Tag Archives: Julian Lamadrid

Album Review, Alt- Pop, Electronic, Indie, New Music

Julian Lamadrid ‘Rebels of The Neon God’ Album

Mexican singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julian Lamadrid has released his sophomore album, ‘Rebels of The Neon God’, on Arista Records. ‘Rebels of The Neon God’ serves as the follow up to Julian’s 2019 debut, ‘Mala Noche’. To compliment the album, Julian launched the ‘Rebel Universe,’ a virtual world inspired by the album. Fans can immerse themselves in the world of the Neon God and unlock different rooms by purchasing limited edition NFT keys.

‘Rebels of The Neon God’ is a diverse and enthralling listening experience. The impressive depth of this album is achieved by soft but rich electronics, overlaid by thick beats and the smooth, emotive vocals of Lamadrid. Free from the confines of just one genre, the album meanders between indie, alternative pop and electronic with psychedelic and tropical flirtations displayed throughout previously released singles ‘Teenager’, ‘One More Trip’, ‘Cigarette’, ‘Patience’ and ‘The Neon God’. Lamadrid’s musical prowess is in fine form on the album. Expressive soundscapes filled with bubbling beats, jaunty guitars, sweet steel drums, heavy synth pulses and washes of reverb flesh out his exhilarating treasure trove of songs, with each track’s musical arrangement complementing the overall tonality of the album.

There are many moments of excellence on ‘Rebels of The Neon God’ that display Lamadrid’s artistic talent and masterful songwriting. ’Blue’ is a sublime example of this. Lamadrid sets a dark,  harrowing yet grand instrumental backdrop of jarring strings between deep piano thuds, while distressed vocals pine, “I woke up with you on my lips, Harder than a rock, I try my best to cover my ears. But the noises wouldn’t stop”. The coil of tension created for the verses evokes a sharp sense of unease before the track finally loosens for the short chorus. The emotional power ballad ‘Bang’ follows this potent lyrical thread “You’ve got a gun, You took your aim, And that gun went “Bang”, And stole my heart away, And all that I know it’s all that I gave”. Once again, Ladmadrid spreads these striking lyrics over cinematic instrumentation, uplifting brass embellishments and driving pop melodies. Lamadrid manages to whack out some infectious boppers aswell, ’Pressure’ deals with self-doubt against a glittering 80’s synth-infused backdrop that peppers the song in dance vibes, ethereal atmospheres and adrenaline.

‘Rebels of The Neon God’ is richly and carefully constructed to display Lamadrid’s exceptional knack for melody, production and poignant lyrics and the result is a passionate collection of tracks that reveals new exciting sounds, textures and lyrical undertones with each subsequent listen.

About the album, Lamadrid said: “The album is centered around the dichotomy between frustration and dance, vacancy and ecstasy; enlightenment through pain. I have glimpsed into the eyes of The Neon God, pierced through the void and come out the other end, desperate for connection, hungry for the eternal.”

Stream ‘Rebels of The Neon God’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Julian Lamadrid ‘Teenager’

Arriving on the heels of recent fan-favourite singles, ‘15 Minutes’ and ‘One More Trip’, Mexican singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julian Lamadrid has released his new single ‘Teenager’.The new songs are a taste of what will be on Julian’s upcoming second full-length album, ‘Rebels of the Neon God’. Lamadrid will also be on tour with BANNERS starting at the end of this month. Born to Mexican expats, Lamadrid was raised in Dubai before moving to New York (where he is currently based) at the age of 18. The 23-year-old artist brings a refreshingly global perspective to his craft, culminating in an infectious blend of new wave, bedroom-pop and British rock. Since beginning his musical journey with the release of his 2019 album Mala Noche, Julian has amassed praise from notable tastemakers like V, Wonderland, CLASH, Flaunt, L’Officiel, Billboard and more.

‘Teenager’ is a cinematic and masterfully crafted indie-pop tune that merges dark soundscapes with Lamadrid’s evocative songwriting to create an immersive and compelling listening experience. The song broods through thick intoxicating electronics while dramatic beats and shimmering synths create an intense backdrop for listeners to indulge in. The lyrics reflect on the transitional period between childhood and adulthood and this theme is aptly expressed through Lamadrid’s smooth vocals and the tracks nostalgic undertones.

