Tag Archives: indie

A Chat With, Indie, Interviews, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

A Chat With : Lucy Gaffney

I caught up with Lucy Gaffney. We talked about how she became comfortable as a solo artist, her inspirations and how she wrote and recorded her new single ‘Send Me Away’.

Hailing from Belfast, the now Liverpool based, Irish songwriter has released her new single ‘Send Me Away’, via Frictionless Music.The track was produced by The Coral’s James Skelly, positioning her as a rising artist in the fertile Northern English indie scene. Featuring on the track alongside Lucy is Thom Southern (Electric Guitar, Bass) and Jim Sharrock(Drums).

“The reaction has been amazing, the radio play as well there’s been so much support from radio stations.I only released my first single, back a couple of months ago, and I’m obviously a brand new artist. So coming out with the second single, I wasn’t sure how it was going to play out because for me it’s more of a lo fi track, but everyone seems to be loving it and there’s RTE behind it and Steve Lamacq on BBC Radio 6 played it the other day so I’m so chuffed about that as well. So yeah, it’s great.”

The track has a heavier sound with fuzzy guitar, psychedelic soundscapes and dream-pop melodies which is quite different to the sound of Lucy’s other projects Southern and MMODE.

“Well what happened was I was coming out of, one of the previous bands, and I was on tour with The Coral at the time. James Skelly produces a lot of bands and he was just watching us live, you know every night and he said ‘you guys are great, would you ever want to get into the recording studio’. So it was just kind of a natural thing and we didn’t really have any expectations. It just felt right for me to be doing my songs that I’ve had on the shelf for ages and he was really into the vibe that we were getting, it was kind of like Krautrock, kind of shoegaze. Thom, who was in the previous band with me, my brother he creates a lot of guitar sounds and I would write a lot of my melodies on top of that, probably, almost the same way like The Stone Roses would work. It’s very melody orientated with elements of deadpan vocals and a lot of reverb and things. So that’s really what I’m into, and the sound really just developed after doing those two tracks in Parr Street with James so I’ve had them ready to go since last summer.”

“I was just taking the time to do gigs, I went on tour with Bill Ryder-Jones and that was a great learning experience for me because it was the first time I was solo performer, without a band or anything so working with him as well on that tour, gave me that kind of, I don’t know full roundedness that I have in my vision for the music that I do. So yeah, the songs are coming across really well and it’s just a shame I can’t gig them. “

Doing shows on your own can be difficult when you are used to having a band with you. I wondered if the solo transition was daunting.

“Definitely, yeah for sure because it was my first, I had done gigs just kind of one off gigs. My first gig was actually supporting the DMA’s in Belfast which was an amazing first gig and yeah I was super nervous. It’s more the build up to it that you’re nervous about and then when you’re on stage it just comes so naturally, because that’s what you’re good at, and on tour with Bill (Ryder- Jones) was more about learning how to engage the audience and finding your place on stage in terms of, do you want to give a lot of yourself away to the audience, because Bill in particular, he is almost like a comedian on stage. In between the songs he’s telling tales and I’m not really like that you know naturally I’m probably a little bit more of an introvert and I wouldn’t want to give too much of myself away but yeah, so just finding that balance.”

“It was definitely daunting to begin with but it’s like anything, you know, practice makes perfect. Since being in lockdown it’s weird because doing the live gigs online has been really beneficial for me, because I think it’s more daunting to play a gig online for people than it is in real life. I mean it’s like doing faceTime with someone and the camera you have to get your camera angles right and you know there’s all that flack and you’re always worrying is the signal gonna go mid set, whereas live, the freedom that you have to play live is just amazing there’s nothing like it. So yeah, I’m definitely missing that but I’m hoping next year we’ll have some socially distant gigs.”

In her solo career so far, Lucy has already had acclaim from Liam Gallagher (who called her music ‘celestial’), a collaboration with DMA’s and tours with Bill Ryder Jones and She Drew The Gun with support on Radio from BBC Radio 1, as well as BBC Introducing Merseyside and BBC Introducing Ulster. 

