Tag Archives: indie

Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Sam Wickens live on Virtual

AER Music, Fluttertone and dootdoot Records have come together to create a series of intimate evenings of exclusive live performances from the best emerging and established artists.Last night they had the music sensation that is Sam Wickens.

Sam Wickens enchanted the viewers of Virtual last night.There is nothing more special than a performance from Wickens. We saw him in his home studio all geared up and tech savvy. He ventures through tunes with acoustic guitar, synths and reverb as well as some haunting effects. He has become known as the “tech wizard of Oz”, for he has been helping other artists that have performed on Virtual making sure their sound is crisp and clear. However tonight it’s all about the beauty in his songs and majesty of his voice.

Wickens is a passionate performer and exceptional instrumentalist ( he made his synth himself) however it’s the moments of heightened emotion and depth within his songs that takes your breath away – tracks such as ‘I Was’ breaks your heart in a swift, raw and striking instant.His performance is wholly consuming as he ventures between country, soul and folk with ease while subtly adding delicate textures in the background. While having a cheeky little vape during the set as well, Wickens explains he is “mathematically challenged when it comes to song length times “ and planning his time for shows.

Wickens shows the tenderness and emotion in his voice through the immaculate ‘Winter’ while ‘Oh Mother’ displays the rich and soulful marvel of his vocal range. He uses synths and effects to create a haunting atmosphere and reverb. The synths fill out the sound while at the same time emphasising the purest form of his music. Wickens treats us to some new tracks from an EP he will be releasing later this year.Yet to be released ‘Murky Waters’ in particular is perfection.The lush falsetto, foot tapping tempo and soothing melody creates a heavenly melodic ambience while ‘Cliff Side’ is a folk-hued number that has Wickens “trying to be a didgeridoo”. The set continues with fans asking him to do four more… five more songs, Wickens jokingly replies “I’ll do none, I’ll feck off now” before delving into the latter half of his set. 

There is real serenity to the performance, a great relaxation that’s beautiful to witness as Wickens plays guitar and keys with ease. Not only can Wickens present moving and lyrically poetic songs he can drift through some pretty slick covers as well. A time stopping cover of Tom Petty’s ‘Crawling Back To You’ graces the setlist however it is the much sought after ‘Jericho’ which leads to revered appreciation and adoration from the viewers. 

Sam Wickens is an artist to treasure. His songs form their own universe, primed for the listener to dive in and find their own little corner to indulge and delight in. His technical virtuosity and moving vocals are incomparable and this Virtual medium gives a real frisson of excitement and thrill to Wickens performance creating the space, silence and mood to truly appreciate his beautiful songs.

A Q&A follows the performance which satisfies the insatiable need of the viewers to ask and connect with Wickens. Questions from what’s your favourite fruit, favourite burger joint to how does he get into the head space for his songs, inspirations as well as more personal topics such as him being a “sober little pickle”.He has fans in Canada and America watching. Unfortunately “Sammy” is “too cool to say it back” to fans declaring their love for him however this does not halt the flood of compliments and love for Wickens from pouring in.This Q&A in particular is lively and Wickens banters and chats honestly to his fans providing them with a more personal one to one conversation approach which is a special feature of this Virtual medium. Another mind blowing performance on our weekly fix of Virtual.

Stream Sam Wickens new single ‘Eden’ below


Author : Danu

Blues, Blues Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Finnian ‘Fly’

After Three extremely successful single launches, Finnian has released his new single ‘Fly’ taken off his debut album ‘Under The Influence’ which will be released on July 24th. Growing up in Dundalk, Ireland, Finnian has carefully nurtured his songwriting to the point where he is now being lauded by his peers as one of the most exciting talents in the country.

Saturated in bluesy swag and jazz elements ‘Fly’ is a bright number steeped in the sleek and engaging songwriting of Finnian. The song is anchored by the jazz piano refrains while elements of blues rock and retro soul adorn the track in lush tones. With banjo twangs between a foot moving rhythm, jaunty organ and warm guitar the track has a strutting sass all of its own. Finnian’s clever turn of phrase and passionate songwriting are at the forefront of his powerful, intricate musicianship. This is best shown when the listener admires the song as a whole – the instrumental backdrop flourishes behind Finnian’s rasped vocals giving the track a fluctuant and kinetic texture that is vibrant and uplifting without becoming overpowering.His beginnings as a folk based songwriter have now truly evolved and this song is a fine display of Finnian mastering his craft.

