Ryan Egan has released his new single, ‘Soft Power’.The song is the third single and title track off Ryan Egan’s debut LP ‘Soft Power’ out April 8th, 2022. The song was produced by Ryan Egan and Kevin Basko (Foxygen,The Lemon Twigs). The track follows up the album’s debut singles ‘Weeknights’ and ‘Alone For the Last Time’, which generated immense buzz, with features including Spotify’s New Music Friday, Kings of A&R and more.
‘Soft Power’ is a lush, R&B-hued laid back listening experience. Soft beats bounce off a psychedelic soundscape of hazy guitars and loose keys while a smoky bass smoulders in the backdrop. The song exudes an irresistible melody with Egan’s warm vocals at the forefront expressing the tracks clever lyrical content, “Who took your money? Who put you to the test? One sip of gin for while your head’s a mess and spinnin’ like a carousel”. ‘Soft Power’ is an expertly crafted tune and a fine display of musicianship from Ryan Egan.
Luke Clerkin has released his new single, ‘Fall in Line’. The track was recorded remotely between Dublin and Berlin with producer jaako. It will be their 4th release together since the pair began collaborating in late 2020. Previous releases have gained critical and radio success getting support from Spin, RTE and BBC amongst others. Luke has also announced a headline show at The Cobblestone on February 24th.
‘Fall in Line’ exudes tense soundscapes, crisp production and the catchy songwriting of Luke Clerkin. The artist’s eloquent lyrics set the scene, taking the listener down an emotional rollercoaster through well coined lyrical content, “condensation fogs up the window, write your name and mine in hearts” while suspenseful pulsing beats simmer beneath soft chiming keys and warm guitar refrains before giving way to a sweet, infectious chorus. With electronic fluctuations and an adrenaline-driven crescendo, the track has a compelling cinematic sound that is sure to charm its way on repeat.
Talking about the release of ‘Fall in Line’, Luke said ‘This song explores the contemplation of doing something you shouldn’t and imagining the consequences of that action. More specifically, it’s about someone who is contemplating getting involved with a person who is already in a relationship. They imagine the heartbreak that it would cause for the other person in the relationship, and the feeling of guilt and shame that would surround the cheating couple.’
Delivering anthemic stadium-filling rock, ‘Like a River’ is the latest release from iconic 90s Rock band Sundogs Wilder Seasons. After making their long-anticipated comeback, Sundogs Wilder Seasons teamed up with former Led Zeppelin producer Leif Mases who guided them through this record. ‘Like a River’ started as a three-chord progression from Scott Bush, with the rest of the band joining in simultaneously and the song organically taking shape. Inspired by unending love, ‘Like a River’ was written to convey feelings of true passion. Formed in Florida in 1994, Sundogs Wilder Seasons have made a big name for themselves, having had three singles in the Top 100 Powercuts and several other charts without major label backing.
Drenched in anthemic might ‘Like a River’ is a passionate tune from Sundogs Wilder Seasons. The band build the track superbly, the song broods atop steamy guitar lines, groove infested bass and punchy drums creating a powerful wall of sound while the rasped vocals and shredding guitar solo drive the track to epic heights. Smooth on the ears with a classic rock edge ‘Like a River’ is a compelling new single from Sundogs Wilder Seasons.
Limerick City five-piece, Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets are set to released their sophomore EP, ‘crazy how we live like this’ tomorrow February 10th . The Indie Rock outfit released singles from this collection throughout 2021, with the latest being ‘i wasn’t ready’, which dropped last week. All the songs on this EP were recorded and produced by the band themselves in their studio space in Limerick City. The EP consists of 8 tracks, including 2 bonus tracks, which are stripped back live versions. 2021 was a big year for the band seeing them gain over 40k streams on Spotify and support acts such as NewDad and True Tides on dates of their Irish tours. They received airtime across major Irish stations such as Today FM, RTE 2XM and Spin SW, and also sold out their own headline show in Dolan’s, Limerick.
Wrapped in warm heartfelt melodies, twinkling indie soundscapes and meaningful songwriting ‘crazy how we live like this’ is a lush listening experience from Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets. From the uplifting ‘days’ and indie rock energy of ‘everything will be ok’ to the utterly moving indie-folk ‘you’; the band showcase their growing talent. ‘i wasn’t ready’ and ‘everything will be ok’ are exciting glimpses into the band’s deft melodic prowess; with supple synths and warm saxophone flirtations fleshing out the ethereal soundscapes of the former and fuzz laced guitar, driving bass and punchy rhythm adorning the latter, the tracks are a joy to listen to again and again.
