Tag Archives: indie

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Tucker Woods, Seafei, The Motive, Andu, SJ Talbot and Echo Fold

Tucker Woods 

Genre :Rock ‘n’ roll

Bio : Tucker Woods is an American rock’n’roll band that delivers a raw and dynamic sound with an energetic and youthful spirit.The band have released their first single, ‘Who Loves Ya, Baby?’, and music video from their upcoming full-length album.

Track: Who Loves Ya, Baby?

Why We Like It: It’s a jaunty number with driving bass, punchy drums and shredding guitars. The full bodied backdrop creates a kinetic and raw wall of sound as the sharp pines on guitar scorch through the buoyant rhythm allowing the sweet melody and smooth vocals to cool the blistering wall of sound. It’s catchy with a 60’s -esque hue and fiery indie rock foundation as Tucker Woods spread their vigorous sound and refined musicianship over an upbeat charming tune. 

You can follow Tucker Woods on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/TuckerWoodsMusic/?ref=page_internal

Watch the video for ‘Who Loves Ya, Baby?’ below

Seafei 

Genre :Electronic

Bio : Musician and producer Seafei reveals his admiration for both Eastern and Western traditions through ambient tracks and laid back beats. Born in Brighton, UK, and now based in Singapore, Seafei was first inspired by the technical and musical power of John Frusciante. Gradually via Odesza through to the sounds of Jai Wolf, Fakear and Kasbo, his personal, organic style has evolved through his influences and travels, both across the globe and through the world of music. Inspired by different parts of Eastern music than can be usually found in the mainstream, he weaves a multitude of sounds from Erhu samples to traditional vocal chanting into his esoteric compositions. Ancient influences are fused with electronic melodies, whilst underneath, his underground beginnings cannot be mistaken.

Track: Tokyo feat. Haizzi

Why We Like It: This shimmering electronic pop number flows on pulsing beats, swirling synths and euphoric soundscapes as Seafei uses his crisp production to weave lush bubbling textures into the tracks foundation. With ethereal synths floating around Haizzi’s sweet whispered vocal lulls, the track drifts delicately on a dreamy melody and nostalgic rosy haze. The tropical tones weaved between subtle eastern elements create a unique and invigorating listening experience as the song builds superbly into an electronic pop dance number.

You can follow Seafei on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/seafei.music

Stream ‘Tokyo’ below 

The Motive 

Genre :Indie pop

Bio : The Motive are an indie band from Southwest London who have released their new single ‘You’.The band have already racked up more than 3k streams as well as BBC Introducing support. 

Track: You

Why We Like It: It’s an infectious guzzle of zesty indie pop at its finest. With sharp jangly guitar hooks striding through a buoyant rhythmic foundation, the track is an instant shot of adrenaline. The song is brimming with tropical tones and light indie pop embellishments while the tight guitar-driven wall of sound illuminates the tracks sprightly backbone. ‘You’ is a charming and well crafted ditty which shows the band’s breezy and melodious sound in all its glory. These guys are band to keep an eye on. 

You can Follow The Motive on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/alwaysamotive

Stream ‘You’ below 

Andu

Genre : Rap pop

Bio : Andu is an upcoming musician hailing from Galway City in Ireland. At 20 years old he started his music career with his first release ‘Something New’ off of his upcoming debut album. All of his music is written, recorded and produced by himself from his home in Galway.

Track: Something New

Why We Like It: It’s a chilled R&B infused rap pop number with sweet mellow melodies blended between fluctuant beats and tropical guitar moments. The chorus lightly dips in and out with falsetto vocals, lush backing vocals, warm guitar refrains and a Salsa- esque rhythm while Andu displays his fluid rapping through the darker verses. This debut showcases the versatility, charm and musical prowess of Andu.

You can follow Andu on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/actualAndu

Stream ‘Something New’ below

SJ Talbot

Genre :Indie pop

Bio : SJ Talbot is an indie pop artist from Dublin, Ireland. Her sound heavily focuses on her deep, soulful vocals and bright melodies. Since 2016 she has been working in the music industry as a session singer, songwriter and keyboardist for various artists across the thriving Irish music scene. After graduating from BIMM Dublin studying vocals and songwriting, she has launched her solo project with debut single ‘Envy’.

