Tag Archives: singer songwriter

Alt- Pop, Indie, Live Music, Live Music Review, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Rebekah Fitch Live On Virtual

Belfast alternative pop singer/songwriter Rebekah Fitch was the star of last night’s Virtual show organised by Fluttertone and dootdoot Records. With her merch strategically placed on the wall behind her and basked in golden-hued lighting the multi-instrumentalist takes her place ready to perform. The first bars of ‘Another Show’ which opens her set, displays her soulful R&B voice which is a shock to the system – pitch-perfect and masterfully balanced between angel-like sweetness and powerfully demanding. She weaves a few lines from Gnarls Barkley’s ‘Crazy’ into the crescendo before bringing the track to a hair-raising finale. It is a fantastic opening song, and the rest of Fitch’s set only gets better and better.

Utilizing loops, drum machine and keys Fitch provides a knockout set with a full uncompromising sound. Virtual once again pulls in another outstanding tech genius to perform and boy does it make a difference. There is something special about an acoustic set but it’s these engaging live performances filled with a full bodied sound that ignite the platform.

Fitch makes music composition look easy as she wonderfully blends flute melodies into alternative pop and R&B tracks.This clash of earthy almost classical pop with contemporary allows Fitch to create a collection of compelling music to delight listeners with. ‘Guns With Guns’ is the most acoustic we see Fitch. A simple emotive piano ballad, the track showcases her voice in all its beauty and glory.

Her tracks flourish live and for the first time we get to hear ‘Take Me Apart’ played on piano. This passionate and tender track discussing her feelings during lockdown is a real treat. Fitch possesses all the criteria for major alternative pop stardom, her ability to write songs ( which hit you hard in the chest, exposing feelings you never knew you even had ) is mesmerising while her ear worm melodies, expressive vocals and rich compositions leave all her contemporaries behind. The maturity and understanding in her songwriting is such a soothing and beautiful comfort while the refined layering and instrumentation displays her creative genius.

Fitch is an intense performer sprawling her arms out while soaring through her perfect falsetto and sultry lower range. From the power of ‘Fake Smiles’ to the haunting ‘Not Myself’ we get to see Fitch multi task between loops, flute and big drum and synth builds.This set list is a reminder of the fantastic tunes she has in her arsenal and the new unreleased track ‘Dust’ is an impressive display of her songwriting prowess. Words cannot express how special this song is. It floored me. It’s a  moving track about losing someone you thought you would always have and almost hurts to hear. Each word feels fresh and painful for Fitch as she lays emotion over a bittersweet melody while a building piano graces the backdrop in an equal measure of strength and tenderness.

‘A Love So Crazy’ brings the set to an epic end, leaving us craving for more. This was a professional, fun and engaging performance from a remarkable artist.

In true Virtual manner a Q&A follows the performance allowing fans to ask questions and get into the details of tracks. Fitch’s bubbly persona makes this a seamless and fun engagement as she discusses all from how she creates her tracks, the biggest obstacle she’s had to overcome and how she got into music as well as some technical intricacies about her set up for the live performance. Rebekah Fitch is an amazing artist and one everyone should check out. 

For a taste of the compelling songwriting of Rebekah Fitch check out her track ‘A Love So Crazy’ below


Author : Danu

New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Anton Mcloughlin ‘Leaving’

Anton Mcloughlin has released his new single ‘Leaving’.Edinburgh-based artist Anton Mcloughlin’s passion for experimentation was fostered by his musically driven family surroundings in Newry, Co. Down. A song written, recorded and produced during lockdown.‘Leaving’ marks the second release from Anton Mcloughlin.

‘Leaving’ is a punchy pop number showcasing wholesome songwriting and infectious melodies bubbling over a passionate, moving backdrop. The track is a clever blend of emotive pop as Mcloughlin’s velvety vocals ooze tenderness, comfort and positivity while electronic and warm guitar elements provide a dash of sunshine. The effervescent chorus and power pop soundscapes make ‘Leaving’ a charming new track from Mcloughlin.

Stream ‘Leaving’ below


Author : Danu

electro - rock, Indie, New Music, Synth Rock

Chris Conroy ‘Dive’

Originating from the town of Portlaoise, Chris Conroy has released his debut single ‘Dive’. Conroy presents his passionate and melodically rich musicianship with this single. As a debut it is quite the mature songwriting display. With warm guitar accompaniment the track begins light and breezy as cheery guitar strums bounce behind Conroy’s velvety vocals while wispy soundscapes lead the track into its invigorating chorus. Conroy creates a dynamic pop track with ‘Dive’ which ventures sonically into R&B tones with skittish beats fluttering between strong piano chords and climatic electronics. The song builds in intensity with heavier hip hop elements while the sweet lyrics talk about the excitement and nerves at the start of a relationship. ‘Dive’ is a sublime debut from Chris Conroy.

