Rising Cork trio, Rowan have released their new single ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’.It’s the second track to be lifted from their upcoming EP Everybody Talks, due on July 23rd via their new label home, LA’s Beverly Martel. Born out of the early pandemic last year, when the three accomplished musicians were forced into a hiatus from session work, Rowan are fast becoming one of the most exciting new Irish acts around.
Showcasing the band’s deft musicianship and exciting blossoming sound, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’ is a tight, well-crafted gem. Rowan weave bright guitar refrains into a punchy drum and rugged bassline combo to create a gripping, adrenaline-inducing blend of indie rock with luscious pop sensibilities that is a joy to listeners’ senses. The track’s empowering lyrical theme is enhanced by the bubbling instrumental backdrop while moody undertones brood throughout as Dylan Howe’s deep vocals express the hard-hitting lyrics “ wasting daylights worse than intentional stealing”. Filled with majestic guitars and biting bass lines, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change’ is a fantastic new tune sure to be stuck in your head for days.
About the track, Dylan Howe explains: “Nothing’s Gonna Change” talks about “coming out of your shell, gaining your self-confidence and growing into yourself”
Edinburgh singer-songwriter Jonnie Wallace has released his new single ‘Milk and Flowers’.Wallace presents a stomping dynamic indie rock track that boasts his sharp songwriting and energetic musicianship. Filled with edgy guitar riffs that pierce through a dense rhythmic wall of sound the track is well crafted, full-bodied and the perfect example of Wallace’s catchy passionate sound. Punchy instrumentation pivots around a sweet yet power-driven melody to create a strong and angst-hued tune full of gusto enhanced by blazing guitars that slice through resounding bass rumbles and relentless drum thrashings. As the song swarms to its hair-raising crescendo, Wallace howls “I’m not gonna wait on you no more” while haunting vocals echo his frustration in the background. ‘Milk and Flowers’ is a fantastic new single from Jonnie Wallace.
About the track Wallace said “This track is about not settling for being second best, or being an option, or being treated as a lesser priority. Too many times I have put in the effort to keep in contact, continue a friendship, or form a new relationship with someone, and too many times I have been ignored or treated like nothing important. I poured my angst and frustration into this track and I think it is my best work yet.”
Dublin artist James Lonergan has released his new single ‘Joop’. Lonergan joined his first band, aged 10; since then, he has steadily fronted bands – most notably as the vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter of the recently disbanded progressive band, Synk.
Blending ambient soundscapes with looped harmonies on backing vocals ‘Joop’ displays the refined, lush sound of Lonergan. The track flows upon ripples of silken melodies and grand instrumental builds to create an atmospheric piece of music that boasts gripping soundscapes filled with washes of synths and elegant piano. A bubbling rhythmic undercurrent of shaking percussion and buoyant beats draws the listener into the song’s many intricate layers and musical depths while Lonergan’s passionate vocals exude soothing tones that become more dynamic before fading out into a blustery wall of distortion. Fusing harsh elements with delicate tones and sweeping moments on strings, ‘Joop’ is an awe-inspiring single as Lonergan pushes boundaries to create quite a mesmerising piece of art.
Jamie Button has released his new single ‘Strange Saints’. The song is taken from Button’s forthcoming debut album, which was written in lockdown, and speaks of frustration, inner turmoil and a desire to break free. Hopes are high for Button’s new single after his previous singles ‘Flashbang’ and ‘Told You Things’ peaked at No. 3 and No.2 on the iTunes singer/songwriter charts, respectively. ‘Strange Saints’ was recorded in Paisley at Jamie McGrory’s (Bay City Rollers) studio JJ Recordings. ‘Strange Saints’ features Scott Forsyth on drums and guitars whilst Gordon Burn (bass) and Gary Hornsby (lead guitar) complete the record. The song was produced by Glasgow-based Ross Hamilton (Texas, Saint PHNX, Seafret).
Steeped in indie rock energy with an anthemic chorus and Button’s trademark earworm melodies, ‘Strange Saints’ is a stomping new banger. Button crafts a catchy tune laced in blistering guitar hooks and driving rhythms ready to ignite a live audience while the easy on the ears melody ensures this song won’t leave your head anytime soon. His smooth vocals coat the song in emotion while the indie rock soundscape blazes in the background. Boasting a shredding guitar solo and adrenaline-inducing basslines, ‘Strange Saints’ is a fantastic new addition to Button’s knock out repertoire.