Stream ‘Fly’ below 


Author : Danu

Electronic, EP Review, Indie, New Music

1000 Beasts ‘On A Different Page’ EP

1000 Beasts has released his debut EP ‘On A Different Page’.1000 Beasts is an electronic producer & musician from Cork City. Starting off producing electronic pop songs in 2017 he has already achieved great critical success, with spins on BBC R1, heavy radio support in Ireland (TodayFL, 2FM…) and some of the biggest editorial playlists on Spotify (Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds: Pop, New Music Friday UK, The Pop List, A breath of Fresh Eire…), Apple Music, and Deezer.

‘On A Different Page’ reveals 1000 Beasts impeccable ability to create rich layers of brooding electronics filled with R&B, pop and lo-fi elements as he provides a collaborative EP ready to tantalize the senses. The laid back night-time vibes envelope tracks like ‘Is This Love?’ in ethereal atmospheres of swirling synths while the sticky slapping beats provide a danceable groove.

The use of different vocalists on the EP gives each track its own character and persona. 1000 Beasts pulls in mesmerising vocals from Shiv, Kayleigh Noble, Lenii and Alex Tierney to surge soul, warmth and R&B sass into the EP. However it is through the subtle intricacies and layering that 1000 Beasts excels. If it’s the soft jazz guitar in ‘Le Marais’ and funk elements in ‘It’s Cool’ to the tropical rhythm and bubbling electronics in ‘Tokyo’ the soundscapes within each track are meticulously crafted for a satisfying listening experience.

The tone of the EP is quite dark at times and this dark theme continues in ‘Waistcoat’ which boasts sweet vocal coos over skittish trap beats and a smooth noir pop melody. There is something eerie about the track as it ventures down a sound that could fit on Billie Eilish’s debut ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’

The tender ‘5 Points’ brings an end to the EP – a euphoric track with a building background full of suspense-filled synths and breathtaking pulsing beats.

‘On A Different Page’ is an engaging musical experience with laid back lo-fi pop elements sweetening the more weighty electronic and groove rich moments. 1000 Beasts presents himself as a musician to get excited about as he creates a sound laced in depth and dexterity with masterful musicianship at its core. 

Stream ‘On A Different Page’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Luke Clerkin ‘What Little Time We Have’ EP

Luke Clerkin is set to release ‘What Little Time We Have’ on July 24th. The Dubliner’s highly anticipated EP was produced by previous collaborator Gavin Doyle, and Jack Keenan, at Cabin Space Studios in Dublin. It was mastered by the internationally renowned Pete Maher (Jack White, Damien Rice, U2), in London. Luke Clerkin has been playing and releasing music for the last five years, gaining international airplay and support, whilst also topping the Irish Singer Songwriter Charts on multiple occasions. He is also known for playing over 250 gigs in 2015 as a way of honing his craft. Since then he has headlined famous Dublin venues such as Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, and The Button Factory. His music has brought him all over the world, with multiple tours of Germany, as well as festival slots in America, The UK, and Ireland.

‘What Little Time We Have’ is an earnest emotive collection of tracks which showcase the tastefully memorable and enjoyable musicianship of Luke Clerkin. From the wonderful build of ‘Confession Box’ to the tender struggle with mental health in ‘Stones’ Clerkin displays his ability to present sweet melodies and heartfelt songwriting through a lush blend of genres. The classic rock ‘Not In Love’ is the boldest expression on the EP. Clerkin’s vocals spread over sharp guitars and punchy drums with a stinging guitar solo bringing the track to its crescendo.The track grows into its loud, sweeping finish, with the lead guitar blending perfectly into the thumping background.

Though Clerkin experiments with pop rock he maintains the stripped back wholesome style we have come to know him for. The emotive ‘Closure’ surrounds heartbreaking lyrics and sweet falsetto on vocals with graceful piano accompaniment. Within the melody there is innocence and glimmers of positivity and healing. ‘Nocturnal’ brings the EP to a close with a catchy chorus, charming guitar refrains and danceable atmosphere. Instrumentally it’s an upbeat and vibrant end to an EP that pulls at your heart strings.


