Isreali Singer/songwriter Guy has released his debut single ‘Breaking Down’. Also a successful entrepreneur, Guy has been featured in Inc Magazine, Forbes and USA Today with his high profile SEO company. ‘Breaking Down’ is his first foray in to music, leading the charge with the triumphant ‘Breaking Down’ which will be followed by two more singles in February ahead of the debut album later this year.The new release is heralded by a highly produced music video, underlining the dark undercurrent of ‘Breaking Down’.
‘Breaking Down’ is a raw love ballad. Guy builds emotion through anthemic rock elements and dramatic electronics. With brooding verses building into dynamic instrumental breaks and powerful choruses- it’s a powerful debut. The track has a massive 80’s rock vibe with tender breaks and melancholic key injections as soaring guitar solos glissade across a punchy foundation and flashing dark electronics.This contrasting sweetness and bitter harsh soundscapes create a wonderful turmoil and tearing effect that is quite compelling. Guy went all in for his expressive debut.
Isaac Butler has just released his eagerly anticipated new single ‘Young Forever’ – produced by Philip Magee (Kodaline, The Script, The Academic). It follows previous singles ‘Moon Song’ and ‘Rescue Me’ which have racked up 1 million streams on Spotify. ‘Young Forever’ follows a jam-packed 2019 which saw Isaac Butler play a sold out headline show in Whelan’s and a host of festival dates around the country including Electric Picnic and Kaleidoscope.As well as gearing up to head back into the studio, Isaac Butler is set to take to the stage for his second headline show at The Sound House, Dublin on Friday 3rd April having sold his debut headline show in Whelan’s last November.
‘Young Forever’ boasts Isaac Butler’s heartfelt songwriting as he drenches a climactic sing-along chorus in anthemic soundscapes. With a pulsing beat driving the adrenaline-filled tension the track builds beautifully into its wholesome chorus. It’s a cinematic burst of musicianship that is sure to spark careless indulgence in all who hear it while creating a freeing sense of euphoria. With ethereal guitars and exhilarating backing vocals ‘Young Forever’ is quite the catchy radio-ready gem.
Speaking of ‘Young Forever’ Isaac Butler said: “I was delighted to get the opportunity to work with the incredibly talented Irish producer Philip Magee on ‘Young Forever’. To me the song is about a time in my life with no worries and no responsibilities and I really feel we captured that sense of freedom.”
We sat down to have a chat with singer songwriter Laura Elizabeth Hughes before her show at TRADFEST 2020 in Lost Lane Dublin. We talked about her emotional and majestic songs and how she crafts them as well as her plans for her next release.
Sion Hill has just released the eagerly awaited ‘Last Minute’, his second single on Warner Music Germany following “Fuel Kids” earlier this year. Hailing from Ireland, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer (real name Nathan Johnston) currently lives in London. His debut album “Elephant” was released in 2017 via Clouds Hill Records. ’Last Minute’ is about when Johnston missed his train from London to Liverpool for a writing session with his producer, Rich Turvey (Blossoms, The Choral). Johnston and Turvey decided to build this experience into a portrayal of a budding relationship that is overshadowed or propelled by his latecomer streak.
‘Last Minute’ is a smooth, groove-drenched number as Johnston dips slinky 60’s -esque swagger into a fizzy pop sprinkled coating to create something truly infectious and chic. Its glossy exterior has a suave and endearing charm as Johnston’s rasped warm vocals coo with a soulful tone while the honeyed melody seeps effortlessly into the ears. Sprinkled with a catchy hook, vibrant guitar, bubbling beat and sensual bass – the track is steeped in panache and charisma with tropical sensibilities. It’s an exceptionally sleek song, well crafted and refined as Johnston fleshes out his infectious pop musicianship with intricate and refreshing twists of zest and timeless qualities.
About the track Johnston said : “It’s not so much an apology to one person for not showing up on time, but more of a general statement that sometimes things can be more interesting when they are spontaneous, I don’t like letting people down, so I’m trying to get better with my timing, but at the same time, I leave a lot of things to the last minute. There’s something slightly freeing about not having plans and I love those evenings when I go out with no real plan and just see where the night takes us. I love surprises and being spontaneous always keeps me on my toes. It has allowed me to meet so many interesting people and have so many crazy and amazing experiences.”
23-year-old singer-songwriter Mason Summit has released his new single, “‘Round January”. The track is Summit’s first release since 2018’s critically-acclaimed protest song, “Thoughts & Prayers.’Round January’ was engineered by Jim Doyle at Doyle Audio, and features Jim Doyle on drums and tambourine with Harrison Whitford on slide guitar.
