Tag Archives: indie

Alt Rock, Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie, Indie Pop, Indie Quick Picks, indie rock, Indie Soul, New Music, Synth-pop

Indie Quick Picks

Pelicandy

Photo credit: Nona Duch

Genre: alt-pop

Bio: Pelicandy are a London alt-pop duo who shared their first release of 2019 ‘Silent Treatment’ earlier this spring, the two-piece have already received widespread acclaim throughout the tastemaker community and across the airwaves (BBC Radio 1, Virgin),

Track: White Sky

About the track vocalist TC stated: “White Sky is about realising the ability to focus and reframe your own thoughts and perception of reality. Choosing what world you want to live in depending more on your mind-set than your surrounding environment, it’s like a superpower that anyone can learn. Depending on how we direct our thoughts we can even change our body’s own biology. It sounds like science fiction or new-age spirituality but it’s legit psychology and neuroscience”!

Why We Like It: It’s a shimmering funk flavoured synth driven track that glides upon cool chilled tones and a laid back atmosphere. With refreshing crisp synths glistening through snappy drums and breezy soundscapes this electronic number is brimming with swagger and summer vibes. Featuring a zesty stinging guitar solo and an infectious melody this velvety gem is instantly likeable.

You can follow Pelicandy on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/pelicandyband

Stream ‘White Sky’ below

Michael Jablonka

Photo credit :Lennon Gregory

Genre: Alternative Indie

Bio: Michael Jablonka has been gigging since the tender age of 14 as an in-demand guitarist for hire. His skills have been utilised by some of the country’s major rock and pop acts, and this summer Jablonka continues his tour of arenas and festivals worldwide with fellow North Londoner and Brit-soul sensation Michael Kiwanuka

Track: ‘Go- Go’

Why We Like It:  It’s a haunting number that broods Jablonka’s refined thrilling musicianship. A steady drum beat sets a hypnotic tone for this thrilling track to flourish off while the sweet lamenting guitar chimes between this eerie sulky backdrop. The song builds becoming more passionate as distorted guitar pines and shrills flesh out Jablonka’s raw edgy sound. The song progresses beautifully from its laid back beginnings, gradually building to a soul infused rock crescendo brimming with intensity as the gritty guitar solo taking the track to spine chilling heights.

You can follow Michael Jablonka on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/michaeljablonkaofficial/

Stream ‘Go- Go’ below

Sea Girls

Genre: Indie

Bio: Following a whirlwind start to the year, which saw them being named as the only band on the BBC’s Sound of 2019 list and playing their biggest ever sold out live show at London’s Heaven, Sea Girls are excited to share the news that they have signed a record deal with Polydor Records (Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, The 1975). Earlier this month, the band announced their biggest UK shows for this autumn, kicking off in Nottingham on 2nd October

Track:  Damage Done

Vocalist and songwriter Henry Camamile explains the track: “Damage Done is about young love and moving on. The night before the song was written I recognised that a part of my past was amazing, a bit flawed and broken all at the same time. I wanted to try to be at peace with it, and to realise that better things are to come rather than holding onto the past. I sort of told myself I’m singing to no one if I’m not thinking of the future.”

Why We Like It:  It’s another passionate compelling track from Sea Girls that sweeps you up into a clenching surge of adrenaline. The sweet toned guitar twinkles between a snappy pulsing beat creating the tense and suspenseful verses that tease the anthemic chorus to come. These guys have an insane ability to create gripping, youthful tunes that rush into your veins with the expectation, kinetic energy and flutter of a first kiss while packing in some impressive indie backing to keep everything invigorating and refreshing. With an infectious melody, energetic bass, passionate warm vocals and precise exhilarating musicianship- it’s one sublime whoosh of indie to have you hooked in seconds.

You can follow Sea Girls on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/sonicseagirls/

Stream ‘Damage Done’ below

Llovers

Genre: Indie Pop

Bio: Fast establishing themselves as one of the North East’s finest emerging acts,Teesside quintet Llovers have released their debut EP ‘Things That I Don’t Understand’, preceded by sparkling lead single ‘Coming Loose’ out via Think Tank? Drawing widespread acclaim across the airwaves (BBC Radio, 1, BBC 6 Music) over the last 18 months with a series of early releases, the band have already demonstrated their buoyant live potential supporting acts including Sundara Karma, Dream Wife and VANT.

Track: Coming Loose

About the track co frontman Jack Brooks stated : “Coming Loose deals with the anxieties that can come from being in a relationship, specifically one in which there’s little affection given from a paramour on the surface. It describes these feelings while also establishing which is used as a form of comfort within the narrative of the track”.

