Tag Archives: indie

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Laura Elizabeth Hughes ‘We, Myself, I’ EP

Laura Elizabeth Hughes has released her highly anticipated EP ‘We, Myself, I’. Hughes hones in on her poetic songwriting to create an EP that is simply divine and a triumph for Irish music. The previously featured on Indie Buddie ‘Days’ kick starts the EP. Warm guitar meanders through delicate poetic lyrics and beautiful melodies as Hughes discusses the nothingness and mundane moments when she was out of work. Emotion is expressed through bright glimmers on guitar and lush backing vocals that seem to coo and rotate through the track as if on a wheel of bittersweet monotony. The track is an absolute gem.

However, ‘Days’ is not the only stand out track on the EP. Evoking a sense of vulnerability throughout, ‘Two’, is hair-raising, captivating and utterly heartbreaking. A piano twinkles innocently within a bare and spacious soundscape while chilling loneliness is expressed through the lyrics as Hughes asks, “tell me how you keep it all together now”. This solitary number is stunningly expressive without being overpowering and showcases Hughes’ powerful songwriting ability.

Hughes’ knack with enchanting melodies shines wonderfully bright throughout this EP. Her melodic prowess is best displayed in the bewitching title track ‘We, Myself, I’. A dark guitar tone resounds between delicate plucked melodies as Hughes creates an atmosphere riddled and torn with conflicting emotions. Hughes ruminates “Saving all my hours for you, cramming them in boxes till they all turn black and blue”. Her timeless songwriting and deft lyrical delivery is deeply moving and powerfully emotive while embellished with an artistic flair and finesse well beyond her years “cheap wine chased by time cos I’ve got nothing else to loose”. She provides a perspective everyone has felt this past year, crystallised in mature earnest lyrics and cosy breathtaking arrangements.

Hughes’ music has always been rich in substance and deeply thought-provoking. However within ‘We, Myself, I’ EP Laura Elizabeth Hughes has shown strong musical growth – her sound exudes a cinematic undertone as she weaves evocative silence between ribbons of rapturous melody and warm delicate instrumentation. ‘We, Myself, I’ is a delight to listen to and a glorious display of musicianship from Laura Elizabeth Hughes.

Speaking about the EP Hughes explains; “We, Myself, I” was a little challenge I set myself. To try and navigate the thought paths that solitude was thrusting me down and make something of them. I wanted to try and replicate the advice I was being given in trying to get through a multitude of feelings and anxieties, I was told to keep it simple. To keep life simple. To not get hung up on details and bells and whistles and just focus on breathing through another day. The tracks are trying to navigate feelings of grief, of unjust theft of time and potential, of curiosity as to how other people were seemingly rowing through the sh!t that was 2020 with much more ease than I was. They’re rough around the edges, much like my mind, but they’re soft like I have tried to keep my heart. They’re cut from the same cloth, just like every day seemed to be, but each is coloured differently like I have tried to be mindful of and noticing.”

Stream ‘We, Myself, I’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Peter Richardson ‘Please Don’t Believe Me

22-year old Dublin singer/songwriter Peter Richardson has released his new single, ‘Please Don’t Believe Me.’ This emotive heartwarming track boasts Richardson’s beautiful songwriting and gripping musicianship. The track oozes passion, compelling melodies, and cinematic appeal. Richardson’s majestic arrangement creates tension and exudes melancholic soothing tones all at once while hair-raising backing vocal coos create an arena-worthy sing-along refrain – it is a wonderful feast for the senses.

Richardson croons the tender, honest lyrics, “you see, I can’t love at all if only you saw that I’m bruised”, over a sombre melody and building vocal harmony. As the song progresses, Richardson introduces warm guitar, dynamic rumbles on drums, and elegant laments on piano to bring the track to its hair-raising crescendo. 

Brimming with tight instrumentation and clean production, ‘Please Don’t Believe Me’ is a refined display of contemporary pop marking Peter Richardson an artist to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Please Don’t Believe Me’ below. 


