Tag Archives: New Music

Album Review, Alt Rock, New Music

SymLa-3000 ‘The Spectrums’ Album

Rock singer SymLa-3000 has released her debut album, ‘The Spectrums’. Written and arranged by the singer herself, she delivers light and airy vocals alongside metal sounds performed by Akira Tejima in nine of the songs (Guitar), Makoto Kitamura  (Bass), Takayoshi Ochoco Saita (Drums). Other musicians that were involved in this album include Yuki Hayashi, Miho Okazaki and Makoto Togashi. SymLa-3000 fell into music when she first discovered the world of Japanese anime as a child. Insistent about learning the lyrics of the songs, she would get her mother to write them down whilst she watched her favourite shows. After picking up the classical piano and starting vocal lessons, she realised that she wanted to deliver her own messages, so she began composing her own music in Cubase. In 2020 she released her first single under the name SymLa- 3000, a combination of Japanese words meaning ‘universe’.

‘The Spectrums’, presents the dynamic metal-infused rock of SymLa-3000. Filled with soaring guitars that ricochet off pummeling drums and rampant bass rumbles the album is a passionate display of musicianship from the artist. SymLa-3000’s sweet vocals add an ethereal quality to songs such as ‘Cracks’ and ‘White Memory’ – her voice contrasts the track’s kinetic atmosphere while at the same time anchoring the listener within the song’s expressive soundscapes. Between the frantic alternative rock tracks, SymLa-3000 provides moments of release in the form of softer tunes like ‘Aqua’. This song is tender and delicate with soft vocals caressing a dreamy melody while the backdrop of pining guitar and steady beats ooze heartfelt emotion into the song.

The concept behind the album focuses on the seasonal changes in Japan. The first song ‘The Darkness’ begins with the rainy season around June and cycles through summer, fall and winter. The journey ends with the spring season in Japan, the more laid back title track leaves you with images of the famous Japanese cherry blossoms shedding their petals. SymLa-3000 displays these themes through an intriguing blend of energetic instrumentation, heavy mosh moments and sweet gentle melodic arrangements. ‘The Spectrums’ is a well crafted, energetic debut album from SymLa-3000.

Stream ‘The Spectrums’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

modernlove. ‘Don’t Wanna’

Photo Credit: Daniel Alexander Harris

Irish indie-rock outfit modernlove. have released their new single ‘Don’t Wanna’ through Akira Records (Phoria, Henry Green, Mt. Wolf, Rosie Carney, Shura).modernlove. are showcasing a more comfortable, confident sound with each release – the result is riveting tunes that balance gritty indie elements with pop sensibilities and immaculate production. ‘Don’t Wanna’ is a glorious example of this. The song travels along a jaunty backdrop of shimmering synths that pivots around a tight and irresistibly funky bass groove. Each rhythmic pulse and guitar stride is deftly used to deliver a tune that is sleek, expressive and radiates youthful energy. The track beckons repeat plays and is an excellent showcase of the boundless musical talent this four-piece has to offer. Boasting an infectious pop sprinkled melody, velvety vocals and a swaggering 80’s-esque guitar solo; ‘Don’t Wanna’ is a musical delight from modernlove.

Watch the video for ‘Don’t Wanna’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music

San Rocco ‘Bread & Butter’


San Rocco have released their new single ‘Bread & Butter’. San Rocco first hit the Irish music scene with the release of ‘The End is Never the End’ and ‘Run Doom’ in 2020.  The songs received radio play on Dan Hegarty’s The Alternative on RTÉ 2FM. Having spent the last two years working on new material, San Rocco are back with their biggest show to date at The Workman’s Club on April 13th 2022. 

‘Bread & Butter’ is a slick swaggering display from San Rocco. The band showcase a 90’s rock sound dripping in funk while dazzling us with their refined fun musicianship. Atop quirky handclaps and organ-esque keys, theatrical vocals express lyrics that discuss the Irish housing crisis, cost of living inflation, and the increasing apathy for Irish politics. The track blends quirky vocal quips with heavy rock outbursts and bass grooves to create an upbeat listening experience. Tight and catchy Bread & Butter, is a dynamic new single from San Rocco

Stream ‘Bread & Butter’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Neon Atlas ‘Your Mistakes Have Got Nothing On Mine’

Neon Atlas have released ‘Your Mistakes Have Got Nothing On Mine’ – the first single from their upcoming, as yet untitled, 3rd album. This radiant indie-pop tune is saturated in jangly guitar and buoyant rhythms as Neon Atlas flesh out the more raw side of their sound. With lo-fi soundscapes providing a haze over the track, the band create a sunkissed atmosphere while edgy guitar and rich percussion lace the song in scorching indie undertones and grunge elements. Well-crafted, catchy and brimming with energetic instrumentation ‘Your Mistakes Have Got Nothing On Mine’ is a fantastic new single from Neon Atlas. 

