CMAT, ‘California’

An emphatically theatrical ballad of existential dread, the title track of CMAT’s newly released sophomore album, CrazyMad, For Me, is essential listening. Epitomising the wonderfully offbeat fusion of alt pop, country and indie that this month's Hot Press cover star does so well, ‘California’ soars on a sea of quirky vocals, bombastic instrumentation and tight drums.

The track and accompanying music video, see CMAT waxing philosophical in self-reflective snatches of contemplation; interrogating fame, grief and art. A coiling epic of ennui and inner turmoil – ‘California’ is a perfect storm of sonic excellence and highkey camp. "What's left for me now, but poetry and getting really old…”

CMAT. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

The Mary Wallopers, ‘The Idler’

'The Idler', from Dunalk favourites The Mary Wallopers' much-anticipated new album , Irish Rock N Roll,  delivers fiercely biting socio-political commentary over a folky acoustic guitar progression. ‘The Idler’ is a bona fide protest song – a remarkable showcase of cultural awareness and singer-songwriter chops, which the band have had had the chance to flex this time round with their first record feautring original material.

Simultaneously pointed and darkly comic, the  track was written in response “to the scapegoating and vilification of ordinary people just doing what they need to do in order to keep struggling through life," says band member Sean McKenna, “meanwhile those in positions of power, the ones who often create or uphold such situations, are held in high esteem and regarded as pillars of the community..." Irish Rock N Roll is out today, Friday 13th. ‘Blame the landlord, his car’s like a concorde, he’s charging fierce rent for a string of shitholes…’

Credit: Sorcha Frances Ryder

All Tvvins, 'Every Minute'

Ahead of their upcoming EP Your Country, Dublin-based indie-electronic duo All Tvvins, lead the charge with their electrifying new single, ‘Every Minute.’ Alt-pop mainstays All Tvvins have been at it with their infectiously catchy tunes and distinctly anthemic style since 2016; seamlessly marrying electronic beats with rock sensibilities ‘Every Minute’ is no different – with gorgeously soaring guitar riffs, a driving bassline and suitably contemplative lyrics, the new track is a promising glimpse of things to come.

All Tvvins

George Houston, ‘Vehicular Suicide’

You’d be hard-pressed to find another track on this list that has a more perfect release date. Certainly bringing the spooky vibes for this October edition of Friday the 13th, Donegal’s George Houston released his third studio album today featuring the titular single ‘Vehicular Suicide’. A dark pop rock lament, Houston begs for mercy from the pain of love and heartbreak as organ solos and 80s synths combine to great effect. It’s an impressive effort from the artist, who has some of the most original and promising sounds out of Ireland at the moment.

The Breath, 'Letters from Long Kesh'

Acclaimed Armagh-born singer Ríoghnach Connolly – previously crowned BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year – and her collaborator Stuart McCallum return today with a new project under their The Breath moniker: Land of My Other. Produced by composer/pianist Thomas Bartlett (well-known on these shores for his work in The Gloaming), the album's highlights include the powerful 'Letters From Long Kesh'.

In his review of the album for Hot Press, Jackie Hayden notes that the track "will evoke memories of The Troubles to mingle with the heart-stopping sentiments Connolly's vocals wring from the lyrics."

The Breath.
Photo: Paul Husband

Elliott Mo, ‘Circles’

Electronic producer Elliot Mo put out his fifth single ‘Circles’ this week, his first studio release since 2021’s ‘Rest Here A Moment’. After a brief hiatus to “find balance in life, let go and create more freely,” he returns with vigour armed with a confident sound. ‘Circles’ is a grounded, sweeping tune with sparse vocals and buoyant drum samples that keep the tune afloat. It twists and turns, though never losing the steady flow that invites you to keep your body moving.

Elliott Mo.

The Fae,  'Friend of a Friend'

Hot new Dublin alt-rock trio The Fae channel elements of indie, power pop and shoegaz with their massive sounding track ‘Friend of a Friend’.

Having already drummed up excitement with their songs ‘Chloe’ and ‘do you mind if I miss you?’, ‘Friend of a Friend’ is the lead single from their debut EP Bloodrush.

“Friend of a Friend is a song about watching someone you used to be close with go their own way, and trying to rebuild yourself from that,” said The Fae.  “It’s about being a bit bitter but still being open to the idea of that person being around ultimately.

The Fae.
(Photo Credit- Niamh Barry)

Trinkets, 'Playing it Shy'

Dublin’s Trinkets are a band quickly defining themselves through a sense of melancholy, vulnerability and honest lyricism. Their latest single ‘Playing it Shy’ is a feel good synth pop number which comes out alongside the song 'Juniper' , as part of a double-A side release.