Stream ‘Dive’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, Indie Pop, New Music

PureGrand ‘Timeline’

Relaunching for 2020, PureGrand (part time popstar and photographer Luke Faulkner) releases his new single ‘Timeline’.The song was written and produced by Faulkner and is the first single from PureGrand’s debut album which marks a shift in his sound from the synthpop influence of his previous work towards a pop sound with a broader palette of flavours. It is being released alongside a new body of visual work photographed by Faulkner that will tie in with the album campaign as singles are released along with music videos.

‘Timeline’ is a 90’s hued pop number swirling in dark soundscapes and repetitive hooks as PureGrand uses a rich tapestry of electronics and earnest songwriting to create a chilled and haunting track. A blanket of synths cover the backdrop in dark airy tones while the skittish beats and breathy backing vocals fill in the tracks gaps amplifying the unease in the verse. With R&B elements which drift between hip hop rhythms and smooth vocals the track has a clean and polished shell. The lyrics shed light on the frustrations felt by many young millenials about being stuck at a point in your life beyond your control and the pressures and conflict between different generations that come with that. There are elements reminiscent of Pet Shop Boys within the track but PureGrand adds a modern pop shimmer to their sound as he weaves ominous tones and fluctuant, coiling textures through pop melodies and crisp production to create an engaging and passionate number. 

Stream ‘Timeline’ below 


Author : Danu

New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Miles Graham’s ‘Give It Up Now’ has been selected for the latest national Bank of Ireland television and radio ads

Miles Graham‘s brand new single ‘Give It Up Now’ has been selected for the latest national Bank of Ireland television and radio ads, in addition to him announcing a live London show which will see him play The Grace, London on the 19 November 2020. His EP ‘All The Right Things’ is out now across all digital platforms.

Miles Graham’s latest track ‘Don’t Change’ resulted in him performing the single live on BBC Radio 5 and a stunning version of Dido’s Thank You, and picking up further airplay from BBC Introducing. It accelerated a fresh stage in the Irish singer-songwriter’s career, having previously scored international dance hits alongside Don Diablo and L’Tric, as well as being playlisted on BBC Radio 2 for his breakthrough moment ‘I Can’t Love You Again’.

The ‘All The Right Things’ EP was recorded in London with producer Paul Herman(Emeli Sandé, Dido, Corinne Bailey Rae), with string arrangements from the renowned Sally Herbert(Plan B, Usher, Duffy,Ellie Goulding, Florence + The Machine). It is a pop and retro-soul filled EP boasting Graham’s refined and passionate musicianship. Miles Graham uses deep grooves, intricate soundscapes and mellow guitar lines to create a unique collection of tracks. He is a truly unique and passionate artist with potent song writing sure to have you hooked with one listen. 

Stream ‘All The Right Things’ EP below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Pauric O’Meara ‘Looking forward to Hindsight’ EP

Pauric O’Meara has recently released his new EP ‘Looking forward to Hindsight’.Pauric is an independent singer-songwriter from Co. Tipperary, based in Dublin. He has been making his mark on the Irish music scene for quite a few years. His raw, powerful vocal has been known to grab people’s attention, and his previous work has garnered over 150K on Spotify alone. Through the years, he has performed in many top venues around Ireland supporting bands such as Hermitage Green, Hudson Taylor, Billow Wood, Amazing Apples and HAWK but had a breakthrough year in 2019, with 2 headline shows in Dublin in The Soundhouse and Workman’s Club, as well as making his Electric Picnic Festival debut.

‘Looking forward to Hindsight’ presents Pauric O’Meara’s folk-hued musicianship through warm melodies and earnest song writing. With soothing guitar, melancholic tones and soft twinkling soundscapes ‘Is this Real’ kicks the EP in to motion. Instantly Pauric’s rasped velvety vocals exude passion and emotive tones lifting each track and providing a comforting constant throughout the EP. Pauric takes his honest lyrics about heartbreak and places them on a vibrant bed of indie pop with ‘Wasting time’. With sprinkles of zesty radiant guitar, buoyant rhythms and catchy refrains the track sits snugly as the half point of ‘Looking forward to Hindsight’ . Highlighting the importance of staying positive through hard times ‘Beacon Call’ brings the EP to an upbeat finale – a vibrant pick me up the track is an adrenaline inducing gem that will make you instantly press replay.

