Dublin-based new wave rock band Hook have released their new single, ‘I Want To See You Tonight’. The band formed in early 2019 consists of Eoin O’Donnell (vocals, guitar), Morgan O’Brien (drums) and Danny Spelman (bass, vocals). The tight-knit three-piece released their critically acclaimed debut EP back in March 2020 and received much-deserved airplay from around the world.
‘I Want To See You Tonight’ sees Hook take their irresistible sound and saturate it with emotion to create one glorious listening experience. Bright guitar glimmers between a pop-punk backdrop to create an uplifting and dynamic soundscape for listeners to indulge in. The track is brimming with gusto with rasped vocals exuding emotion and urgency as O’Donnell exclaims “ I want to see you tonight” between kinetic instrumental builds. Hook have become known for their richly layered, catchy tunes and ‘I Want To See You Tonight’ is a perfect example of this. The track is a magnificent new single that is sure to have you singing along in no time.
Limerick indie-Pop band Lost Boys have released their debut EP ‘Honey Mustard.’ Starting initially as an indie band back in 2018 – Lost Boys have consistently looked at new ways to create more meaningful and modern music, most recently with the introduction of Hip-Hop/New Wave instrumentation into their songs.
‘Honey Mustard’ is a beautiful EP. Lost Boys display their exquisite musicianship by putting together a satisfying and cohesive collection of tracks that are sensitive and carefree while richly displaying the band’s musical prowess. They showcase their ability to find the sweet spot between genres to create luscious tunes for the listener to indulge in. Each track is saturated in lovable heartfelt melodies and peppered in reggae rhythms, 90’s rock embellishments, and sweet indie-pop with hip hop and new wave blending everything together. Even though the band move through different genres, it’s a seamless transition each time.
Slick R&B and hip hop elements create a smooth glossy soundscape in ‘Hindsight’ and the groove-infested ‘Best Friend’ whichkeeps the EP’s atmosphere light to begin with. However ‘Karma Girl’ kicks things up a notch. Thick electronics flurry around a hypnotic guitar refrain throughout the song while sticky pulsing beats create a suspenseful and intense backdrop. With reverb vocals, a cinematic chorus, and gripping instrumental builds, ‘Karma Girl’ is a magnificent track and a pinnacle moment in the EP.
The beautiful ballad-esque ‘Sadie’ brings the EP to a wonderful finale. A warm acoustic guitar strums atop elegant strings and delicate picks on electric guitar. The mellow soundscape is tender, evocative, and simply divine. Oozing lush harmonies and a subtle country tone, it’s an emotive end to a magnificent EP.
Lost Boys have outdone themselves with ‘Honey Mustard.’ Boasting rich soundscapes, skillful use of instrumentation, and lush harmonies, teamed with earnest lyrics, ‘Honey Mustard’ marks Lost Boys as a band to keep an eye on.
NYC/Philadelphia-based band, Palmas, comprised of Kurt Cain-Walther (vocals/keys), Matthew Young (guitars), and Andrew Torre (drums, percussion, programming), announce their self-produced, debut album, ‘Endless Season’, with the release of first single, ‘Bad Dream,’ via Lost Colony Music.This new track is the band’s first in two years. It follows their 2016 EP, To The Valley, as well as 2017 single ‘Flowers’ and ‘Floating in the Dark’ and 2018 single, ‘Where Are You Going?’
Immersed in chilled funk flavoured grooves, ‘Bad Dream’ announces Palmas’ return with new wave, psychedelic textures and ruminating lyrics. The band pivot the track around a funky bass line and rich percussion while the warm glistening guitars weave threads of sun kissed delight throughout.
Though the lyrics are melancholic the track’s sonics bubble and bounce throughout giving a laid back upbeat atmosphere to the song as the melody drifts freely over the beautifully evolving instrumentation and R&B elements. Kurt Cain-Walther’s passionate vocals saturate ‘Bad Dream’ in sweet, lush and warm tones. His soulful voice suits this track perfectly as his supple falsetto glides seamlessly over the sleek melody.
The trio take a step away from the retro melodic sound we saw in ‘To The Valley’. They have refined the lush intricacies within their musicianship to create a new wave, indie pop gem coated in sombre R&B hues.This R&B element adds a night-time cool undertone to the song providing a wonderful contrast to the sultry, rich backdrop. There are musical residues of The Weeknd blended through the bands mature cultivated sound and clean production however ‘Bad Dream’ takes the band’s summer sound to a different level with darker undertones and a cooler approach.
Versatility is a key element to success in the music industry. Palmas have demonstrated they are more than adept at adjusting to various genre styles without losing their identity. Palmas keep getting better and better with each new release. Their ability to create rich tantalising music is mesmersing and a joy to listen to.