Layered elements in the backdrop create depth and texture through the medium of subtle melodies and key arrangements that flicker between the rich expansive soundscape. The contrasting and complementary arrangements within are a joy to listen to again and again and feel fresh on ears with each subsequent listen.

Blending dark electronic pop with edgy indie and soft R&B elements, ‘Teenager’ is a sublime example of the extraordinary musical prowess of Julian Lamadrid.

The accompanying music video was directed by Julian and stars his sister, Ximena Lamadrid. To create the video, the siblings returned to their hometown of Valle de Bravo in Mexico and turned to nature for inspiration. “It’s a delicate black & white film. It’s an ode to life’s beauty and how returning to something so pure in a time of heartbreak can bring the most rewarding of reflections,” Julian explains.

Watch the video for ‘Teenager’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks featuring – Beyond the Wash, Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra,Padjo Dolan and Julian Lamadrid

Beyond the Wash

Photo Credit: Eliza Kocur

Genre : Alternative pop

Bio : Crafting a mix of energetic pop and throwback New Wave, Beyond the Wash (BTW) is the solo project of Irish songwriter, Patrick O’Donnell. He quickly became recognised for conceptual works that brought together artists from many different creative fields such as dance, design, sculpture and book making. These collaborations hint towards a diverse blend of both visual and sonic influences – while music is ultimately at its core, BTW’s output is both varied and unexpected. His new single ‘Min/us’ sees production input from Cian Sweeney (1000 Beasts), and long-term collaborator Christian Best (Mick Flannery).

Track: Min/us

Why We Like It: Beyond the Wash fleshes out his infectious sound to create a glorious bop that is riveting to listen to. The track is an effervescent alternative pop tune that pivots around palpitating rhythms, shimmering synths and ethereal electronic pop pulses. Warm vocals caress a nostalgic melody while an 80’s hued backdrop of zesty guitars adds an edge and freshness to the lush soundscape. Surging with compelling melodies and intriguing instrumentation ‘Min/us’ is a knock out tune from Beyond the Wash.

You can follow Beyond the Wash on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/beyondthewash/

Stream ‘Min/us’ below 

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra

Photo Credit: Greg Purcell

Genre : Indie

Bio : Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra is made up of songwriter/guitarist Sarah Deegan, drummer Danni Nolan and bassist Alice Grollero, who met through gigging around Dublin. They are influenced by artists such as Kathleen Hanna and Sinead O’ Connor. Released on Anon Records, ‘Empty Envelope’ is the follow up to February’s ‘I didn’t love you when I said I did and I don’t now’, which received radio and media support in Ireland, US and UK, playlisted on RTE 2fm, 8Radio, BBC NI and KEXP.Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra will be headlining Sin E, Dublin on October 2nd (with support from Melter). The band will also be appearing at Ireland Music Week (online) on October 6th and supporting M(h)aol in Workman’s Cellar on Nov 12th.

Track: Empty Envelope

Why We Like It: The track oozes dreamy soundscapes and lucid shoegaze tones as Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra blend soft haunting melodies with grunge instrumentation to create a beautifully fluid tune. The song is multi-textured as the band use layered vocals to create an echo effect behind Sarah Deegan’s vocal lulls while subtle instrumentation creates an immersive and dense wall of sound in the backdrop. From distorted wobbles and sweet pines on guitar to pounding drums and rooted bass grooves, the band present their bewitching sound in all its glory.

You can follow Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/pixiecutrhythmorchestra

Stream ‘Empty Envelope’ below 

Padjo Dolan

Genre : Singer-songwriter

Bio : Irish artist Padjo Dolan has released his new single ‘Hazel Eyes’. The track is one of the first offerings from Padjo as an independent artist outside of a band and features Patrick Dolan (aka Padjo Dolan) on guitar and vocals with Cian Boylan, Conor Brady, Dave Hingerty, and Robbie Malone also involved in the project.

