Galway four piece band Slyrydes are set to release their new single ‘I Claim To Be Intelligent’ on March 26th. In 2019 Slyrydes released their first four singles from March to October (Mental Health, Point of view, Out Patience & Dangerous Animals) The singles collected much critical acclaim nationwide and in the UK. Paul McLoone (Today fm/ The Undertones) has championed the band since the first single “Mental Health”. They have worked with Daniel Doherty in Darklands studio Dublin city (Fontaines DC/ Vulpynes/ Damien Dempsey) on every single so far. Slyrydes are currently working on their debut album while playing select shows around Ireland.
‘I claim to be intelligent’ is one snappy chilling live wire as Slyrydes take their engaging sound to a thrilling new level. The deep ominous vocals mutter through the verses while the punchy drums and dynamic bass maintain the bands elastic rumbling foundation. I for one have come to love this bands bass and drum interaction. They tightly entwine them together to add a rooted, brawny yet steamy and ominous quality through the tracks. The song jogs to its frantic crescendo, building tension and angst, ready for its mosh pit frenzied end. There is a sweet lamenting guitar refrain that holds a sense of vulnerability throughout the verses before the crashing chorus erupts.
‘I claim to be intelligent’ walks a fine line between masterfully sophisticated musicianship and unruly anarchy with ease – it’s an impressive and thrilling listen.
‘I claim to be intelligent’ is set for release on March 26th for more you can follow the band on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/slyrydes/
Brian Silk has released his latest single ‘Every Day I Read You Like A Book’ – the first single to come from his upcoming album which was completed in 2019 and is due for release later this year. Despite being involved in music for years, this will be Brian Silk’s first professional and official release and will be accompanied by an official video.
‘Every Day I Read You Like A Book’ is a jaunty indie number. The vibrant indie guitar saturates the track in radiance as punchy drums add an infectious bounce and charm to the track. With smooth vocals and a catchy melody ‘Every Day I Read You Like A Book’ exposes what songwriter and vocalist Brian Silk sees as deceptive relationships he has experienced or observed. Lyrically, Brian Silk decodes these false actions declaring that he saw through them all along. A satisfying debut – there is a decent amount of punch and edge to this pop sprinkled sun kissed track.
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Dizzy
Photo Credit: Pooneh Ghana
Produced by Dizzy and mixed by Craig Silvey (Arcade Fire, Florence & The Machine), ‘Sunflower’ is the first release from the Canadian four-piece since last year’s Heavy / Twist EP, which followed their 2018 debut album, Baby Teeth which won the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year in 2019.The band have toured with the likes of Death Cab for Cutie and Tokyo Police Club and appeared at London’s All Points East Festival in 2019.
‘Sunflower’ is a laid back sun-kissed number that drifts beautifully on infectious, ethereal soundscapes. Katie Munshaw’s sweet vocals caress the dreamy melody with a tender, comforting ease while the lush rhythm maintains a peppy foundation. The track holds a vibrant, airy poise as twinkling guitars wobble and weave gloriously between a groovy bass creating a hazy psych hued tone to the radiant indie sonics. There are wonderful lush textures and layers to the track creating blossoming moments as the track unfolds with bursts of sweet scintillation. The lyrics contrast the blooming effervescent instrumentation superbly as they meander between self-loathing and tender self-talk, depicting raw sensitivity and sweet, self-deprecating humour. ‘Sunflower’ is a glowing track intricate in its composition but beautifully luminous and delightful to the ears.
Speaking about the track, frontwoman Katie Munshaw says, “‘Sunflower’ is a three and a half minute ‘snap out of it!’ to myself when I’m feeling low, unconfident or not myself.”
Why We Like It: This track slithers with a darkened sense of mystery against a grooving, flickering beat and bubbling atmosphere.The band disperse a pop melody into a constantly evolving soundscape of twitchy edged guitar, mellow keys and funky bass lines to create a dreamy gem that is utterly enthralling. There is a rushing sense of urgency within the track while the sweet vocals and luscious melody cool the bubbling backdrop – it is a puzzling delight to the senses.
Bio : Brighton’s alt/indie band Thrillhouse return with their second single, Lesser. The track follows debut single One of These Days, which grabbed the attentio of all who heard it, including Radio X’s John Kennedy, half of the DJs at KEXP, and Amazing Radio.