“Playing It Shy is a song we didn't know we needed. When discussing what our next release should be we had a group of well loved songs to choose from,” said the band.

“We think the song captures that feeling and we want the people that hear us feel that too. Nothing too inaccessible, just a bit of fun that folks can relate to, it just felt like a cool next step.”

Trinkets. (Photo Credit - Hannah Barraclough)

Fräulein, 'The Last Drop'

Northern Irish/Dutch duo Fräulein’s new single ‘The Last Drop’  hears the fearsome pair double down on their shoegazed, grunge aesthetic which was deftly showcased earlier this year via their Pedestal EP.

The release coincides with a monster month for the band who kick off their European tour supporting Big Joanie in Germany this week.

“It’s about manic uncertainty, the confusing, exasperating and self-destructive patterns that you can fall into after the end of a relationship” said Joni Samuels on the song. “It’s meant to represent all of those feelings, which is why the song feels like a bit of a rollercoaster, but it’s short and intense, as those feelings tend to be”.

Fräulein

ALVA, 'Obsolete'

Indie-pop artist ALVA stuns with her enchanting debut single, ‘Obsolete.’ Her impressive first offering is a great first step for the twenty-three-year-old. Between her dreamy vocals and memorable melodies, ALVA has a distinctive sound and takes influence from artists such as Snail Mail, Soccer Mommy, Wolf Alice and Hazel English.

“I wrote Obsolete when I was fed up giving 100% to someone who was not returning the same energy and eventually I felt enough was enough.”

The heart-breaking lyrics are met with heavenly layered vocals and a catchy melody. ALVA is definitely one to watch with a debut like this. The singer/songwriter is playing a headline show in The Grand Social on Wednesday, October 18 to celebrate her release.

ALVA

ROOUE, ‘So Bad’

Twin sisters and pop duo ROOUE’s newest track ‘So Bad’ is complex, futuristic and some of the best electro pop of the year so far. Ahead of their anticipated debut EP in 2024, the track’s lyrics are empowering as they sing about societal expectations for women and rejecting self-deprecation. The production from co-writer Liam Geddes is slick and gritty, and it’s a track with some serious staying power.

“This track is a manifestation, the sonic version of the ‘fake it till you make it’ mantra during a period of self growth. We wanted to represent our future selves after the mental wreckage is done, picking up the pieces after a really difficult year. Body confidence is such a fickle topic and being a woman in this world comes with such an intense pressure to be ‘perfect’ and look like ‘media-ready’ perfection.”

ROOUE.

Jamie Noone, 'Living Fast, Not Living Well'

Recorded in home studios throughout Berlin, ‘Living Fast, Not Living Well,’ the first single from singer-songwriter Jamie Noone's upcoming debut Day Parade is simultaneously a heartfelt ode to being young and an invaluable reminder to make time for self-care. Intimate, atmospheric, and brilliantly understated, the new song sees newcomer Noone croon wistfully over a gorgeously lush soundscape of strings, bass, piano and fingerpicked guitar. The brass breakdown towards the end is nothing short of exceptional – with the track’s minimalistic instrumentation allowing space for each instrument, as well as Noone's poetic lyrics, to really shine.

Noone’s track, traversing the dizzying and disorientating depths of being young, wild and free – hopes to provide a comforting consolation, uplifting listeners in soft whispers of 'I've been there before, I'm right there with you.’

AILSHA, ‘Nightmare’

After a string of four explosive rock releases and selling out a headline show with MCD Productions, AILSHA’s 'Nightmare' is her final release of 2023. This powerful alt-metal track explores the depths of emotion and psyche. The production of the song weaves between bass-heavy electronic verses that descend into a colossal rock anthem chorus.

"We've all faced our own nightmares and this song is about conquering them, taking back control and never letting them rear their ugly head again. I wanted to create a song that literally sounds like a nightmare, with scary distorted vocals to almost irritating electronic beats and an overall exciting, fast-paced sound. I wanted to end the year with my most chaotic song yet."

AILSHA

Seán Parnell, ‘Over Feeling Down’

Cork’s rising star, Seán Parnell, releases his optimistic debut track, ‘Over Feeling Down.’ The lyrics delve into what it’s like to go through times of hardship and finally make it to the other side. The catchy instrumental makes this song linger after you’ve stopped listening.

The singer describes the authentic release as "A song about the smoke clearing after a hard time when I was broke and eating a lot of beans.” This debut release is certainly a very promising start for the artist.

