Tag Archives: indie

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Jade Bird

London-based songwriter Jade Bird has made a blinding return with her new single ‘Love Has All Been Done Before’. Fast-becoming a household name with her beautifully distinctive voice and fiercely raw pop songs that tell unforgettable life-stories, Jade Bird is firmly in ascent. Her recent single ‘Uh Huh’ took up residency on the Radio 1 B-list as Bird toured America, playing sold out shows to doting crowds everywhere she went.The 20-year-old has toured profusely across the world with her band, performed her breakthrough single ‘Lottery’ on Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and the UK’s ‘Later…With Jools Holland’ too and most recently gone into session at Maida Vale with Annie Mac for Radio 1. This month, Bird will embark her biggest ever UK & Irish headline tour – an 11-stop run taking in all the major cities including a stop-off in Dublin, where she plays Whelan’s on November 30th .

‘Love Has All Been Done Before’ is a powerful splurge of alternative pop. Brimming with fiery attitude Bird’s raspy vocals coo and belt out with demanding charm and charisma as she calls for more respect and romance in a relationship that is becoming depressingly monotonous. Swept up in a whirl of crashing drums, vibrant guitars and exhilarating soundscapes this track rushes with high voltage adrenaline while a sweet cheery melody hops along with a peppy infectiousness to remain in your head for days. The verses skip around her commanding bright vocals with an innocent cheeky bop before the chorus explodes into a mighty intense outburst. It’s an electrifying track that oozes passion and vigor with a dynamic rich instrumental backing to have you instantly hooked on Jade Birds irresistible sound.

You can catch Jade Bird live at:

20/11 The Globe – Cardiff

21/11 Electric Brixton – London

22/11 The Haunt – Brighton

24/11 O2 Institute3 Birmingham – Birmingham

25/11 Deaf Institute – Manchester

26/11 Rescue Rooms – Nottingham

28/11 The Wardrobe – Leeds

29/11 King Tuts Wah Wah Hut – Glasgow

30/11 Whelan’s – Dublin

08/12 Southampton Engine Rooms – Southampton

09/12 The Cavern – Exeter

Stream ‘Love Has All Been Done Before’ below

 


Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

RAFFER ‘Can’t Resist It’

Clean-cut, indie/pop artist RAFFER is back with yet another dazzling independent release -the self-produced single ‘Can’t Resist It’.This tutti- frutti gem floats upon a sweet nostalgic soundscape as rich rhythms slap and groove between swirling electronics.It’s a tight number that glows glorious radiant vibes as zesty guitar melodies entwine the luscious backdrop adding a refreshing burst of vitality while Raffer’s velvety vocals glide effortlessly and tenderly over the candy coated melody. It’s a compact, danceable indie pop delight that wraps your ears in luxurious sweet tones and delicious melodies.

Stream ‘Can’t Resist it’ below


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

whenyoung ‘Given Up’ EP

Limerick’s finest indie-poppers whenyoung have released their new EP ‘Given Up’ released through Virgin EMI. This follows  their recent singles ‘Heaven on Earth’ and their cover of the Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’. The trio also recently released a stunning video for the title track, filmed in London’s iconic Peckham Liberals Club and directed by, Dazed editorial director, Bunny Kinney. It shows the band as a conduit for escape from banal, suburban living.The band have performed in Dublin as part of Shane Mcgowan’s 60th birthday celebration alongside the likes of Nick Cave and Sinead O’Connor. They’ve also supported the likes of Dream Wife, Declan McKenna, The Vaccines and Peace.Having already played storming sets at this year’s Electric Picnic, All Together Now Festival, Great Escape, Latitude, Kendal Calling and Bestival the band are also supporting Blossoms on a nationwide tour in December.