Track: Lesser
Why We Like It: It’s an uplifting indie track that becomes vibrant with each flourishing element. With jaunty synths ricocheting off the snappy beat and wispy soundscapes the track creates a sweet sense of positivity and hope. As the song progresses it becomes more dynamic instrumentally. The sultry guitars inject a scorching desert vibe as the track relentlessly travels to its striking synth solo. The vocals coo through the peppy buoyant backdrop as the band create a thrilling emotive track which has an 80’s – esque quality. The song is a reflection on the ups and downs of life and how it can often feel like an uphill struggle however the playful and cheery instrumentation creates a light heartwarming effect that is utterly charming.
Bio : Tel-Aviv based artist and producer Eshchar Nachmany (AKA MONAD) reveals the final single from his sophomore project with ‘Dawn Chorus’.Beginning his first musical project in an isolated house in the Moshav, Israel, Esh built a studio from scratch, remodelling broken tape machines and synths to construct layers of dreamy soundscapes. Again, Esh returned to nature for this project – renting a small cabin not far from the sea to set up his studio.
Track: Dawn Chorus
Why We Like It: It’s a shimmering kaleidoscopic slice of laid back shoegaze that melts and fizzes upon a pop sprinkled backdrop with psychedelic hues. With flashing effervescent soundscapes evaporating off glistening guitars and wonderful blasts of distortion the track creates a dazed fuzz-filled sound of bliss. The smooth dreamy euphoric melody and sweet vocals dissolve into the ears with a nostalgic melancholia to create a wonderful daydream track ready to submerge yourself in.
Bio : Kilkenny singer songwriter Shane Joyce built up a strong and loyal fanbase last year playing a number of high profile shows both at home in Ireland and abroad, including a slot at Glastonbury and a number of festivals throughout Europe.2020 will see the release of Shane’s much anticipated 2nd album entitled “The Desert & The Rain”
Track: I Won’t Run
Why We Like It: It’s a foot tapping ditty that thrives on Joyce’s heartwarming songwriting. With a buoyant beat, warm guitar jangles and catchy cosy melody this track has an indie folk tone with a charming country outer shell sure to soothe the soul. With velvety vocals, clap along feature and scorching guitar solo Joyce presents a cheery number filled with passion and charisma.
Watch the video for ‘I Won’t Run’ which was shot and edited by Joyce himself below
Demons Of Ruby Mae
Demons of Ruby Mae, London, November 2019. Photo by: Carsten Windhorst
Genre : Indie
Bio : After releasing their self-titled debut in 2018 and signing to North American and European labels Anti Fragile Records and Long Branch Records respectively in 2019, Manchester indie duo Demons Of Ruby Mae take things to the next level yet again, with their eagerly anticipated new single ‘This Is Your Time.’
Track: This Is Your Time
Why We Like It: This anthemic track rushes with ethereal soundscapes, glistening guitar and a sweet sense of suspenseful euphoria as Demons Of Ruby Mae use intricate musicianship to create another gripping track. The track flurries with a wonderful sense of positivity as the passionate vocals encourage the listener through a pulsing beat and warm melodies.
About The Track The Band said : “it’s a song about inclusion and acceptance. No matter who or what you want to be, it shouldn’t stop you achieving what you want to in life.”
TOYGIRL have released their second single, ‘Moonlight Velvet’ which was recorded at the legendary Windmill Lane Studios, was produced by up and coming Irish sound engineer and producer Daniel de Burca and was mixed by in-demand producer Cormac Butler (The Academic, All Tvvins, Coronas, Gavin James, Kodaline) and mastered by Deadeye’s Billy Farrell.TOYGIRL was formed by friends Hannah Worrall (Vocals/Keys), Fiachra O’Mahony (Guitar) and Ciaran Whelband (Guitar) in March 2018 with bassist Aran Hopkinson and drummer Cian O’Leary Hegarty finalising the line up later the same year. TOYGIRL have already gained a reputation for their exciting, hypnotic live performances. Despite their relative newcomer status, the band has clocked up a lot of ‘gig-miles’ on the Irish circuit including stints at the Button Factory, Levis’ Ballydehob, the Workman’s, and Roisin Dubh, Galway, to name a few, as well as the much-coveted support slot to Alice Phoebe Lou on Whelan’s main stage.The group has already been named in the line ups for this year’s Indiependence, K- Fest and We’ve only Just Begun music festivals amongst others.