Stream ’Your Mistakes Have Got Nothing On Mine’ below 


Author: Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Luke Clerkin ‘Owl Compass’ EP

Following a sold-out headliner at the famous Cobblestone Venue, Luke Clerkin has released his highly anticipated ‘Owl Compass’ EP. Owl Compass was recorded remotely between Dublin and Berlin with producer jaako. This will mark the culmination of their work together, a partnership which began in late 2020. Three singles from the EP ‘Lost in Translation’, ‘Normal People’ and ‘Fall in Line’ have already gained critical and radio success getting support from Spin, RTE and BBC amongst others.Clerkin has decided to donate funds from the release to SCOOP Foundation Ukraine Emergency Response.

‘Owl Compass’ is a beautifully crafted EP. Luke Clerkin displays his exquisite musicianship by putting together a satisfying and cohesive collection of tracks that are sensitive and carefree while richly displaying his musical prowess. Throughout the EP Clerkin showcases his ability to find the sweet spot between genres to create luscious tunes for the listener to indulge in. His previously released singles, ‘Lost in Translation’, ‘Normal People’ and ‘Fall in Line’ all flood with lush melodies and cinematic soundscapes that blend electronic pop with indie while ‘Catch Up’ glimmers with folk tones and heartfelt songwriting. Each track is a joy to listen to and flows into the next with ease while also revealing hidden musical gems on each subsequent listen from subtle catchy refrains, clever lyrics to deft production. ‘Owl Compass’ is a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.

Talking about the release of ‘Owl Compass’, Luke said ‘‘I can’t believe it’s finally coming out! We’ve been working on these songs and these releases since late 2020. SO much love has gone into this project, and so much growth has come from it! I’m also excited that people will finally be able to listen to ‘Catch Up’, it’s both mine and jaako’s favourite song, and possibly the most personal song I’ve ever written!’.

Stream ‘Owl Compass’ below 


Author: Danu

Album Review, New Music

Stephen James Smith ‘See No Evil’ Album

Stephen James Smith has released his debut album ‘See No Evil’. The 9 track album was recorded during lockdown in Co. Wexford, after Stephen found himself moving there from Dublin during the pandemic which presented the opportunity to work with Gavin Glass in Orphan Recording Studios. Stephen was awarded the Music Industry Stimulus Package under the Recording Stimulus fund to help with the making of the album which is due for release on ‘Nymphs & Thugs’ an independent record label based in the UK. Stephen is the first Irish artist they are working with. The album is produced by Gareth Quinn Redmond and features a host of other artists such as; Conor O’Brien (Villagers), Jess Kav, Laura Quirke (Lemoncello), Cormac Begley, Camin Gilmore (Sun Collective / Crash Ensemble), Aidan Murphy, Conor Cunningham and Albert Karch.

‘See No Evil’ is an absolute delight. Throughout the album, Stephen James Smith creates vivid imagery through the medium of evocative poetry and expressive instrumentation. ‘An Ode to Tony MacMahon’s Den’ is a fine example of this; through eloquent lyrics and supple instrumentation ( enhanced by traditional lilts ) Stephen James Smith brings the exciting scene to life “come gather round and listen there’s a ramblin session beginning, Kerry is descended upon Dunlin in Tony MacMahon’s Den“. The pieces of composed music behind his stirring poetry is at times cinematic while at other times brooding and bubbling with tension underneath – his depiction of isolation in ‘Iomramh’ is wonderfully emotive and the icy piano and eerie soundscapes within ‘I’ve’ Had Lovers’ is simply a joy to listen to.