Track: Envy

Why We Like It: It’s a rich and passionate number with a driving bass line, punchy beat and sweet as honey melody. The track pulses with emotion and the vibrant musicianship of Talbot; her deep vocals ooze soulful tones and tenderness while lush backing vocals and sweet falsetto moments thrive on a kinetic indie pop backdrop. With delicate keys weaving between the swirling soundscapes and driving rhythm the track is brimming with gripping musical prowess.

You can follow SJ Talbot on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sjtalbotmusic

Stream ‘Envy’ below 

Echo Fold

Genre : Alternative Indie

Bio : Echo Fold are a psychedelic dream funk, jazz, dub and disco band based in Dublin. A project conceived by Drummer Ross Daly and Guitarist Sam O’Connor with stylistic influences ranging across minimal funk, old school hip hop, spaghetti western scores, neo-jazz and classic disco and reggae grooves.

Track: Long Shore Drift

Why We Like It: It’s an easy listening jam as Echo Fold strut funky guitar through a swirling prism of psychedelia while the elastic bass prances about, entwining the bouncy drums in swagger-laced grooves. Soft vocals soothe and coo as the backdrop ventures into lounge room jazz led by a peppy key refrain while the lyrics are hard hitting and deal with mental health issues. The band have created quite the infectious retro gem with subtle dark undertones. ‘Long Shore Drift’ is a unique classy delight from Echo Fold.

You can follow Echo Fold on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/Echofoldmusic

Stream ‘Long Shore Drift’ below 

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist on Spotify Here

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/32jNQJPiYaLG1fMWMUGPtn?si=IIB-LeyyQaywfsejzk4Ywg


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music

The Human Nature ‘No Escape’

The Human Nature are set to release their latest single ‘No Escape’ on 2nd of October. Originally an acoustic ballad, ‘No Escape’, has taken on a whole new life in its full production and is the second single to come from upcoming album ‘Circles’. An indie band hailing from Norway, The Human Nature have been releasing music together since 2014. Following on from the success of their 2018 debut album, ‘Kairos’ they are continuing to push to new heights and sounds with each new release.

‘No Escape‘ is a pulsing infectious tune as The Human Nature saturate sweet melodies in driving synths and passionate song writing. The flashing synths provide the tracks tension while sharp warm guitars chime between flickering sticky beats. The song centers around the search for love in a time of despair, a sentiment that has become increasingly relevant in the current climate. As the sweet vocals coo over the smooth melody the band create a catchy hook and smooth flow to the track’s fluctuant backdrop. ‘No Escape’ is a well crafted enjoyable ditty from The Human Nature.  

‘No Escape’ is set for release on 2nd of October. You can pre save the track here https://ditto.fm/no-escape-the-human-nature


Author : Danu

Album Review, Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Brass Phantoms ‘Holding Out For Horrors’ Album

Brass Phantoms have released their eagerly awaited debut album ‘Holding Out For Horrors’. With a growing fanbase and a reputation for energetic and frenzied live shows, the Dublin five-piece landed themselves support slots with Dublin favourites Delorentos and Manchester darlings The Slow Readers Club. Having toured throughout Ireland and the UK, they are tipped as one of the top acts to see at New York’s Global Music Festival and Conference Mondo NYC.  

‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is a magnificent genre-splicing album as Brass Phantoms take their refined musicianship, expressive songwriting and dynamic energy and pour it into an impressive body of work. The album features the band’s singles ‘Hurricane’, ‘City Of Wolves’, ‘Waiting Up’, ‘Indigo’ and recent release ‘What We Leave Behind Us’ which have all been landmarks in the quintets musical growth. Displaying slinky ethereal guitar lines, chiming key progressions, epic melodies and choruses the band present a big lofty sound with weighty lyrics and biting soundscapes. Each track is meticulously layered and deftly crafted to create a thrilling listening experience. With the singles paving the way the band could have slipped in a few weaker and light listens to fill out the track list but that’s not the kind of band Brass Phantoms are. The rest of the album is chock-a-block with big songs of depth and quality. 