‘What Little Time We Have’ is a poignant honest account of self-discovery and self-reflection.With instrumental subtleties appearing throughout the EP which often at times is mixed behind the vocals there is something to enjoy with each subsequent listen. ‘What Little Time We Have’ is deeply personal and a sublime EP from Luke Clerkin.

Talking about the release Luke said ”For this project, I wanted to experiment with new genres, and new sounds. Over the past few years, I’ve worked with amazing musicians and songwriters from all over the world, each of them influencing me in a different way. So these recordings are a reflection of that.’I’m known mostly for my heart-on-sleeve vulnerability, so when moving to a more pop rock genre for songs like ‘Nocturnal’ and ‘Not in Love’, I tried my best to retain this. My lyrics on this project are still as honest as they’ve ever been. This is especially present on ‘Closure’, I think this is the most personal song on the EP, and I feel because of that, it’s the most relatable.”

‘What Little Time We Have’ is set for release on July 24th.For more you can follow Luke Clerkin on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/LukeClerkin/


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Arthur Valentine ‘Fruit Juice’

Arthur Valentine is delighted to announce the release of his latest single, ‘Fruit Juice’, ‘Fruit Juice’ was born out of quarantine, the making of which has been described as a “cathartic exercise” by Arthur. Recorded over two weeks between tea and basketball breaks in the back garden, Fruit Juice is the brain child of Arthur and fellow Hausu collaborators-turned-roommates Actualacid and Automatic Blue.Despite relative newcomer status, Arthur has already clocked up a lot of ‘gig-miles’ on the Irish circuit including headline slots at the Button Factory’s Crowbar, Cork’s Cyprus Avenue, Bodytonic’s Pot Duggans and a sold out Ruby Sessions show. In addition to this, he has performed numerous times in Cork’s Plugd (The Roundy) and Coughlan’s, as well as an additional performance in Cyprus Avenue supporting Sorcha Richardson.

‘Fruit Juice’ blends Arthur Valentine’s intricate, velvety sound with R&B elements and smooth pop to create a luscious summer track. The melody and sugary production seeps into the ears with ease while the bubbling electronics and jaunty guitar provide zesty bursts of scintillation throughout. A buoyant bass weaves through the tracks elastic backdrop while rich percussive spurts and vibrant beat lay down a hip hop hued foundation for the swirling soundscapes to flourish off.

Arthur Valentine has a wonderful ability to create ear-worm worthy tracks which ooze subtle sonic intricacies and ‘Fruit Juice’ is a perfect example of this. It is a wholly satisfying, irresistible track that is both wonderfully euphoric and masterfully crafted.With elements of Lauv glimmering through the sweet emotion and a Mac Miller sprinkling on top, Arthur Valentine has created a sound that builds on the balmy bliss of lo fi debut single ‘Selfish’ – ‘Fruit Juice’ is a fantastic example of the suave musicianship and precise alternative/pop of Arthur Valentine.

Stream ‘Fruit Juice’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Thrillhouse ‘Wild Child’

Brighton alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their new single ‘Wild Child’. It’s a refreshing slice of indie pop exuding chic infectious musicianship with fluctuating beats and kinetic electronics which adds buoyancy for the suave vocals and chorus to ricochet off. A heavy 80s sound creates an ethereal quality to the track while the sweet melody and smooth guitar injections flesh out the bands panache and “ooh lala” flamboyance.

With elements of The Killers and Talking Heads coursing through the tracks sultry pulse, Thrillhouse have created another sun kissed earworm set to tantalise and seduce the listener.

Stream ‘Wild Child’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Somebody’s Child ‘We Could Start A War’

Dublin indie-rock/pop artist Somebody’s Child has released his new single ‘We Could Start A War’, taken from forthcoming debut EP ‘20-something’ out August 7th. ‘We Could Start a War’ is the second single from the Irish newcomers debut EP, it follows the success of first single ‘Hold Me Like You Wanna’, which has been featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday, plus editorial playlists The Indie List, alt-pop and more, steamrolling past 50,000 streams in just 2 weeks. The single has also been supported by BBC Radio 1 (Jack Saunder’s Next Wave Artist), Radio X, RTE Radio 1 (Recommends), RTE 2FM, Today FM and has been added to the A-list on Amazing Radio, amongst other stations.

