O2 in the Park, a Tower in-store, a visit to Whelan’s and a single release… New York-based Dubliners Stand have been busy since their return to home turf. The unique melodies, enhanced by the presence of two vocalists, is an aural treat not to be missed – so catch them in Vicar St. on July 19 in the run-up to the release of their album In A Happy Place, due later this year. If you haven’t heard them already you can satisfy your curiosity by getting your mits on a copy of the latest single ‘Sleeping On Our Feet’ – an entirely appropriate title given the recent hectic schedule…

And while you’re at it pick up A Guide In Time Of Great Danger. The long-awaited second album from Estel also features contributions by Adrian Crowley and Hugh Holmes (he of The Waltons fame). The album claims to link together the sounds of Trans Am, early Sonic Youth and PiL…

Also unleashing a new collection of sonic mayhem is the motley crew that is The Steam Pig. Potshots, is a joint venture release between Jacinta’s Offshore Holdings (Ireland) and Punk Shit Records (UK). The 12-track album is dubbed to be ‘a no-nonsense blast of vitriol, devoid of filler’… dare we question this claim?

On a lighter note, Think launch their third single and the title track of the Gimme That Sound album on July 17 in the Village. The band has recently been burning the midnight oil in the studio preparing for album number two… bless their cotton socks. The Village gig is their first Dublin headliner in quite a while and support on the night comes from The Tallstories (recently returned from some Scandinavian sheanigans) and Hi-Rise (post – IMRO showcase glory).

Fellow IMRO showcasers, Cork’s Rulers Of the Planet are receiving much A&R attention from EMI and Mercury. Might they be signing on a dotted line soon?…

In other planetary news, much loved alternative club Planet of Sound has closed down due to the crop of new establishments springing up… out with the old in with the new… etc., etc.

Local boys Rest (who recently escaped to a country retreat to release their creative talents) have made much progress on the highly anticipated album that will be the fruit of their reclusive labour…

Hear ye, hear ye… it’s time for all you musos to get your asses in gear for this year’s O2 new band competition. Bands will compete to win a single record deal with Warner Music and a €5,000 equipment bursary from O2 to boot. Thirty bands will be shortlisted to perform in a series of six regional heats, two of which will be held in Dublin. Further info from O2…

Opportunities abound to unleash your creative abilities on the world. Edel Dooley has recently taken on the task of bringing new Irish music to radio listeners in Waterford and its environs via Beat FM. Those of you who would like to send Edel some samples of your musical brilliance can post them to Edel Dooley, 19 Island view, Knockboy, Ballygunner, Waterford or contact her at [email protected].

Or if you prefer the more personal approach Novatone’s Tuesday Night Music Club in Bodkins in Dublin may be a more suitable medium to showcase your talents. Paul McDonnell, Kevin May and The Kerbs have all featured at past events. If you wish to perform at any Tuesday Night Music Club call Ann Marie on 087 2460957 on the day before 4pm.

Other efforts to nurture the creative instincts of the nation come in the form of Gigsmartireland’s latest compilation on which you will find a feast of homegrown delights from the likes of Polar, The Beautiful Losers, Otranome and Popstar. Check out Gigsmartireland.com for further details and a list of stockists.

Three cheers for Ron and Dave of Irish Unsigned who put on a great night in Eamon Doran’s recently to officially launch the Scene Unheard compilation. Dextra, Uber, Blowing Up The World and Label provided the sounds. Check irishunsigned.com for details. If you haven’t already got a copy – shame on you!