The Killers – esque ‘Legal Fiction’ thrives on intoxicating guitar lines and atmospheric synths  that skillfully blend synth-pop with dark gritty rock; it is a magnificent display of compositional prowess. Ryan Cashell’s vocals have become cinematic, deeper and more distinct than ever as he owns his unique vocal range and expressive emotive scope. He can haunt and chill through a song or mysteriously cast a sinister tone that turns the more instrumentally uplifting tracks ( such as ‘Wood Words’ ) into quite an ominous darker tune. To contrast Cashell’s vocals the band showcase a new facet of Brass Phantoms which we haven’t seen before, a duet with the one and only Colleen Heavey. Her sweet innocent coo’s contrast, blend and add a refreshing light to ‘What We Leave Behind Us’. This kinetic and refined track is a pinnacle moment on the album, showcasing the band’s mature musicianship. They create a richly textured sonic wall of sound exuding tantalising bass grooves which drizzle a funk tone onto the dark synth pop backdrop. A punchy drum foundation and woodblock feature entices the listener while sharp guitar lines weave and tease oozing tension and suspense – an utterly thrilling listening experience.The frantic swirl of ‘Disciples’ reminds us just how dazzling and synth heavy Brass Phantoms can be as they press disco shimmering synths over ominous melodies, and shredding guitar riffs that lament, soar and slice through Adam McCabe’s fluctuant, dead-summoning drums.

Brass Phantoms prove they are quite the dream team, not only does the band have a unique, powerful and charismatic frontman (Ryan Cashell). They also have guitar and bass virtuoso’s in Greg Whelan and James Geraghty and voice of an angel and synth wizard in Colleen Heavey. All this talent is nurtured by McCabe’s hefty dynamic drums which allows each instrument ( guitars, synths, and vocals ) to flourish and shine in prismatic glory. McCabes drums also create the elastic flirtations and ballsy backbone which levitates each song to its epic climax

The sustained dark ecstasy of each song expands as the album progresses. The sultry ‘Something Automatic’ and the blustery elation of ‘Indigo’ are brimming with luscious indie pop melodies consumed in a whirlpool of rich ethereal soundscapes, reinforcing the kinetic adrenaline this band have crafted so meticulously. Even the beautiful and short interlude of ‘Max’s Reprise (We Leave Behind)’ and slow burner ‘Reflection’ which exudes lush harmonies, heartfelt melody and passionate instrumentation, winds the album down without loosing the majestic and impactful punch of its predecessors. 

‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is a marvelous, epic collection of synth-rock gems and energetic anthems. For their debut album Brass Phantoms take us on a journey through their own personal experiences while also showcasing their musical growth. Within the album there is enough familiarity and boundary pushing to keep the listener engaged while the darker, thrilling moments keep you hanging on the edge of your seat. Showcasing wonderful blends of synth pop, indie and alternative, ‘Holding Out For Horrors’ is an album to fully indulge in and enjoy over and over again.

Stream ‘Holding Out For Horrors’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music

Elina Filice And Claudia Crampton’s New Single ‘Lying’

Singer/songwriter Elina Filice and spoken word artist/rapper Claudia Crampton have teamed up to release a new single ‘Lying’. This laid black alternative R&B tune drifts upon a mellow guitar hook and warm bass while the intricate hip-hop beats provide texture and buoyancy. Jazz laced guitar delicately weaves between the dreamy sweet melody, catchy chorus and lush vocal harmonies creating a soothing tone. The brisk raps roll over the verses with a sleek fluid flow while charming keys and the relaxing instrumental backdrop provide a breezy chilled contrast. ‘Lying’ is a well crafted tune which boasts the talent, sleek musicianship and deft songwriting of both Elina Filice and Claudia Crampton.

About the track Elina says, “Fascination with the concept of Lying inspired the song. So much of our lives, on a small and large scale, with how we relate to ourselves and each other, is based on lies. The lies we tell ourselves to get by, the lies we tell to either harm or protect each other.”

Claudia says, “My verses narrate the story of a relationship that has had its many ups and downs but has ultimately reached its end. The verses reflect the turmoil and hardship that come with an unfaithful partner and the difficulties in coping with the heartache.”