Dylan Flynn’s warm velvety vocals remain expressive and passionate throughout as he delivers moving lyrical content that deals with a range of relatable topics from love, separation and the housing crisis all with a soothing tenderness that is to be admired. While each song exudes passion, emotive vocals and exquisite arrangements, a special moment within the EP is the indie anthem ‘shine’. Boasting majestic guitars, driving rhythms and a mighty sing-along chorus this is the heart and soul of the EP and is a fine example of Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets’ beautifully poetic musicianship.
‘crazy how we live like this’ is a glorious collection of songs to listen to. The earnest songwriting teamed with bright hazy guitar refrains and delicate but precise production makes this a compelling EP for listeners to immerse themselves in. Enjoy.
About the EP Flynn said: “Each track on this EP encapsulates a different moment or feeling I experienced over the last few years. It’s sort of like a little time capsule of memories and mistakes, that I hope other people can connect with too.”
‘crazy how we live like this’ is set for release tomorrow the 10th of February. For more follow Dylan Flynn and The Dead Poets on Instagram herehttps://www.instagram.com/dylanflynndeadpoets/
Retro Video Club have released their new single, ‘Faking’. It arrives whilst the band are on a three-date tour for Independent Venue Week. Retro Video Club burst onto the scene in 2018 with a series of high-octane single releases and a sell-out hometown show at Edinburgh’s 650 capacity Liquid Rooms. In 2019, they were selling out 1,000 capacity venues (Edinburgh Assembly Rooms), and sharing stages with The Libertines among others.The Edinburgh-based band are kicking off 2022 in commanding fashion. Having seen out 2021 with their first tour of the UK, which included a sold-out date at Glasgow’s 1300 capacity SGW3, Retro Video Club are now set to play to their biggest audiences to date, as they support The Kooks for two nights at Glasgow’s 2500 capacity O2 Academy
Bursting from the seams with kinetic energy and clever lyrical content, ‘Faking’ is a glorious gem from Retro Video Club. The band batter resounding basslines and sharp guitars off a pounding drum foundation to create a song that is sure to ignite a live audience. ‘Faking’ is a superb display of the band’s talent for creating mighty hooks and irresistible melodies. The bellow back chorus, sharp lyrics and elevated backdrop make the track an infectious firecracker that beckons repeat plays. Evoking images of joyous arena sing-alongs and mosh pit jumping ‘Faking’ marks Retro Video Club as a very talented and promising band. Looking forward to hearing more from Retro Video Club.
About the track, the band said: “Faking is about being bitter, and trying to leave one last dig at your ex before moving on with your life. It’s the age-old tale of a lover scorned, and how in the 21st century, people get their licks in.”
Emma Hynes has released her second single,’ Sometimes’. The song was written by Hynes, and produced and arranged by Martin Quinn at JAM Studios, Kells, Co. Meath. Hynes released her first single, ‘Don’t Forget’, in May 2021. The song enjoyed airplay on RTÉ 2XM and Radio Nova in addition to a number of local stations across Ireland. It also made The Nova Guestlist’s Top 100 Irish Songs of 2021. Hynes gathered momentum in 2019 with opening slots for Brew in The Workman’s Club, and folk rock two-piece Native Harrow at The Underground Venue. In January 2020, she was the sole support to HAIL THE GHOST on the Whelan’s main stage. In August 2021, she returned to live performance at SIN É as one of sixteen featured artists at the Dublin Quays Festival. This was followed by a support slot for Dublin power pop band, StereoType at The Grand Social in September.
’Sometimes’ is a delicate and moving single from Emma Hynes. She spreads emotive lyrics over a lush sweeping backdrop of warm strings supple percussion and acoustic guitar to create a truly compelling listening experience. Her voice exudes a soothing lamentful tone as she croons “with you I feel I have won something, I’d like to hold on to‘’ while lush harmonies coo in the backdrop. It’s a well-crafted song brimming with rich musicianship and poignant songwriting. ’Sometimes’ is a magnificent new single from Hynes.
Irish brothers Harry and Alfie Hudson-Taylor have released their new single ‘You Me Myself’.The song is a fresh taste of their forthcoming third studio album ‘Searching For The Answers’, due for release in June.Recorded and produced by Luke Potashnick (Gabrielle Aplin, Hannah Grace, Ward Thomas) at the legendary and newly-reopened Wool Hall studios in Somerset, ‘You Me Myself’ joins the recently released streaming-only cut ‘Won’t Be Too Long’.Hudson Taylor‘s previous album, ‘Loving Everywhere I Go’ was released just before the world went into lockdown in February 2020. The album debuted at Number 1 on the Irish National Charts, and the total number of streams from the record are now in excess of 30 million.