“ I’m just launching literally and if anyone tells me they like my song I’m glowing after it. Whatever you get in response to your track it’s just nice for it to resonate with people. I put out the cover of Oasis and I don’t normally do covers but I happen to really like the song ‘Songbird’, by Oasis and obviously, Liam Gallagher is very influenced by John Lennon, and the Beatles and I’ve always been really influenced by, The Beatles and their songwriting and John Lennon in particular, so that’s obviously why I like that song, but I put it up on Twitter and in the few hours it had gone viral and Liam Gallagher caught wind of it and commented on it. So yeah, it’s just amazing, it is mad how the internet works.”

The music industry has changed a lot with streaming and social media and Lucy has managed to keep on top of her social media by putting out a lot of content during lockdown to keep her fans engaged. This is a task artists can find difficult with pressure of finding visually appealing settings etc.

“Yeah definitely, it’s a job in any sense having to do that kind of thing and it’s been a learning curve for a lot of musicians, trying to come to terms with the fact that the only way we can promote ourselves is online. I am a bit of a technophobe, apart from posting photos and stuff and tweets, I would never have been going live on my phone. But you do get the hang of it and it is really nice you know when people tune in and people are lovely. I’ve never had anyone say anything bad, I’ve always had really nice feedback during the gigs and everyone was being really supportive and people love it. In fact the only thing for me that I don’t have at the minute is any merch and a lot of people say to me, do you have any vinyl things since the songs have come out but obviously it’s early days for me so I’ve not had them made”

“The whole experience I think has been really beneficial for me, in particular, as an artist. I think for bands that were touring a lot before the lockdown happened it’s been hard for them. It’s funny and it’s something I have talked to, my friends who are musicians. It’s almost put the power back into the artists hand, and it’s taken a bit of the, I don’t know, control maybe away from the record labels, I mean social media was doing that anyway.  Even my friend who plays drums for me, he is promoting himself online and he gets such a great reaction, people love it. It’s so interesting, even for me, to be able to watch someone online who I admire. I was able to see Beck, who is a bit of a recluse, you know he was never really sitting online chatting and I’ve looked up interviews of him from the 90s and things and there’s so few and to watch him sitting in his living room playing live has been such a novelty. So yeah, it has definitely been a game changer for musicians, I think. “

Lucy’s voice is beautifully sweet over the bubbling instrumentation in ‘Send Me Away’, it creates a lulling sense of calm. I wondered was she always a confident singer

“I definitely wasn’t, just because of my background. As a kid, I sang in the school choir and I was really into female singer songwriters. Like any young girl when I was seven or eight Avril Lavigne was my inspiration and so it was always in my mind to be a songwriter and sing. But because the way I started was in a duo, I started busking with my brother and we were really based around harmonies, so I sang alongside someone else for years, so it does take mental strength to work up the ability to do it completely alone. It’s always a learning experience throughout your musical career to do anything, for example I play a lot of piano, but I’ve never played it live so imagine if I was to have to do it I’d probably be nervous because it’s not something I’ve tried before. But I think now I’m definitely a confident singer, I could sing to anybody on the street I don’t mind.”

“I think it always depends on each song really but my influences in the last few years were bands like the Cocteau Twins and Mazzy Star, so, I was always into that kind of soft, you know, sultry vocal and I love a deadpan vocal. I love Grian Chatten’s voice in Fontaine’s DC. I love how he sings, I love that kind of laziness to it, and even in the last few months I’ve really been listening to a lot more of Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile and that. That is just my kind of vibe, so I think towards next year the songs are going to be maybe less shoegaze, and more, I don’t know, you’ll hear more of my voice, to an extent. Yeah and I’ve definitely got a lot more new material since the lockdown happened. I’m actually working with a couple of producers at the minute for next year. I can’t really say who but the new songs for me are miles ahead of what I’ve done before. It’s gonna be really exciting to put them out, so I’m really looking forward to next year, to be honest.”

So what advice would Lucy have for anyone who wants to start a career in music or as a songwriter.

