Tag Archives: punk rock

Indie, indie rock, New Music

HAVVK ‘Halfway Out’

Photo: HAVVK

HAVVK have released their new single ‘Halfway Out’. ‘Halfway Out’ is the final single to be released from the band’s upcoming album ‘Levelling’. It follows the success of ‘Automatic’, ‘Home’ and ‘No Patience’, which have all received excellent radio play worldwide on stations such as RTÉ 2fm, Today FM, BBC Radio Ulster, NewsTalk, 98fm and Beat 102103 (Ireland), Radio X, Amazing Radio (UK) and KEXP (USA). HAVVK are trio Julie Hough (Vocals, Bass), Matt Harris (Guitar) and Sam Campbell (Drums). Julie and Matt are also the founders of VETA Music – the artist-led record label that is home to Maria Kelly, Sive, DYVR and St. Bishop, as well as HAVVK themselves. Originally based in London, and then Berlin, the label now calls Dublin home.

Filled with whirring guitars and the perfect blend between hazy shoegaze and punk rock, ‘Halfway Out’ is a fantastic teaser for HAVVK’s upcoming album. The track ebbs and flows with lush melodies and ethereal guitar embellishments as Julie Hough’s sweet lulling vocals chime throughout. She croons with awe-inspiring vocal strength while the building instrumentation creates a swarm of chaos in the backdrop. The song travels like a thrilling roller coaster with buzzing instrumental builds and soft swooping releases as the song reaches its dynamic crescendo. HAVVK have created a musically balanced masterpiece that surges with emotion and expressive intricate instrumentation, if ‘Halfway Out’ is anything to go by, ‘Levelling’ will be one spectacular album.

Halfway Out is a song about disengaging from life and from going through the motions. About the track, Julie Hough said: “We wrote the song as a response to the pressure that comparison culture can put particularly on young people and how it can be such a blocker for finding joy and purpose. It’s also so easy to curate your life as if everything is going fine. The song is about connecting with someone and telling them you can see that they’re struggling and offering support.”

HAVVK have also announced that they will play The Workman’s Club, Dublin on Wednesday 29th September. Doors are at 8pm and tickets are €10. Tickets on sale Thursday 19th August at 10am

Stream ‘Halfway Out’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt Rock, Grunge, Indie, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music

Nerves ‘Leigue’

 Photo Credit: Patryk Gizicki 

Irish avant-punk trio Nerves have returned with their new single ‘Leigue’. Having lit up their homeland with four well-received singles to date, the band began to earn a reputation as a must-see live act prior to lockdown with a series of sweaty DIY basement shows, sold-out headline dates and support slots with the likes of HMLTD, Turnstiles and more. Recorded over lockdown at Sonic Studios with Girl Band’s Daniel Fox, “Leigue” is a perfect snapshot of the band’s intense and borderless sound. 

‘Leigue’ frizzles with the passionate and thrilling sound of Nerves. It’s a hard-hitting tune that displays Nerves at their most intense and emotional to date. The song has an asphyxiating and harrowing atmosphere that is greatly enhanced by a muggy panic-stricken soundscape filled with pounding drums, rampant bass wriggles and contorting wails on guitar. ‘Leigue’ is an immersive listening experience – the track broods and simmers with angst throughout as Nerves venture from light shoegaze moments to post-punk anarchy within a few brisk instrumental lacerations. The shoegaze, post-punk, krautrock blend of sounds is an exhilarating assault on the senses as Kyle Thornton’s reverb vocals speak about the dangers of trying to ignore grief and allowing unhealthy coping mechanisms to begin to rule one’s life. As the song reaches its crescendo, the guitars spiral and crash into the aggressive drums, creating an explosive and exhilarating moment for listeners to enjoy. 

Nerves are meticulously crafting their powerful sound, and ‘Leigue’ is an exciting example of this band’s impressive musicianship. 

Speaking about the single, Kyle Thornton says, “We feel as though Leigue was a bit of a turning point for us as a band, towards something more mature and cathartic. It’s paved the way for how our sound and attitude has changed over the course of the last year. It’s still intense and still fun to play, but it means more to us now than I think it ever has.”

Stream ‘Leigue’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music, Punk Rock

Slyrydes ‘Boy In The Debs Suit’

Slyrydes are set to release their new single ‘Boy In The Debs Suit’ on March 8th. Slyrydes are a four piece band from Galway. The band released their first five singles from March 2019 to March 2020 (Mental Health, Point of view, Out Patience, Dangerous Animals & I claim to be intelligent). The singles collected much critical acclaim nationwide and in the UK. In 2020 against many odds Slyrydes managed to record their Debut album which will be available on 12″ and is set for release this year.