Why We Like It:  It’s a sparkling indie pop delight that swoons and floats around a delicious melody, shimmering synths and warm velvety vocals. A lustrous soundscape floods the track in dazzling scintillation while glittering guitars and a steady beat provide a wispy dreamy quality making this track so easy on the ears. The bitter sweet melody contrasts sublimely with the vibrant instrumental backdrop as the song soaks in summer vibes, psychedelic pop embellishments and rich textures.

You can follow Llovers on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/wearellovers

Stream ‘Coming Loose’ below

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Here


 

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

Rain ‘Volume 1’ EP

Rain have released their debut EP ‘Volume 1’. The band which is a three piece from Sunderland in the north east of England is comprised of lead singer and guitarist Patrick Ashurst, Alex Liddle on bass and Ben Mitchell on drums and backing vocals.

‘Volume 1’ is a compact EP brimming with Rain’s engaging indie rock. ‘You Used To Say’ sets the EP in motion with the sweet chime and jingle of indie soaked guitar with punchy drums and a rooted bass. Rain present a chilled summer drenched sound that hooks you from the start as laid back vocals mope over the vibrant instrumentation. Their sound is tight and brimming with zesty engaging guitar lines that are intoxicating to the ears. ‘Let Me Free’ brings a rock n ‘roll shimmy to their sound with swagger drizzled on top of gritty sharp guitar and buoyant rhythms. A little darker than its predecessor this track has a smoky more abrasive vibe. ‘Across the Dim Line’ closes the EP with light jangly guitar and indie rock soundscapes. The nonchalant vocals add a moody quality to the verses before the track bursts into its catchy chorus.

Rain are crafting their sound and fleshing out their indie alternative flavours. ‘Volume 1’ is a tight well formed EP that showcases a promising band finding their brand and style while creating some enjoyable tunes.

Stream ‘Volume 1’ below


Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Mike Paul ‘Games with My Heart’

Carrick on Suir singer songwriter and music producer Mike Paul has released his new single ‘Games with My Heart’ following his debut single ‘Blame It on the Sun’ which was released on January 21st and had great success in its first month on Spotify gaining nearly 40,000 streams.

‘Games with My Heart’ is a charming upbeat synth pop number sparkling with light instrumentation and delightful tones. With a shaky rhythm and steady beat keeping a buoyant foundation for the shimmering synths and peppy guitar melodies, Mike Paul brings a funk flavour to his indie pop. Soulful vocals glide effortlessly over the velvety melody while a groove infested bass drifts suavely over the glistening soundscape. It’s a delightful bounce and laid-back display of Mike Paul’s absorbing musicianship.

Stream ‘Games with My Heart’ below


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

Ink Pix ‘How R U?’

Independent, synth pop artist ‘Ink Pix’ is releasing his next new single on the 31st of May, entitled ‘How R U?’.A preview in the form of a lyric video will also be available on the 28th of May. The song will be the first in a continuous run of singles Ink Pix will be releasing every 3 weeks.

‘How R U?’ is a catchy synth pop flutter as Ink Pix presents an intricately crafted number with playful instrumentation and rich rhythms. The synths glimmer and bloop behind the  rapid vocal coos. It is tightly layered with a sticky beat holding the infectious buoyant foundation while the crisp production polishes off the song with a glossy sheen. Catchy with a sugar coated melody and relatable lyrics Ink Pix has crafted his own tasty brand of synth pop.

For more you can follow Ink Pix on Facebook below https://www.facebook.com/inkpixmusic


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Electric Shore ‘Hurricane’

Electric Shore have released their new single ‘Hurricane’. Electric Shore are a three piece indie rock band from Ratoath Co.Meath, Ireland. Their debut single ‘Too Different’ which was released in 2018 was followed by the even more successful ‘Someone New’. The band participated and won RTÉ 2Fm’s Play The Picnic Competition, which landed them a slot at the Iconic Irish Festival. Last February the band released the highly successful track, ‘Darkness Of You’ which received nationwide radio play, and accumulated thousands of Spotify streams.

‘Hurricane’ is a melodically lush indie pop-rock gem that floods with emotion,catchy hooks and the rich musicianship we have come to love from Electric Shore. Intricate guitar lines weave sharp stings of delight through the track adding hues of bright scintillation while also creating sweet tones of longing. The band have crafted and layered the song perfectly as the rhythm shuffles, pulses and builds, creating tension before the massive chorus. With a thrilling rumble on bass, anthemic vibe and powerful vocals ‘Hurricane’ is a driving, exhilarating number that is sure to compel repeat plays. The western- esque desert guitars flicker between the ethereal soundscapes creating the perfect atmosphere for summer listening as Electric Shore balance exhilarating instrumentation with moving lyricism. ‘Hurricane’ is another mesmerising track from Electric Shore.