‘Moonlight Velvet’ is a swoony gem which floats on a vintage bed of lush arrangements. TOYGIRL are developing their irresistible sound superbly. With a delicate yet lush backdrop the band twinkle guitars through soft soundscapes, angelic hushed backing vocals and a supple beat as the track softly wisps into an ethereal cloud of dreamy bliss. There is a faint yet deep flourish of jazz as soothing saxophone surges with a sweet loneliness through the hazy backdrop. The band masterfully create a delicate track which has depth and exudes rich rhythms without becoming overpowering.Hannah Worrall’s soulful vocals melt upon the bitter sweet melody with a pacifying comfort. Her voice is longing, sincere yet hopeful all at once.
‘Moonlight Velvet’ is utterly tender and sweet. The band provide comfort through melodic and sultry moments blessed with intricate guitar lines, glistening keys and an overall whimsical romantic soundscape. Presented with class and elegance ‘Moonlight Velvet’ is an immaculate emotive number that totally consumes you in the undeniably lush musicianship of TOYGIRL.
Multi-genre Irish Five Piece Radio Mafia recently released their debut EP ‘Don’t Think About It’. Radio Mafia are in the process of putting the finishing touches on what is to become their debut album, titled ‘Can Anybody Hear Me’ which the band is aiming to release this summer.
‘Don’t Think About It’ is a tight collection of tracks as Radio Mafia meld alternative gusto with some slinky funk and blues elements to create a satisfying debut EP. With infectious grooves, sleek guitar lines and a buoyant beat, title track ‘Don’t Think About It’ sets the EP in motion.
The band allow each track its own identity within the EP without compromising on the overall flow and smooth transition from track to track. ‘B.R.S’ and ‘Fit to Die’ provide the brawn and alternative rock on the EP with gritty guitar lines, meaty drums, soul creeping rumble on bass and an overall harsh mosh rock attitude while ‘Glass Soldier’ brings a dash of swing into the mix. The finger clicking, foot tapping beat teamed with chic guitars and jazzy keys create a delightful break between the more alternative tracks and showcases the band’s ability to create a sound that is more classy and vibrant while still maintaining the bands bite and rawness. The smooth vocals, lush harmonies and pop sprinkled melodies hold all these tracks together and provide the component parts that puts Radio Mafia’s stamp and style on them.
Whether its a polished swing number or a rowdy alternative rock or punk influence Radio Mafia manage to create diverse and engaging tunes that have an instant likability and buoyancy. ‘Don’t Think About It’ is a solid debut EP.
On Friday night, Dublin based TOYGIRL had their ‘Moonlight Velvet’ single launch in The Sound House Dublin. A night of time stopping tunes, musical poise and fun this young band set the bar high. With only two released tracks so far they took The Sound House by storm and characterised themselves as a band to keep an eye on.
Nicetry kick started the night. This band is utterly mesmerising. They create beautiful tunes that lull with sweet melodies and earthy qualities. Eunice Saraiva’s vocals soothe with calming tones as her vocals coo and caress the soft wispy melodies with elegance and passion. The backdrop exudes wonderful prismatic hues of scintillation, distortion and psychedelia – it’s amazing how this band provides such chaos and calm all at once. Danilo Ward’s bass weaves and rumbles with intricate grooves while Cian McDaid lets it all go on guitar – shrilling, dazing and crashing between the lush delicate vocal melodies and constant rhythmic pulse provided by Cam Teehan’s rich drumming. The contrast is so thrilling and superb. The band’s heavy moments are intense, vibrant and all consuming yet they maintain a noir-pop stillness throughout as they stealthily groove and weave between these moments of utter musical splendour. With tight spine chilling harmonies Nicetry are a joy to listen to.
The crowd rush forward as TOYGIRL take to the stage. The bands soulful alternative pop reverbs through the venue creating a groove laced atmosphere that has the crowd dancing from the very start. TOYGIRL are a dark horse. Their vivid multi-genre blending, creates a sound truly unique which comes to life in the live setting. They ignite the crowd with funky grooves, R&B elements and a rich full bodied sound. Hannah Worrall’s vocals are truly spectacular; her ability to coo with warm depths and emotional tones as well as surge with soulful power is what ties the band’s compelling sound together. Her vocals puncture the atmosphere with sheer clarity. Yes the band have tracks that haunt, lull and stop time in an instant but boy! can they dance, groove and party as well. There is an effortless swagger about this band and a maturity on stage that is to be admired. If I wasn’t aware how new this band is I would claim their maturity is due to years of experience. They banter with the jubilant crowd between songs and jam through a pause in their set as Ciaran Whelband runs for his capo ( which was left in the green room). We even experience a bass mishap that requires Aran Hopkinson to borrow a bass from Nicetry, but this doesn’t really disrupt the night, the band jam and banter through it and within moments they are back into the set list.