Stream ‘Lying’ below


Author : Danu

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

modernlove. ‘Use Me’

modernlove. have released their new single ‘Use Me’ along with the announcement of their headline show in The Grand Social on Saturday, 5th December 2020. This show will be a socially distant show. Tickets €14.50 are available from tickets.ie. 

Spinning through a progressive electronic spiral of EDM moments infused with melodic pop hooks and indie glimmers, ‘Use Me’ shows modernlove. are a band cultivating their sound into something unique and expressive. The track kicks off with twinkling synths and a longing melody as Barry Lally’s smooth vocals drift upon a gentle soundscape.Soft piano moments create pockets of innocence and melancholic sweetness before the song erupts with dazzling electronics which whirlwind the song’s chorus into a dance banger filled with heavy beats and flashing electronic progressions. The band slide their legendary rapid lyrics over a glossy backdrop for the second verse which adds to the intensity of the song. Boasting silky soundscapes and tight layering,   ‘Use Me’ is a joy to listen to and an impressive new release from the talented four piece.    

About the track the band said: “It is about someone who knows their feelings for another are unrequited but is so desperate that they are willing to settle for even a semblance of affection or love from them. They are willing to let themselves be used to convincing themselves of a false notion of being close and intimate with this person. Even if it “doesn’t mean anything” to them, they can at least “pretend”.”

Stream ‘Use Me’ Below 


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

Fake Friends ‘Heatwave’

Fake Friends have released their new single ‘Heatwave’. Fake Friends are a four piece band from Derry. The band formed in September 2018. They have played venues ranging from bars to radio stations, festivals and even car parks! In February 2020, the band changed their name from Vanilla Days after a change in lineup.

‘Heatwave’ is a melodic energetic slice of indie rock as Fake Friends spread a sweet melody over a blistering backdrop to create quite the dynamic listening experience. With a driving bass line, jaunty guitars riffs and punchy drums the band exude a jagged wall of sound allowing Neasa Brady’s emotive vocals to create a light, refreshing sense of longing through the gritty backdrop. With lush harmonies and a sun kissed Californian hue this band have an impressive and infectious sound with oodles of bite. It’s catchy, sprightly and well crafted. Keep an eye on Fake Friends. 

Stream ‘Heatwave’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music

Indie Buddie Introducing : N.O.A.H

Dublin band N.O.A.H have released their debut single ‘Shine’ today. N.O.A.H is comprised of three lifelong friends, Ryan Hill: Lead Vocalists/Guitarist, Adam Rooney: Bass Guitarist and Ronan Hynes: Drummer. Immersing themselves in Music – all members have been formally educated through third level in several music related degrees, some of which include BIMM Dublin, the band was formed in January 2020, after the band decided to reform a previous musical endeavour. They have taken inspiration in its naming, from the biblical story of ‘Noah and the Ark’ , which is centralised around the theme of new beginnings.This idea is fundamental to the band’s vision and core values.

‘Shine’ is a powerful and heart-palpitating anthem as N.O.A.H surge oodles of adrenaline inducing indie rock into one dynamic tune. With biting guitars soaring over punchy drums and suspenseful tones the band use gripping chimes and swirling soundscapes to create a passionate track that is catchy as hell. The song travels from high to high providing an uplifting rush of energy enhanced by powerful vocals, driving rhythms and galloping percussive elements. With a cinematic build to the mighty crescendo teamed with a stadium-bellowing chorus N.O.A.H have created a fantastic new tune to soothe the soul and ignite passion in us all. It’s a compelling piece of music.  

Stream ‘Shine’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Dunluvly ‘Too Late’

Dublin-based singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Dunluvly has released his new single, ‘Too Late’ today. The single is the first release off of his upcoming EP, ‘Plethora’. Playing all the instruments on the track, the song was written, recorded, and produced by Dunluvly aswell in his home studio. He released his Debut EP in 2018, and became active in the pub circuit. In 2019 Dunluvly became a three piece band, and they played a headline show, released three singles, and gigged around Dublin until Corona season. 