“ My advice, just from my experiences…You can only ever be yourself in your songwriting. I never liked it when I see someone who’s just regurgitating other artists. I can understand having an influence but I think it’s never good to just rip other artists off, and I think it doesn’t necessarily have longevity. So I think always working at your craft and always having a passion for it, it’s probably the same with any art form. But definitely being honest and making sure you actually like the songs you’re putting out because, I mean, I have spent years putting out things because I think it would fit, it would be something that people would want to hear rather than if it was something that I’d want to hear myself. And I think I’m at a position now after a couple of years of working my craft to know that if I love my song, that’s all I care about.”

Lucy has some exciting plans for the coming months and next year with lots of amazing tunes for us to indulge in

“ So I’m promoting ‘Send Me Away’ at the minute but hopefully I’ll be in a recording studio over in England in a couple of weeks, doing the third and fourth singles and they should maybe out by December or next year. I also have way more recordings and I’m booking in gigs and stuff at the minute for Ireland next year so if everything goes ahead hopefully, you know, lots of tours and lots more music.”

Lucy Gaffney is a compelling artist and talented songwriter, showing strong personal musical growth from her days in Southern and MMode. ‘Send Me Away’ is just a glimpse into her musical prowess and songwriting capabilities. It’s an immersing track laced in rich textures and lush instrumentation which hooks the listener from the start. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Lucy Gaffney in the future.

Stream ‘Send Me Away’ below

Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Inhaler ‘When It Breaks’

Dublin-quartet Inhaler have released their new single ‘When It Breaks’, on Polydor Records.’When It Breaks’ was recorded over the summer and its lyrical themes chime with the unease and disquiet of the world in 2020. Inhaler are Robert Keating, Josh Jenkinson, Elijah Hewson and Ryan McMahon. The four-piece formed whilst still at school in Dublin.They have amassed a diehard fanbase despite only releasing a handful of singles. Their tracks have been streamed over 35 million times globally. They sold over 10,000 tickets on their last tour and played to sold-out crowds across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Inhaler recently completed work on their highly-anticipated debut album, expected for release early next year.

Shrouded in intoxicating, hypnotic soundscapes, sharp guitars and simmering bass lines, ‘When It Breaks’ is another exhilarating yet haunting number from Inhaler. The track pivots around a buzzing swarm on guitars while the bass line pulses with intensity creating the tracks darker luring underbelly. The song is layered and crafted superbly with spiraling synths fleshing out the track’s dizzying soundscape while the relentless drums pound with vigor for the explosive chorus and tease for the luring verses.

The tracks metronomic rhythm creates an agitated itch and suspense for the verses before an anthemic indie release for the chorus. This jittery anxious atmosphere is contrasted wonderfully by the hopeful-toned melody and Hewson’s emotive vocals. The sharp shrills and piercing laments on guitar have an 80’s shimmering drama to them while the clapping feature and spiraling backdrop surge with heart racing passion. ‘When It Breaks’ is another well crafted number with well placed lyrics and dynamic musicianship from Inhaler.

Speaking about how ‘When It Breaks’ came together, the band said: “We wrote ‘When It Breaks’ in the last couple of months. Over lockdown we were floating around the instrumental demo, it was dark but also pretty hopeful sounding. When we went back to the studio over the summer and really got to put our heads together again, we felt like we had to write something about what was going on and how we felt about it. Coming off tour into lockdown was a huge adjustment for us after we had just got used to life on the tour. At first, it was a welcome break but pretty soon we were dying to get back to any festival or any gig where we could get our fix! The lyrics and the music communicate the anxiousness of how we were all feeling and still are now a couple months later. It’s definitely the most politically-driven song we’ve released so far. It’s our interpretation of this strange and imperfect world we’ve come to live in. Things are gonna change and we are gonna be there when they do.”

 Stream ‘When It Breaks’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

InBetween Honey ‘One Home’

InBetween Honey are set to release their new single ‘One Home’ on October 16th. In Between Honey is an indie rock group consisting of five school friends who met in O’Carolan College, Nobber. The similarly-minded music heads jammed together in the music room at lunch breaks and they even appeared in some of the annual talent shows before they all finally graduated by 2017. Based in Gibbstown, County Meath, the band officially formed in June 2019 and have grown momentum over the past few months with a headline show in Whelans Upstairs, performing on the Trailer Park Stage at Electric Picnic 2019, playing to a sold out Workmans Club, Whelans “Ones To Watch Festival 2020” along with coveted support slots with Paddy Casey, Christy Dignam and Turn. With the release of their much awaited debut single “Beg, Steal & Borrow” and follow up single “How To Be Brave” and airplay on FM104 & by Dan Hegarty on RTÉ 2fm the indie outfit is only going from strength to strength. The group is Dylan Hickey, brothers JohnPaul and Matthew Melady, Ciara McManus and Blayne Moran.