Dublin alternative rock outfit TV People have released their new single ‘Out of the Silence’. Working alongside Dan Doherty at Darklands Audio (Fontaines D.C., Vulpynes), Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios (Radiohead, Blur, LCD Soundsystem) and Grammy award-winning Caesar Edmunds (QOTSA, St. Vincent, PJ Harvey); ‘Out of the Silence’, is the band’s first new music of 2021.
Within ‘Out of the Silence’ TV People flesh out their dark and brooding sound to create a spacious and intense tune for listeners to indulge in. The band have become known for their meticulously crafted songs and ‘Out of the Silence’ follows this trend superbly. The verse simmers with rooted bass and thudding drums while Paul Donohoe’s rich baritone croons over the dreamy melody with a sense of longing. As the song progresses into the chorus the soundscape becomes lighter as sweet glimmers on guitars fragment the muggy backdrop with subtle yet energetic instrumental bursts. With vivid eloquent lyrics drifting through the building instrumentation, the band showcase their poetic flair and maturing lyrical prowess “I watched the Liffey bleed along the banks of distant quays, and I awaken when the feeling flows from out of the silence”. TV People are an evocative and compelling band to listen to. With each release, the listener gets an exciting glimpse into their vast, rich pool of talent and it’s simply extraordinary.
About the track Paul Donohoe said: “We wrote ‘Out of the Silence’ at the start of the year when we got back into our rehearsal room in Dublin after months of writing from home. I remember feeling inspired and invigorated by the energy of the city at the time, despite the fact that everything was closed and the weather was dark and grim. I found solace in the fact that the city was indifferent to everything that was going on in the world around it, and started to reflect on the fact that I needed a bit more perseverance in my own life. The tune is a homage to that timeless energy and presence that certain places have and how you can find comfort in the permanence of these places when you’re feeling a bit lost and dejected. For me, it’s an expression of optimism and appreciation for life, despite its faults and imperfections.”
Recorded in the height of the pandemic, Damn Good Liars have released their self-titled EP. A passion project years in the making, Damn Good Liars is the result of guitarist and co-producer Steve Jenner’s enduring ambition, his long-standing friendship with producer and multi-instrumentalist Ian Turner, and their combined efforts to transform their concept into existence. Originally creating instrumental demos, Damn Good Liars was completed by the vocal and lyrical talents of Ellis Turner who joined the band in 2020. Elevated by Ellis’ vocals, Damn Good Liars released their debut single, and opening track from the EP, ‘Station Wagon Motel Chic’ was released in June 2021 and has already received support from BBC Introducing Berkshire.
Damn Good Liars is a brooding and enticing collection of tracks that displays Damn Good Liars intricate musicianship and tantalizing songwriting. Blending haunting melodies with Turner’s smoky vocals, the band create an eerie and mysterious soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. Exuding lulling vaporous tones in ‘Unworthy’ and rock and roll undertones in ‘Station Wagon Motel Chic’, the EP boasts Damn Good Liars engaging and diverse sound. There is oodles of swagger within the EP enhanced by rich mellow refrains on guitar and ethereal synths that create a dreamy narcotic atmosphere throughout. This is best shown in ‘Tobacco Lips’ where a slow 60’s shimmy and panache driven melody slips gently into psychedelic territory while funky guitars and a sensual bass line groove throughout. Damn Good Liars have crafted a satisfying EP that blends edgy alternative rock with smooth psychedelia and grunge elements to create one thrilling, cohesive listening experience.
Rónán and Matteo performed an acoustic set for Our Indie Buddie Sessions.
Big Sleep are a Dublin based indie-alternative band who spent the last two years playing to packed out rooms of a steady-growing and dedicated fan base until the lockdowns came along. The four-piece formed when frontman, Rónán, entered a Battle of the Bands as a singer-songwriter. He reconnected with some old bandmates and was introduced to some new ones to form the current lineup: Matteo Poli on percussion, Evin O’Connor on lead guitar, Rónán Connolly on vocals and rhythm guitar and Dougie Sealy on bass.