Sean Parnell

Evan Kennedy, 'Pearphone'

Dublin-based artist and producer Evan Kennedy releases his new single ‘Pearphone’, accompanied by a light-hearted music video featuring a cast consisting of Sylvanian Families toys. The song is equally catchy as it is playful. The artist's smooth vocals lend themselves nicely to the perky, indie-pop tune.

The Dublin producer has worked with some massive names in the past including Coolio, Tebi Rex and Versatile but his own talents shine through with this release. "I'm blessed to have worked with incredible artists in the past, but now I get to show you what I really sound like,” the artist explains how he is now cementing himself as a stand-alone artist.

Evan Kennedy

Niamh Bury, 'Discovery'

This is only the third single from the Irish Folk artist. The gentle tune has the listener hooked on Bury’s every word. The rising star is sure not to disappoint with this poetic, enticing release.

Niamh describes the meaning behind her new single: “'Discovery' is about the embryonic state of something that is yet to fully form and reach its potential. It's about having patience, trusting in the process and accepting that things will develop exactly as they should. I wrote it at a time when certain things I was striving for seemed elusive and out of reach, so in a sense, it's also a kind of pep talk to self.”

Niamh Bury (Photo Credit - Ellius Grace)

milk., 'London'

Dublin’s indie-pop band milk.'s latest offering ‘London,’ is yet another fantastic release from the four-piece. The bouncy single is fresh and unique while staying true to the band's beloved alt-pop sound. The single before this, "I Think I Lost My Number Can I Have Yours?" was definitely a tough one to beat for fans but it seems ‘London’ could certainly take the cake.

The tune was produced by the band's frontman Mark McKenna. He explains the meaning behind the track as an “overwhelming realisation that the world is much bigger than us or anything we’ll ever do.”

milk. (Photo Credit - Sam Keeler)

Vernon Jane, ‘In Tune’

Scorching Irish alt-rock act Vernon Jane release their debut album Chestpains and Sidepieces today, including standout impact track ‘In Tune.’ Hailing from Dublin, Vernon Jane are a bold force, giving a voice to women with emotionally intelligent lyricism and a jazz punk, angsty rock sound.

‘In Tune’ is a high energy feast that feels like driving in a fast car, the sonics whipping your face like a sharp wind; A vocal breakdown bursts into a manic guitar solo with its own pulsing bloodstream. From sadness to strength, the entire album offers zero apologies, detailing how it feels to love, grow, and realise one’s self-worth.

Vernon Jane

Bruising Shins, ‘Sober in the Theatre’

Beginning their journey in March, Dublin-based five-piece Bruising Shins return after an electric summer of live shows with their new single, ‘Sober in the Theatre.’ The track starts off deceptively calm, with smooth bass and a melodic guitar riff, before breaking up the serenity with energetic chaos and grunge distortion. The single is paired with a powerhouse b-side, ‘Mindkiller,’ a melancholic rage of a tune.

The five-piece grunge-punk ensemble draws inspiration from ‘90s alternative wave of music spearheaded by the likes of Nirvana, Alice in Chains, and Mudhoney. Since their debut single ‘Hidden Hereafter’ released to explosive acclaim, Bruising Shins have spent the summer honing their destructive – yet refined – live show.

Bruising Shins

Georgia G, ‘Someone Better’

The soulful ‘Someone Better’ from Malahide singer/songwriter Georgia G is a personal addition to her discography. Recorded with all live instruments, it begins with just a stripped-back piano and her soulful voice. She’s soon joined by tender guitars and drums as she sings about heartbreak and trying to move past a hard breakup. With elements of pop, soul and country masterfully weaved together, Georgia G’s fourth single is a tender, honest track whose sonic soundscapes lift it up.

“‘Someone better’ is a very personal song to me. This song tells the story about the ending of a relationship, and realising maybe things weren't all that perfect whilst looking back. The song is an anthem for a breakup and how to cope with moving on. People tend to compare themselves to who their ex-partners are now with, but, comparison is the thief of joy. It’s finally understanding that the new person they are dating is a better fit for them. You will also find someone better suited for you.”

Georgia G.

APOSTLE, ‘Terrified’ ft. Caroline

Dublin electronic eccentric APOSTLE returns with his highly anticipated new single, ‘Terrified’ featuring Limerick rising star Caroline Clancy, out today. Spine-tingling vocals and electrifying production unite on the track, resulting in an earworm house tune full of killer guitar riffs. Since his debut release ‘Stars,’ which climbed to the top of Irish charts, the Dublin producer has garnered an audience at a string of standout summer festival sets, boldly fusing his name within the Irish electronic scene.