Surrounded in youthful adrenaline, heartfelt lyrics and gripping indie soundscapes ‘One Home’ is an exhilarating slice of indie rock. This five piece have something special. The listener is treated to a keyhole glimpse of the bands musical potential through their latest release. InBetween Honey create and build the track superbly providing a sense of apprehension through the pulsing synths and chiming guitars while the smooth vocals, lush backing vocals and catchy chorus evokes images of arena crowd sing alongs. These guys have a powerful and passionate sound which translates beautifully through this heart-racing number. Well crafted and polished to perfection with a shredding solo and power punch crescendo, ‘One Home’ is an impressive new track from a very talented band.

‘One Home’ is set for release on October 16th for more you can follow InBetween Honey below https://www.facebook.com/inbetweenhoney/


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

SODAPOP ‘Edge Of The Night’

SODAPOP has released his new single ‘Edge Of The Night’.This bright upbeat tune oozes feel good vibes as SODAPOP uses his radiant indie pop to provide that much needed pick me up. With bubbling synths, glistening guitars and shimming beats this track struts in ready to take you to the dancefloor. It’s a fresh, sweet guzzle of indie pop as SODAPOP creates a glucose-filled, luscious soundscape with shimmering electronics while adding a dash of zest through the sharp guitar lines. There is a tropical carefree tone to this song that is just irresistible. The smooth vocals drift over the dreamy melody while the chic disco vibes and indie pop subtly blend to create an infectious refreshing number that encapsulates summer.

About the track SOADPOP said: “I had been working on this song on and off for over two years, constantly rewriting it and trying to get it sounding like I wanted. One day I was out in the shed singing it and a little girl called from the other side of the fence, “Hey nice song!” There’s a school there, although it wasn’t in session. We couldn’t see each other at all.Thanks I said. We talked for a bit, then she asked me to sing the song again. I hadn’t quite worked all the parts out but I started playing it. I improvised the melody parts I still needed. I think knowing she was listening made me sort of simplify it towards something she’d wanna hear? Idk. But what I played there ended up being the version I went with for the record. Anyway, I’m stoked to have finally figured this one out.”

Stream ‘Edge Of The Night’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Thrillhouse ‘If It’s Important’

Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their new single ‘If It’s Important’. Laced in the retro charm of Thrillhouse ‘If It’s Important’ is a sweet, airy tune exuding an irresistible concoction of danceable beats and perky guitar lines. The band subtly slip the track into your head with a laid back attitude while the catchy chorus hooks you firmly within the bands grasp. A warm guitar refrain and shimmying rhythm drive the track to its infectious chorus creating a melodic and almost hypnotic breadcrumb trail for the listener to indulge in. With jaunty keys and soft vocals teamed with a building wall of sound, this luscious track is a fine example of the meticulous crafting and attention to detail Thrillhouse possess. ‘If It’s Important’ is a wonder to treasure. 

Stream ‘If It’s Important’ below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Drew Thomas ‘Early Hours’ EP

Drew Thomas has released his debut EP ‘Early Hours’. Drew Thomas is a singer/songwriter raised in Nottingham and living in London. He has spent the past few years playing shows around the country including slots at Reading & Leeds festival, Y Not festival and Shepherds Bush Empire. Drew’s previous offerings have been heavily tipped and featured by the likes of BBC Introducing, Sofar Sounds, Atwood, God is in the TV and numerous other online tastemakers.

‘Early Hours’ is a moving collection of tracks as Drew Thomas uses his heartfelt songwriting and gripping soundscapes to create an emotional rollercoaster. With elegant keys, punchy drums and cinematic crescendo’s ‘Lying On The Concrete’ and  ‘Running Reds’ kick start the EP with a multitude of emotions and rich textures.

