Tag Archives: indie rock

EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Psychedelic, indie rock, New Music, Shoegaze

Deadbog Self Titled EP

Cork based noise pop outfit Deadbog have released their new self titled EP.  The band formed in summer 2018 by friends Danny O’Shea (guitars and vocals) and Luke Daly (drums). After a number of gigs as a two piece, Rory Burke (guitar) and JJ Lee (bass) completed the line up. 

Drenched in reverb with shoegaze elements swirling into a deep psychedelic pool of distortion, Deadbog’s EP is a richly blended four track concoction with equal measures of sweet and sour. The band melt soft dreamy melodies on top of acid soaked guitar and rich intricate rhythmic progressions to create intense moments of raw psych-tinged alternative rock through ‘Morning Swimmer’ and ‘Vending Machine’.With heavy instrumental crashes the tracks build becoming ominous and shrilling as light flickers on guitar progress to coarse pines soaring over thick heavy drum pounds and perilous rapid soundscapes. It’s a hard hitting collection of tracks however, amidst this onslaught of controlled chaos the band show glimpses of sweet delicacy and innocence.

There are very little vocals on the EP. When the vocals do appear it is through a wave of harmonies and expressions. In ’Behold the Coagula’ it’s the vocals and wistful melody that cool the tracks scorching intensity. Deadbog lay this melancholic melody and cooing vocals over a bubbling harsh backdrop of pounding drums and meandering guitars creating a wonderful contrast.‘Gurus’ begins with the most beautiful sweet guitar lament backed by a throbbing beat. The first half of this track ripples with clear and pristine clarity creating a time stopping moment within the EP before the band enhance the song building to its epic and hair raising crescendo. 

Deadbog have created an EP that is rich in its intricacies with sweet melancholic and dreamy moments flickering between the band’s blast of controlled chaos. The intense and blistering instrumentation is created with such precision, as the band carefully allows the softer tender moments to flourish, almost untouched, in this frenzied atmosphere.It’s an impressive balancing act.  

Stream ‘Deadbog’ EP below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

The Burma ‘Sugar Moonlight’ EP

Photo Credit : Ciara O Toole

Rising Indie Rock band The Burma have just released their new EP ‘Sugar Moonlight’. At various stages over the past year the Irish indie band have holed up in Monique Studios with producer Christian Best (Mick Flannery, O Emperor, Jack O’Rourke, Marlene Enright) writing and recording their latest release. 

‘Sugar Moonlight’ is a tidy collection of tracks exuding passionate pop melodies and blazing alternative rock with a healthy dose of indie rock at its heart. The band go all out with this EP – luscious textures and melodious highs, psychedelic rawness and tender broods create a well rounded enjoyable listening experience.

The jubilous indie guitar jingle of ‘Same Again’ kick starts the EP. It is light and infectious as the ethereal guitars create a wonderful animated bounce. The Burma construct tracks with a rich rhythmic foundation of rippling bass lines and buoyant snappy drums allowing the charming guitar refrains to soar and flourish off this backdrop with majestic tonalities. The band swoon smooth melty melodies into their vibrant indie sound effortlessly. ‘Quicksand’ shows this superbly as the soft bubbly melody wisps delicately through a crashing psychedelic backdrop of airy stings on guitar and rumbling drums.

With a refreshing bite, each track rolls coolly into the next. Whether it’s the icy sting of the melancholic ‘When You’re Gone’ or the darker synth swirling prance of  ‘Phoney Personality’, the band use their ability to intricately weave multi layered synth textures and melodies to create a seamless transition between tracks while still maintaining each songs own identity. Final track ‘Buried Alive’ closes the EP on a high. It’s not a sugar rush but a sweet tender and mesmerising high as The Burma present their most delicious emotive and beautiful melody yet. Caressed with soft tender vocals and slow brooding instrumentation the track flurries on a light airy soundscape of glistening guitar and pulsing beat. Each timeless twinkle and bass wriggle coils and curdles the backdrop in sombre wistful tones. The track builds superbly becoming more dynamic as, in true The Burma fashion the song reaches its hair raising crescendo.

The Burma have a wonderful ability to create rich proficient tunes with first rate instrumentation, exhilarating guitar lines and intricate bass lines that surge with character. Their melodies are irresistible, oozing emotive, dreamy and sweet tones while the lo- fi grooves and heavy rhythmic pulses provide the element that hooks your ears and leaves you craving more. ‘Sugar Moonlight’ is a mature and impressive EP that makes The Burma ones to keep an eye on. 

Stream ‘Sugar Moonlight’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Funk, Funk and Soul, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Priorland ‘Moving To The Beat

Priorland have released their new single ‘Moving To The Beat’.The track is the prologue to their ‘E.P. One’ which will debut later this year. Priorland is an original Irish band consisting of four members Calvin, Tommy, Davie and Conor. Their style ranges from Rock, Reggae, R&B, Soul, Blues and Pop.

