Happy New Year to all our followers and subscribers. We have enjoyed finding new artists and music this year and we look forward to listening to the tunes 2021 has to bring. It’s been a difficult year but there was amazing music released this year! Thank you to all who have donated to the blog keeping us caffeinated all year round and the PR Companies, Tour Managers, Managers and Artists who have worked with us all year. A big Thank You, to the talented Musicians who took over our socials for our new exciting takeover performance sessions this year. We have created a playlist on Spotify with all the artists we have featured in 2020 for you to have a listen to. Enjoy!
Stephen Kelly – frontman and songwriter for Dublin rock band Raglans, has released ‘Home Brew Volume 1’ a lockdown concoction of newly written and home produced material. Working with mixing engineer, Eamonn Conway (Raglans, The Scratch, Sorcha Richardson, Otherkin) remotely from pandemic bedrooms, ‘Home Brew’ is a collection of new tracks and bonus unreleased older recordings that have never seen the light of day until now.
‘Home Brew Volume 1’ is a cohesive, melodically rich collection of tracks which showcases the versatility of Stephen Kelly as an artist. The EP has a diverse and engaging soundscape oozing alternative edgy elements blended between indie pop melodies, rock n roll tones with the odd country twang thrown in for good measure.
Boasting deft production and first rate musicianship, ‘Pile Up’ sets the EP in motion. The tracks luring, enticing beat is the perfect appetiser for whats to come. From the sun kissed swag of ‘Hollandia’ to the sweet ballad ‘Same Old Town’ the EP provides emotive and passionate tunes showcasing Kelly’s musical prowess – the latter displaying poignant songwriting “Forever lonely waiting on tomorrow”.
Exuding witty lyrics and wonderful melodic changes, the attitude soaked ‘Shit Song’ is a brisk, glorious assault on the senses. As in all ofKelly’s music his tracks are brimming with rich instrumentation as he spreads slinky basslines and slick guitar lines over a punchy rhythmic backdrop – a joy to listeners ears. Within ‘Home Brew Volume 1’ each song flows into the next with ease, subtly revealing different aspects of Kelly’s musicianship.
Arguably the most intriguing track on the EP ‘Icarus’ is a dynamic shot of adrenaline. Perhaps it’s the deft lyrics combined with invigorating use of instrumentation but there is something special about this track. Radiating ethereal guitars, eerie soundscapes and a rumbling bass the track is one of the highlights on the EP. The song emits kinetic energy and a magnetic personality that entices the listener to press the replay button repeatedly. It is utterly sublime.
‘Fallen Heroes (Live)’ triumphantly brings the EP to a close. A jangly live track laced in good vibes, witty lyrics and a heartening sing along refrain. This catchy ditty is a treasure at the moment. Providing us with a hint of live atmosphere through a fun, free spirited track, it is a superb way to end the EP.
Stephen Kelly presents a well crafted and charming collection of tracks which showcase his refined musicianship and exceptional knack with melodies. The earworm gems are a delight on the ears and mark Kelly as a first rate songwriter. Looking forward to Volume 2.
Moncrieff has recently released his second EP ‘The Class of 2020’. Having spent most of early 2020 in the solitude of his friend and co-producer Toby Scott’s home studio in Brighton, Moncrieff has created a collection of songs free and unconfined by genre that capture the zeitgeist of an ever changing musical and cultural landscape. Moncrieff’s debut body of work ‘The Early Hurts’ EP featured lead track ‘Like I Do’, this debut radio single (released in Sept 2019) received extensive airplay across national radio racking up nearly 12 million audience impressions and 5 million streams. The success of the single and EP led to Moncrieff selling out his first headline show in Dublin in less than 3 hours. His growing reputation also landed support slots touring with headline Irish acts Picture This and Walking on Cars.