Author : Danu

electro - rock, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Pecking Party ‘Descendant’

Dublin-based electronic band, Pecking Party have released their latest single ‘Descendant’. The track is accompanied by a stylised sci-fi-influenced video directed by Richard Harvey (winner of First Cut Youth Film Festival Music Video competition).

Luring, dark and superbly composed ‘Descendant’ displays the raw electronic rock of Pecking Party in all its glory. This sinister concoction blends swirling electronics with heavy, gritty rock and acute trip-hop to create an enthralling listening experience. The sheer terror and assault provided on bass and drums is masterful as the band create a harrowing coarse wall of sound for the shadowy, almost futuristic toned electronics to ricochet and swirl around.

The band balance their harrowing heavy sound with ethereal elements allowing glimmers of lightness and innocence to flicker within the muggy atmosphere. As harsh guitars gnaw through the track’s intoxicating soundscape, the delicate melody and soft vocals provide a refreshing contrast.

Ciara Ryan’s smoky lulling tone carries the track’s lighter moments – with sweet haunting coos on backing vocals she discusses themes of intergenerational dread and fear for the future. Ciara Ryan ventures into a menacing tone as growling backing vocals howl before the striking perilous chorus. 

Pecking Party have crafted their sound masterfully creating an enticing and frenzied sound sure to ignite the senses and leave you craving for more. 

Watch The Video For ‘Descendant’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Star Comedy Democrats ‘Imitation Road’ EP

Star Comedy Democrats have released their debut EP ‘Imitation Road.’ A catchy and powerful modern rock band, Star Comedy Democrats, is a tight three-piece outfit based in Kilkenny, fronted by Mark Bolger with Briain Casey on Bass and Rory Cooper on Drums. 

‘Imitation Road’ is a bright and raw collection of alternative rock from Star Comedy Democrats. The band create an EP of lush melodies and refined instrumentation that becomes more radiant and exciting with each subsequent listen.

With clean jangly guitars driving the radiant energy between the punchy and rhythmic ‘Ghost’  and title track ‘Imitation Road’ Star Comedy Democrats display their tight and slick sound in all its glory. The songs are well-paced and brimming with intricate guitar embellishments, elastic flirtation on bass, and infectious alternative rock-esque melodies. Each song flows fluidly into the next with ease as Bolger’s warm, rasped vocals inject a dash of grit into the band’s energetic aesthetic. 

Star Comedy Democrats have crafted a melody-rich EP that you can croon along to as well as mosh manically to. They build laid-back tunes like ‘Fire and Teeth’ with brooding lush harmonies and sullen verses while vibrant biting choruses and heartfelt air-punching crescendos drive the trio’s dynamic sound with vigor. However, the grunge-hued ‘Happy Valley’ is perhaps the EP’s pinnacle moment. A dark luring bass rumbles alongside a resounding drum while a steamy guitar pines, stings, and crashes throughout. This meticulous layering creates a sound that is fresh and intoxicating.

Star Comedy Democrats have created a tight well rounded, and enjoyable EP. For a debut, the EP showcases the growing talent and raw, authentic sound of Star Comedy Democrats. Love it.

Stream ‘Imitation Road’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Ali Comerford ‘He Knows’

‘He Knows’ is the debut single from Kilkenny-based singer and multi-instrumentalist Ali Comerford. Having toured the world performing viola in classical ensembles for 14 years, Ali moved back to Kilkenny in 2020 and has recorded her debut album of original folk-based but classical influenced songs.

‘He Knows’ is a luscious piece of rich musicianship as Ali Comerford creates a delicate tune wrapped in intricate instrumentation and sweet tones. Comerford’s lulling vocal caress a dreamy melody while a blossoming string arrangement, provides a pristine and innocent atmosphere. As the instrumentation grows in volume, the song becomes more vulnerable and expressive.

Lyrically the track oozes sincerity and heartfelt emotion “Oh but there must be a way out, Of this maize that I’ve been working on, But I’ve built the walls so high with doubt, Do I keep on building ’till he’s gone”. ‘He Knows’ is a stunning listening experience. Filled with intriguing folk tones and pop appeal. Comerford’s compelling musicianship and deft lyrical ability is impressive and a joy to listen to.