‘Given Up’ is a perfectly balanced EP showcasing the refined and mature musicianship of whenyoung. They jump straight into their bubbly infectious indie with title track ‘Given Up’. Stinging guitars jaggedly slice their way through this Pixies-esque number as the entire track revolves around a driving drum and bass groove with the honey drizzled melody gliding above like a soothing blanket from heaven.The harmonies in this track are just so luscious. ‘Heaven on Earth’ follows. It’s another tasty indie banger filled with vibrancy, shedding guitar lines and the perfect sing along anthemic chorus. Having featured both of these tracks on Indie Buddie this year I have come to appreciate the intricacy within this trios musicianship. Aoife Power’s vocals are immaculate throughout the EP her voice filled with sweet coos, luscious tones and yet she holds a powerful and demanding air that is mesmerising. However it is their ability to create an upbeat tune with darker underlying tones adding depth that sets these guys apart. The sweet ethereal cover of The Cranberries classic ‘Dreams’ lies comfortably nestled in the middle of the EP. Passionate, pristine and touching whenyoung present the track exquisitely- balancing the tender delicacy with edgy rawness seamlessly. It stops time. ‘Sleeper’ brings us to the end of the EP – flawless, sweet and emotional, this track shows us the sombre, majestic side to whenyoung. Reaching into the depths of your mind they find the tender moments, gently draw them out and sweetly lament them back to you. A soft guitar melody mournfully pines behind Power’s beautiful crisp vocals while a delicate tapping beat sets a steady thud and mournful tone to this magical number.

whenyoung didn’t disappoint they lived up to the hype of their singles and even threw in a blinder in the form of the enchanting heavy-hearted ‘Sleeper’.

Stream ‘Given Up’ below





 


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

Delights ‘Sun Visor’ and ‘Sun Lounger’

Following the release of their previous singles ‘Naked Heart’ and ‘Jungle’, Manchester indie rock band Delights have now released their new single, ‘Sun Visor’, and its B-side, ‘Sun Lounger’. These heavenly tracks glow with the glorious sprinkling of yumminess that this four piece do so well. ‘Sun Visor’ kick starts the sun-kissed dreamy tones with a delicious melody spread delicately upon jangly guitars and soft spongy beats. Velvety vocals coo over the upbeat, psychedelic soundscapes as this ethereal number bounces and floats along creating the perfect zesty chill-time atmosphere. It’s the satisfying bite of angel cake to get your mouth watering for ‘Sun Lounger’- a surf tinged gem that calls the summer back with sweet jingles and beachy breezy tones. Catchy and tranquilizing these tracks will give you a subtle sun tan while caressing your ears with the most luscious soothing melodies. I just love the laid back radiant tunes these guys produce.

Delights are also starting their second mini UK tour in 2 days, which has been organised by the band themselves without any manager, funding or record label check out the dates below

November 11th Mayfare at The Cluny Newcastle

November 15th Somedays at 93 Feet East London

November 23rd Delights at Sound Basement Liverpool

November 29th Delights at Castle & Falcon Birmingham

December 1st Delights at Breadshed Manchester

 

Stream ‘Sun Visor’, and its B-side, ‘Sun Lounger’ below

 


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

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From White Room

Brighton indie risers White Room have released ‘Shoot’, their first release of 2018 and follow-up to 2017’s double EP ‘Eight’, co-produced by frontman Jake  Smallwood and Theo Verney (Fake Laugh, TRAAMS, FUR).Having spent 2017 conquering the festival circuit and receiving widespread acclaim throughout the tastemaker community and radio airwaves (BBC 6 Music, Radio X), the quintet played their biggest headline shows to date in London (Moth Club) and Brighton (Patterns) this spring, cementing their reputation for visceral, energetic and captivating  live performances. After a summer immersed in writing and developing new material, the five-piece are ready to hit the road again supporting The Blinders on an extensive UK tour alongside the release of ‘Shoot’.