About the track The band said : “Bad Dream” is about realizing you’re in a place you never should have been. The protagonist is experiencing the same thing over and over again and it’s driving them insane. It could be a long winter, a relationship that has deteriorated, or a job that you hate going to day after day after day. The lyrics and the idea of an “Endless Season” became a focal point for the narrative and eventually went on to become the title of the entire record. At its roots, this track felt like an anthem to a period of depression and the self-realization of needing to confront it.”
New wave indie band Hook have released their self titled debut EP. Hook are a three piece band from Dublin, Ireland comprised of Eoin O’Donnell (vox, guitars) Danny Spelman (bass) Morgan O’Brien (drums).Formed in early 2019 Hook spent the year writing and recording. The EP is just some of the songs created in that time. The EP was mixed and mastered by Grammy award winner Ciaran Byrne and produced by the band.
With jaunty catchy tunes swirled in an edgy indie coating Hook’s self titled EP is a short snappy enjoyable collection of tracks.The band inject perky light guitar lines into their music which creates wonderful, ethereal and zest stricken qualities in tracks ’The Light’ and ‘Fancy Dress’ as the punchy drums and intricate bass groove lay down the tight foundation. There is a messy fun atmosphere and sun kissed glow about each track that is quite infectious while the dreamy sweet melodies charm their way onto repeat. This trio blend in some grunge and gritty elements into the EP as well. ‘Spoiler Alert’ hints at the bands darker side. With jagged sharp guitars slicing through a rough bass line and relentless drums the band smother darker elements into their sound. Hook’s ability to create acute raw riffs and melodies with majestic flurries on guitar is impressive and they display these wonderfully throughout the EP. ‘I love the world because you’re in it’ brings the EP to a sweet upbeat end. With a warm wholesome melody and country hue this vibrant indie ditty is a charming finale.
Hook have presented a fine well rounded EP brimming with proficient musicianship and delightful catchy melodies. With tight layering, intricate instrumentation and witty lyrical content Hook have created a strong collection of tracks.
City Victim have released their new single ‘Out of Sight’. City Victim are an Irish post-punk/new wave band currently residing in Galway. The band have spent the last year and a half recording their debut album, with the help of Geoff French on drums (The Brilliant Things) and Fergal Davis on production (O Emperor, Muse).
‘Out of Sight’ is a finely cultured number that drifts and glides along a dreamy mellowed indie rock backdrop. The sweet nostalgic melody floats gracefully upon a driving bass line and twinkling guitar feature while swirling soundscapes soothe and cool the tone creating an ethereal freeing atmosphere. The track weaves its way gently through jangly biting guitar elements that create an itching nag and edgy quality to the cruising gem while a steady beat, 80’s vibes and lush vocals flesh out the track filling it with rich textures and prismatic speckles of colour. The tight production, refined musicianship, laid back fluidity and dazzling charm of ‘Out of Sight’ makes City Victim a band to keep an eye on.
Indie Rock 4-Piece Punketronic have released their debut single ‘Hello Mr Moonlight’, a tribute to the late David Bowie as a thank you for giving us inspiring and uplifting music. Based in Bristol, Punketronic was formed by songwriter and multi instrumentalist Paul Tronic. Made up of band mates of 20 years from covers bands, the four piece present a fusion of new wave, synth pop and power pop with a hint of modern indie rock, giving them an edge whilst still remaining current.
Their debut single ‘Hello Mr Moonlight’ is a punchy 3 minute track, written by Paul himself. Taking influence from the likes of Blondie, Talking Heads and David Bowie, with a brit pop energy. It’s a sweetly nostalgic synth pop number driven by edgy jangly guitars and a snappy beat. The melody flows upon a groovy danceable backdrop while the synth laced soundscapes wisp and swirl about creating a spacey vibrant breath of fresh air. This radio friendly ditty floods with a catchy chorus and luscious melodies wrapped in a swoosh of shimmering electronics. The dazzling soundscapes encase the track in a delightful nostalgic euphoria while the zesty guitar injects a healthy dose of indie rock. Recorded in Paul’s home studio, ‘Hello Mr Moonlight’ was written in around an hour and self-recorded. The track is accompanied by an interesting video, recorded by George Elliott, a hotly tipped film student from Bristol.
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Fontaines
The LA duo Hank Fontaine and Charlotte Fontaine have released their new single ‘Evaporate’. Sprinkling their new-wave rock with energetic funk The Fontaines glide in with swooney effortless cool grooves smothered in steamy sensual vibes. Dripping in sticky bouncy guitar riffs its a tempting bounce of sassy swagger. Charlotte’s vocals softly cruise with flirty charm and a sultry smoulder that is thrilling. The gentle drum beat teamed with elastic slap on bass gives a sensual luring sticky effect that adds to the entire sizzling sweltering humidity of the track. The lyrics narrate a “catch and release” relationship which only exists in the bedroom. The Fontaines are currently finishing up their debut full-length album which is set for release later this year.