Big Sleep create sun-kissed irresistible tunes laced in warm laid back instrumentation. Blending funky rhythms, supple drums and radiant guitar melodies the bands sound is luscious and oh so sweet on the ears. Rónán and Matteo’s performance highlights the band’s nostalgic hazy melodies through a soft acoustic set and it’s simply divine.
Following the critical success of his ‘What Little Time We Have’ EP, folk-pop songwriter and artist, Luke Clerkin, has released his new single, ‘Lost in Translation’. It is the first of a series of songs recorded remotely with Berlin-based producer, Jaako. Luke Clerkin is a two-time SCC Song Writing competition-winning songwriter and artist. He has been playing and releasing music for the past 6 years. His music has gained international airplay and support, whilst also topping the Irish Singer-Songwriter Charts on multiple occasions. Clerkin has headlined famous Dublin venues such as Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, and The Button Factory. His music has brought him all over the world, with multiple tours of Germany, as well as festival slots in America, The UK, and Ireland. After returning from finishing a scholarship in the world-renowned Popakademie in Germany, Luke released his second EP, What Little Time We Have, in July of 2020. The EP spawned 3 singles that gained critical success and airplay all over the world. 2020 also saw him complete an apprenticeship with Ed Sheeran’s mentor and Nizlopi frontman, Luke Concannon.
‘Lost in Translation’ is a beautifully arranged, cinematic tune that boasts the compelling songwriting of Luke Clerkin. Clerkin sweetly coos over an uplifting melody while ethereal electronics, pulsing beats and warm guitars adorn the backdrop. The song exudes an air of elegance that is enhanced by a lamentful yet graceful piano element and Clerkin’s earnest lyrics, “I feel lost, lost in translation but someday ill get through”. He fills the song with hope and positivity as the instrumental backdrop grows, becoming more dramatic and uplifting. The track is a comforting tune, lavished in refined production and exhilarating musicianship that displays Clerkin’s passionate and moving sound. ‘Lost In Translation’ is an exquisite return from Luke Clerkin.
Talking about the release, Luke said, ”This song was written in 2019 when I was on a college exchange in Germany and I found myself ‘lost in translation’, I was dealing with homesickness, and finding it really hard to connect with people. The one thing that was keeping me going was music and it helped me overcome the language and culture barriers that existed. When I was going through this, I met Jaako and together we wrote the song in less than an hour, and we recorded a little live take to go along with it. After this session, we never really spoke again until during the first lockdown when he sent me a demo he made of the live take. I was so blown away by the demo that I knew I had to work more with him, and after some persuading from my end, we made it happen. This song marks the beginning of what I feel is a sound that I’ve been searching years for, and it’s only a small sample of what’s to come from this project.”
Liverpool based alternative-rock artist, Ambro River (aka Richard Batty), has released his debut single, ‘Electrolyte’. With elements of ’90s gunge providing an edge between sweet melodies, this driving rock track is a fantastic and ambitious debut. Batty creates an exhilarating and raw backdrop of gritty guitar riffs, rumbling bass lines and punchy drums to create one blistering gem for listeners to enjoy. The guitars exude an epic quality reminiscent of 80’s rock anthems and smoulder through the chorus while the verses tease and intensify throughout. The song boasts Batty’s musical prowess and tight songwriting as he uses expressive instrumentation to enhance his clever lyrical content. Melding playful lyricism with majestic and refined musicianship, ‘Electrolyte’ is an impressive and well-crafted tune from Ambro River.
Colm O’Mahony and Jackie O’Mahony performed an acoustic set for Our Indie Buddie Sessions.
Colm O’Mahony & The Hot Touches are a Rock ‘n’ Roll band from Killarney Co.Kerry, Ireland. Their self-titled debut album, featuring eight all original songs, was released on June 5, 2020. The album is an examination of life by way of rock ‘n’ roll. With eight original songs, each written by O’Mahony, it explores issues such as love, loss, betrayal & defiance. The band have recently released their new single ‘Preacher’s Daughter’, taken off that album,
Colm O’Mahony & The Hot Touches’ songs are filled with wonderful heartfelt melodies, rich instrumentation and emotive lyrics. This striped back performance gives us a chance to see some of the bands beautiful indie tunes through an acoustic lens that highlights the sweet infectious melodies, Colm’s warm vocals and the talent this band have to offer. It’s a real treat.
