles chart and ranking at no.12 on the Irish National HomeGrown Chart by end of trading on release day. Having started life as the intro to their ‘Higher Fidelity’ podcast, the band’s second single, ‘High Fidelity’ will be released on 12″ bubblegum pink vinyl as part of ‘High Fidelity EP’

‘High Fidelity’ is a musically striking and cleverly thought out EP that provides a keyhole glimpse into the boundless talent The Zen Arcade have to offer. The jingle, single and title track ‘High Fidelity’ kick starts the EP. Bright and drenched in sweet, catchy melodies with tight harmonies and infectious clap along feature, the band pull out all the stops to ensure this tune stays in your head all day. Driven by a punchy drum progression and raw bass grooves, the song surges with adrenaline. The Zen Arcade’s deft musical prowess is on full display in this charming gem. However, it is the well-coined phrases within the lyrics that steal the show “My heart will always pound in 5.1 surround sound” – love it!

The band’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ swiftly follows. A favourite here at Indie Buddie, this brisk slice of musical mastery is sure to get even the most timid person up and dancing. Boasting sharp, resounding guitars and frantic bass lines, this tune is a thrilling burst of alternative rock with glorious pop sensibilities that will leave you craving for more.

The Zen Arcade also provide a unique experience, an exclusive episode of the band’s ‘Higher Fidelity’ podcast where they discuss the making of ‘High Fidelity’, the magic of vinyl, the lyrics, along with their Sonic Seconds segment. ‘High Fidelity’ is a real treat. The band put a lot into creating The Zen Arcade experience, and the result is insightful, intelligent and fun.

The Zen Arcade are honing their sound perfectly. Their artistic approach to music, clever lyrics and wonderful knack with melodies leaves much to be admired.

Speaking about ‘High Fidelity’, The Zen Arcade elaborate: “High Fidelity has gone from jingle to single and theme song to hit song. This piece of music originally heralded the start of an episode of Higher Fidelity but now heralds the start of an episode of success. The track was written indoors, recorded in vain and released in case. It details the relationship between a cinephile with a lot of boxsets and their partner with a lot to catch up on.”

Stream ‘High Fidelity’ below


Author : Danu

Album Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jim McHugh ‘Pretending To Wake Up’ Album

Monaghan singer-songwriter Jim McHugh has released his third album ‘Pretending To Wake Up’. McHugh’s previous releases have been added to RTE 1’s Recommends list, been Album of The Week at KCLR, been All Out Local Song Choice at LMFM and had extensive regional, national and international airplay.

‘Pretending To Wake Up’ is a fascinating collection that showcases McHugh’s most compelling work to date. The gobsmacking singles ‘Dave’ and ‘Hey Jimbo’ only give a glimpse of the treasure that ‘Pretending To Wake Up’ has to offer. Gems like the emotive ‘Her Love’ is a joy to the ears and boasts the artist’s fine musical prowess – the track’s dark tribal beat exudes hypnotic qualities that brood and simmer beneath McHugh’s deep vocals. This mysterious tune glimmers with a sense of innocence as McHugh slips into his falsetto while a supple twinkle on guitar adorns the backdrop in a tender lament. It’s within the deep yearning and minimalist instrumentation that we see the true beauty of the song before it erupts into a cinematic and passionate crescendo. The track is simply divine and quite the emotive masterpiece.

McHugh’s artistic talent is on full display within ‘Pretending To Wake Up’ as he takes us from the lush ‘Her Love’ to the gritty, dark ‘Virtual Bomb Drop’, an alternative rock smasher. This riff-heavy banger drives along a foundation of pounding drums, slithering grooves on bass and angular guitars that ooze swagger and gusto throughout. The track is a wonderful contrast to ‘Her Love’ that pulls the listener further into McHugh’s vibrant musicianship.

All over the album, we see McHugh blending musical genres – something the artist does with deft skill and enviable ease. From the panache dipped rock n’ roll of ‘Dave’ and ‘ Hey Jimbo’ to the jazz hues within ‘Shut Your Mouth’ and reggae rhythmic elements in ‘Mo Stór ’, McHugh invites listeners to indulge in the myriad of unique sounds within each satisfying and richly textured track. McHugh knows when to blast his tunes with ballsy rock and heavy instrumentation and when to tease, lure and create brooding tension within his music. This skill provides refreshing jolts throughout the album, with raw crescendo’s erupting from seemingly tender and pining tunes. This is aptly shown in ‘Mo Stór ’ which sees McHugh movingly lay his heart on his sleeve “I was born to be alive, with you” over a buoyant guitar, and soft instrumentation that becomes more expressive with indie rock elements for the crescendo.

Lyrical honesty and storytelling is something McHugh has become known for. Most notably in ‘Such A Cow’. McHugh exclaims “you’re such a cow” over jagged guitar and punchy drums. He’s not one to mince his word. However, there is plenty of witty insights and thought-provoking idioms within his lyrics that leaves much to be admired about the artist’s talent as a songwriter.

‘Pretending To Wake Up’ is a fantastic and cohesive collection of tracks that marks McHugh as an artist to keep an eye on. The diverse blend of instrumentation teamed with catchy sweeping melodies and lyrical content makes ‘Pretending To Wake Up’ an exciting record ready for repeat plays.

Stream ‘Pretending To Wake Up’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

The Academic ‘Kids (Don’t End Up Like Me)’

The Academic have announced details of a new EP. ‘The Community Spirit’ EP will be released on the 9th of July through Capitol Records. To coincide with its announcement, the band have released the first taste of the EP with their new single, ‘Kids (Don’t End Up Like Me)’.’ The Community Spirit’ EP was written, recorded and produced by the band through lockdown.

Exuding a youthful persona, ‘Kids (Don’t End Up Like Me)’ is an irresistible earworm that surges with The Academic’s thrilling indie sound. The rugged driving bass lines and punchy drum progressions create a gripping foundation while shimmers of guitar lift the track to majestic and ethereal heights. It’s a gripping and powerful number as the band flesh out their exhilarating musicianship with weighty instrumentation and honest lyricism. Craig Fitzgerald croons, “when I say I shine, I barely glow “ over a sweet melody while the indie backdrop builds for the anthemic chorus. The track is a joy to listen to and ready for repeat plays.

Showcasing crisp production and energetic instrumentation, The Academic are building their sound superbly and fast becoming one of Ireland’s finest indie gems.

About the song, vocalist Craig Fitzgerald explains: “Kids (Don’t End Up Like Me) is one of the first songs I remember writing back when I was a teenager. It was the first time that lyrics had come very easy to me. It’s written about the fear of not getting out of your hometown and amounting to anything. Thanks to the lockdown, I had plenty of time on my hands, but nothing to write about, so I started looking through all my old notebooks and found this song fully written. I had a gut feeling that it might come to life now with a few more years of living behind me since it was originally written.”

 Stream ‘Kids (Don’t End Up Like Me)’ below 


Author : Danu