’Round January’ is an emotive, sweet little ditty that drifts delicately on mellow, soft instrumentation as Mason Summit showcases his vulnerable progressive musicianship. Warm acoustic guitar strums through the verses while the lamenting slide guitar and steady beat create a beautiful melancholic texture. The track gradually builds into a passionate chorus as Summit slips into his honeyed falsetto. With its dreamy woefulness and subtle instrumental intricacies Summit creates a lulling pool of hopeful-hued melancholia to submerge ourselves in on a dull January day.
About the track Summit Says: “I wrote the song in Sean Holt’s songwriting class at USC. The prompt was to write a song for our eighth-grade selves. My father died in January of 2008, so it’s always been a difficult month for me. My goal with ‘‘Round January’ was to write a hopeful song while still acknowledging how hard it can be to stay positive. The song especially resonates with those who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder in the fall and winter months.“
David Keenan graced the hallowed halls of The Olympia Theatre last night. A singer songwriter with poetic lyrics and powerful vocals – you might think his set would be quiet and poised with brief hand claps from a drowsy lethargic gathering however that’s not how Keenan rolls … nor his followers for that matter. Exuding mesmerising rock ‘n’ roll charisma, Keenan brought the roof down as he filled The Olympia Theatre with his vibrant, emotive and passionate tunes. The crowd hung onto every word bellowing out the lyrics, each syllable meaning the world to them and all of this was met with humble gratitude from the headliner.
Keenan stands behind a white screen with just his silhouette visible to the crowd. The audience cheer in anticipation. Many of them gushing “ I love him… he’s really pretty” as he poses ready for the canvas to lift and relieve the suspense. Of course Keenan maintained the solo stripped back intimacy that has gathered this dedicated following over the years, performing ‘Big Boys Must Cry’ and ‘Full Stop’ with no band and just his guitar. He is comfortable in the picturesque setting of The Olympia. His larger than life persona and poetic lyrics resound throughout the venue touching every single person who was there as the crowd bellow back his lyrics in worship.
“We made it to the Olympia Theatre, we did this together let’s celebrate together tonight as one“ and that was certainly what it felt like – a massive celebration of an artists well deserved, stellar climb to a sold out show in one of Ireland’s most prestigious and sought after venues. Keenan holds the audiences attention with ease as they await with bated breath to clap, sway or sing along. He stands majestically onstage – prancing, spiraling and jumping creating entertainment with every dramatic hand flail or stride. Like all the best shows a lot of planning went into this performance. There was a joyous gradual beginning, an intermission of sorts with a wonderfully talented Aerial Hoop performer, a thrilling second half and phenomenal encore which saw Keenan return to the stage being cheered like a hero. Members of the crowd were embracing, shouting “go on lad!” and “love you Dave!” as he belted out powerful favourites ‘Lawrence Of Arcadia’ and ‘Postcards From Catalonia’.
Live, Keenan’s tracks ignite into beautiful flairs of wonderful colour and vibrant textures as he fashions the audience into a circle of friendship and comradery. With a band behind him Keenan is unstoppable.
As the first half of the set swings into ebullient motion we see the familiar side to Keenan’s musicianship, the folky-hued, more traditional-tinged aspect. A lush and utterly mesmerising rendition of ‘Two Kids’ sees Keenan duet with Laura Burke. Their sweet, warm tones melt into one another, gently drifting the track to a new, exciting and beautiful dimension. This time stopping arrangement is a special moment within the set list and members of the crowd hug and sway while others weep. Keenan writes tracks that evoke a multitude of emotions but this specific moment took the crowd from dancing and singing to embracing and swaying in teary joy while electric bulbs and flashing lights illuminate the stage.There is a professional yet passionate approach to Keenan’s live shows that is quite admirable. He knows what gets his audience hyped up but there is an authentic and heartfelt backbone to his polished performance that leaves a raw and honest residue.