Known for more than just progressive beats, APOSTLE teamed up once more with German arts animator SoundFaenger to deliver a unique visual for the track.

APOSTLE

Disfreq, ‘People’

Donegal dance duo Disfreq is back with another rousing dance tune with ‘People’, primed and ready for the clubs. The brothers have gained quite a following since their debut in 2020, hellbent on becoming crucial figures in the global dance and techno scene. With their genre-defying music, they’ve achieved it and are supported by some of the biggest names in the industry, and it’s not hard to see why. Their tracks are infectious and hypnotic, hellbent on getting you to move.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Disfreq (@disfreq)

New Rules, ‘Ghost Town’

Pop boy band New Rules have done it again with the release of this fun new track. Good luck trying to get 'Ghost Town' out of your head after you listen to it. After the release of their debut album, Go The Distance, last year it’s no surprise that the new release is so good.

The band took to Instagram to speak on the song: “We wrote Ghost Town during a magical trip to the US and A all the way back in ‘21. We stayed at the top of a cliff, took Alec to mediaeval times, got stranded on the side of a highway during a storm and celebrated a week of great sessions with a tonne of crab. It’s been one of our favourites since then and we’re so glad it’s finally yours”

New Rules

Cosha, ‘Want You Back’

Between smooth R&B vocals and a beautiful melody this latest release from Cosha proves she is a force to be reckoned with. The Wicklow artist continues to offer nothing but greatness since her debut single in 2020 including her album, Mt. Pleasant. If you’re not already familiar with the singer ‘Want you back’ is sure to have you hooked.

The artist describes herself as, “Somewhere between Khia’s ‘My Neck, My Back’ and Sade’s ‘Kiss of Life’.”

Cosha

Cbakl feat. Bricknasty, 'Honey'

Cbakl joins forces with North Dublin heroes Bricknasty with the trippy number ‘Honey’. The opening track to the former’s latest EP Former Blessings, the song features haunting, glitched out vocals over Bricknasty’s signature jazz soundscapes.

The first “proper project” released by Cbakl in four years, Former Blessings sees an array of the hottest up-and-coming local artists collaborating with the prolific alt-rapper, with the likes of Keanu The Pilot, Curtisy, Alicia Raye, Kibo and Leo Miyagee featuring on the EP.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by cbakl (@cbakl)

Luz, 'i shouldn't be here'

Offaly singer Luz’s latest song ‘ i shouldn’t be here’ is an emotive, deeply personal piano driven ballad, with powerful lyrics describing the guilt felt from putting someone we love through difficult moments.

“It’s one of the most difficult songs I’ve had to write”, said the singer on social media. “I hope anyone who’s struggling will find comfort in hearing this song.”

After a two-year hiatus, the talented singer-songwriter made her long-awaited return last summer with the single ‘sustain’, followed by ‘not going anywhere’ which she released last month.

Luz.

Jordan Adetunji, 'Decay'

Genre-bending Belfast artist Jordan Adetunji returns with his debut mixtape Rock ‘N’ Rave. 'Decay' is the albums second track and showcases the Adetunji’s distinct reflective and energetic style, as he discusses feelings of wasting away and self-destructive habits at the behest of a relationship gone wrong.

Rock ‘N’ Rave is a project which shows off Adetunji’s range of sonic influences, with the album traversing through acoustic guitars, math rock riffs and trap beats. Unsurprisingly, the artist sites a diverse set of music legends as inspirations, from the likes of The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar, to Joy Division and Bring Me the Horizon.

Jordan Adetunji

Shane Barry, 'This Season's Roar'

Shane Barry

Jah 1, ‘Too Many Bars’

Dublin “rap maverick” Jah 1 put out a brand new freestyle today, a blisteringly witty four-minute track that packs a punch. The track is as Dublin as it can get, the lyrics painting an unfiltered picture of the city with its brutally authentic wordplay (“I flow sicker than the Liffey on a Sunday morning,” Jah 1 quips at one point). He’s one of the most unique and fastest-rising rappers in the game today, finding a worldwide audience with his slyly ferocious lyricism, and ‘Too Many Bars’ is just another example of why he’s earned it.

"I heard the beat online and just started to flow over it. I jotted down what came to mind on the spot and hit up Jungle Beam Studio to meet with the king of the jungle, Simba. Prior to the studio session, I was out filming my 'Tour the Ends' with Ocean1, a short documentary that provides a glimpse into my life and what I do. Simba was cool, and the entire experience, working with great people, was an incredible one."

Jah 1.

Tim Chadwick, '+1 Only'