As far as sophomore EP’s go ‘The Class of 2020’ is a musical triumph which boasts the unique genius of Moncrieff. Within this catchy, upbeat and candidly honest EP Moncrieff pushes boundaries and expectations while being extremely forthright with his emotions. The rich and utterly lush production on the tracks is masterful and something to be admired. If his debut ‘The Early Hurts’ EP had you thinking Moncrieff is an exceptional artist – ‘The Class of 2020’ will not only confirm your hypothesis but tell you the artist has more talent up his sleeve than he is letting on.
‘PLAYLOUD’ jump starts the EP – lathered in electronic production, R&B and infectious pop Moncrieff’s fun, euphoric expression of youth surges through playful soundscapes and witty lyrics “I’m a f*cking unicorn if I say so”. Oodles of attitude spills all over the EP. From quirky censored F word’s to catchy shout along choruses – it’s an energetic start to the EP. Moncrieff utilizes his unique and soulful vocals to inject rich depths through the rapid lyrics in ‘PLAYLOUD’ and surge emotion and velvety tones into the upbeat, urban pop ‘AMERICA’. A track that is vibrant, rich and laced in satirical commentary ‘AMERICA’ displays Moncrieff’s versatility as an artist through tropical rhythms, jangly soundscapes and a catchy chorus subtly scented with the aroma of Fun Boy Three’s ‘It Ain’t What You Do (It’s The Way That You Do It)’. The track is an impressive earworm which will chime in your head for days, its infectious rhythm unabated by any other tune you play after it.
Moncrieff doesn’t pull punches lyrically in this EP. He delivers an exhilarating middle finger to those in power failing to support society; “We chase our dreams while you spread your lies, Build castles in the sky, Heaven knows we’re all gonna die” in ‘AMERICA’ and rips shreds out of himself in ‘Sad and Horny’ “I’m a looser yeah i’m just a creep, who would wanna f*ck me”, it’s an honest account of his journey and thoughts on this year expressed through slick, first rate musicianship. The lush falsetto on the latter is simply flawless and gives listeners a teasing reminder of Moncrieff’s debut work – a clever addition and one that works so well. The chorus of ‘Sad and Horny’ erupts with subtle bursts of luscious pop followed by bubbling beats and simmering synths which blossom into a catchy release of tension as Moncrieff gravitates from glistening pop into a more melancholic undertone.
Similarly the dancefloor bop ‘DANCE’ follows the glum lyrical theme ‘we’re born, make money then we die’, however once again Moncrieff packages the ominous message within an upbeat infectious gem. ‘Dance’ is arguably my favourite track on the EP. This tightly produced glitter ball is drenched in bitter-sweet dreamy melodies, warm vocals and a catchy whistle along feature. Destined for the kinetic energy of a live show, the body moving beat, sweet electronics and jaunty guitar make this track a delight on the ears.
Moncrieff brings the EP to a close with the first demo he released this year during lockdown, the tender and earnest ‘in my room’. This beautiful track is again, a throwback to ‘The Early Hurts’ EP and the ruminating, depressive side of Moncrieff. Brooding, sombre and soulful Moncrieff coos a bittersweet melody atop ethereal soundscapes and lamenting piano creating an expansive, lonely and almost celestial backdrop. His wonderfully expressive vocal delivery hits hard and is raw and honest. Riddled with pain and expressing heartfelt emotion the track winds down the EP to a perfect end. ‘in my room’ is a poignant representation of how many people felt this year. However the track can be interpreted in many ways, for example it is a wonderful contrast to the upbeat, energetic bravado of opening track ‘PLAYLOUD’ where youthful angst has the potential to take on and change the world whereas ‘in my room’ is vulnerable, afraid and filled with doubt. Looking at the EP as a whole one can see Moncrieff is allowing the listener to glimpse different opposing facets of his personality and emotional state, which in truth on introspect is within each and every one of us. Moncrieff is vividly painting through the medium of music how we all feel at times. We may put on a brave face but within we are vulnerable and filled with doubt. Subtle messages, themes and nuances such as these lurk throughout the EP, within the lyrics, soundscapes and musical embellishments, deftly left obscure by the artist for the listener to make their own assumptions on the topic at hand.