‘Shoot’ is a lavish and exhilarating whir of indie pop bound in a mouthwatering concoction that is too hot to handle. It’s eclectic and edgy with a thick rhythmic bounce adding that chic cool foundation for this track to ricochet off. These guys showcase their ability to tie captivating and seemingly disjointed elements together to create a head spinning wholly satisfying and rich sound. Quirky vocals whisper, wail and entice through a luring bass rumble, steamy guitar interplay and dense textures. Each part is ingeniously cultivated for maximum explosive impact as the verses build the intensity for the blistering chorus. Filled with stomping adrenaline as chaotic soundscapes hurry around the dynamic vocals, haunting backing vocals and glorious melody ‘Shoot’ has everything you could need. Holding a refined stance this track floats on an air of elegance while only just about holding back the manic instrumental frenzy in the backdrop. White Room are fast becoming one of my favourite new finds.

Stream ‘Shoot’ below

 


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

Drop The Shadow ‘Break The Fall’

Formed by brothers Mike (lead vocals/guitars) and Eric Walsh (drums), Dublin based Drop The Shadow have just released their debut single ‘Break The Fall’.Joined by Sean Carey on bass, the band draw inspiration from the sounds of Alt rock to folk & everywhere in between.

‘Break The Fall’ is an impressively mature number brimming with slinky guitar lines, steamy bass grooves and a solid drum progression. This track glides effortlessly through a smooth suave melody as raspy soul filled vocals coo and soar over slick guitar licks with a sweltering country hue and elastic bass rumbles. Building into a whopping silky turbo banger this charming number seeps and oozes swanky swagger as the glossy guitar evaporates off the  luscious rock melody keeping you hanging in suspense off every word. There is enough grit mixed with infectious sensual soul to keep your ears craving for more and lets not forget that shredding guitar solo. This blistering track announces Drop The Shadow with great poise and panache in the form of  glorious classic rock and soul pop.

The band have also just released a  video for ‘Break The Fall’, produced by vocalist Mike Walsh you can watch it below.


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

The Flavians ‘Non Stop Fun (All I Wanted)’

The Flavians have released their new single called ‘Non Stop Fun (All I Wanted)’. The track was recorded over the span of a year in various spaces around Berlin, Germany and in Nässjö, Sweden using a mix of analogue and digital gear with instruments from the 60s and 70s. The track was finally mixed by Fabio Buemi in TRIXX Studios, Berlin and then mastered by Steve Fallone at Sterling Sound, NY. The single will be the second release from The Flavians’ first album ‘Ordinary People in an Ordinary World’. The band has been playing support shows across Germany and The Czech Republic while filling out venues such as Cassiopeia and Badehaus in their adoptive hometown. Furthermore, they have built up a strong following through social media and their last single ‘On the Radio’, has racked up over 150,000 streams and been played on over 50 radio stations worldwide.  

‘Non Stop Fun (All I Wanted)’ is an easy going pop sprinkled gem that bounces along in a dreamy soft 60’s-eque soundscape while intelligent witty lyrics glide upon the sugar coated melody. These guys tell a story perfectly as lush backing vocals lull in the background while jangly keys twinkle around laid back guitar strides and punchy drums. It’s candied exterior makes this track so easy on the ears as The Flavians flesh out their catchy melodies and infectious bopping light instrumentation. This track is sure to put a smile on your face as it bops its glorious way into your head until you are blissfully singing along.

Watch the video ‘Non Stop Fun (All I Wanted)’ below

 

 

 


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Passive ‘Anti Romantic’

Watford indie-rock band Passive have released their new single ‘Anti Romantic’. On the back of ‘Premonitions’, the first track Passive put on Soundcloud, the band received local radio airplay, saw an increase in online interest, secured slots at local festivals and have packed out shows across London venues such as The Camden Assembly and The Water Rats.