As a whole ‘Looking forward to Hindsight’ is a journey through a relationship and break up. We get a wonderful glimpse of the heart warming songwriting of Pauric O’Meara as he establishes himself as a talented musician crafting wholesome enjoyable tunes that venture through folk and indie genres with ease. There are sweet tender moments expressed through beautiful melodies and heartwarming guitar as well as fun and golden moments creating a well rounded EP with something for everyone. 

Stream ‘Looking forward to Hindsight’ below 

https://open.spotify.com/track/3Ff56laWJVqZW4uDkbJnHC?si=raPLCRhHTSaZa66wfsuqew


Author : Danu

New Music, Singer/Songwriter, Worth A Listen

Worth A Listen – Moncrieff

Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From Moncrieff

Having kicked off this year featuring on a host of 2020 hot lists, Moncrieff has released his new single ‘PLAYLOUD’ today. His debut body of work ‘The Early Hurts’ EP featured lead track ‘Like I Do’, this debut radio single (released in Sept 2019) received extensive airplay across national radio racking up nearly 12 million audience impressions and 5 million streams. The success of the single and EP led to Moncrieff selling out his first headline show in Dublin in less than 3 hours. Moncrieff’s growing reputation also landed support slots touring with headline Irish acts Picture This and Walking on Cars. With the current state of world affairs in turmoil, this new chapter sees Moncrieff explore his role and place as a young person transitioning into adulthood in a world that seems to be getting crazier by the day, the first chapter in this new story is ‘PLAYLOUD’.

A fun, free and anthemic expression of youth, ‘PLAYLOUD’ announces Moncrieff’s triumphant return. With crisp production and electronic soundscapes blended beneath R&B and pop elements, this buoyant slice of rebellion is a refreshing boundary breaking new tune. Moncreiff’s unique vocals drift over the melty melody with dark humour and honesty alongside lush textures which weave between skittish beats, chimes on guitar and synths.

A choir of kids tease though the backing vocal while Moncrieff delivers an exhilarating middle finger to those in power failing to support society but instead aiding to oppress with their opinions and decisions “We chase our dreams while you spread your lies, Build castles in the sky, Heaven knows we’re all gonna die”. Moncrieff is an intriguing artist who posesses an uncanny skill to bend and warp genres – ‘PLAYLOUD’ is a superb example of this. His ability to inject humour into his lyrics while still getting straight to the point with a few brief words “I’m a fucking unicorn if I say so” is admirable.

‘PLAYLOUD’ is an empowering delight and that chorus is so infectious. There is something utterly freeing about this track as Moncrieff uses his earnest and powerful songwriting to create an upbeat song with heart and passion at its very core.

Speaking about the song, Moncrieff says: “PLAYLOUD was written as a reaction to a world that seems to be getting more messed up each day.  It was written as a call to arms to young people and any one who feels frustrated and alienated by the world they live in. A world where greed, consumption and the desire to make money trumps over all.  With Global leaders not doing enough to tackle (and some outright denying) the threats of climate change, and the growing gap between the rich and the poor. Since it was written in January we’ve seen how the world’s two biggest leaders fumble through a world pandemic, with countless thousands of lives needlessly lost as well as the continued systemic racism and police brutality inflicted upon the black community in the states and the UK.PLAYLOUD stands as an act of defiance and social disobedience by the youth to not allow the failings of those in power to stand in the way of their pursuit of happiness and self expression. Life is too short to waste time being concerned with other people’s opinions, and the youth want to be free to determine their own destiny as individuals. To live life to the fullest as the truest and most unapologetic version of yourself you can be no matter if the world feels like it could end tomorrow” 

Stream ‘PLAYLOUD’ below


Author : Danu

Blues, Blues Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Finnian ‘Fly’

After Three extremely successful single launches, Finnian has released his new single ‘Fly’ taken off his debut album ‘Under The Influence’ which will be released on July 24th. Growing up in Dundalk, Ireland, Finnian has carefully nurtured his songwriting to the point where he is now being lauded by his peers as one of the most exciting talents in the country.

Saturated in bluesy swag and jazz elements ‘Fly’ is a bright number steeped in the sleek and engaging songwriting of Finnian. The song is anchored by the jazz piano refrains while elements of blues rock and retro soul adorn the track in lush tones. With banjo twangs between a foot moving rhythm, jaunty organ and warm guitar the track has a strutting sass all of its own. Finnian’s clever turn of phrase and passionate songwriting are at the forefront of his powerful, intricate musicianship. This is best shown when the listener admires the song as a whole – the instrumental backdrop flourishes behind Finnian’s rasped vocals giving the track a fluctuant and kinetic texture that is vibrant and uplifting without becoming overpowering.His beginnings as a folk based songwriter have now truly evolved and this song is a fine display of Finnian mastering his craft.