‘We Could Start A War’ is a passionate and infectious slice of indie pop flavoured with R&B elements against an effervescent 80’s pop backdrop. The track packs in oodles of energy and 80’s rock gusto as a shrilling guitar soars over the swirling fizzing soundscapes.

The track begins brooding and mournful with soft guitar mirroring the melody’s lament before the suave production kicks in giving the track glitzy swagger and a polished sheen. The danceable foot tapping beat and chilled tempo of the track provides an ethereal quality while the rasped vocals venture into a soulful tone as the emotion and intensity of the song builds.

There is a laid back quality about ‘We Could Start A War’ as the 80’s synths flood with nostalgia while the refined blend of catchy sounds and powerful lyrics takes the song to its epic moments. ‘We Could Start A War’ showcases Somebody’s Child is an artist creating dynamic music with real heart and passion at its core. 

Stream ‘We Could Start A War’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Featuring Sapphire Blues,Courtney Jacobs, Michael-James and Turfboy

Sapphire Blues

Genre : Post Punk

Bio : Bristol post-punk outfit, Sapphire Blues comprised of Sam Lance Jones (vocals, guitar),Harry Beaver (bass) and Chris Thompson (percussion) have released their new single 119.

Track: 119

Why We Like It: It’s an abrasive dark number that pivots around a rumbling bass and percussion combination. These guys smudge chilling guitar squeals over pounding drums and eerie vocals to create a mysterious and ominous atmosphere between lighter moments of release. The track builds superbly as the guitars swirl with psychedelic tones through the heavy drums while the grimy bass wriggles and squirms in the tracks murky undercurrent. 119 is quite the thrilling roller coaster ride.

You can Follow Sapphire Blues on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sapphirebluesuk/

Stream ‘119’ below

Courtney Jacobs

Genre : Singer songwriter

Bio : Courtney Jacobs is a 21-year old synth-pop singer-songwriter who has recently released her new single ‘Canary’. Courtney plans to release several more singles this year, and her release of ‘Canary’ follows the Valley Days EP with her band, Silver Retriever, of which she is the lead singer. Silver Retriever is based in Charlottesville, VA,

Track: Canary

Why We Like It: It’s a laid back synth pop number that drifts effortlessly upon a driving bass line and pulsing drums while Courtney’s smoky vocals coo over the velvety melody. The track exudes a steamy atmosphere and teasing tone as it glissades effortlessly into the ears with a charming appeal.The lyrics describe a disturbing power dynamic in a relationship marred by control and trust issues as Courtney sings condescendingly at the listener. Well crafted and beautifully presented ‘Canary’ is a mesmerising listen.

You can follow Courtney Jacobs on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/courtneyjacobsmusic/

Stream ‘Canary’ below

Michael-James

Genre : Indie Folk

Bio : Michael-James is an Indie Folk artist from Newtownards, Northern Ireland. A music student who received a scholarship from the same university as George Ezra, James Bay and Tom Odell. Michael James came out of college eager to make his mark in the local music scene. Becoming part of Forestside Shopping Centres, ‘Artist Development Programme,’ Michael got the opportunity to play with and be mentored by Anthony Toner. As well as also play many festivals across the country such as Sunflower, Dalriada, Eastside Arts, Belfast Nashville Songwriters and many more, this lead on to becoming support act for Skinny Living on their UK tour

Track: Solicitous

Why We Like It: This warm comforting number surges with Michael’s soothing musicianship. The lush harmonies add a folky hue to the song while the twinkling guitar provides a simple but effective accompaniment. A track about being at the lowest point of your life and opening your arms for someone to come carry that weight with you, ‘Solicitous’ is a pure and wholesome ray of sunshine delicately presented for easy-listening pleasure. 

You can follow Michael-James on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/michaeljamesofficial/

Stream ‘Solicitous’ below 

Turfboy

Genre : Alternative

Bio : Following the release of the first two in a trilogy of singles “(L)earn” and “Holly Daye”, comes “Attendance”, the final single before the release of Turfboy’s debut album “At Tension”, which will be released on August 8th 2020 through Horn & Hoof Records Manchester. The album was completed late last year with Michael Richards at Trackmix Studio Dublin.