The EP holds the listeners heart in suspense. Through the lyrics Drew tells uplifting, coming of age tales about finding yourself and the vices we hold that others don’t see. Using dark undertones, ethereal keys and indie pop melodies he balances themes of melancholy and feelings of loneliness with themes of hope to create a charming and compelling collection of tracks.

Drew displays his knack with beautiful emotive melodies through ‘Somebody You Needed’, the bittersweet melody drifts into an airy soundscape creating a tender tear-jerker. Soft keys wisps through pulsing electronics and steady beat, allowing the track to venture into darker territory while Drew’s clear warm vocals ooze soul and passion.

As ‘Early Hours’ progresses each song shows a different aspect to Drew’s musicianship. He simmers his emotive pop with subtle electronic elements to create a powerful and enthralling listening experience. This is shown most effectively in ‘High (On Our Own)’, the track which brings the EP to a gripping end. The song builds with power pop and indie elements as intense guitars blend with dramatic synths and snappy drums to create a hair-raising evocative finale.

‘Early Hours’ boasts the passionate and striking musicianship of Drew Thomas as he builds cinematic and powerful instrumentation around his gripping songwriting and velvety vocals to create a mature, earnest and uplifting collection of tracks. 

Stream ‘Early Hours’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Lost Boys ‘Sunrise’

Lost Boys have released their new single ‘Sunrise’ featuring UPPBEAT. Lost Boys are a 4 piece indie pop outfit from Limerick, Ireland. Following their formation 2 years ago they have gained a huge following with their most recent singles “Obvious”and “Sadie” getting featured on the New Music Friday UK Spotify playlist. Selling out multiple shows in Limerick the boys were all but ready to start exhibiting their music on a national basis before COVID 19 forced them to cancel. ’Sunrise’ has also reached No.1 in the Irish charts.

‘Sunrise’ is a breezy sun-soaked delight as Lost Boys glaze their indie pop in R&B hues and feel good summer vibes. With sharp mellow guitar lines weaving between sticky beats and smooth laid back soundscapes, the track drifts effortlessly into the ears. The velvety vocals glide over the dreamy buoyant melody while the band injects tropical elements into the tracks relaxed atmosphere. This song is catchy and charming with a rhythmic pulse that is irresistible. UPPBEAT’s raps fluidly flow over the songs bouncy groove, oozing swagger and R&B hues into the song. The punchy raps and bubbling rhythm provide a wonderful contrast to the nostalgic, wispy soundscape which the instrumental backdrop provides. Lost Boys have captured summer in a tune and it’s the perfect go to track to just chill and relax to. These guys have got something special, I’m looking forward to hearing more from them.

About the track the band said “We initially started writing the song about that summer feeling where you want to run away to the coast with your friends for a weekend, going camping and just escaping from everyday city life. Although it started off like that it grew into so much more when summer came and no-one was able to do any of those things. We weren’t able to go on spontaneous trips, we weren’t able to leave our room feeling safe and we weren’t able to see our friends and loved ones.It made the song bittersweet as we were experiencing the exact opposite of how we wanted to feel when listening to it.That’s why we decided to delay the release until after summer. It didn’t need to be summer for us to have that summer feeling. It bottled up the exciting, crazy, mad trips we had last year and gave us the chance to experience the feeling in a little way. We want people to listen to this driving in the lashing rain with the windows down – if it makes one person feel like they’re sitting at Lahinch with a can in their hand then it was 100% worth making.”

Stream ‘Sunrise’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Dream Pop, Hypnotic, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Shoegaze, Singer/Songwriter

Lucy Gaffney ‘Send Me Away’

Hailing from Belfast, the now Liverpool based, Irish songwriter Lucy Gaffney has released her new single ‘Send Me Away’,via Frictionless Music. The track was produced by The Coral’s James Skelly and featuring on the track alongside Lucy is Thom Southern (Electric Guitar, Bass) and Jim Sharrock(Drums).Previously, Lucy was part of Marathon signed band Southern, alongside her brother and consistent collaborator Thom. Her short solo career – with just the one single out so far – has already seen acclaim from the iconic Liam Gallagher (who called her music ‘celestial’), a collaboration with DMA’s and tours with Bill Ryder Jones and She Drew The Gun. Big supporters at radio have come in the form of BBC Radio 1, as well as BBC Introducing Merseyside and BBC Introducing Ulster.