Our Worth A Listen This Week is Mini Mansions ‘Flashbacks’
Los Angeles’ finest Mini Mansions have released a collection of unreleased/unheard B-Side tracks entitled ‘Flashbacks’. This follows their critically acclaimed second album ‘The Great Pretenders’ which was released in 2015. The trio , vocals and drummer Michael Shuman, vocals and keyboardist Tyler Parkford, bassist and multi instrumentalist Zachary Dawes have compiled a collection of nine ravishing tracks that smash all boundaries. We couldn’t choose just one track for our worth a listen but then, why would you choose one when their are nine spine tingling beauties. ‘Flashbacks’ kicks things off with ‘Drive’ a snappy quick step luscious track with Dawes’ fuzzed bass giving an ecstatic bounce. Parkford’s sweet delicate vocals introduces the nectarous melody with Shuman’s backing vocals adding a lush heavenly texture. The fluidity of this track makes it so easy on the ears and soothing with sugar coated sparkle. Building into heavier fuzzed rock instrumentation Mini Mansions introduce us to their gritty glam rock sprinkled with a smooth mouthwatering sweet 60s texture. With the sudden change to deep bass vocals by Shuman a warm mellow tone is added to the rich mix. ‘Drive’ knocks it out of the park and hooks you into the trio’s unique dreamy world of psychedelia and rock.‘Bored To Death’ coos and lulls into a gentle slow dance. With raspy vocals and tender lyrics teamed with elegant keys and dexterous chord progression creating a catchy soothing track that stops time, stilling everything around except for the beautiful melody. Lush harmony and gently sorrowful tones add purity and elegance. The track builds in intensity as a heartbroken tone takes over with heavy rhythm. The sweetened sting on guitar with soft piano and a light beat plays the track out with echoing gingerly soft repetitive vocals. ‘Ticket For One’ illuminates with a bright melody and multi-textures. The infectious slap whack beat combined with nimble keys and Dawes’ sharp elastic bass giving the track a rubber ball rebound effect. The call and response vocals between soft Parkford and deep Shuman as they interact with syrupy smooth melodies that will give you “stuck song syndrome”. Leading effortlessly and perfectly into ‘Ticket For Two’ a witty bouncy track with the catchy and almost “dollish” twinkle piano effect. Adding a catchy “clap clap” effect and steady striking bass ‘Ticket for two’ is a “tour de force” as it pulls similarities from ‘Ticket For One’ while developing a distinctive sound. Of course there is no great genius without a mixture of madness especially where Mini Mansions are concerned as they lead us into a frenzy of heavy manical moshing to end this fantastic track. ‘Fiona’ which we previously featured on Indie Buddie has a darkened dreamy tone and swoon-like atmosphere coated in hazy psychedelia. Once again Parkford and Shuman share vocals as they weave and intertwine melodies with warm seductive textures. The drums exude an oomph and panache to start and then seduce and coax when teamed with the smooth velvety vocals. They build into a sweep and bluster for the intense massive crescendo before the tone slows to a soft gentle echo finish. ‘Shape Recorder‘ has a spooky Halloween party track feeling to start with the peppy organ. The track maintains a sneaky eerie tone with psychedelic fuzz and heavy daunting instrumentation. Its a swirling confusion of blurry haunting fun and dangerous shady obscurity. The intensity of the track fades to a sweet soft vocal with lush harmonies before a final burst of instrumentation. ‘Valet’ is our taste of sensual reggae with Hendrix- esque guitar to start. This body grooving track is effortlessly cool and sleek and shows Mini Mansions in a new light. Its a sit back and bop to the music feel good tasteful track. Shuman’s warm deep vocals contrasting with Parkford’s candied falsetto towards the end adds a charming multi dimension. Exuding fiery strutting swagger with a captivating stride and flaunt this track is magnetic and tantalising. ‘Little Al Capone’ begins with a strong “digging” labour intensive beat and bass vocals adding grounding and depth. The track builds into a theatrical quick passed track with rapid beat and sprightly piano. Tight harmony on vocals and a vibrant dynamism and oomph instrumentation add passion and slappy elasticity. The track sounds like it could have been taken from a scene from a musical where the actors are hard at work, slogging through the daily grindstone. ‘Shadow’ completes our musical journey with the mysterious Mini Mansions in a sombre nostalgic tone. Its labyrinth of interweaving textures meandering through a delicate tender melody and heavenly sweet lavish vocals give this track opulent textures and diversity. The dreamy Utopian wistfulness and visionary fantasy set to swirling rapid beat and whine on guitars in a sway – like motion gives this track an abstracted feeling, like it was all a dream.
Mini Mansions are like a fine wine maturing and coming into their own. ‘Flashbacks’ could have been an album as each track opens your mind to their unique classy musicianship as they guide you into a journey of fantasy and rich textures unwinding your mind and unravelling your senses.