The second half of the set brings drums, guitars (with some shredding solo’s) and a hint of grit into the show. Here Keenan tries his hand at being somewhat of a rockstar of sorts. He succeeds.A shout of “ haon, dó, trí, ” from Keenan rumbles above the drum thuds as ‘Unholy Ghosts’ initiates the more dynamic aspect of the show. There doesn’t appear to be a soul in the venue who doesn’t know all the lyrics to every track on the recently released ‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ album. ’The Healing’ and ‘Good Old Days’ have the crowd in a flurry of adored mania. ‘Alter Wine’ is utterly enthralling live – Keenan delivers the track with intense, earnest vigor as his strong vocals ricochet over the intoxicating melodic riff on guitars and strings.”Join hands with the person next to you.. lift them up” Keenan shouts as the entire venue sings the “Rain, rain, go away, I’ll come down another day” lyrics of ’Love in a Snug’. He doesn’t compromise quality as his striking vocal range refuses to falter while being met with mass applause for the lengthy notes in ‘ Tin Pan Alley‘.
The encore brings more tears as a woman near me announces “Oh my god i’m going to cry” for ‘A Corner Boy’s Lament’ and yes she absolutely did. As she sobbed in the audience, on stage Keenan is giving it his all with his acoustic guitar. He tenderly presents this emotive song, perhaps unknowingly, creating or connecting to a special and personal moment with a lot of his audience. ‘James Dean’ and ‘Badlands’ continues the ecstatic sing and clap along while ‘Subliminal Dublinia’ aptly brings the show to an explosive finale as Keenan shouts “this is the end of the beginning not the beginning of the end”.
There is no denying that Keenan deserved to be headlining The Olympia last night. His musical prowess is inspiring. He has the ability to rally and passionately ignite the audience through his powerful, emotive tracks and meaningful lyrics. As the confetti cannon erupted into the venue the lights illuminated the crowd’s smiling, proud faces.They cheered and applauded this young man who has worked relentlessly to craft and carve his sound without compromise. Keenan has created something unique that binds strangers together and provides an atmosphere of elation. His tracks are his medium of release, a therapy of sorts but they are perhaps so much more to the crowd of fans gathered in that venue last night.. ready to celebrate this milestone with him.
January has a reputation for being a dull, cold and uninteresting month however Whelans refused to allow it to dampen their punters mood. With Donal Quinn playing Whelan’s Midnight hour with support from The Collective and The Bowie Ball night featuring tribute act Heroes From Mars to wander into after… they made sure we forgot all our January blues.
Dublin five piece The Collective kick started the show. The band embrace the task of warming up the crowd with ease. Their pop sprinkled indie tunes which are saturated in sun-kissed tones had a warm and glorious effect on our ears as their honeyed melodies melt upon the effervescent instrumental backdrop. Even with their bassist Cian Moran missing, the band had the crowd in the palm of their hands from the get go. Their cheeky banter and wonderful indie tunes had the crowd dancing and bopping happily. For a young band about to do their leaving cert they certainly have a charismatic and charming stage presence.Guitarist/vocalists Daniel Clarke and Taylor Byrne constantly engaged with the crowd creating a friendly and fun atmosphere “we want you to sing along even if you think its shite..sing along”. One woman in particular spiraled round the dance floor to every tune hopping, wiggling and twirling to their infectious tunes. They allow her to name one of their songs before they played it so i guess now it’s called “ love your face”.
With songs laced in tasty guitar melodies, groove infested drums and chiming keys the band sprinkle some joyous radiance into the venue. Their tracks are catchy from the unforgettable ‘’la la la la “ of ‘Forgettable’ to the sweet melodies in ‘Friends’ and ‘Love On The Streets’ – they have a solid set list. With quirky guitar moves, slick sweet licks and a charismatic presence the band keep everyone on their toes. Ogylle Salvador lays down the body moving beat while Stefan Isbanda tackles the keys to complete their vibrant vigorous sound. This bands musical talent and youthful energetic sound make them ones to keep an eye on .
Donal Quinn strolls on stage. His chilled presence slices through the wild atmosphere created by The Collective. He saunters off the stage to rally the crowd to the front, the crowd happily move forward in anticipation as Quinn begins ‘Do You Like Spicy Food?… ‘. This rapid number re-induces the hyper crowd as they bop along and whoop to his cheeky lyrics. He is alone on stage with just his acoustic guitar which should feel cold and isolating however his presence exudes warmth. He commands the stage..the crowd is enamored by Quinn’s vocal prowess especially for the “ the roof, the roof, the roof is on fire” lyric. Quinn chats between songs and tune ups while galloping through his set list. Dressed all in black there isn’t much fuss.. just good tunes. ‘Twat’, ‘3am’ (which Quinn’s integrates James’ ‘Sit Down’ into the crescendo) and a slick cover of ‘That’s Entertainment’ by The Jam and Arctic Monkeys’ ‘When The Sun Goes Down’ cause subtle swaying and bopping among the crowd as his rasped Drogheda-twanged tonality warms the tracks vibrant melodies. A quirky anecdote about his hair being ruined by rain and wind while filming the video for ‘ Bubble’ has the crowd chuckling as he charms them into the second half of his performance.