‘Boy In The Debs Suit’ is a raw and coarse new single from Slyrydes. The band create a dark and exhilarating sound smothered in refined instrumentation. 

Slyrydes have become known for tackling the emotional themes of mental health through their songs and ‘Boy In The Debs Suit’ follows this trend. By surrounding this hard-hitting rock track in earnest and sinister tones, they drive home the harsh reality of life and mental health through masterfully expressive instrumentation. 

With a majestic and nimble guitar display embellishing the track in finesse and swagger Slyrydes create a piercing and light contrast to their brawny sound. A rampant bass and fluctuant rhythmic foundation exudes an ominous undertone while deep expressive vocals roar about the harrowing realisation when you see the picture of a missing person you know “I am in shock cos I saw him last week… We were in the same place”. The verses build tension as the coiling bass wanders through the song’s underbelly evoking a sense of mystery that builds into the dynamic and frenzied crescendo.

‘Boy In The Debs Suit’ is a brilliant display of musicianship from Slyrydes. Their compelling sound is blossoming into something to truly admire. Looking forward to hearing more from this talented four piece. ‘Boy In The Debs Suit’ is set for release on 8th of March.

For more, you can follow Slyrydes on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/slyrydes/


Author : Danu

Indie, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music, Punk Rock

Urban Theory ‘A Poet’s World’

Back with their very first single of 2021 ‘A Poet’s World’, Manchester-based indie-punk band Urban Theory are set to take new heights in the year ahead. Forming in 2016, this four piece guitar band has set about becoming a firm favourite on the Manchester indie-punk scene. In their short reign they have already sold out a number of notable North West venues, supported a host of big names and gained numerous plays on BBC Introducing and XS Manchester.

Gritty and seeping with energy, ‘A Poet’s World’ displays the catchy punk rock of Urban Theory. The band introduce the track with a raw guitar riff that slices through a punchy drum and resounding bass foundation. Urban Theory layer and craft the track meticulously to create maximum impact through teased instrumental explosions throughout the song.

 The verses simmer in dark soundscapes as the band use the gnawing backdrop to create a tense and jogging pace before the powerful chorus erupts into an instrumental frenzy. Melding punk aggression with infectious indie and edgy rock, the band present a sound that is both intoxicating and rousing. ‘A Poets World’ is a wonderfully fierce, well-crafted indie punk track ready for the mania of live shows. 

 Stream ‘A Poet’s World’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Vulpynes ‘Us Against Them’ EP

Vulpynes are back with their latest EP ‘Us Against Them’ on FOAD/Advance Records.The four blistering tracks were initially penned as part of their debut album, however when Covid hit they decided to release the four tracks as an EP. 

‘Us Against Them’ is a fantastic display of raw untainted alternative rock. Vulpynes lean heavily on a punk, abrasive attitude to create a knockout four track EP boasting some seriously heavy riffage. With fuzz-laced guitar riffs and pummelling drums ‘One Horse Mind’ is the perfect album opener. This adrenaline-fuelled song is sure to have you moshing within seconds.

Vulpynes douse their sound in sinister undertones, catchy melodies and vigorous hooks to make ‘Sister’ one of the pinnacle moments on the EP. This track is an invigorating blast of alternative rock which leaves the listener feeling pumped and craving for more.

However the frantic gallop of ‘This Motor Is Me’ and the dark, fuzz-saturated ‘Control Is Not What I Need’ deserve special attention. These two glorious tracks display the talent and musical growth of this duo, showing Vulpynes’ sound has fermented and curdled into something truely thrilling. The tight brisk riffs are executed with such precision and brawn it’s awe-inspiring while the groove presented on drums by Kaz is an otherworldly rampage of terror and delight as she shifts nimbly between raw rumbles, mighty thumps and thunderous bashes. Maeve Molly’s distinctive, raspy vocals anchor the listener within the musical maelstrom. She spits and bellows out the lyrics matching the all consuming wall of sound with her enticing tone.

Exuding a heavy dollop of riot attitude, Vulpynes have created a fiery alternative rock EP in ‘Us Against Them’. With tunes full of catchy melodies and addictive riffs Vulpynes are a force to be reckoned with.