Stream ‘Fly’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, Indie, indie rock, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Fly the Nest ‘Borrowed Time’

Irish pop/rock singer-songwriter Fly the Nest is set to release his new single, ‘Borrowed Time’ on July 24th.Dublin native Fly the Nest (Stephen Cooper) started playing music at a young age, performing in various bands. Last year he started solo project Fly the Nest, under which he writes and releases his own music. Stephen also writes for sync, and says that writing for film and TV has opened up another facet of his creativity. The name Fly the Nest came from travelling and moving on from a previous musical journey to the one he’s currently on. 

‘Borrowed Time’ is filled with lush instrumental surprises as Fly the Nest crafts an anthemic rock track laced in heartfelt passion. From warm string laments to triumphant brass the song drifts through a majestic arrangement with ease. Cooper allows the track to unfold beautifully. The anthemic rock remains at the forefront creating emotive tones through dusty drum beats and steady guitar strums however its the brass that lifts the song into an adrenaline induced state of jubilation.

The song is a journey through someone’s life and finding their purpose. The lyrics talk about giving life everything you have while you are on this earth, appreciating what you have, and embracing every opportunity. Coopers emotive rasped vocals portray this message perfectly while powerful progressions and a catchy pop-rock melody ensures the track will stay in your head all day. ‘Borrowed Time’ is well paced with Cooper taking his song writing to new heights – looking outside the box to bring a track that is sweet, sincere and bursting with cinematic energy.

‘Borrowed Time’ is set for release tomorrow July 24th you can pre-save the song below https://ffm.to/borrowedtimeflythenest

For more you can follow Fly the Nest on Facebook below https://www.facebook.com/flythenestofficial/


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Luke Clerkin ‘What Little Time We Have’ EP

Luke Clerkin is set to release ‘What Little Time We Have’ on July 24th. The Dubliner’s highly anticipated EP was produced by previous collaborator Gavin Doyle, and Jack Keenan, at Cabin Space Studios in Dublin. It was mastered by the internationally renowned Pete Maher (Jack White, Damien Rice, U2), in London. Luke Clerkin has been playing and releasing music for the last five years, gaining international airplay and support, whilst also topping the Irish Singer Songwriter Charts on multiple occasions. He is also known for playing over 250 gigs in 2015 as a way of honing his craft. Since then he has headlined famous Dublin venues such as Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, and The Button Factory. His music has brought him all over the world, with multiple tours of Germany, as well as festival slots in America, The UK, and Ireland.

‘What Little Time We Have’ is an earnest emotive collection of tracks which showcase the tastefully memorable and enjoyable musicianship of Luke Clerkin. From the wonderful build of ‘Confession Box’ to the tender struggle with mental health in ‘Stones’ Clerkin displays his ability to present sweet melodies and heartfelt songwriting through a lush blend of genres. The classic rock ‘Not In Love’ is the boldest expression on the EP. Clerkin’s vocals spread over sharp guitars and punchy drums with a stinging guitar solo bringing the track to its crescendo.The track grows into its loud, sweeping finish, with the lead guitar blending perfectly into the thumping background.

Though Clerkin experiments with pop rock he maintains the stripped back wholesome style we have come to know him for. The emotive ‘Closure’ surrounds heartbreaking lyrics and sweet falsetto on vocals with graceful piano accompaniment. Within the melody there is innocence and glimmers of positivity and healing. ‘Nocturnal’ brings the EP to a close with a catchy chorus, charming guitar refrains and danceable atmosphere. Instrumentally it’s an upbeat and vibrant end to an EP that pulls at your heart strings.


‘What Little Time We Have’ is a poignant honest account of self-discovery and self-reflection.With instrumental subtleties appearing throughout the EP which often at times is mixed behind the vocals there is something to enjoy with each subsequent listen. ‘What Little Time We Have’ is deeply personal and a sublime EP from Luke Clerkin.

Talking about the release Luke said ”For this project, I wanted to experiment with new genres, and new sounds. Over the past few years, I’ve worked with amazing musicians and songwriters from all over the world, each of them influencing me in a different way. So these recordings are a reflection of that.’I’m known mostly for my heart-on-sleeve vulnerability, so when moving to a more pop rock genre for songs like ‘Nocturnal’ and ‘Not in Love’, I tried my best to retain this. My lyrics on this project are still as honest as they’ve ever been. This is especially present on ‘Closure’, I think this is the most personal song on the EP, and I feel because of that, it’s the most relatable.”

‘What Little Time We Have’ is set for release on July 24th.For more you can follow Luke Clerkin on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/LukeClerkin/


Author : Danu