Another point of interest is Moncrieff is ending the year as it began for the artist. His first release of 2020 is his curtain call as well – the finale of a chapter, the end of a crazy year and ‘in my room’ aptly closes the chapter or does it ? .. the haunting nature and sorrow of the track feels as if it’s a small break before everything kicks off again… Intriguing to say the least.
‘The Class of 2020’ displays a different facet to Moncrieff as an artist. His sublime ability to make you feel the pang of his isolation and emotional state through tonally tight, crisp and full flavoured production is awe-inspiring. The dynamic energy within each track is infectious and each song warrants its place on the EP creating a compelling and thoroughly enjoyable collection of tracks. Moncrieff is a musical force of nature who possesses depth and artistic understanding that is both mesmerising and enviable. ‘The Class of 2020’ is only a keyhole glimpse of the boundless talent this artist has to offer. Keep an eye on this guy.
Dublin born artist Robert O’Connor has recently released his new EP ‘Transcendence’. Laced in danceable electronics, emotive vocals and infectious melodies the EP fluidly drifts into the ears delivering a satisfying listening experience. O’ Connor creates a cohesive and uplifting collection of tracks complete with sweet short musical instrumentals; ‘Intro’, ‘Interlude’ and ‘Outro’ provide supple breaths of fresh air between the infectious pop drizzled dance gems. O’ Conner utilizes delicate warm guitar melodies between his sun soaked synths to create summer saturated tunes ‘Over (Before It’s Begun)’ is a perfect example of this.
Each song drifts into the next providing a glimpse into O’Connor as an artist. His vocals exude a velvety tone as he uses sticky beats and flashing disco- esque soundscapes to illuminate bittersweet tracks such as ‘Older ‘20’. Throughout the EP soft melodies radiate a lovable earworm charm as the crisp production highlights the tenderness within each song. Oozing rich, pop sensibilities and sun kissed, laid-back soundscapes O’ Conner has crafted a wonderfully lush EP to indulge in.
‘Transcendence’ is an EP brimming with Robert O’ Connor’s emotive, uplifting and heartwarming musicianship. There is no shortage of sweet melodies, elegant electronics and wonderful production within, making each track a delight on the ears.
Up and coming Derry/Londonderry based artist Gooside teams up with English rapper Torin for his latest single ‘Offline’. The track utilizes spacious lonely soundscapes teamed with punchy vocals to create an emotive and infectious R&B hued number. With sticky dark beats bubbling through icy keys, the track has a haunting melancholic tone which is subtly broken by the hypnotic warm guitar refrain. Gooside creates pockets of space within the track to provide that isolating vibe while Torin adds an edgy quality with his tight rapid rhymes. ‘Offline’ is a well crafted and emotive new single from Gooside that boasts his refined and majestic musicianship.
Up and coming unsigned Irish singer-songwriter Jack Joyce has released his new single ‘Electric Love Letters’. Joyce first embarked on his music career at the age of sixteen when he began performing and booking gigs in local pubs and clubs. He released his debut demo EP, ‘Get Down’, in October 2018 and spent the summer of 2019 busking through Europe. Following his return he sold out The Vintage Room in the Workman’s Club and the Whale Theatre. He followed this by opening for Cassia in Whelan’s and playing a slot at the New Year’s Festival in Dublin.
Vibrant, melodic and wrapped in slick indie goodness, ‘Electric Love Letters’ is a knockout bop from Jack Joyce. The track travels on bright jaunty guitar lines which hop through the shuffling beat as Joyce creates a fun, light and infectious gem. Joyce’s witty lyrics drift over a chugging rhythmic backdrop as his cheeky chappie charm and unique warm vocals highlight his impressive storytelling. All the fun lyrics aside the track is tight and well crafted, there are glorious little moments peppering the track in subtle refinement including a shredding solo and intricate weaving on percussion. ‘Electric Love Letters’ is another sublime pop sprinkled indie earworm from Jack Joyce.
