Tag Archives: rock

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

FIGS ‘Just Let Me Be’

‘Just Let Me Be’ is the brand new debut single from four-piece rock band, FIGS. The first release under this name, ‘Just Let Me Be’ was initially written as a joke – until they realised that they might have been onto something big. The new band’s artwork for their debut single is intensely symbolic, with the wasp symbolising the need for growth, and for the old to give way to the new which represents each band member’s journey to becoming FIGS. FIGS are a rock band, formed in London, by Chris Makh, Edward Kaane, Alex Saleh, and Alex Hoff. Chris and Ed are originally from Venezuela. In 2015, they started playing as a two-man band, or sometimes with session musicians as a trio, touring small venues and opening for artists like Adam Wakeman, Rawayana, and The Second Sons. In 2019 Chris and Ed decided to make an album, and in 2020 they met Hoff and Saleh, who were long-time friends and joined the band.

‘Just Let Me Be’ is an upbeat and vibrant tune that boasts the fun and rich sound of FIGS. Blending jazz-infused piano with driving rock n’ roll, the band create a musically lush soundscape sure to have you up and dancing in no time. With jaunty classic rock guitar bouncing between punchy drum progressions, ‘Just Let Me Be’ rides on infectious energy and swagger. The band weave psychedelic moments into the track. It builds to an explosive crescendo filled with twinkling guitars and harmonies, creating a trippy prismatic backdrop before the chorus returns for a final hurrah. With lyricism inspired by their own personal relationships, FIGS present a catchy and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience with ‘Just Let Me Be’.

Stream ‘Just Let Me Be’ below


Author: Danu

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

Shadows of a Silhouette ‘Religion Is a Drug’

Alternative rock four-piece Shadows of a Silhouette have released their new single ‘Religion Is a Drug’. Much has changed for Shadows of a Silhouette over a seemingly long break since the release of their last single, ‘Closing For Good’, back in August. The two founding members of the band, Nathan Brown (Lead vocals, Rhythm guitar) and Reece Carter (Lead guitar) have since reformed the band and created the strongest line up to date, bringing in a drummer with over 10 years of experience in the scene with Tyler Henderson and recruiting a unique and aspiring musician in Fergus Murtagh to occupy the role of bassist. 

‘Religion Is a Drug’ is a slick riff-heavy number doused in Shadows of a Silhouette’s exhilarating musicianship. The band flesh out their sound with lush harmonies, popping bass lines, and crisp, finger-lickin’ guitar lines. Gliding between funky flexes and raw rock bravado the track wriggles in on an infectious groove and big brawny rhythm while jaunty smooth vocals caress a slinky melody. There is a lot going on in this song – from pummeling drums and rampant bass lines laying down the groove to the shredding guitar wails and scorching solos, Shadows of a Silhouette display their immense and energetic sound in all its glory. 

With a fun, catchy chorus and upbeat youthful sound ‘Religion Is a Drug’ is a badass smasher ready for repeat plays

Stream ‘Religion Is a Drug’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Rock and Roll

Chay Snowdon ‘Loud Shirts’

Chay Snowdon have released their new single ‘Loud Shirts’, via CD Baby. ‘Loud Shirts’ is taken from their forthcoming debut EP, ‘Are You Sitting Comfortably? (Then We’ll Begin)’ currently slated for mid-March release. Chay Snowdon are a four-piece alternative rock outfit based in the South West of England. 

‘Loud Shirts’ is a mammoth rock track saturated in the raw, energetic musicianship of Chay Snowdon. The track steamrolls in on a powerful wall of sound as thumping drums ricochet off a gritty foundation. The track exudes an irresistible glam-rock persona while showcasing the band’s deft musical ability. Desert western-esque guitars and sharp riffs pirouette and spring around the frantic brawny bass rumbles and pounding drums with such precision it’s magnificent to behold. With a rasped dynamic vocal delivery, searing verses, and blood-pumping chorus, ‘Loud Shirts‘ is a neck-snapping alternative indie powerhouse sure to have you frantically moshing in no time.

