Tag Archives: indie rock

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Askies ‘Easy’

Askies are back with their brand new single, ‘Easy’.The band have already made a name for themselves on the live circuit- most notably growing a following in their hometown of Leeds with 2 sold out shows in 2019 and the release of their last two singles ‘Subject To Change’ and ‘Catch Up’ .

Relentless rhythms and chiming guitars abound on this tight yet chaotic track as ‘Easy’ boasts the chilled yet blustery rock of Askies. The band walk a fine line between light ethereal indie and explosive alternative for their new single. The verses meander through a mist of whining guitars and sultry teasing strums while the chorus erupts into the bands crashing and exhilarating wall of sound. Their ability to tease and lament through the rock-infused verses while weaving a rich rhythmic underbelly of refined guitar work and intelligent songwriting is what makes Askies an impressive and proficient band. The flurries on guitar soar above the rumble on bass and drums while the passionate vocals and enticing catchy melody slide into the ear with ease. Askies are building their sound beautifully and the result is this dynamic track brimming with refined, mature musicianship. 

About the song the band said : “it’s a common situation in relationships, and most people would be able to relate to the same type of anger’s voiced through the lyrics, and the overall sound of the song. Easy beautifully encapsulates the complex idea of retrospection and the feelings surrounding a dissolving relationship.”

Stream ‘Easy’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Post Punk

Enola Gay ‘The Birth of a Nation’

Belfast noise rock/post-punk band Enola Gay have released their debut single ‘The Birth Of A Nation’.The band is comprised of Fionn Reilly on vocals, Joe McVeigh on guitar,  Adam Cooper on Bass and Stevie Curtis on Drums. 

‘The Birth of a Nation’ is a raw, rampaging debut from Enola Gay. The band lacerate sharp guitar lines through a rumbling bass to create a thrilling and unnerving intense sound. The verses revolve around the rooted bassline while wailing on guitar occasionally pines throughout. The song erupts with electric shocks as it progresses with elements reminiscent of The Prodigy while the lyrics address systematic oppressions and how racism still spreads in the streets of Belfast. Fionn Reilly spits the rapid lyrics with disdain and angst while the blistering and unsettling guitars jolt and shrill with a haunting quality. ‘The Birth of a Nation’ is an uncompromising dose of unadulterated post punk and a fantastic musical display from Enola Gay.

The video for the track features shots of the many instances of police brutality within the height of recent Black Lives Matter protests in America and worldwide.

Watch the video below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Kevin Casey ‘It’s Alright’

Dublin- based singer/songwriter Kevin Casey has released his new single ‘It’s Alright’.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 as well as in Germany, the U.K and the USA, including two consecutive years at Electric Picnic. He is known for his raw vocals, versatile songwriting, and for keeping Irish rock and roll alive and well. 

‘It’s Alright’ is a steady rock anthem. Kevin Casey slowly seeps emotion into the track as he creates space within for the instrumentation and tones to flourish and blossom. It’s a guitar driven song that chugs into motion with raw guitar melodies, and a foot tapping beat. The rhythmic pulse is the heartbeat of the track as the bass and drums simmer though the verses before pounding into the chorus. With soaring string flurries and lush orchestral samples the song builds becoming more grand yet maintains the relaxed pacing throughout. The rasped vocals and lush vocal harmonies teamed with zesty guitar wails and richly layered production create tension and brief gasps of relief throughout the song making it an enjoyable number to listen to. There are elements of Oasis with tones of The Beatles and even some Bryan Adams peppering which makes the song quite easy on the ears. Casey took the best part of these artists and blended them with his own style to create a moving power anthem for the crazy times we live in now. With an 80’s rock hue, scorching guitar solo and dynamic wall of sound ‘It’s Alright’ is quite the impressive mature number.

Stream ‘It’s Alright’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Five Days North ‘Take Me Higher’

Indie-pop band Five Days North are set to release their new single ‘Take Me Higher’ on the 26th June.Having spent the last few years touring festivals such as Dot2Dot and Kendal Calling, as well as venues such as Manchester’s Academy 3 and Gorilla, the nation being in lockdown finally gave Five Days North enough space to craft their new smash single.

‘Take Me Higher’ is a luscious guzzle of the vibrant and refreshing indie pop Five Days North do so well. A rhythmic bounce shuffles through shimmering synths while intricate guitars and a peppy beat keep the song light, fresh and fruity. The deep infectious tones within the bass ground the track while the ethereal breezy electronics add a cool icy feel. Five Days North are known for their rich, expressive and dynamic sound and they have now turned it up a notch, strutting in with this dance-infused sleek number. There are disco tones glimmering between the vibrant indie while the velvety vocals drift and slide over the melty melody with panache and charm. Saturated in summer tones, tasty instrumentation and heart racing musicianship ‘Take Me Higher’ is an exhilarating rush of indie pop at its best. 