Quinn puts oodles of passion and emotion into his tracks and it sometimes translates into, an eyes closed performance, however his emotive and passionate lyrics enthrall the hearts of the audience. A quick exchange of info about his brand of guitar ( it’s a Martin ) and a crowd members Harry Potter scarf lead the way into a sleek medley of Oasis ‘Wonderwall’ and ‘Golden Touch’ by Razorlight. It’s a precise, well executed, enjoyable performance and a fantastic end to a night filled with talented Irish artists
Quinn presents his sublime tunes in an acoustic setting with ease and panache. In a live setting his music takes on a new dimension and aesthetic, becoming more intimate and personal. It was a fantastic Friday night in Whelans. Keep an eye on both Donal Quinn and The Collective. They have great potential and give us an indisputable reason to support Irish artists.
David Keenan is set to release his debut album ‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ tomorrow, Friday 10th January. Keenan has self-released several EPs and singles, opened for Hozier all over the UK and Europe and had a week-long residency at The Irish Arts Center in New York. ‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ was recorded in a week of live-in-room spontaneity at the Hellfire Studios in the Dublin Mountains overlooking the city. Known for his intensity, lyrically rich and powerful tracks Keenan delivers a debut album like no other.
‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ dives deep into conflicting emotions with relentless stamina while it’s tender moments and witty quips soothe and brings joy in the most unusual ways. Keenan’s sublime melodies and intriguing instrumental arrangements allow all to enjoy his rich musicianship. ‘James Dean’ kick starts the experience. The Sean-nós style vocals maintains Keenan’s unique appeal as he ornaments his melodies and holds his own with little accompaniment. ‘Unholy Ghosts’ is a refreshing vibrant ditty filled with lively instrumentation as the animated sway and catchy chorus boasts traditional Irish charm with a contemporary twist. ‘Alter Wine’ is the pinnacle moment of the album. Intense, fermenting and luring with a hint of innocence throughout – it’s exceptionally crafted and masterfully written. That sublime string melody both builds tension and laments with a sweet weeping quality through the sticky beat, delicate keys and pining guitar. The vocals articulate disdain, lust, passion and anger all while delivering the most striking and epic expression in the album with confidence and poetic depth. ‘Love In A Snug’ has the task of following its powerful emotive predecessor. Taking this duty in its stride the song tenderly broods to start with simple accompaniment before building superbly into a sing-along anthem.
The characters within his tracks have been everyone at one time or another as Keenan narrates his stories with flawless commitment. The piano accompanied ‘Tin Pan Alley’ portrays this superbly. The piano twinkles and elegantly laments with warmer tones flickering throughout. Each track is just as lulling as it is powerful, the soft brooding intros lead the way to compelling choruses.Every track on the album takes its time, some gliding past the 6 minute mark. Keenan allows them to flourish as they wish. ‘Eastern Nights’ stripped back presentation is a time stopping moment within the album as the guitar backing delicately glimmers behind Keenan’s striking vocals. ’Origin Of The World’ is a slow burner with a sparse almost haunting backdrop as it builds to its vibrant crescendo. The enigmatic thud of ‘Good Old Days’ swirls with themes of reality and poverty. Mourning strings layer the track in a nostalgic tone as Keenan’s poetic view looks at the past with a modern perspective .
Keenan fleshes out his emotive songwriting with ‘The Healing’ – a sprightly number which is twisted within its seams as Keenan weaves compelling arrangements with dramatic strings. It’s a joy to listen to. The potent ‘Subliminal Dublinia’ brings the album to a close. Starting at a strolling pace the track flickers with warm guitar as strings and piano are added into the mix. Keenan’s expressive vocal delivery is powerful within this track with the resounding line “occupy the city with original ideas” echoing the tracks end leaving a thought provoking impression.
‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ is a powerful thought provoking album. Keenan looks at the world through the eyes of his characters creating songs of nostalgia with honest moments and emotive chills as he builds and crafts his music with a maturity and majestic quality that is to be admired.
‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ is out tomorrow Friday 10th January
We sat down to have a chat with David Keenan before the release of his new album ‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ in The Library Bar at the Central Hotel Dublin. We talked about how he crafted the album, his intricate lyrics and how he creates the characters and scenes in his tracks.