About the new single frontman, Chay says,‘“Loud Shirts’ it was the first song written that solely had the live shows in mind. Its purpose is to get the crowd down the front and going for it. It’s a song that has been in our set for a few years, but never gets old to play! It has become one of those songs’ that our regular gig-goers all know and anticipate in our sets, it has most definitely been a tune that has been gagging for a release. So, we finally felt it deserved to be recorded so fans can dance around at home and drift away into a dream world of mosh pits and chanting. “

Stream ‘Loud Shirts’ below 


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music

N.O.A.H ‘Darkest Hour’

N.O.A.H have released their eagerly awaited second single ‘Darkest Hour’, featuring Booka Brass. The single follows their first release “Shine” which received extensive airplay across both national and regional radio and was featured as 2FM’s Breakfast with Doireann & Eoghan’s Track of the Week. The band made their international debut with a featured live performance on Laura Whitmore’s BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast show. N.O.A.H is comprised of three lifelong friends, Ryan Hill,Adam Rooney and Ronan Hynes. The band was formed in January 2020, after the band decided to reform a previous musical endeavour. The band have taken inspiration in its naming, from the biblical story of ‘Noah and the Ark’, which is centralised around the theme of new beginnings. This idea is fundamental to the band’s vision and core values.

Filled with catchy hooks, a sing-along ready chorus and energetic instrumentation, ‘Darkest Hour’ is a sleek, edgy, and fantastic new single from N.O.A.H. The band create an eerie and tantalizing wall of sound while warm vocals coo in the backdrop. A driving rumble on bass and drums seduce through a muggy soundscape while luring guitar licks exude a dark indie tone. The triumphant rich elements provided by Booka Brass fill out the song’s backdrop with massive brass blasts while N.O.A.H injects psychedelic-hued distortion on guitars to create a confused and harrowing soundscape to match the vast brass sound. With shredding guitar embellishment and kick-ass rock bravado, ‘Darkest Night’ is a magnificent new single from N.OA.H.

Speaking about the track, N.O.A.H said: “Once you emerge from this mind spinning rock tune, its meaning is left starring you in the face. Broadly speaking it is about mental health, and how a sane mind quickly begins to deteriorate, we experience a person’s descent into their “darkest hour.”

Stream ‘Darkest Hour’ below


Author : Danu

Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Jim McHugh ‘Dave’

Photo Credit: Brendan McElro

Monaghan singer-songwriter Jim McHugh is back with his new single ‘Dave’ and a first taste of what’s to come from his upcoming third album ‘Pretending To Wake Up’, due for release May 28th. Working alongside producer Alex Borwick (Parliament Funkadelic, Catfish & The Bottlemen, Niamh Regan, Lankum) and session musicians Paul McCabe (bass) Paul Sherry (Electric Guitar) and Butch McNeill (Drums), McHugh brings a new dynamic and alluring sound to the rock genre. 

‘Dave’ is a rousing rock number showcasing a darker side to Jim McHugh’s sound. Spreading bluesy guitar riffs over a hip seducing rhythm ‘Dave’ is a wild, infectious banger. The verse wriggles with rich percussion, dark bass rumbles, and deep vocals from McHugh hooking the listener instantly. Then without any warning, the chorus swarms in on a wave of rock n roll bravado. Clamorous guitars, punchy drums, and a thrilling vocal display from McHugh ensure the chorus isn’t leaving your head anytime soon. Blending funky guitar elements, with mosh ready frenzy, ‘Dave’ is a blazing new single from McHugh. Love it.

About ‘Dave’ Jim says….“In an original story of misspent youth, Dave unveils my interactions with a friend who was known for being on the wrong side of the law on numerous occasions.”

Stream ‘Dave’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, New Music, Rock

Royal Blood ‘Typhoons’

Photo Credit :  Mads Perch

British rock duo Royal Blood have released ‘Typhoons,’ the title track from their upcoming album set for release on April 30th.  After two UK #1 albums, 2 million album sales, and an array of international acclaim Royal Blood returned last year with their first instalment from the upcoming album ‘Trouble’s Coming‘. The track received 20 million streams, a premiere as Annie Mac’s Hottest Record, and a run on Radio 1’s A-list. It landed on the cover of Spotify’s flagship global rock playlist ROCK THIS and earned alternative radio support and media attention across the globe.

‘Typhoons’ is a slick fuzz-filled anthem swarmed in the swaggered rock bravado Royal Blood do so well. Dripping in strut-worthy panache, the track kicks off with Mike Kerr’s slinky riffage which meanders through Ben Thatcher’s agile drumming. Kerr sings about being trapped and lost within his mind, “My thoughts becoming parasites. That live to keep me terrified”. His luring vocals slip into sweet falsetto for the mammoth chorus as the track spirals into the controlled chaos Royal Blood are know for.

The duo gloss their raging rock in disco hue’s while the groove infested rhythm brazenly shimmers through the tracks heavy rhythmic stomps and biting hi-hats. Royal Blood has taken the volcanic energy of their self-titled debut, refined it down with a sprinkle of dance-rock to lighten the mix, to create a thrilling swagger-soaked banger. The duo have created an intense, luring number ready for repeat plays. Looking forward to the new album.