Oozing sweet keys, warm guitars and buoyant beats Hudson Taylor present a fun and catchy tune to indulge in with ‘You Me Myself’. In true Hudson Taylor manner, the track is filled with earworm hooks, lush harmonies and energetic guitar work while country undertones and delicate pop embellishments chime throughout. ‘You Me Myself’ continues the duo’s run of irresistible singles and feel good gems that are sure to put a smile and glimmer of light into the listener’s day. Press play and enjoy.
After an exciting 2021, Dublin-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Neil Dexter has released his new single ‘Alpha’.Since releasing his debut single ‘Loving You’ last year, Neil Dexter has been featured on The Point of Everything podcast, 98FM’s Totally Irish hosted by John Barker, The Nova Guestlist presented by Kieran McGuiness and BBC Radio Ulster’s Across The Line, hosted by Gemma Bradley.
‘Alpha’ ripples with lush sonic embellishments, delicate melodies and soft moments of 80’s pop to create an utterly compelling listening experience. Brooding verses pivot around elastic bass pulses while supple psychedelic tones ebb and flow throughout. Dexter’s vocals are a joy to listen to; his voice oozes warmth and tenderness however at times it is haunting, deep and brooding. This vocal dynamic is greatly enhanced by the soft, intricate textures within the track’s soundscape. ‘Alpha’ is a beautifully expressive tune and an exciting glimpse into the artistic mind of Neil Dexter.
Lyrically, as with his previous releases, growing older and gaining new perspectives on friendships, relationships and life anchor the subject matter of his songwriting. Of ‘Alpha’s’ meaning Dexter says: “When I wrote this song, I was processing a specific time where I felt a great sense of isolation within a social setting. I’d been at a party a few years ago where I didn’t understand the various dynamics and felt completely estranged from the people and the situation. I couldn’t figure out where I fit in the group on that occasion. I think part of getting older sometimes involves becoming detached from or struggling to understand the foundations of certain friendships. Structurally, the verses reflect the paranoia I experienced that night before the tone of the song shifts during the chorus with the soaring falsetto delivering the refrain, “What happened to you?” I wanted to create a tension and release dynamic throughout ‘Alpha’ to convey that feeling of isolation. “
Singer-songwriter Miles Graham has released his new song ‘Yeah We’re Gonna Get Out of It’. The track is the sixth and final song bidding to represent Ireland at Eurovision 2022. Miles is originally from Clondalkin in Dublin and is now based in Co. Sligo. Miles was a guest on Weekend Wogan on BBC Radio 2 in 2015 with the legendary broadcaster Terry Wogan. I caught up with Miles to discuss his new song ahead of The Late Late Show this Friday where the song to represent Ireland will be chosen.
“I had the song written in 2020. There was a few things supposed to happen with it. I’ve been working with a producer Justin Broad in London, and we were working on several different projects and different songs and this was one of the songs where I wrote at home. We were all on a 2k lockdown at the time. Then the kids were singing it here in the background, my young kids at home. They don’t sing all of my songs but they were singing this one. So I decided to record them. They sounded amazing and I just thought I have to record that.Then I had the guts of the song sent over to Justin and he wrote the brass trumpet on it and fully produced it. The song is called Yeah, We’re Gonna Get Out of It and… it’s about the struggles and everything that I was going through and I’m sure a lot of people, musicians, songwriters, people that work in the arts, comedians, you know, that perform on stage, feeling those struggles along with everybody else. I suppose the lyrics lend to all of that. I’ve always had an interest in The Eurovision because it’s a song competition. It’s the biggest song competition in the world. I have always had an interest in Ireland’s entries, the songs and the competition itself. So you know, I would have submitted some songs down through the years. I just thought this song [ would ] be perfect given the concept and the feeling at the time. So I submitted the song back late last year and then I got the call just before Christmas that RTE wanted me to sing it and they wanted me to perform it and they loved the song. Yeah, it was part of the six songs selected to potentially go to the Eurovision in Italy. So here I am.”
Miles’ kid’s sweet voices can be heard in the song as they sing the catchy chorus.
“They’re so excited. We are hip hop fans as well. We like a lot of soul and hip hop stuff and we would basically be all singing different songs going around the house. This is one where we just came together in the moment and recorded it and it was really fun to do. I’m so proud of them. So proud of how everything came out on the track.“
‘Yeah We’re Gonna Get Out of It’ is very different to what people would expect to hear from a Eurovision song entry. It’s an uplifting tune filled with sunny vibes and bouncy keys, jazz moments and a speckle of soul. It’s refreshing to the ears with a fun and positive vibe.