Darryl Messer, lead singer of Five Days North, comments: “Take Me Higher is our most collaborative song from a writing perspective as everyone had a tangible impact on the final track. When it’s safe to return to the gig scene, we’re really excited to see hear our fans sing along to what we think is a big step forward for us.’’

‘Take Me Higher’ is set for release on Friday the 26th of June for more follow Five Days North on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/fivedaysnorth


Author: Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Mechner ‘Do it Again and Again’

Mechner follows up the exciting first single ‘Do you wanna go?’ from upcoming mini-LP “Club Idem” with ‘Do it Again and Again’ along with the anticipated accompanying music video. The video is a continuation of where “Do you wanna go?” left off, though it’s not immediately apparent how they tie together, maybe some eagle eyed viewers will spot an advert for “Club Idem” and ponder what it all means, the video shows a young couple going through a tough patch, financially speaking, living in relative squaller like much of the youth of today, when one of them discovers an interesting opportunity in a local paper, work at “Club Idem”, will this be the salvation they are looking for?

Laced in passion, blistering soundscapes and epic instrumental blasts, ‘Do it Again and Again’ continues Mechner’s thrilling, lush and rich musicianship. The song warps, wraps and asphyxiates with luring soft verses before a demolishing drone on guitars scorches your ears. Mechner has a beautiful ability to take a sweet nostalgic and longing melody and saturate it with lean mean anthemic rock. A wriggling bass groove weaves through the tracks underbelly with elements of distortion creating a dark undertone. However there is an 80’s power anthem vibe about this song as the explosive chorus and dramatic instrumental wails all ooze charisma and gusto. The smooth vocals caress the verses with a warm country-esque tone while taking on a swagger-dipped persona for the fist pump chorus. Once again Mechner presents a tight passionate and utterly intoxicating tune ready for repeat listens. 

About the track Mechner says:  “The song is relatively old, having been written in 2013, while I was still in college, it started off as a much more “pop” sounding tune, with a faster tempo, in the vein of Thudthumping by Chumbawumba. The original version of the track actually featured in some student film, that I never got to see and know nothing about, but it never officially released.”It wasn’t until last year when I slowed the tempo of the track down considerably, found the right chord arrangement and came up with a much more interesting bass line for the verse, then I started to really see it as something “Mechner” could do. Whilst recording it I kept layering the guitars, I believe there is at least 10 or 15 separate guitar tracks that give it an overwhelming wall of noise when it kicks in.”

Watch the video for ‘Do it Again and Again’ below


Author : Danu

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

Banríon ‘Airport Dads’ EP

Dublin based alt-rock four piece Banríon have released their debut EP ‘Airport Dads’.Following the release of her solo single ‘bins’, songwriter and guitarist Róisín Ní Haicéid recruited drummer Michael Nagle, bassist John Harding and guitarist Ivan Rakhmanin to form Banríon and complete their immediately recognisable alt-rock sound. The jazz backgrounds of Nagle and Harding have allowed Banríon to explore a refreshingly eclectic mix of genres to create a powerful indie sound, already attracted a very loyal fanbase. Banríon has played in venues such as Whelan’s, the Workman’s Club, Bello Bar and the Sound House and their cult following is growing in numbers after every live show. Recorded in Nagle’s home in Connemara, the three-part EP was entirely self- produced.

‘Airport Dads’ provides a short glimpse into Banríon’s alternative indie rock as they create a mature, lush and well balanced EP.  ‘Yesterday’s Paper’ kicks things in motion with jangly indie guitars piercing a thick punchy rhythmic wall of sound. It’s a light, sweet tune that floats delicately over an upbeat backdrop and tight musicianship while lyrics explore the fears of day to day life.

Through sweet and delicate tones and catchy refrains the band express pain, angst and vulnerability. Banríon take tender and raw themes of disability, feelings of uncertainty, emigration and heartbreak and place rich, delicate and compelling musicianship around them to heighten and highlight the emotion one feels during these experiences. A brave undertaking which the four-piece succeed in doing with skill and empathy.

The gliding and elegant flurries of ‘Bunk Beds’ pivot around a rooted guitar jingle and raw rhythmic bounce as the band create an illusive shoegaze soundscape with a more punchy rock foundation. The laid back lull of ‘Ouchie’ brings the EP to a close. The mood is glum as the twinkling on guitar glimmers through the tracks moody melodic flow. Róisín Ní Haicéid’s vocals have a pacifying and soothing tone throughout the EP while delivering coarse and painful lyrics. Her sweet lull and richer depths express emotion effortlessly as she draws you into each song’s enchanting sorrow and diverse emotions. 

‘Airport Dads’ shows Banríon know their sound and what they want to achieve. The band have created a wonderful collection of time stopping and utterly moving tunes with sublime dreamy moments and raw emotive themes to provide an honest, real, and emotional EP.