About the song Ali says “He knows’ is a lilting song about leaving an unfulfilling relationship, the ups and downs of seeking support elsewhere and the resignation that the truth will always come out.”

Stream ‘He Knows’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Noah Elliott ‘Never Know’

Oregon Pop-R&B artist Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Never Know,’ produced by Nashville hit-maker Jon Santana (Phangs, SuperM).

 ‘Never Know’ is a piece of softly glittering pop prowess as Elliott swirls sweet melodies through bubbling electronics to create an ethereal and tender number. With R&B elements weaved through fresh synths and spacious soundscapes, Elliott builds the track superbly. Weaving soft guitar between bubbling beats and a laid-back tempo, the song floats into a dreamy atmosphere allowing the electronics to unfold and create a soothing sense of nostalgia.

Elliott’s soulful vocals coo throughout, creating a melancholic and sweet tone to the track. His lush falsetto and velvety tone adds to the track’s overall sulky yet dreamy atmosphere. As Elliott builds the song, he layers bouncy synth elements into the catchy chorus and airy soundscape. Here the electronics become a little darker and sticky while the R&B elements kick in for the finger-clicking beat and the smooth vocals. 

Elliott’s songwriting excels in setting vulnerable, personal themes and lyrics to his minimal radio-friendly pop. It’s this exposure of his heart that gives the track its power and beauty  “Romeo and Juliet I envy what they had, thought we would have that or was it unrealistic “….. “But your doors are always closing when I keep mine cracked open waiting for you to walk in”. Elliott wears his heart on his sleeve for each song he releases, and ‘Never Know’ is a superb example of this. 

Elliot’s spacious yet intricately weaved musicianship and heartfelt lyrics make each release engaging and utterly compelling. Within ‘Never Know,’ we see this through beautiful melodies, meaningful, honest lyrics, and a gripping wall of sound. 

About the track, Noah Elliott said “The song is about the confusion and heartache that results from having no idea as to why someone left you.”

Stream ‘Never Know’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Hawke The Band ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’

Hawke The Band have released their new single ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’. The young Dublin act was formed in 2018 by two friends in the shadow of the world-famous Guinness Brewery (in the south of the city) and features Richie Power (vocals/keyboards) and Eoghan MacMahon (vocals/guitar). Irish rock legends Aslan quickly declared themselves major fans, with frontman Christy Dignam proclaiming Hawke The Band “the next big thing” to emerge from a country that consistently punches above its weight in terms of quality music.

Anthemic and powerful ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a stunner as Hawke The Band present their refined and spirited sound through 90’s rock energy, a cinematic chorus and invigorating soundscapes. The band’s melodic mastery is something to be admired. A bright guitar refrain introduces the song. Twinkling throughout it becomes the main thread tying the vibrant instrumental embellishments together. Deep pulsing grooves anchor the listener within the ethereal atmosphere while a euphoric melody floats upon a lush soundscape filled with soaring guitars, accelerated drums, and chiming keys that continually expands as the song progresses. This lively assault on the senses is eargasmic and fills the listener with the sense of heart-rushing elation one feels at arena-worthy gigs. The duo showcase their deft lyrical abilities with this tantalizing number. They are honest, catchy, and powerfully moving “how could someone like me have you right by their side”. This is greatly enhanced by the warm emotive vocal delivery and sweet vocal harmony that coos the heart-felt lyrics.

‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ is a brilliant example of Hawke The Band’s breathtaking musicianship. This enthralling track boasts the duo’s sublime ability to pour heartwarming pop sensibilities over a dynamic indie rock backdrop to create a satisfying listening experience. The passion and youthful adrenaline surging through their sound is impressive and is equally as compelling. With each exciting release Hawke The Band are proving themselves ones to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Pinch Me (Am I Dreaming?)’ below 


Author : Danu

electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Midnight Wayne ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’

Having cut his teeth in one of the most well-loved live bands of their time on our festival circuits and live scene, former Hot Sprockets frontman Wayne Soper is no stranger to the Irish music scene. Now focusing on his solo artist project, Midnight Wayne, Soper returns with ‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ boasts the impressive genre-blending musicianship of Midnight Wayne. Melding 80’s synth-pop with crisp sparkling production, Soper adds layer upon layer of beautiful luxuriant sounds for the listener to indulge in.