“Yeah, I agree with you. It’s fresh, I mean that for me, if you hear something that’s fresh, that’s something different. I think the competition itself The Eurovision has gotten more diverse in recent years. We had a rock band from Italy [Måneskin] win it last year. You know, there is diversity within the competition now and people would say there are certain Eurovision type songs. But you know, they might not be the ones that are winning it. So I think to have something fresh and something different is very important in a competition to be able to stand out.”
The song features a jubilant brass and trumpet solo which was played by members from Amy Winehouse’s original touring brass ensemble. Miles explained to me how that collaboration came about.
“Yeah, so Justin [Broad] and Paul [Herman] who I was working with, the producers. When they heard the demo that I sent over [with] me and the kids singing here in the house, they were like, we love this track so much and we’d love to do this, we’d love to do that. So they made the call to the guys. Ben Edwards plays the trumpet solo. Yeah, they’ve toured with Amy Winehouse. They’ve got that real soul element to what they do and they obviously bounced off the track really well as well. I’m delighted they [ came ] into the studio in London to record it. That’s one element of the song I really really love, the brass, and trumpet solo.”
Miles will perform the song on The Late Late Show on Friday, February 4th, where a winner will be chosen to progress to Turin, representing Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest. A nerve-wracking performance that unfortunately, won’t feature his kids on stage with him.
“You always get a little bit nervous. I played the Late Late Show before in 2018. So that gives me a little bit of confidence, a bit of an edge, I suppose. I’ve got a little bit of a cold at the moment. So I’m trying to just get past that and I can hopefully, be 100%. I’m really looking forward to it, you know, just gonna enjoy it as much as I can and hopefully, the song puts a smile on people’s faces and gives that kind of positivity that I had in the room at home when I was writing and recording it with the kids. “
Props and elaborate stage setups are a big thing in The Eurovision. I wondered if Miles found it difficult deciding on what he wanted to do and how he wanted the song visually displayed on stage.
“I had an idea in my head. There are certain challenges that come in when setting up for production to be able to present something in the way you want to present it. But yeah I’m really excited about what we’ve done. I’ll leave the element of surprise for Friday night, but obviously, yeah, with the kids they can’t be on stage because Eurovision rules, they can’t be under the age of 16. There won’t be any kids on stage so we’re trying to, be able to represent them in a different way. “
Along with his bid to represent Ireland in the Eurovision, Miles told me what we can expect from him in the coming months
“ I’ve put out a song with L’Tric a dance track it went out just before Christmas called ‘She Is Gold’. So that’s out on Spotify. That’s actually written about my sister. Keep it all in the family, you know. Yeah, I’m loving that song at the moment. I have a live date in London in The Grace on the sixth of May and I’m hoping to get a couple of gigs here maybe March, April as well. So yeah, we’ll see how things go with the competition, but win or lose on Friday, I just hope people get behind the song. Because I think it’s a special song and it deserves people to hear it and just get the good vibe out there, that’s what we all need”
Miles Graham has been steadily perfecting his craft. The result is a sound that reflects his versatility as an artist. ‘Yeah We’re Gonna Get Out of It’ is a fine example of this and showcases his natural charm and passionate musicianship.
Miles will be performing ‘Yeah We’re Gonna Get Out of It’ on The Late Late Show this Friday make sure to check it out. Until then you can stream the song below
Dylan Flynn & The Dead Poets have released their new single ‘i wasn’t ready’.This is the groups final single off their forthcoming EP, ‘crazy how we live like this’, which comes out on February 10th. As always, this song comes recorded and produced by the band themselves, mixed by Mike Gavin, Like many Limerick artists, the band has gone down a DIY path, choosing to self-record and produce their own music. The five-piece have been quickly gaining recognition in the Irish music scene in 2021 and have amassed 30k+ streams on Spotify. They have supported acts such as The Frank and Walters, NewDad, True Tides, and played a sold-out headline show in Dolan’s, Limerick. 2021 also saw the release of their ‘Crazy, How We Live Like This’ project, featuring singles such as, Days and Everything Will Be Ok.
‘i wasn’t ready’ is a compelling piece of musicianship from Dylan Flynn & The Dead Poets. The band flesh out the track with punchy drums, anthemic soundscapes and passionate vocals that ooze emotion and tenderness while rich undertones and sparkling guitar adornments between ethereal synths create a fresh atmosphere throughout. The track is a joy to listen to again and again, taking multiple listens to truly experience the wonderful and meticulously placed arrangements within. Keep an eye on this band, they have a bright future ahead.
About the track, Flynn said: “This song is about something deeply personal that happened to someone very close to me a couple of years ago. It was a very distressing time, and the only way I could think of processing it at the time was to write about it.”
Stream ‘i wasn’t ready’ below
Author: Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