Electric Shore will launch this brand new single with a headline gig Upstairs in Whelan’s on the 16th of June. It’s one not to miss.

Stream ‘Hurricane’ below


Alt Rock, Electronic, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Otherkin ‘On & On’

Carrying on swiftly from the buzz of their previous single ‘All That Remains Won’t Be The Same’, Irish alternative rock band Otherkin continue in fine form with the release of their latest single ‘On & On’, coming alongside the announcement of UK tour dates this Autumn. The band have enjoyed significant success in recent times, with airplay support from BBC RADIO 1 as well as radio play back in Ireland and playlist support on all the main streaming platforms.

‘On & On’ is a swagger dripping gem as Otherkin flourish the glimmering electronic facet to their sound. Featuring a kick ass guitar riff, groove infested rhythm and darkly-smothered wall of sound this dazzling number swarms in, swanky, chic and engulfed in attitude. The raspy vocals pour over the infectious melody while the frazzling backdrop, elastic bass and shrilling guitars create the most breathtaking, adrenaline inducing listening experience. With a catchy chorus, peppy key jingles, rich production and mind melting dance-floor vibes this exhilarating new track is another gush of Otherkin’s outstanding sound. These guys are on a roll.


Speaking on their inspiration, the band say: ‘’We were listening to a ton of French House before making ‘On & On’ and felt inspired to make a song for the dance floor. As we were approaching it from the context of being a guitar band, we thought it would be cool to break the song up with a huge riff, bringing the two worlds together. We paired it with a story of a guy we know who’s a conniving, scheming weasel that’ll never change his ways, regardless of what happens to him.This song is like one fist in the air and one middle finger in the air to him.’’


Following an exciting Electrowerkz show in London, Otherkin will be heading back out on the road across the UK this September. Tickets will go on sale on Friday 24th May. Catch them live at the following venues:

19th – Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds

20th – The Basement, York21st – Think Tank? Underground, Newcastle

22nd – Nice N Sleazy, Glasgow

23rd – The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham

24th – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff26th – Face Bar, Reading

27th – Camden Assembly, London

Stream ‘On & On’ below


Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Worth A Listen

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From INHALER

Dublin’s INHALER have released their new double A-side ‘My Honest Face’. Comprising of Robert Keating on bass, Ryan McMahon on drums, Josh Jenkinson on lead and Elijah Hewson on vocals and rhythm, INHALER have already gained support from Radio 1, Radio X and BBC Radio 6 Music as well as earning a coveted placement in the New Music Friday US playlist with 2019’s first offering ‘It Won’t Always Be Like This’ and playlists across the globe.

‘My Honest Face’ is an exhilarating rush of indie rock that puts INHALER on the map. The rugged sound of driving bass lines and punchy drums create the gripping foundation while sweet lamenting shimmers of guitar lift the track to majestic and ethereal heights. It’s a gripping and powerful number as the band flesh out their big and lofty sound with weighty instrumentation and honest lyricism. Filling you with that sudden rush of heart stopping emotion, the band exude swagger through their magnificent guitar work. They weave and pine through the darkened soundscapes which coil and curdle between tension and conflicting bitter sweet tones. There’s beauty in this bands musicianship. They shape the moving lyrics around heart stopping instrumentation. With passionate vocals, this track steamrolls into your head with relentless stamina and oodles of gusto. INHALER are ones to keep an eye on.

INHALER are currently on a UK tour with Stockport’s rising stars Fuzzy Sun, before joining Blossoms & Courteeners on their festival warm up dates this summer. In between these dates, you can catch INHALER at festivals across the UK and Ireland including Neighbourhood Weekender, TRNSMT, Truck Festival and Boardmasters. They have also been added to the bill at Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ show at Dublin’s Malahide Castle.

INHALER – 2019 Live Irish Dates

June
Sun 16th – Co. Dublin, Malahide Castle* (with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds)

Mon 17th – Belfast, Limelight (with DMAs)

Sat 22nd – Bundoran, Sea Sessions

August

Sun 4th – Cork, Indiependence Festival

Stream ‘My Honest Face’ below


Alt- Pop, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Lady Landscape ‘2’ EP

Meath-based five-piece, Lady Landscape have released their new EP ‘2’. Founded by Alex Harrison and Ryan McDonnell in late 2018, Lady Landscape embrace a lo-fi sound that combines rich synth textures, dreamy guitar rhythms and smooth baritone vocals. ​Upon forming, the then two piece band released their first EP ‘1’ in 2018, before taking a short hiatus, whilst Harrison spent some time in Vancouver, Canada to work on new demos. McDonnell and Harrison then returned to work in their makeshift bedroom studios to craft and shape their second release ‘2’. Constantly developing their sound with each release, Lady Landscape became a five-piece in 2019, incorporating friends of the group: Jamie Reynolds (Drums), Tiernan Buckley (Bass) and Adam Ollin (Lead Guitar), for a series of live shows in Dublin.