‘A Beginner’s Guide To Bravery’ is out this Friday January 10th
You can catch David Keenan live at :
JAN 11th The Empire The Belfast Empire, Belfast, United Kingdom
Passionate, time stopping performances of a wholesome nature is the perfect recipe for a chilly December night. Belgian singer Tamino along with Kitt Philippa as support thawed our iced souls with warm dark toned, balmy tunes. The mesmerised audience were in good hands last night, as The Button Factory was shielded from the icy cold and wrapped in the comfort and emotive daze of singer songwriter bliss
Belfast singer Kitt Philippa began the defrost. Their quirky yet shy and sweet persona charmed all within the venue. Philippa’s voice drifts between captivating tones and hair-raising richness as they pour themselves into the songs, leaving the audience stunned. The crowd cheer and encourage Philippa , shouting “that was unreal”. Philippa sits at the keys swaying back and forth while the graceful melodies and elegant, raw musicianship blends with their superb vocals. There is a vulnerability to Philippa’s set and an innocence through the tracks that they rein and bridle with awe-inspiring confidence.
Philippa ventures from the keys to guitar. Playing mostly tracks from their newly released album ‘Human’ Philippa warmed our hearts with a spine-tingling voice and intensely rich musicianship. A cover of Jeff Buckleys ‘So Real‘ is a hit with the crowd as they encourage Philippa -whooping from the first gentle strum. An anecdote about Philippa’s brand of tea ‘Humanitea’ ( which actually sounds lovely and soothing) and the random sighting of a button on stage at The Button Factory before title track ‘Human’ brought a light-hearted end to Kitt Philippa’s wonderful set.
Philippa left the crowd touched and enthralled by their beautiful blend of melancholic depth and sweet optimism. It was quite a special performance.
Tamino takes a very casual approach to his set. Perhaps it’s the laid back banter from the crowd or maybe the chilled and relaxed vibes from Kitt Philippa’s set but he chats and jokes with the crowd between his performance. He stands simply with his guitar, a 6 foot something, slim young man adorned in dark attire. He wows everyone in the room with his maturity, rich vocals and the dreamy haze of his tunes. From a first listen you would be forgiven to describe Tamino’s sound as dark and sombre however like all good things, there is much more beneath the surface. There is something special about this young performer. His sound is unique and completely his own, in every way passionate, immense and naive all at once. He is becoming somewhat of a “ rock-star “. Much to his surprise members of the crowd are shouting “ I love you Mr. Tamino” – to which he just smiles replying “ I love you too, we just met though but I like your straightforwardness” while others are throwing roses on-stage and someone even threw their knickers.
Within the live setting Tamino’s tracks take on a richer more tantalising dimension. Even without his band at his side he confidently plays straight into ‘Persephone’ – just him and his guitar as he holds everyone’s hearts within his grasp. His rich velvety vocals slip between sweet falsetto and creamy depths that summon silence in the room allowing the beauty of his voice to lull and enchant at will. The crowd adore him singing every line to ‘Cigar’, ‘Tummy’ and ‘Sun May Shine’. Tamino stands, basked in warm golden or red lightning which ventures into blue tones as the dry ice creates a celestial quality to his silhouette. Not even a broken guitar string’s intrusive demand for attention hinders the show. Tamino simply explains that the string is broken, that he needs a moment to re-tune and the crowd wait patiently.
There are people from all over the world at this show as they take the opportunity between songs to ask him to do a gig in their country. The crowd remain silent as he begins to sing again. His deft, crisp… yet warm voice and sweet falsetto caress the atmosphere with tones of longing and tales of life. Tamino depicts romance, love, vulnerability and strength throughout his tracks and it’s his sublime timeless and unique delivery of these themes that grip the audience and submerges them in a magical dreamy haze. ‘Indigo Night’ in particular was outstanding live and ‘Habibi’ couldn’t have been more perfect. The crowd stood in suspense for that acrobatic falsetto. Tamino finished his set with an impeccable cover of Mac DeMarco’s ‘My Kind Of Woman’.
Tamino is in a league of his own. There is no denying his talent and vivid, poetic musicianship. His ability to create and weave fantastic melodies with rich exotic undertones shimmering throughout is outstanding. Tamino’s composition’s possess the potential to stir something within your very soul and in a live setting this ability is even more raw and potent. There were members of the crowd weeping from the emotion within his music. Tamino is an artist not to be missed.
Author : Danu
Check out some more images from the night below
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