‘Send Me Away’ is a dreamy slice of psychedelic shoegaze as Lucy Gaffney’s delicate vocals drift over an expanding swirling soundscape. The effervescent instrumental backdrop fizzes and swells to create an intoxicating wall of sound. With sweet guitar refrains piercing the thick euphoric bass ripples and driving beat, the track instantly lifts you into an ethereal state of bliss. The melody is saturated in irresistible hooks and syrupy textures. As the song progresses distorted guitars superbly build creating pockets of piercing scintillation through the dazing synths while Gaffney innocently coos over the tense edgy soundscape. Lucy Gaffney is a compelling artist and talented songwriter, showing strong personal musical growth from her days in Southern and MMode. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Lucy Gaffney in the future.

About the track Gaffney explains: “For me the track really encapsulates the dreamy element in the idea of love, getting lost in intoxicating moments and the electric excitement of the unknown. With the recording I wanted to capture the garage band rawness from when I wrote it in the rehearsal studio. There’s an honest naivety to it that fizzes with electric quirks and kinks from start to finish, igniting an in the moment carefree edge.”

Stream ‘Send Me Away’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jack Joyce ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’

Up and coming, unsigned Irish singer-songwriter Jack Joyce has released his new single ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’. Jack 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. 

Once again Jack Joyce presents another sleek and breezy indie rock number that exudes charm while maintaining the irresistible infectiousness of his previous single ‘56 Roadster’. Boasting warm jaunty guitar, steady drums and a sun kissed soundscape ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’ is a quirky, lyrically witty and upbeat bop. With a balmy smooth melody draped over nimble guitar refrains and elastic bass groove it’s a buoyant gem sure to brighten anyone’s day. In fact, it’s the effortless laid back swagger and light flirtations on guitar that makes this track so enticing. Jack weaves sweet and nimble guitar lines into the songs foundation to create bright moments and zesty stings to delight the listeners ears with. His unique, cheeky vocals ooze character into the song while the irresistible bubbling backdrop makes ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’ quite the ear worm. Showcasing refined tunes, sharp storytelling, and strong musical growth, Jack Joyce is becoming an impressive songwriter. He has limitless talent and ambition, keep an eye on Jack Joyce.

Stream ‘What’s A Boy Left To Do Ma?’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Featuring nicha, Graham O’Hara, Fling, Bedside Manners, Dark Tropics

nicha

Genre : Singer songwriter alternative pop 

Bio : Following on from her debut release ‘Devices’ that drew attention from Stephen McAuley and Across The Line at BBC Ulster, as well as Dan Hegarty at 2FM, nicha (aka Lucy Robinson) is releasing her new single ‘Little Bird’ Oct 2nd.The song is a call to those who are subject to mental and physical abuse in any relationship. nicha hopes to let her listeners know that you have the strength to make yourself happy, let that be through making a difficult decision in escaping a toxic relationship. nicha hopes to spread hope and awareness to all genders and whoever may be facing both mental and physical abuse. “I feel there is a taboo around talking about domestic abuse, mental and physical. Women are suffering, men are suffering, there are so many victims even in this day and age. We need to raise awareness and remind people to talk more.”

Track: Little Bird

Why We Like It: This emotive track captures nicha’s powerful songwriting through an easy listening yet haunting number. With wisping electronics swirling eerie soundscapes into the jazz-like keys and buoyant guitar melodies the song melds warm soothing tones with biting icy tones to create quite the compelling track. nicha’s soulful velvety vocals comfort while distant wails and ghostly backing vocals chill the song’s atmosphere. This diverse and moving track is a sublime example of the expressive and mature songwriting of nicha.

You can follow nicha on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/nichalounge

Stream ‘Little Bird’ below

Graham O’Hara

Genre : Singer songwriter

Bio : Dublin-based singer/songwriter Graham O’Hara has released his second single, ‘If Only’. ‘If Only’ was recorded in Wavefarm Studios under the direction of producer Kevin Brennan. It is the latest release from Graham after his debut single ‘Unless I Say.’ Graham spent the last decade in different bands and projects before going solo a few years ago. He is building up a repertoire of songs to share with the world for when the time comes that gigging is part of normality again in Ireland.