‘2’ is a four track treasure of laid back dreamy tunes that melt into your brain with euphoric delight. The bands simplistic approach creates tracks that are easy on the ears as they fill the songs with mellow tones and luscious textures. ‘Nanaimo’ kick starts their sun kissed sound with an angel delight-dipped melody, nonchalant vocals and twinkling instrumentation. With glistening guitars flickering between the hazy soundscape while a buoyant beat keeps the track peppy and light, ‘Nanaimo’ flurries by with effortless charm and soothing tones. The band blend rich and rejuvenating musicianship with calm, soft lo-fi pop soundscapes and shimmering synths seamlessly. A good example of this is the ethereal ‘Kitsilano’ which was previously featured on Indie Buddie. With their tight musicianship and indie pop sprinkles, Lady Landscape create an EP that is delicious and refreshing. The tranquilizing tones continue with ‘Jericho’ , a sweet ditty with a mesmerising guitar melody and majestic synths. These guys have a knack for honeyed, velvety melodies and ‘Jericho’ takes that skill and turns it up a notch as they subtly surge the track with a 60’s flower power vibe all while layering the track in rich rhythms and glorious sun kissed textures. Final track ‘Varanasi’ brings the EP to a gentle and peaceful end as the tender melody drifts upon a glistening soundscape of soft guitar, and spacey synth elements while the baritone vocals coo the sweet lullaby- esque lyrics. This psychedelic hue closes out the EP allowing you to sail away into a delicate dreamland gracefully.  

‘2’ is a wholly satisfying EP as Lady Landscape’s mature, beautiful sound gently blossoms with refinement and grace – it’s captivating and unique.

Stream ‘2’ below


Folk, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jane Willow ‘The Fool’

Photo Credit: Tiernan O Rourke

Jane Willow is set to release her new single ‘The Fool’ on May 31st. The Dublin-based folk musician of Dutch origin has supported the likes of Glen Hansard, Mark Geary, Kíla and The Unthanks and her debut EP ‘Onward Still’ received radio play on Radio 1, Radio Nova, BBC Radio Ulster.

‘The Fool’ sees Willow venture to the more country elements of her sound as she takes a powerful stance with strong melodies and upbeat instrumentation. The warm guitar strides through a resilient buoyant beat while Willow’s striking vocals exude passion, emotion and endurance. There is strength and character driving this track through a winding dark and mysterious journey. The guitar weaves and meanders through  innocent melodies and sultry tones as the track progresses from the ominous, smoky verses to the expressive chorus. The vocal melody remains sweet and dainty however the instrumental backdrop and powerful vocal delivery are strong and brazen creating a raw and intriguing contrast. Willow has poured everything into this compelling track as she fleshes out and crafts her rich and diverse sound beautifully.

About the track Jane Willow said : “This song started as an homage to Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’, exploring country songwriting with a strong vocal in mind, but it quickly evolved. I never intended for it to be a real song, or for me to sing it. But something personal occurred to me and I connected with the song because of it. To me this song is about consent. I wanted to rid myself of the anger I felt. And I didn’t want to feel alone in this hurt.  I feel very nervous releasing this song, or speaking about it. But I know the song means something to me. And hopefully it will mean something to other people too.”

‘The Fool’ will be released on May 31st for more information you can follow Jane Willow on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/janewillowmusic


Alt- Pop, Indie, Jazz, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Eoin ‘Infinite’

Cork singer songwriter Eoin has released his new single ‘Infinite’. The track is taken off his upcoming album, ‘Reverie’.He has played headline slots in venues like DeBarra’s Folk Club and The Poor Relation as well as support slots in the Crane Lane and Roisin Dubh.

‘Infinite’ is an easy going ditty that glides on a steady beat and soft instrumentation as Eoin’s velvety vocals caress the melty melody. The track is laid back and filled with soulful passion as the warm guitar jingles, upon a soft beat.As the song progresses it builds to an intense expressive chorus filled with shrilling sharp guitars and thrilling distortion before settling back down to its floaty dreamy state. With a rich cello feature and fire side glowing atmosphere this jazz hued, beautifully crafted track showcases Eoin’s diverse and full-bodied musicianship.

Stream  ‘Infinite’ below