Stream ‘Airport Dads’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Heir ‘Fear of Falling’

80s throwback, groove-pop band, Heir have released their new single ‘Fear of Falling’ which was recorded at Abbey Road Studios with producer Ken Scott and is part of a two track collection called ‘Heir At Abbey Road’.

‘Fear of Falling’ is a radiant, catchy and well-executed tune. With bouncy rhythms rebounding with spring-like resilience through the sugar pop shimmers on keys this song is an instant rush of joy. The chiming guitars sprinkle glimmers of scintillation through the elastic bass while the smooth chilled vocals drift upon the dreamy melody creating a relaxed yet intricately weaved track. It’s the rhythm where the band present their musically rich expertise as they entwine a foot tapping effervescent labyrinth of grooves through blistering guitar lines.There is an 80’s pop sheen over the track which adds a dash of glamour and panache especially with the zealous guitar solo however the band rein this in allowing it to only decorate the track and not consume it. Heir have a knack with cheery luscious melodies and the buoyant indie pop production on ‘Fear of Falling’ makes this track quite the golden little gem. 

Stream ‘Fear of Falling’ below

 


Author : Danu

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

Valhalla ‘Don’t You Ever Say’

Valhalla; Mark Boyle (Vocals & Guitar) Barry Monahan (Bass & Keys) and Luke Alford (Drums). have released their new single ‘Don’t You Ever Say’.Valhalla is an Alternative Rock trio from Dublin. 2019 saw the release of their debut EP “Big Men, They Fall” as well as numerous headline shows across Ireland & the UK. Valhalla is due to release their much-anticipated debut album ‘Primal Features’.

With biting dark undertones and tense soundscapes, ‘Don’t You Ever Say’ showcases Valhalla’s more intimate and icy blast of alternative rock. With eerie chiming guitars and punchy drums adorning the backdrop and ethereal soundscapes through the verses, the band create a tense and haunting atmosphere before erupting into the mighty chorus. In true Valhalla manner the track builds to a blazing dynamic chorus with crashing guitars slicing with relentless stamina through a pummeling bass and drum foundation. This, in turn creates a thrilling mosh ready frenetic atmosphere. The track spirals into an ominous crescendo before its dramatic and abrupt end.

Valhalla display a refined ability to channel both elements of fire and ice within this track as they create breezy cold tones between scorching explosive alternative rock outbursts to create a sublime intoxicating number. These guys are cultivating their sound magnificently, blending wonderful gritty elements seamlessly for a thoroughly satisfying listening experience.

Stream ‘Don’t You Ever Say’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Faded Shades ‘She Left Yesterday’

Alternative rock band Faded Shades have released their latest single ‘She Left Yesterday’. This jangly indie pop track drifts cheerily over a buoyant guitar riff and punchy drum foundation as Faded Shades flesh out their heartfelt indie musicianship. With an upbeat melody, rich percussion and elastic bass groove the track oozes radiance and vigor. The zest laced guitar line saturates the song in glorious sunshine while the laid backed vocals and dreamy melody makes the track flow effortlessly. A heartfelt message of solace regarding a love lost to the allure of travel ‘She Left Yesterday’ is a charming and catchy new track from Faded Shades.

Stream ‘She Left Yesterday’ below 


Author : Danu

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

FloodHounds ‘Something Primeval’

Photo Credit : Lewis Evans

FloodHounds have released their new single ‘Something Primeval’. The trio have been selling out headlines in London and Sheffield and playing packed support slots with the likes of The Blinders, Calva Louise, BlackWaters Avalanche Party as well as shared festival stages with False Heads, and Demob Happy. Not only that the band have been Championed by BBC Introducing Sheffield, and were winners of a Pirate Studios’ National apply to play competition, and joint winners of Sensoria Festival’s Composition award, presented to the band by Steel City musical icon, Richard Hawley.

Swarming in raw sharp guitar riffs, slinky bass lines and punchy rock n roll swagger, ‘Something Primeval’ is quite the knockout alternative track. FloodHounds have created a tune whose melody strolls in, cool collected and sleek while the blistering instrumental backdrop whirls around in a display of anarchy. It’s a wild and tameless number as pounding drums stomp about sharp gritty guitar lacerations creating a hefty bruising foundation. Majestic moments within the track are created through rough and tumble squeals on guitars coupled with warm harmonica wailing throughout and dynamic vocals cooing over the eerie melody. ‘Something Primeval’ is a thrilling dark track from FloodHounds. 

This band have a wonderful ability to present exhilarating tunes drenched in impressive musicianship. Their tightly honed sound and intoxicating blend of blues, alternative and rock n roll is definitely worthy of attention.

Stream ‘Something Primeval’ below


Author : Danu