Track: Attendance

Why We Like It: This grunge/alternative track begins with brooding vocals and light guitars before Turfboy explodes into their gritty gnarly chorus. The band present a thrilling blend of polished and edgy rock as they drift mindlessly into the blazing chorus. With intricacies of picked guitar and wandering bass peeking between the mania the band flesh out their all consuming sound with a majestic sense of fuzz-filled chaos. The vocals in particular begin soft and almost lulling to start and venture into a howling scream. With strong strides on guitar slicing relentlessly through a gritty wall of sound this track is a fierce explosion of 90’s alternative rock.

You can follow Turfboy on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/yobfrut

Stream ‘Attendance’ below 

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – Sea Girls

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Sea Girls

Sea Girls have released the stunning animated video for their anthemic fan favourite and new single, ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’, taken from their forthcoming debut album Open Up Your Head – out August 14th on Polydor. The band also embark on a huge headline tour this November, including sold-out dates at Glasgow’s legendary Barrowlands, Manchester Academy and Birmingham’s O2 Institute, as well as the band’s biggest headline line show to date at London’s Brixton Academy.

‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ is an effervescent guzzle of refreshing indie rock. This anthemic track kick starts the frenzy with a cool guitar chime and pulsing beat. The band cruise into the song before erupting into the dynamic chorus which is sure to be epic live. The band spread a bitter/sweet melody over crashing guitars, punchy drums and blazing bass grooves to create an instant shot of adrenaline-fueled indie. Henry Camamile ventures from wistful coos for the verses to passionate exclaims for the chorus building the tracks emotive quality. The intensity builds as the song progresses towards the frantic crescendo. The band have a knack for writing earnest ear-worms with clever lyrical content and ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ follows this trend. Sea Girls’ music is expanding and getting better with each release. Their anthemic musical prowess provides a wholling invigorating sound sure to charm all who hear it.

The animated video was directed by acclaimed Korean-Swedish duo Tjoff Koong Studios (Tezo Kyungdon Lee and Magnus Lenneskog). The video takes the viewer on an emotional rollercoaster. Lead singer Henry Camamile perfectly describes the video, “When I wrote this song I was trying to channel some emotional highs and lows of the likes of Kurt Cobain.” He continues, “Full of visual adrenalin, it builds with rushes of excitement and lack of control. Someone build a rollercoaster through the city and we’ll get on it.”

You can watch the video for ‘All I Want To Hear You Say’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music

Lady Landscape ‘3’ EP

Upcoming indie-pop band, Lady Landscape released their third EP, ‘3’ on June 26th.Founded by Alex Harrison and Ryan McDonnell in late 2018, Meath-based five-piece ( Jamie Reynolds (Drums), Tiernan Buckley (Bass) and (Lead Guitar)Adam Ollin ), Lady Landscape embrace a lo-fi sound that combines rich synth textures, dreamy guitar rhythms and nonchalant vocals.

‘3’ is a laid back collection of tracks which showcase Lady Landscape’s earnest and melodic musicianship. Previously released singles ‘Versailles’, ‘25’ and ‘Apartment Song’ ease the EP into motion with glistening guitar, supple soundscapes and dreamy tones. The band use soft, delicate melodies with powerful lyrics to express the melancholic and irritating themes of self disappointment and normal life occurrences. With deep baritone vocals cruising through the hazy melodies and buoyant rhythm each track flows fluidly into the next making for a soothing listening experience.

I particularly enjoyed the use of acoustic guitar in tracks ‘Ghost Story’ and ‘WWII’. The acoustic guitar chugs along sluggishly between the lulling elements with a nonchalant aesthetic. The band seep wispy synths and airy soundscapes into the tracks background making each song drift into the aerosphere allowing the deep vocals, steady beat and striking lyrics ground the track. ’2001’ brings the EP to an end with a bitter sweet melody and continuing the chilled out vibe of the EP.

‘3’ is an EP of moody, glum tones mangled between ethereal and dreamy soundscapes. The band discuss themes of growing older and the mundanity and disappointment of life through hazy calm tunes that drone as well as twinkle beneath the lo fi indie pop canvas. Lady Landscape’s soft and melancholic tones are filled with intricate moments and lush instrumentation. ‘3’ is a fantastic display of this. Lady landscape’s third EP is a smooth and satisfying listening experience.

Stream ‘3’ below


Author : Danu