Track: Hazel Eyes

Why We Like It: It’s a rich country-rock tune brimming with wholesome tones and vibrant melodies filled with jaunty guitar, punchy drums and jangly piano embellishments. The song exudes warmth and deals with themes of escapism and nostalgia as Dolan’s warm vocals sing “you could take my hand / we could travel up the coast / and find the answer in the sand” over desert-esque guitars and a catchy rhythm section. Driving on heart-pounding vigour and infectious melodies ‘Hazel Eyes’ is an irresistible and passionate single from Padjo Dolan.

You can follow Padjo Dolan on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/Padjo-Dolan-102060652172454/

Stream ‘Hazel Eyes’ below 

Julian Lamadrid

Photo Credit: Julian Lamadrid

Genre : Singer Songwriter

Bio : Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julian Lamadrid has released his new single ‘One More Trip’. 

Track: One More Trip

Why We Like It: This ethereal tune is lovingly crafted and balances tones of nostalgia, hope and melancholy. The track seems minimalist when it starts with airy electronics, sharp guitar twinkles, and a laid back melody as Lamadrid croons “I believe that dreams come true, at least I hope they do”. However, the song unfolds magnificently becoming more rich and vibrant. The bright synths bounce through a wall of thick beats and fuzzy soundscapes which contrast the innocence and hope provided in the melody. In true Lamadrid manner ‘One More Trip’ is filled with intricate, surprising, and vivid instrumentation as the song erupts into a rock peppered crescendo that boasts pounding drums and shredding guitar embellishments. This wonderfully expressive and inspiring song is laced in Lamadrid’s passionate and evocative musicianship and continues his run of masterful, heartfelt tunes.

You can follow Julian Lamadrid on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/julianlamadrid/

Watch the video for ‘One More Trip’ below 

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks On Spotify Here


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Julian Lamadrid ‘Saturday’

Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julian Lamadrid has released his new single ‘Saturday’. This infectious bop flows upon bright electronics and sunkissed tones as Lamadrid coos, “Ooh, babe, ooh, babe Ooh, babe, If we make it ’til Saturday, Then I’ll tell you my last name“. Lamadrid’s smooth vocals caress the dreamy melody through a haze of reverb, while his melodic prowess and effortless swagger make ‘Saturday’ a euphoric delight on listeners ears. He crafts a laid back summer tune filled with tropical tones, shimmering synths, and bubbling beats to create a luscious alternative pop gem that is sure to brighten any day. Lamadrid is displaying his versatility as an artist by producing tunes with an array of vibrant and tantalizing sounds from the funky flex of his previous release ‘15 Minutes’ to last years steel drum, synth peppered ‘Patience’ and 2019’s edgy alternative pop ‘Die Young’. Each release from Lamadrid is an exciting keyhole glimpse into the glorious musical world of this talented artist. 

Stream ‘Saturday’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks -featuring Julian Lamadrid, Pretty Happy, Amber Liu, Greyson Chance, Wolf Alice and Etaoin

Julian Lamadrid

Genre: Alternative pop

Bio: Mexican singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julian Lamadrid has released his new single ‘15 Minutes’. Lamadrid co-produced the new song along with Paul Meany.

Track: 15 Minutes

Why We Like It: It’s a souped-up pop tune that is sure to have you up and dancing within seconds. This catchy alternative pop track oozes chic, crisp production, dazzling electronics and infectious melodies. The track bounces along a groove infested foundation as shuffling rhythms and funky guitars glimmer between a hyper synth soundscape. It’s easy to get lost within the many layers, and tones within this song as Lamadrid spreads clap-along features between swirling sounds and flashing disco elements to create an intoxicating new single to listen to. Filled with lush melodies, smooth vocals and intricately weaved instrumentation, ‘15 Minutes’ is a euphoric sassy gem from Lamadrid. 

You can follow Julian Lamadrid on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/JulianLamadridOfficial

Watch the video for ‘15 Minutes’ below

Pretty Happy

Genre: Post-punk

Bio: Following the electrifying success of their single ‘Salami’ – which featured on BBC Introducing, BBC6, KEXP in Seattle and ‘Track of the Week’ on 2FM, Cork art-punk trio Pretty Happy have released their new wave, post-punk new single ‘Sea Sea Sea’.