Barefoot Magicians have released their new single ‘Another Year’. Formed in early 2017 after a recording session In Dublin’s prestigious Windmill Lane Studios, the band dedicates itself to writing and performing original material based around a blues groove. Comprised of Dave Greene on harmonica and vocals, Graham Stewart on Guitars, Brian Steemers on drums & percussion, Paraic Carroll on Bass and Petra žižak on Keys the band has recently enjoyed two live recording sessions in Windmill Lane and Sun Recording Studios.
A funk-peppered blues rock number, ‘Another Year’ is Barefoot Magicians swagger soaked latest release for 2020. Slick guitar lines flood the track in rock n roll panache while a groove rooted bass line exudes hip moving fluctuations against the punchy drum foundation to create an infectious 70’s undertone. However Barefoot Magicians contrast this chic soundscape wonderfully through pining harmonica twangs and lyrics riddled with uncertainty. Lyrically the band say track wrestles with “being trapped in a certain life, a life you are not fully fulfilled in, with decisions you wish you could change, but there is still hope burning inside you to take a leap of faith and dive into something new but every year time is running away from you.”
Exuding rich musical prowess, emotion and refined instrumentation ‘Another Year’ is a strut worthy, foot tapping new single from Barefoot Magicians
Hook have released their new single ‘I Like You’. Hook are a three piece new wave indie band from Dublin, Ireland. Formed in early 2019 Hook spent the year writing and recording their debut EP released to excellent reviews, joyful responses, numerous radio plays and many virtual and socially distant high fives. ‘I Like You’ was recorded in an old Victorian house in Dublin in early 2020.
Doused in blistering country rock ‘I Like You’ is a catchy fun tune displaying the vibrant musicianship of Hook. The band flesh out their catchy wall of sound with blazing guitars and dynamic drums to create a light radiant soundscape. The track flows on an infectious melody and boasts crisp production while the rasped vocals and energetic crescendo make this song a satisfying listening experience.
Bradford based alternative indie rock band Echoviolet are set to release their new single ‘City Of Impunity’ on 18th of December. Comprised of James, Rowan, Charlotte and George, the band are currently in the MASrecords program and will be releasing four new tracks over the next few months.
Dark, gritty and steeped in chilling instrumentation, ‘City Of Impunity’ displays Echoviolet’s refined and thrilling musicianship in all its glory. The track has an epic 80’s rock hue with soaring guitars and dark wild undertones. Ominous vocals whisper and haunt through a punchy drum foundation as the track relentlessly maintains an enticing driving force throughout. As the sharp guitar slices through the thick muggy soundscape the song builds becoming more dynamic and animated for the catchy chorus. The quartet craft this track wonderfully as they create frantic moments of alternative rock between creeping haunting elements to provide an utterly thrilling and intoxicating new single to indulge in.
‘City Of Impunity’ is set for release on December 18th for more you can follow Echoviolet on Facebook here
Model Society have released their new single ‘Are You For Real?.’It’s the first single from Model Society’s brand new EP ‘Entertainment’ and is released through London-based Indie label Kitchen Disco Records. The band have recorded tracks with the likes of Paul Tipler (Idlewild, Placebo) and Fraser Smith (Shed Seven), they’ve also featured as BBC 6 Music’s Band Of The Week and made an appearance on Steve Lamacq’s Roundtable. With additional radio backing coming from BBC 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins, BBC Introducing’s Gary Crowley and Radio X’s John Kennedy.The band also has a successful list of live shows under their belt including festival appearances at Bestival, The Great Escape, Guilfest and a main stage performance at Northbound.
‘Are You For Real?’ is a blazing indie rock track doused in Model Society’s energetic, earnest songwriting and instrumental vigor. The track travels on sharp guitar lines which create a shoegaze -esque soundscape while punchy drums tie down the atmospheric keys. The song is richly layered as the band provide ethereal moments within a raw indie rock backdrop. Building to a dynamic blistering crescendo, Model Society display their refined musical prowess through this biting indie rock number.
Watch the video for ‘Are You For Real? below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.