With its funky flex creating a strutting groove ‘Moving To The Beat’ is that infectious tune sure to entice you onto the dance floor. The band douse the track in smooth silky instrumentation while slapping on healthy portions of indie rock on top. A pop, swagger-dipped melody prances about jangly guitar refrains and buoyant foot tapping beat. With smooth velvety vocals teamed with lush backing harmonies and glossy production Priorland have created one infectious bop which showcases their proficient, refined and classy musicianship. ‘Moving To The Beat’ blends chic, soul-hued funk with R&B elements and sprightly indie pop to create a well oiled dance infused gem. 

Stream ‘Moving To The Beat’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

SUNDOWN ‘Chimneys’

One of Ireland’s newest and most exciting rock bands SUNDOWN are back with their latest release ‘Chimneys’. The Dublin quartet have been in close collaboration with James Smith (formerly of Gypsies on the Autobahn).Having sold-out a headline show in Whelan’s last year, SUNDOWN have toured Ireland with gigs from Belfast to Cork, including their festival debut at Independence and supporting acclaimed artists like Sion Hill & Larkin’s. They have amassed over 125,000 collective streams on Spotify

‘Chimneys’ broods within a lonesome ethereal soundscape as SUNDOWN create a rich, spacious number that showcases the bands mature songwriting. With a pining lament on guitar, this atmospheric gem haunts as it builds and unfolds. The band cultivate the track meticulously, gradually delving into the song’s void of melancholia with a deep bass rippling through the underbelly. The airy and light texture of the track creates an enchanting and mesmerising quality that draws the listener deep into the songs abyss. The guitar maintains the rock element we know and love from the band while the rasp toned, warm vocals embrace the sweet melody. This track is truly special and compelling. 

Stream ‘Chimneys’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/user-13840079/chimneys/s-aYd9o5E6pPJ/


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Freeda ‘Let Me Down’

Manchester indie rock band Freeda have released their new single ‘Let Me Down’.Forming in 2017, Freeda spent their formative years establishing themselves in their hometown, building a committed following and selling out headline shows along the way. In 2019, working with highly acclaimed production duo Sugar House, Freeda released three singles ‘Plead’, ‘Replay’ and ‘Wash’. Collectively, these went on to reach in excess of 100,000 streams on Spotify, received extensive backing from BBC Introducing, and continued support from XS Manchester and Amazing radio.’Let Me Down’ is the fourth single to be taken from an upcoming EP set to be released later this year.

‘Let Me Down’ is a fizzing melodic overdose of joyous indie. Saturated in effervescent synths, jaunty guitar lines and an infectious beat, the track is an instant shot of adrenaline. A wonderful indie jangle weaves between raw punchy drum and bass combo. Lush melodies flourish with a zinging pop persuasion as the band craft that rushing youthful sound to ensure repeat listens. The smooth vocals are the icing on the cake as Sean Rowles coaxes you into the catchy melodic hook with soft croons while the rich electronic percussion ripples in the backdrop.The coiling, skittish and ethereal synths mirror the lyrics tones of disappointment while the bubbly instrumentation creates a sublime peppy contrast. Freeda entwine subtle psychedelic elements and vibrant indie to create an invigorating track soaked in summer vibes. 

Stream ‘Let Me Down’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Bayonets ‘We Light Fires’

Bayonets is set to release his new single ‘We Light Fires’ on all digital platforms on the 15th of May and has released the video this weekend. Bayonets is a solo project created by Kerry musician and songwriter Vinnie Flynn. His distinctive style is a mix of alternative rock, indie, blues and folk. In addition to writing and performing live, Vinnie also works with several publishing companies based in the US who pitch his compositions to prime time TV shows and movies. ‘We Light Fires’ was recorded last year at Darklands Audio in Dublin by the great Daniel Doherty. Flynn worked on the video idea with an excellent Illustrator & Animator Lukas Beles at Flock of Crows Motion Design. 

Chilling, dark and wholly consuming ‘We Light Fires’ continues Bayonets luring sizzle of fiery alternative rock. Presented through an icy cool breeze of haunting delight the track coils with flourishing grandeur.The western- esque guitar strides with a swaggering stomp between sharp refrains of scorching intensity as Flynn ferments the tracks dark smothering underbelly.

Flynn has been able to push past any limited parameters a solo artist may have to develop an identity increasingly distinct and memorable. The track wildly swirls and rages behind Flynn’s rasp filled vocals as he maintains a calm enticing composure. With intriguing mysterious undertones rippling through the ominous harsh backdrop the track has that “ I can’t watch but can’t stop looking” horror movie quality as the cinematic stings on guitar paint shadowy characters into the songs soundscape.

Flynn’s ability to colour his tracks with evocative and vivid images through misty vaporous musicianship and smoky instrumentation is impressive and utterly captivating. Sublimely dramatic and meticulously crafted ‘We Light Fires’ is one spine-tingling force of nature. 

Watch the video for ‘We Light Fires’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Easy Tide ‘Carpet Grave’

Easy Tide have released their new single ‘Carpet Grave’ which was recorded by the band in Fennor Lane Studios. Easy Tide are a DIY Garage band hailing from Navan Co Meath. Members include Aaron Dunphy on Bass and Vocals , Steven Rafferty on Guitar and Vocals and Mark Carolan on Drums and Vocals. 