Stream ‘Us Against Them’ below


Author : Danu

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

Y!KES ‘MASS!VE’ EP

Birmingham based quartet Y!KES have released their new EP ‘MASS!VE’. A spine chilling collection of tracks filled with raw crunchy guitar lines, stabbing drums and manic dark soundscapes, ‘MASS!VE’ stays the course the band unleashed with their debut EP ‘Everything Pointless Is Correct’. The new EP captures the abrasive nature of Y!KES in a nutshell showcasing their unapologetic, gut-punching alternative grunge rock is a force to be reckoned with.

These guys have a knack with catchy guitar refrains which they mangle beneath wild unruly instrumentation while the odd guitar riff peers above the bands musical onslaught. ‘Pirouette’ follows this format perfectly. There is a ‘My Chemical Romance’ tone and Emo residue to the track which wallows within the songs underbelly – swarming with loathing and moody aggression.

Of course this bands instrumental prowess and flair is what makes them so intriguing however, it is Oli Long’s aggitated vocals which gives Y!KES enough drama and crazed intensity to take their sound to epic heights. His vocals are luring, moody and almost psychotic as he wails, growls and mumbles through the tracks creating quite the unique and exhilarating character for each song. This is especially shown in ‘Alice’. Long’s vocals slither with a gravelly texture truly displaying the sinister range and capabilities of his vocals. It’s utterly thrilling. With a 90’s rock bravado the verses are manic and full of surprises while the chorus is strong and melodic, all leading to a glorious ending,  ‘Alice’ is one of the pinnacle moments on the EP.

The high intensity, mind frazzling rock doesn’t end after ‘Alice’, instead Y!kes expands from this point. The EP only gets better and heavier from here as the band push and explore the depths of their tantalizing sound. With a cinematic rush on guitars, shredding solos and melodic frantic flurries to delight the listener, ‘Door Frame Angel’ and ‘Faker’ take their triumphant place on the EP. Although just as coarse and sharp as previous tracks, the band inject sweeter melodies into the thrilling, alternative rock instrumental. 

However it’s not all a screaming assault of alternative rock, final track ‘Step Away’ brings the album to a surprising close. Here the band effortlessly slip into a more indie pop outfit with light jaunty guitar riffage providing an indie spring through the buoyant drum progressions. There are glimmers of Sugar Cult, early Arctic Monkeys and The Strokes in this song. I have to hand it to these guys, they always deliver a slap in the face of some kind and this sunkissed and moody number is the rosy-hued ( yet dark themed ) gem to do it. Absolutely love it. 

‘MASSIVE’ showcases Y!KES is growing and harnessing their raw unbridled rock to create music with a memorable balance between drama, anarchy and deft musicianship.The band have created an invigorating sound of their own to discuss themes of depression and conflicting emotions through anthemic tunes with choppy chords, gnarled vocals and ground shaking drums. It’s quite the masterpiece. 

Stream ‘MASSIVE’ below


Author : Danu

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

Vulpynes ‘Sister’

Punk rock duo Vulpynes have released their new single ‘Sister’. A week before Covid19 struck, the duo were half way through recording their debut album in Black Mountain Studios with James Darkin. Due to travel restrictions and Ireland being in complete disarray, they were unfortunately unable to finish it. After much consideration, Vulpynes have decided to release the first half of the album as a single sided limited edition 12″. The EP, entitled ‘Us Against Them’ will be released via Ireland’s premier punk rock label F.O.A.D/Advance Records.

 ‘Sister’ is another no nonsense smasher from Vulpynes. It’s a speed battering of the duo’s frantic punk rock at its most potent and all consuming best. The thrashing guitars and rapid pogo slaps on drums create that lean mean sound we have come to love from the band.

Molly’s powerful vocals are the heart of the song. The sheer attitude, ballsy fire and grit in her compelling voice gives her such a dominating presence it leaves much to be admired.

‘Sister’ is quite the razor cut anthem. Kaz’s jackhammer assaults on drums is the most beautiful battering ever to bruise your ears as her fast and poisonous whack creates the track’s all authoritative foundation.

Vulpynes’ music is always a joy to listen to. The duo produce some of the most visceral and kinetic forms of music on the Dublin scene at the moment. They have a slick, raw and majestic way of presenting their blood thirsty rock and ‘Sister’ is a fine new example of this.