The characters within his tracks are relatable and James Smith narrates his stories with flawless commitment. Perhaps this is best displayed in ‘The Gardener’ – a powerful display of James Smith’s musicianship. Lines such as “her hands are warm, the flesh loosened by age….. Her eyes are still young, still, life to be lived”  are combined with soft twinkling piano to express the artist’s complicated relationship with his mother “A sick child and a broken marriage all this and I don’t know how to speak to her. I always want to hug her and I don’t know how. So a veiled kiss laced with courtesy will do“. It’s one of many heartbreaking and earnest tracks on the album, that spark contemplation within the listener. Another line within the track that leaves the listener in lasting grimaces is the hard-hitting “nor did I expect to be knocked by the answer to my question, would you like grandchildren? I asked my father. I’d have liked a daughter, he said” – the lingering music and pause after this line enhances the emotional weight behind the lyric. It is an excellent display of James Smith’s deft musical prowess that creates a sense of shock and leaves the listener aghast by the words themselves.

‘See No Evil’ is a powerful thought-provoking album. James Smith creates poems filled with honest moments and emotive chills. There is much to admire from this album from sincere emotive lyrics to cinematic soundscapes and expressive instrumentation. Love it.

Stream ‘See No Evil’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Buddie Introducing, indie rock, New Music

Indie Buddie Introducing: Chalk

Post-punk band, Chalk have released their debut single ‘Them’. Chalk is an Irish band based in Belfast. After meeting at film school, the band was quickly established during the summer of 2019. Chalk’s songwriting is image-driven, influenced by their filmmaking roots. Their visual style (as seen in their self-made music videos) interweaves with their sound in an evocative fashion. Their debut single, ‘Them’,  was recorded with producer Chris Ryan (SORBET, Robocobra Quartet), known for his work with Irish acts Just Mustard and NewDad.

‘Them’ is a beast of a track that showcases the raucous and enthralling sound of Chalk. Filled with dance beats and catchy bass hooks the verses brood within dark eerie soundscapes before erupting into a battering instrumental assault for the chorus while spoken word vocals spit enigmatic lyrics with sinister venom; “Your shape cries and bends through me “. The vocals venture from whispered nonchalant tones to fierce wails and exclaims as the song builds to its manic rave-like crescendo. ‘Them’ is an utterly thrilling experience, the listener is treated to many musical gems on each subsequent listen from deft production to lush textures and evocative lyrics. Chalk are an exciting new addition to the post-punk scene. Keep an eye on this band.

Stream ‘Them’ below 

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Author: Danu

Indie, Indie Quick Picks, New Music

Indie Quick Picks – Featuring The Flies, Rowan, Ryan Egan and Y!KES 

The Flies

Genre: Rock and Roll

Bio: Teen Roscommon rock and roll band The Flies will release a self-produced new single ‘Split in Two’ on all platforms on Friday 25th March. A new video will be released to coincide with the release. The song was produced and engineered by Flies bassist JJ Doherty and mastered by Luke Devaney at The Blue Room, Sligo. The Flies have released two EPs since the COVID 19 pandemic began in March 2020. The ‘Looser’ and ‘Back in the Garage’ EPs attracted significant critical praise and the lead tracks from both have gained significant national radio play. In the period before the pandemic, The Flies were a busy live act. Some of their last gigs before things shut down in March 2020 were support slots with Jinx Lennon and The Stunning. They are looking forward to taking things up on the live front where they left off.

Track: Split in Two

Why We Like It: It’s a catchy slice of indie rock that showcases The Flies’ knack for infectious melodies and energetic musicianship. With radiant guitar jangling through a tight drum foundation and irresistible bass groove, it’s a tune sure to have listeners singing along in no time. Oozing confidence and charm ‘Split in Two’ is a lively ditty that marks The Flies as a band to keep an eye on.

You can follow The Flies on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/FliesBandIRL

Stream ‘Split in Two’ below 

Rowan

Photo credit: Nicholas O’Donnell

Genre: Alternative 

Bio: Irish trio Rowan have released their second single, ‘Honesty’, from the band’s upcoming debut album, Does It Make You Happy? due out May 6th via Beverly Martel. ‘Honesty’ is the follow-up track from the band’s previous singles ‘Irish To My Bones’ and ‘Youth & Youthhood’ which have received support from the likes of Steve Lamacq and Lauren Laverne at 6 Music.

Track: Honesty

Why We Like It: Filled with sunkissed melodies and shredding guitar moments, ‘Honesty’ is a glorious new single from Rowan. The band weave garage rock elements over dreamy shoegaze tones to create a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience. Rowan’s exquisite sound is blossoming wonderfully. Looking forward to the debut album from this talented trio.