‘Carpet Grave’ presents Easy Tide’s punchy alternative rock through a hazy laid back garage rock filter. The band cruise through light ethereal guitar melodies and warm rumble on bass with a sluggish lazy day attitude. The track bops with an airy texture as the buoyant drums create both a spongy cushion for the verses and a punchy bite for the chorus. Glistening guitars ricochet off the heavy drum progression as the track drifts effortlessly from moody verses into the dynamic chorus and crescendo. Well crafted and exuding shoegaze elements, ‘Carpet Crave’ is a sun speckled sulky number that is just as sharp and punchy as it is melodic and dreamy. 

Stream ‘Carpet Grave’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – The Academic

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Academic

The Academic have released their new single ‘Anything Could Happen’.The single is the first new release from the band since signing a global record deal with Capitol Records. The band were hand-picked by Mick Jagger to support The Stones here in Ireland and with a number 1 album to their name and sold out shows all over the country, the band’s music is already finding very willing ears much further afied. They are heavily pencilled for more international tour dates when this lockdown lifts.

‘Anything Could Happen’ is a seamless perky indie-pop hit. The Academic display their knack for infectious melodies with this bright sharp track which is bursting with cool chic energy. With inspirational glimmers of Prince and Thin Lizzy the track ricochets off an elastic bass and irresistible guitar hook.The Academic have created one heck of a joyous bop. It’s cool and crisp with tasty little elements in between to keep it refreshing and intriguing. From sweet guitar licks, lush backing vocal coos, 80’s pop sheen and a driving infectious groove, the band weave wonderful intricate elements to keep this track subtly explosive. It’s a vibrant, upbeat and oh so catchy musical gem of euphoric bliss. 

‘Anything Could Happen’, produced by Nick Hodgson, was released simultaneously with the accompanying video premiere on Youtube. Directed by Ronan Corrigan and Hope Kemp, the video is a real reflection of the current times we’re living in under lockdown, giving a brief insight in the lives of quarantined couples around the world

About the track the band said :.” Anything Could Happen’ is a rallying cry to the people in our lives who find themselves stuck in cycles of mundanity and monotony. We hope it inspires people to be kind to themselves and take control of their futures.”

Watch the video for ‘Anything Could Happen’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Pity of the Sea ‘A Swarming’

Limerick Alt/Electronic/Indie duo Pity of the Sea have released their new single ‘A Swarming’ which was taken from the forthcoming debut album.Pity Of the Sea are comprised of Ger Cremins (Vox/Bass Synth) and Tony Monahan (Producer, Guitars, Synths, Bass and drum programming). The track follows the band’s last release ‘Headscarf’ which received plays on both national and local radio and was very well received.

Fizzing and swirling through dizzying synths and a crashing wall of sound ‘A Swarming’ is an energetic punk slapped track from Pity of the Sea. The duo consume your ears with an onslaught of shrilling guitars that churn through a groove-filled rumble on bass. The band use acid soaked psychedelia to create a track brimming with organised chaos while a punchy drum machine loop surrounds the backdrop. The band blend a raw post punk soundscape with sharp alternative rock to create an invigorating listening experience. The shimmering ethereal synths rush with adrenaline while the dynamic spoken vocals pound out the catchy chorus of respetitive lyrics. ‘A Swarming’ is a fantastic assault on the senses.

Stream ‘A Swarming’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Mechner ‘Do You Wanna Go?’

Cork based solo effort, Mechner has released his new single/music video ‘Do You Wanna Go?’.Mechner; is the latest foray for Cork based artist Jack Ahern, completely self-funded and self-produced, Ahern had great success with debut single “Surfacing”, notable for its music video which garnered over 25k views and was included in Indie Cork’s Film Festival to great crowd reaction.’Do You Wanna Go?’ is the first glimpse into CLUB IDEM a mini-LP which will be released later in 2020.  Mechner has supported the likes of Dermot Kennedy, Delerentos and The Coronas amongst many others.

With a catchy guitar refrain biting down into the alternative stained backdrop ‘Do You Wanna Go?’ presents Mechner’s enticing sound with an anthemic punch and irresistible melody. The guitar weaves its buoyant way through a swirling soundscape while the snappy beat and cinematic tension create a tantalizing listening experience. Mechner uses unique and dramatic musicianship to entice the listener. The rumble on bass coils beneath the light dance infused agitation as if foreshadowing an ominous event while the irresistible melody ferments through the verses. This push and pull effect creates sublime apprehension before the track erupts into its exhilarating chorus. The layering is superb, we see glimpses of pop, smeared upon jaunty indie rock while a bracing alternative soundscape brews a thick sticky concoction through the tracks underbelly, this is all seasoned with a fleshy light coating of tempestuous dance elements. Mechner displays a sublime ability to provide tantalizing intricacies within this track and he does this with dark atmospheric brooding that asphyxiates beneath light pop flashes and chilling vocal manoeuvres. ‘Do You Wanna Go?’ is an infectious, thrilling, juicy and well crafted track from Mechner.

Watch the video for ‘Do You Wanna Go?’ below 


Author: Danu