Stream ‘Sister’ below 


Author : Danu

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

Bullet Girl ‘Whacked’

Alternative four piece band Bullet Girl have released their new single ‘Whacked’ produced and mixed by Daniel Fox. Late 2019 saw Bullet Girl refine their live sound with gigs such as co-headlining the first ever TILT at the Button Factory in October, hosted by John Barker of Totally Irish 98fm. They’ve also seen success in supporting bands such as FEET at the Sound House in November. On February 16th they played The Workman’s Club in aid of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre. ‘Whacked’ is the first of four songs recorded with Daniel Fox of Girl Band, all of which centre around modern Dublin culture. 

‘Whacked’ is a berserker of mania slapped into a fury of punk as Bullet Girl flesh out their raw unadulterated musicianship in all its blood thirsty glory. Sharp guitars lacerate and swivel through the track in a swarm of turmoil as they shrill and soar through the crashing soundscapes. The bruising drum pummels and batters with relentless stamina while the majestic bass rumbles throughout. There is a masterful balance between utter anarchy and tense suspense as Bullet Girl bubble and simmer for the verses before erupting into the battering assault that is the sublime chorus.

Like burning acid the track fizzes and seethes behind the bristled vocal yelps and exclaims. ‘Whacked’ is a well crafted, precise yet messy conundrum ready to blast from the speakers. This track is going to be epic live. 

Stream ‘Whacked’ below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie Punk, New Music, Punk Rock

Broozer ‘Are We Dead Yet’ EP

Wolverhampton based Punk Rock Duo Broozer have released their debut EP ‘Are We Dead Yet’. Since their formation they have played at iconic venues in Birmingham and the West Midlands and were picked up by Wyatt Wendall of Planet Rock and featured on his New Rock Show several times. They have been supported by Tim Senna of Switch Radio/BBC WM Introducing and have also received airtime on Brum Radio, including their EP ‘Are We Dead Yet’ which has been added to their A-List, prior to its release.

‘Are We Dead Yet’ presents Broozer’s raw untainted punk rock in four brisk bruising tracks. Surrounded in a relentless swarm of demolishing energy ‘Thank You Baby’ and ‘Give Um Hell’ sets the madness in motion as the duo batter your skull with crushing drums and harsh riffs. The band waste no time spring-boarding into their adrenaline-inducing sound while the fierce vocals howl over the shattering instrumental backdrop. However the duo are not all about rapid punk-fueled sprints. They can refine and cultivate their sound too and ‘Hero’ showcases this sublimely. It is a creeping, chilling, sexy number. Dark soundscapes smother ominous grainy guitar riffs while groove-rooted drums take on a sensual quality. With sinister vocals, sharp whines on guitar and a horror movie frenzied soundscape its quite the impressive number that shows there is substance to this band. ‘I’m Ok’ brings the EP to a delirious mind bulldozing end – it’s a pure concoction of mania. With screaming vocals clamorous instrumentation and barbed atmosphere it is not for the faint-hearted. 

Broozer have created an EP laced in acid dipped guitar and pulverising drums to create a rapid assault on the senses. Exuding explosive energy and anarchy from its core – its an EP sure to ignite the mosh pit of a live show.

Stream ‘Are We Dead Yet’ EP  below 


Author : Danu

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

Slyrydes ‘Dangerous Animals’

Galway’s Slyrydes are set to release their new single ‘Dangerous Animals’ on October 25th. The track was recorded by Daniel Doherty (Fontaines DC, Vulpynes, Galants) in Darklands audio Dublin.This is the fourth single from the band who have an album set for release in 2020. The band have been making a name for themselves with their previous tracks gaining radio support from Today fm, 2fm, RTE radio one, Radio Nova, BBC radio Foyle and Radio X in the UK as well as many regional stations.

‘Dangerous Animals’ is a relentless onslaught of bruising, battering punk rock as Slyrydes take their abrasive sound and carve it brutishly into your head with savage force. The piercing shrilling guitars lacerate and gash into the track with menacing rage as the pulverizing drums batter furiously throughout with primal vigor. With a curdling bass line rumbling relentlessly through the frenzy, this track packs one heck of a punch. The delirious swirling on guitars create a sinister, seizure-inducing mania that is both chilling and compelling while the shouted vocals spit and bellow the cutting lyrics. Slyrydes have created one turbulent blitz with their new track ‘Dangerous Animals’. It’s a dark blood thirsty belter brimming with raw unadulterated punk rock.

‘Dangerous Animals’ will be released on the 25th of October for more you can follow the band on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/slyrydes/


Author : Danu