You can follow Rowan on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/Rowanofficialmusic

Watch the video for ‘Honesty’ below 

Ryan Egan

Photo Credit: Hugo Cohen Sprun

Genre : Singer-songwriter

Bio: Ryan Egan has announced the release of his long-anticipated debut album ‘Soft Power’, set for release on April 8th, 2022. The album’s fourth single ‘We Do It On Purpose’ has been released alongside the announcement. The album was produced by Kevin Basko (Foxygen, The Lemon Twigs).

Track: We Do It On Purpose

Why We Like It: It’s a dreamy slow jam, filled with nostalgic melodies, mellow guitar and soft beats. This tune is a fine display of indie-pop and Egan’s lush musicianship as he croons over a supple melody while elegant keys and a soothing choir fill out the song’s ethereal soundscapes. ‘We Do It On Purpose’ is well crafted and beckons repeat plays.

You can follow Ryan Egan on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/thisryanegan

Stream ‘We Do It On Purpose’ below 

Y!KES

Genre : Alternative rock

Bio: Birmingham anti-pop quartet Y!KES have released their new single ‘Iron Deficiency’. Produced by Jim Pinder (BMTH / WSS) at Treehouse Studio, the single is accompanied by a classic music video shot inside Birmingham’s botanical gardens.

Track: Iron Deficiency

Why We Like It: It’s a mighty alternative rock mammoth that boasts the mesmerising sound of Y!KES. The band blast a blitz of crashing guitars over a pounding drum assault while eerie bass lines create a chilling tone throughout. The song is smothered in distortion and ominous soundscapes to create a thrilling listening experience for listeners to immerse themselves in. Filled with fiery alternative rock angst, ‘Iron Deficiency’ is a fantastic new single from Y!KES. Enjoy.

You can follow Y!KES on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/yikesofficial

Watch the video for ‘Iron Deficiency’ below

Follow Our Indie Quick Picks Playlist On Spotify Here


Author: Danu

New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Elina Filice ‘Don’t Let Me Fall’

Elina Filice returns from a busy 2021 (a well-received sophomore EP and over a million total Spotify streams) with new single ‘Don’t Let Me Fall’. The song was written and recorded by Elina in her home studio and co-produced by Viscose. Elina Filice is gaining attention for songs that defy genre and interactive live performances. Her music is soulful and melodic while being influenced by blues and spoken word. Born to Canadian parents, Elina spent her formative years in Singapore before moving to Canada to attend University. She then relocated to Dublin where she worked extensively in the music industry and founded Red Vine Records. Elina is a strong advocate for queer rights and visibility, and regards music as a powerful tool for the queer community. 

‘Don’t Let Me Fall’ oozes dark undertones and asphyxiating electronic pulses as Filice showcases a mature and more sinister side to her songwriting. The song broods and simmers within mellow guitar lines and icy soundscapes for the verses ( creating a cold and isolating atmosphere ) while the intricate beats and funky guitar hooks in the chorus create a danceable and energetic listening experience. The track is a joy to listen to and is a fine display of Filice’s deft musical prowess and diverse sound. Filled with lush textures, pristine production and sharp lyrical content ‘Don’t Let Me Fall’ is an enticing and kinetic new single from this talented artist.

About the track, Elina says, “We’ve all been in the situation or know someone who’s been in a relationship or friendship where someone is relying on you for their stability. It’s incredibly scary being stuck in a dark tango with someone who you care for but are unable to help. What they threaten to do if you leave them leads to a toxic and painful cycle.” 

Stream ‘Don’t Let Me Fall’ below 


Author: Danu

New Music, Singer/Songwriter

David Hope ‘Moon and Back’


Clare artist David Hope has released his new single, ‘Moon and Back’. The track is taken from his forthcoming new album ‘And the Sea’.  With earnest lyrics drifting atop a bittersweet, nostalgic melody,  ‘Moon and Back’ is a passionate new song from Hope. His velvety vocals tenderly croon poetic lyrics creating a sombre yet soothing atmosphere for listeners to immerse themselves in, “Goodbye, such a sweet and simple word, yet a dagger to the heart, tears your world apart… I love you to the moon and back and everywhere beyond and in between, though every nightmare and every dream”. Showcasing a minimalist approach with just delicate keys twinkling between warm guitar, subtle instrumental builds and warm vocals, ‘Moon and Back’ is an enjoyable relaxing gem from David Hope. 

Stream ‘Moon and Back’ below 

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Author: Danu