Track: If Only

Why We Like It: It’s a passionate indie number drizzled in blues guitars and dynamic instrumentation. The track’s pulses with suspenseful beats teamed with intricate slick bass grooves. The song is both soothing and empowering with guitar refrains peppering Graham’s deep warm vocals in rock nuances. Exuding an energetic chorus and a refined balance of light soothing tones and uplifting elements, ‘If Only’ is quite the power anthem. 

You can follow Graham O’Hara on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/grahamohmusic

Stream ‘If Only’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/grahamohara/if-only/s-8EdNDsm63kN

FLING

Genre :Indie 

Bio : Alt pop wizards FLING have released their new single ‘Best Friend’, with a video to debut on their YouTube channel on Friday 9th October.This comes after last year’s debut album ‘FLING OR DIE’, the March standalone release ‘Windmill’, and the woozy lockdown single ‘Let’s Stay In’. The boys from Bradford have been acclaimed by the likes of Abbie McCarthy and Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1), Zane Lowe (Beats 1), Steve Lamacq, Gideon Coe and Tom Robinson (6Music).

Track: Best Friend

Why We Like It: It’s a melodic track surging with rich instrumentation. FLING blend raw rock swagger with heartfelt emotion seamlessly to create a wonderful, passionate track. The song begins with soft guitar twinkles, sweet backing vocals coos and nostalgia-filled lyrics. The track builds, becoming more anthemic with shredding guitar embellishments, dynamic drums and lush vocals while the dreamy, nostalgic melody coats the track in sweet tenderness. With warm harmonica blasts and an epic rock n roll crescendo ‘Best Friend’ is another first rate tune from FLING. 

You can follow FLING on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/flingordie

Stream ‘Best Friend’ below

Bedside Manners

Genre : Alternative

Bio :Bedside Manners are a five piece from The Wirral. After releasing their debut EP ‘(I Can Take A While To Heat Up) Please Be Patient’ in 2018, the band gained over 200,000 Spotify streams and multiple plays on BBC Introducing Merseyside & Lancashire. This success was capitalized on in 2019 as they began to sell out shows in the UK. Their second EP, ‘Powers That Be’, released in 2019, gained 10,000 streams on the day of release. Tracks on this EP once again garnered plays from BBC Introducing Merseyside & Lancashire and was featured on Spotify’s ‘Hot New Bands’ and ‘All New Rock’ editorial playlists.

Track: What It Seems

Why We Like It:  It’s a swarm of blistering alternative rock as the band spread sharp guitars over a fiery rhythmic backdrop. This feisty assault is laced in gritty riffs and boasts a swaggering sleek guitar display. Punk elements ricochet off an alternate rock backbone while the raw vocals drive the catchy melody forward with vigor and power. ‘What It Seems’ is a fine example of the explosive musicianship of Bedside Manners.

You can follow Bedside Manners on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/bedsidemannersofficial

Stream ‘What It Seems’ below

Dark Tropics

Genre :Noir pop

Bio : Emerging from the steamy shadows of their debut single ‘Badlands’, pop-noir duo, Dark Tropics are back with their brand-new single/video, ‘Moroccan Sun’

Track: ‘Moroccan Sun’

Why We Like It: It’s a sweet upbeat gem that meanders around pop and retro 60’s elements. With elegant strings, supple buoyant beats and warm guitar refrains the song wisps and flutters through a dreamy melody caressed by soft vocal coos. This track is a refreshing venture from the duo’s usual dark aesthetic. It’s a climatic timeless track which flows with grace, elegance and charm. With soulful melodies and light indie elements this intricately crafted delight is a refreshing track and fine example of the precise and radiant musicianship of Dark Tropics. 

You can watch the video for ‘Moroccan Sun’ below https://www.facebook.com/DarkTropicsMusic/

Watch the video for ‘Moroccan Sun’ below

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks On Spotify Here


Author : Danu