‘Too Late’ is an unfolding, intricately crafted indie gem which displays the unique, deft and mesmerising musicianship of Dunluvly. The nimble plucked guitar weaves and wanders through a flickering dance infused beat creating sublime ripples through the tracks delicate suspenseful atmosphere. The guitar flourishments pierce the darker tone of the track with glimmers of warmth and scintillation. Dunluvly creates fluctuating tension throughout the track while the tight harmonies haunt through the songs cold tone. The sheer attention to detail and lush sonic elements within the track showcase how compelling and masterful Dunluvly is as a songwriter and producer.

About the Song, Dunluvly said: “This track is one that I’ve always gone back to when I’m travelling or roadtripping. I wrote the first half of the song in Vancouver a few years ago, and finished it this past summer. To me, it captures the feeling of this summer, and was a soundtrack to escaping Dublin to go camping for weeks on and off. The song was written in between those trips. It has that nostalgic, roadtrip sound, and is about that feeling of excitement leading up to a journey.” 

Stream ‘Too Late’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Atmospheric Music, Electronic, Hypnotic, Indie, Indie Psychedelic, indie rock, New Music, psychedelic, Psychedelic/Folk, Singer/Songwriter

James Lonergan ‘Brendan Valeʼ

James Lonergan is set to release his debut single ‘Brendan Valeʼ tomorrow September 25th. James began playing guitar and writing music aged 9 when, amidst a recently admitted period of “unexplained, unwarrented childhood depression”, his father brought him home a battered old classical guitar. This awoke James into the current stream of conciousness he now exists in. Inspired by his father, who worked as a gigging musician in pubs around the county, James immediately began writing music – joining his first band aged 10. Throughout the years James has fronted a range of bands, as a vocalist, guitarist & keyboardist, most notably being the vocalist, guitarist & principal songwriter of the recently disbanded progressive band, Synk. Now self-producing his debut solo album, James is seen to be furthering the development of his own breed of contemporary alternative/ folk/electronic music.

‘Brendan Valeʼ is an immersive track which exudes ambient electronic soundscapes and the spellbinding songwriting of James Lonergan. Lonergan’s ability to weave wonderfully rich textures and tones through haunting sombre melodies and intricate progressive guitar flurries is mesmerising. The track seems to carry the listener into an otherworldly utopia of melancholy as Lonergan effortlessly draws the listener further into the songs rippling depths. With wispy electronics hovering over the soothing guitar and cushioning beat, Lonergan creates an eerie contrast to the song’s tranquilizing outer shell. A trotting rhythm embellishes the backdrop in a country hue while Lonergan’s vocals soothe and coo with tender and soft tones, however there is a tense and slightly asphyxiating undercurrent to the track which is displayed through the electronic pulses and brooding alternative rock elements. ‘Brendan Valeʼ is a richly crafted number with varied emotions presented through psychedelic flourishments, thought provoking lyrics and bubbling rhythms. Lonergan’s ability to create such emotive and expressive music is what makes him such a treasured talent. 

‘Brendan Valeʼ is set for release tomorrow 25th September for more you can follow James Lonergan on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/James-Lonergan


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Black Violets ‘Rebel’

Black Violets are set to release their second single ‘Rebel’ on the 25th September. The band released their debut single ‘Falling on the Radio’ to much acclaim, peaking at No.2 in the iTunes Alternative charts in Ireland. The song received airplay across on 2fm, Classic Hits 4fm, Corks 96fm, KCLRFM and Red Fm as well as in the UK (Newcastle) and US (San Diego 91X).

Swirling through a vivacious soundscape of fizzing guitars, punchy drums and dizzying electronics, ‘Rebel’ continues Black Violets’ onslaught of exhilarating alternative rock. With razor-sharp guitars soaring through the dark bass rumble and pounding drum foundation the band create a biting and thrilling wall of sound reminiscent of Kasabian while maintaining their own unique edge. The track travels at a relentless brisk speed as the delusional swarm on guitars warp and ricochet off the galloping rhythm with relentless stamina while the power rock vocals bounce off this kinetic backdrop, thriving within the musical chaos. The acid soaked synths give the track an 80’s vibe as the band blend alternate rock with an effervescent shot of electronic pop before slapping some punk attitude on top. Black Violets have created an energetic raw new anthem that is sure to revolve in your head for days. 

‘Rebel’ Is set for release on 25th of September for more check out Black Violets facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/weareblackviolets/