‘Anti Romantic’ is an impressive slice of alternative rock as Passive wrap our ears in a mysterious dark number filled with absorbing mature musicianship. This creepy track has a slinky shadowy looseness that weaves with a relaxed attitude around reverberant desert toned guitar. Punchy drums and elastic groovable bass lines create a danceable yet haunting backdrop. The catchy melody seeps into the ears with charming ease as the luring vocals coo and haunt over this wholly sinister and enthralling number. Passive balance the meaty, raw and delicate crawling instrumentation perfectly to create a sophisticated hair raising thrill that consumes and entices with chilling elegance and ominous awe. These guys are expanding their range nicely.

Stream ‘Anti Romantic’ below

 


Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Disco, Indie Electro, Indie Pop, New Music

All Tvvins ‘Infinite Swim’

Electronic duo All Tvvins have released their new single ‘Infinite Swim’ from their second album ‘Just To Exist’ which is due for release early 2019 and produced by James Vincent McMorrow. All Tvvins enjoyed a phenomenal start to their career. Their debut album ‘IIVV’ shot into the Irish charts at #2, earned a Choice Music Prize nomination for Irish Album of the Year and smashed the 15 million streams landmark. Meanwhile, gigs in the UK and Ireland included a life-affirming sold-out show at Dublin’s historic Olympia Theatre as well as a tour as guests to Metric. All Tvvins, who consist of Conor Adams (The Cast Of Cheers) and Lar Kaye (Adebisi Shank) spent January and February of this year recording the new album and the album’s title ‘Just To Exist’ comes from a line in their new single ‘Infinite Swim’.

‘Infinite Swim’ is a funky flex of rich textures weaved through luscious melodies and pristine production. It’s swagger soaked panache strides and glides upon slinky guitars, groove infested bass and dazzling electronic whirls while it’s chic exterior smoothly drifts along with an effortless chilled tone and laid back vibe. The sweet creamy vocals caress and float upon the infectious velvety melody as it magnificently swoons it way comfortably into your mind.The track is rooted with a meaty funk foundation that adds a strut ready danceable shuffle while the electronics slide and glissade with an ethereal soul tinged elegance. A vapourous guitar solo brings this 80’s disco tinged  track to slick glorious heights, All Tvvins present us with a first rate glossy number to sink our teeth into.

To celebrate the album’s release, the duo have announced their biggest Dublin headline show to date at The National Stadium on April 13th 2019.

Stream  ‘Infinite Swim’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Orchid Collective ‘Forces’

Irish indie rockers Orchid Collective have released their new single ‘Forces’ alongside a tour crossing Ireland, the UK and Germany. The band have received support from the likes of RTE 2FM, RTE Radio One, BBC Six as Tom Robinson’s Fresh Faves and added to a total of 3 Spotify Official Playlists as well as clocking over 500,000 streams on Spotify. Orchid Collective have also made huge steps on the live circuit, supporting Picture This, playing Y Not Festival as their UK debut and performing 57 shows in Ireland alone in 2017 and ‘Forces’ is all set and ready to continue their success.

‘Forces’ is an ambient whirl of anthemic indie filled with that intense energy that takes your breath away. Raw guitars slice and shred through the ethereal biting soundscape while punchy drums and soaring melodies flood the track with a dreamy sense of nostalgia. With an anthemic chorus that strides in on a riveting wall of sound- this track is emotive and delicate yet bitter and edgy all at once. With flickering guitar melodies weaving lamenting sweet threads through heavy beats of meaty, epic proportion- this track is crafted perfectly to strike you in the chest and make you feel every note. Their sound is mature crisp and piercing with all the glorious lush qualities Orchid Collective do so well in between.


You can catch Orchid Collective below


8th November – 39 Gordon Street, Belfast 

9th November – Coughlan’s, Cork 

16th November – Roisin Dubh, Galway 

17th November – Tricky McGarrigle’s, Sligo 

20th November – Bar Bloc, Glasgow 

22nd November – Jacaranda Phase One, Liverpool 

24th November – The Islington, London 

Stream ‘Forces’ below