The song flows upon a kinetic groove and pulsing bass while sweet synths chime throughout. Soper uses a tight beat to pull against a funky flex on guitar, and loose electronics to create a tantalizing, irresistible sound to tease and entice the listener with. The result is a mesmerising display of musical prowess and an enjoyable listening experience.

From panache-soaked breathy whispers to velvety croons, Soper’s vocals ooze a charming tone while delivering the uplifting lyrics “seek the fire that you’ve lost inside”. The upbeat lyrics are highlighted further by the tracks infectious jangly guitars and rhythmic bounce.

‘It’s Alright, Hold on Tight’ is a gem to treasure. Midnight Wayne is refining his sound into something special and something to get excited about. Looking forward to hearing more from Midnight Wayne.

Stream ‘It’s Alright Hold on Tight’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Folk, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Conor Scott ‘Life Now’

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Conor Scott has released his highly anticipated new single ‘Life Now’. Fresh from returning to Belfast after a period of time spent forging a music career in London, Conor Scott is back with a large online following, and recent support and praise shown by Mahogany Sessions.

Conor Scott displays his bright indie folk-rock and compelling songwriting with new release ‘Life Now’. The track exudes an energetic aura as Scott creates a vibrant soundscape filled with chiming guitars, lush chanting backing vocals and ethereal keys while an elastic bass weaves between a punchy drum foundation.

Scott’s warm vocals coo with a cosy, soothing quality over the infectious melody injecting a folk-rock tone into the radiant indie rock aesthetic. His voice smoothly bounces over the honest lyrics as he puts a positive spin on some of his realisations over the past year. 

“Hitting twenty-six, it hit me like a ton of bricks maybe I should roll with it”

‘Life Now’ superbly displays the talent and earnest beauty within Scott’s songwriting. Boasting lush harmonies and a tight rhythmic pull, Scott has created a wholesome and passionate tune brimming with first-rate musicianship. His ability to richly blend textures and tones to create heart-stopping music is mesmerising and a joy to listen to.

Speaking of the track, Scott says: “This is the first song I’ve written that is mainly stemming from an objective view of the world, and not so much based on relationships. I wrote it right in the middle of the first lockdown so it was hard not to look at all the things that were happening. That said, I didn’t want to have something totally doom and gloom, and I think you can take quite a few positive affirmations out of the song also. Hope, I suppose”

Stream ‘Life Now’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Freeda ‘5 AM’

Formed in 2017 and with a plethora of headline and sold out shows under their belt including a sold out show at the iconic Deaf Institute in Manchester.and festival appearances at Dot 2 Dot, Tramlines Fringe, 110 Above and Y Not Festival, Manchester-based Freeda, have released their new single ’5AM’. All their singles have received extensive backing from BBC Introducing, and continued support from XS Manchester and Amazing Radio.

Exhilarating guitar lines swirl through a vibrant anthemic indie backdrop as ‘5 AM’ pulses with the engaging and dynamic sound of Freeda. Blending bustling bass grooves with punchy drums and a soaring rush on synths, the track exudes an intense kinetic soundscape. Smooth, emotive vocals drift over a rich percussive groove that embellishes the track’s vibrant wall of sound and brisk catchy melody – a joy to listen to and a feast for the senses. The band create and layer the anthemic synth-rock soundscape to mirror the lyrics within the song which draws a comparison between a busy, hectic lifestyle and a more settled content frame of mind.

Racing with intense musicianship and boasting refined songwriting, ‘5 AM ‘ showcases strong musical growth in Freeda. Their sound is becoming more compelling with each release. ‘5 AM ‘ is a fantastic new single from Freeda. 

Stream ‘5 AM’ below 


Author : Danu