Track: Sea Sea Sea

Why We Like It: ‘Sea Sea Sea’ is an electrifying whirlwind of post-punk as Pretty Happy simmer their heavy abrasive sound into one exhilarating concoction. Beginning as a breezy bop, the track takes sweet melodies, quirky vocals and chiming guitars and mangles it into a fiery expressive wall of sound. With soft verses leading into an angsty crashing chorus and psychedelic mind-melting crescendo, ‘Sea Sea Sea’ is a raw glorious assault on the senses. 

You can follow Pretty Happy On Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/prettyhappyband/

Stream ‘Sea Sea Sea’ below 

https://soundcloud.com/prettyhappycork/sea-sea-sea-2

Amber Liu

Photo credit Uplifted Visuals

Genre: Electronic Pop

Bio: Global pop superstar and multi-hyphenated artist, Amber Liu, has released a new music video for her latest single, “neon”, via EMPIRE. “neon” is released in both English and Mandarin languages simultaneously. Joining Amber Liu in the English-language version is popular Korean-American rapper Peniel of k-pop boy group BtoB, while the Mandarin-language version features Chinese-born rapper Blow Fever. The fresh track is the first of new original music released by Liu in a year and is just a taste of what is to come from the pop star in the following months. 

Track: neon

Why We Like It: It’s a refreshing slice of electronic pop saturated in sweet melodies and lush instrumentation. Driving on an 80’s hued synth-pop soundscape filled with bubbling beats and chiming keys, ‘neon’ is one upbeat and catchy tune. Amber Liu’s vocals glide upon a dreamy melody exuding a cool effortless persona while Peniel’s rap adds a gritty edge to the synth heavy soundscape. Showcasing catchy melodies and deft production, ‘neon’ is a satisfying and enjoyable new single from Amber Liu..

You can Follow Amber Liu on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/ajol_llama/

Stream ‘neon’ below 

Greyson Chance

Genre: Alternative pop

Bio: Following the critically-acclaimed album ‘Portraits’ in 2019, singer-songwriter Greyson Chance is gearing up to release his second album with his new single ‘Hellboy’.

Track: Hellboy

Why We Like It: This frisky, chic single boasts the tight and catchy musicianship of Chance. The song sashay’s upon a luring bassline while slinky electronics and funk guitar sets the rhythmic pace. With bubbling beats creating a muggy atmosphere for the sweltering verses while disco drizzled synths create a euphoric sweetness before the catchy chorus kicks in, ‘Hellboy’ is one irresistible earworm. As Chance’s soulful vocals slip between warm whispers and lush falsetto, he presents a well-crafted swagger-filled number that is difficult to resist.

You can follow Greyson Chance on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/GreysonChance

Stream ‘Hellboy’ below 

Wolf Alice

Credit: Jordan Hemingway

Genre: Alternative

Bio: Wolf Alice have shared the second single from their upcoming new album ‘Blue Weekend’, which is set for release on June 11th.The London group premiered the new track on Annie Mac’s BBC Radio 1 show. It follows the release of February’s ‘The Last Man On Earth’.

Track: Smile

Why We Like It: It’s an angsty blast of alternative rock saturated in psychedelic tones. With a driving bass line wriggling through a punchy drum backdrop, the band create a powerful and mosh ready concoction for listeners to indulge in. This song balances sweet, lush pop tones with raw rock superbly to create an abrasive dreamy tune sure to have you singing along in no time. With eerie chimes on guitars, biting riffs and crashing instrumental builds, the track is an exhilarating rush to the head. Riding on swaggered bass lines and raw, unadulterated rock elements, ‘Smile’ is a fantastic new single from Wolf Alice. 

You can follow Wolf Alice on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/wolfalicemusic

Watch the video for ‘Smile’ below

Etaoin

Genre : Singer Songwriter

Bio :.London-based, Irish-raised artist Etaoin has released her new single ‘For Her’ taken from her new  EP ‘Bedroom Walls’ 

Track: For Her

Why We Like It: It’s an emotive and delicately arranged tune that showcases Etaoin’s heartfelt melodies and powerful vocal delivery. With soft finger-plucked guitar twinkling beneath warm vocal rasps and folk/pop elements the track is a unique and compelling listening experience. Etaoin has a remarkable ability to capture emotion through her songs and this gem is a wonderful example of her lyrical honesty, clever song writing and passionate musicianship. 