Stream ‘Typhoons’ below

https://open.spotify.com/track/6BsZx9FarJrLddTNu2k6pU


Author : Danu

EP Review, New Music, Rock

Mantis and the Prayer ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ EP

Enigmatic rock band Mantis and the Prayer have returned with a double single release. ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ features the songs ‘I Know You’ and ‘Go Too Far’ which are written on themes of tragedy and disconnection. Mantis and the Prayer are a three piece rock band from Melbourne Australia. Releasing their first album ‘Butterflies and Demons’ in 2016 they have since gone on to place their music in the soundtrack for independent movie ‘Queen of Hollywood Blvd’ which was featured in the film festival circuit and had a cinematic release in Los Angeles.

‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ is a dramatic two track concoction which blends fermenting alternative rock with theatrical elements to create a chilling listening experience. The punchy drums, crashing guitars and wailing backing vocals in ‘I Know You’ ooze tension and eerie atmospheres as dark pop elements swirl through a rock backdrop while ‘Go Too Far’ adds a ghostly aspect to the ominous vibe. The track is a goosebump inducing boogie with groove riddled guitar and a 60’s rock n roll shimmy rhythm. With deep vocals echoing through the pop/rock sensibilities and upbeat moments ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ is quiet the fun, engaging and catchy two track EP.

Stream ‘Murder Ballad and the Blue’ 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 rock, New Music, Rock

Valhalla ‘Don’t You Ever Say’

Valhalla; Mark Boyle (Vocals & Guitar) Barry Monahan (Bass & Keys) and Luke Alford (Drums). have released their new single ‘Don’t You Ever Say’.Valhalla is an Alternative Rock trio from Dublin. 2019 saw the release of their debut EP “Big Men, They Fall” as well as numerous headline shows across Ireland & the UK. Valhalla is due to release their much-anticipated debut album ‘Primal Features’.

With biting dark undertones and tense soundscapes, ‘Don’t You Ever Say’ showcases Valhalla’s more intimate and icy blast of alternative rock. With eerie chiming guitars and punchy drums adorning the backdrop and ethereal soundscapes through the verses, the band create a tense and haunting atmosphere before erupting into the mighty chorus. In true Valhalla manner the track builds to a blazing dynamic chorus with crashing guitars slicing with relentless stamina through a pummeling bass and drum foundation. This, in turn creates a thrilling mosh ready frenetic atmosphere. The track spirals into an ominous crescendo before its dramatic and abrupt end.

Valhalla display a refined ability to channel both elements of fire and ice within this track as they create breezy cold tones between scorching explosive alternative rock outbursts to create a sublime intoxicating number. These guys are cultivating their sound magnificently, blending wonderful gritty elements seamlessly for a thoroughly satisfying listening experience.

Stream ‘Don’t You Ever Say’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Bayonets ‘We Light Fires’

Bayonets is set to release his new single ‘We Light Fires’ on all digital platforms on the 15th of May and has released the video this weekend. Bayonets is a solo project created by Kerry musician and songwriter Vinnie Flynn. His distinctive style is a mix of alternative rock, indie, blues and folk. In addition to writing and performing live, Vinnie also works with several publishing companies based in the US who pitch his compositions to prime time TV shows and movies. ‘We Light Fires’ was recorded last year at Darklands Audio in Dublin by the great Daniel Doherty. Flynn worked on the video idea with an excellent Illustrator & Animator Lukas Beles at Flock of Crows Motion Design. 

Chilling, dark and wholly consuming ‘We Light Fires’ continues Bayonets luring sizzle of fiery alternative rock. Presented through an icy cool breeze of haunting delight the track coils with flourishing grandeur.The western- esque guitar strides with a swaggering stomp between sharp refrains of scorching intensity as Flynn ferments the tracks dark smothering underbelly.

Flynn has been able to push past any limited parameters a solo artist may have to develop an identity increasingly distinct and memorable. The track wildly swirls and rages behind Flynn’s rasp filled vocals as he maintains a calm enticing composure. With intriguing mysterious undertones rippling through the ominous harsh backdrop the track has that “ I can’t watch but can’t stop looking” horror movie quality as the cinematic stings on guitar paint shadowy characters into the songs soundscape.

Flynn’s ability to colour his tracks with evocative and vivid images through misty vaporous musicianship and smoky instrumentation is impressive and utterly captivating. Sublimely dramatic and meticulously crafted ‘We Light Fires’ is one spine-tingling force of nature. 

Watch the video for ‘We Light Fires’ below 


Author : Danu