There are a number of special moments in the set. Guitarist Fiachra O’Mahony taking to vocals was a pleasant surprise as Worrall’s haunting harmonies blend perfectly with his velvety lilt. TOYGIRL flesh out their sound with sublime bass lines intricate, vibrant drums and sharp, sweet guitar elements and within the live setting their tracks are mesmerising. The crowd knew every word and went crazy for the band’s debut single ‘Reign’. The magnificent new track that brought us all to this celebration ‘Moonlight Velvet’ (which was released only a few hours before the show) was bellowed back by the crowd while an impressive rendition of Estelle’s ‘American Boy’ had the crowd eating out of the palm of the bands hand. TOYGIRL succeeded in sending chills around the audience as well as bringing some infectious alternative pop and slinky grooves. Not only do they make strikingly beautiful music with their unique sound, they can switch between tenderness and intensity with such ease and fill a room with a warming radiance.
By the time the last strum on guitar had faded, I was already hungry for more, Worrall’s vocals and the band’s hypnotic alternative neo-soul is highly addictive. They have some bangers in their repertoire which display powerful emotive musicianship and striking lyricism. Their music evokes a myriad of emotions while thrilling and tantalisng the imagination and senses of the listener which is a rare gift to possess. I should warn you once you see them live you will be hooked. This band have a lot more to offer and judging from the unreleased tracks the band played TOYGIRL are a band to get excited about.
We sat down to have a chat with Ste, Rhos and Conn from Raglans in The Library Bar at Central Hotel Dublin to talk about their upcoming album ‘Heavy Medicine’, their long awaited return and what they have planned for the year .
Happy Science have released the first taste of what’s to come from the exciting North London based four piece, with the aptly named ‘An Introduction To… Happy Science’.Happy Science are a collective of producers, mix engineers and multi-instrumentalist songwriters.
‘An Introduction To… Happy Science’ is a smothering concoction of intricate musical prowess. The song ferments and bubbles beneath light twinkling on guitar to create a frothing track with dark ominous undertones. The distortion fizzes and shrills as the guitar develops into a classic rock aesthetic of epic proportion while a dizzying acid soaked soundscape swirls and dazzles in the backdrop.The sonics create a dark yet dreamy psychedelic atmosphere which chills with a Gothic post-punk charm. There are multiple swirling and churning components within the track as Happy Science find a sublime medium between assertive indie and energetic pop sensibilities . The song pulses with a heavy beat, majestic guitars and a rooted bass that wriggles with blood rushing stamina. Teamed with fantastic production and hypnotic vocals ‘An Introduction To… Happy Science’ is an impressive debut.
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From MiG 15
Liverpool newcomers MiG 15 have revealed a video for their brand new single ‘Interstellar’.Kicking off their 2020 with a bang, the band supported ‘80s electronic legends Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark on their Feb 2020 European live dates, as well as hitting the road in the UK through Feb/Mar 2020 supporting Love Fame Tragedy, the new solo project from The Wombats front man, Matthew Murphy.With early radio support from Janice Long at BBC Wales and Dave Monks at BBC Introducing Merseyside, things are off to a flying start for the quartet. Already working with big-name producers such as Rich Turvey (Blossoms, Clean Cut Kid, The Coral, She Drew The Gun) and Tord Knudsen from The Wombats, and with a heavy touring schedule already lined up, the band will be announcing further details of new music and live appearances over the coming months.
‘Interstellar’ is an intoxicating whirl of electronic indie entwined in a rock n’ roll slapped shell of swagger. With swirling soundscapes creating a rush of adrenaline the band weave and coil their sound twisting it into a thrilling listening experience. With intricate guitars mangled beneath the sonic outburst the band layer the track meticulously to create something truly infectious and powerful. Buoyant drums pummel the chorus while the bloops and bleeps embroider the track in intriguing soundscapes. MiG 15 pace and build their track superbly. An ethereal atmosphere creates pockets of swirling space between the flurrying electronics and indie blasts. With an 80’s – esque tonality, catchy chorus and dynamic yet smooth vocals ‘Interstellar’ is a lightning bolt of fine musicianship.
Commenting on the ethos behind the band and the themes explored in their music, the quartet say:“MiG 15 is a deliberately provocative symbol of the Cold War—the Cold War never went away; it’s just gone digital. Lying politicians are still manipulating the masses, and now they have even more tools and types of media at their disposal with which to do it. Music should be the weapon of the people, but in a post-truth world, even that is struggling to break through.”
Watch the video for ‘Interstellar’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