You can follow Etaoin on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/etaoinnn/

Stream ‘For Her’ below 

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Here

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/32jNQJPiYaLG1fMWMUGPtn?si=3f8e215b55264fd2


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Featuring Dukkha, Lo Rays, De Staat and Julian Lamadrid

Dukkha

Genre : Alternative Rock 

Bio : Dukkha are a grunge & alt-rock band featuring Eoin O’Neill (vocals & guitar), Brian Casey (lead guitar, keys), Peter O’Sullivan (drums) and a shape-shifting bassist.

Track: Pulling Teeth

Why We Like It: It’s a well crafted track encased in a crashing soundscape of blistering guitars, potent bass blasts and pulverising drums. The track broods and lures through the tense verses before becoming an all out beast for the thrilling chorus. The band carefully enrich the track, meticulously building each component part. The grungy moody elements sulk into the raw and sharp alternative rock with ease making for an invigorating listening experience. From light flurries on guitar to majestic and soaring strides Dukkha inject oodles of refinement and maturity into this song. The smooth passionate vocals caress the velvety melody with ease, charm and bucket loads of power. ‘Pulling Teeth’ is a gripping powerhouse and superbly crafted track from Dukkha.

You can follow Dukkha on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/dukkhamusic/

Stream Pulling Teeth’ below 

Lo Rays

Genre : Alternative synth pop

Bio : After moving to Glasgow from Finland, Takala started a college course and met Ryan Jones (bass) and Matt Boyle (guitar). Jude McWilliams fills their live sound on drums.After forming in 2018, they released an EP Unstable Air in 2019 with Scottish tour dates and a sold-out show at The Old Hairdressers. They have supported Glasgow-favourites Gallus and SNASH as well as touring acts such as Saint Agnes and Estrons.

Track: Stain

Why We Like It: Its a sultry dark track smudged with eerie synths and a sticky muggy beat. The track pulses and bloops as the reverb laced guitar swirls between the resounding bass. This tantalizing number creeps and coils with a stuffy humid atmosphere while the sultry lulling vocals coo with a velvety rich tone. The track is sublimely layered as the dark pop melodies fold elegantly over the ominous fluctuant synths and raw indie elements.

You can follow Lo Rays on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/loraysmusic

Stream ‘Stain’ below 

De Staat

Photo Credit : Pooneh Ghana

Genre :Alternative rock

Bio : De Staat is a Dutch alternative rock band from Nijmegen, The Netherlands, formed in 2006. The band, fronted by songwriter, singer, guitarist and producer, Torre Florim, released their fifth album ‘Bubble Gum’ last year. The band have now released a video for the track ‘Phoenix’

Track: Phoenix

Why We Like It: It’s a smooth sleek number. In true De Staat manner the track builds to an intense fuzzing crescendo. The pulsing beat protruding through the wispy soundscapes creates an ominous, epic tension while Torre Florim’s vocals coo throughout. The synths crash with a majestic, ethereal yet suspenseful jab while sustained pines on guitar encase the mystery and danger. It’s equally dramatic and atmospheric as the soft twinkles to start contrast the heavy cinematic finale. With glimmers of emotional, sinister soundscapes and refined precise production Phoenix is one diverse unique number from De Staat.

You can follow De Staat on Facebook here  https://www.facebook.com/destaat/

Watch the video for ‘Phoenix’ below 

Julian Lamadrid

Genre : Alternative pop

Bio : Originally from Mexico but born and raised in the United Arab Emirates, he uncommonly blends a wide array of genres to sonically create a unique and invigorating style of pop.

Track: My Time

Why We Like It: Lamadrid uses his rich and diverse soundscapes to create a buoyant catchy gem that is both charming and infectious. With a funky bass line wriggling through the tracks underbelly teamed with bouncy beats and zesty writhing guitar injections, the track has an animated radiance. Each fragment is woven tightly into the song for a seamless listening experience while the R&B elements create a chilled relaxed atmosphere beneath the sun kissed bop. With a melty melody, honest lyrics and smooth vocals ‘My Time’ is a well crafted number from Lamadrid.

You can follow Julian Lamadrid on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/JulianLamadridOfficial/

Stream ‘My Time’ below

You Can Follow Our Indie Quick Picks On Spotify Here


Author : Danu