ØXN, ‘The Trees They Do Grow High’

Experimental doom folk band ØXN is releasing their debut album CYRM this week, after months of heavy anticipation. Joining previous singles ‘Love Henry’ and ‘Cruel Mother’, the album is made up of six tracks: both original songs and traditional covers. ‘The Trees They Do Grow High’ is a traditional cover, about an arranged marriage of a woman to a boy much younger than her. It follows on with the album’s theme of oppression and social pressures and contains all of the qualities that make ØXN so great and unique.

The band says of CYRM: “We had rehearsed so intensely for our live stream in the Martello tower that we figured it would be the best thing to book in-studio time right away. So, during some phase of the pandemic, we went up to Hellfire Studios and got battered by gales and petted cows while putting down the bones of the album. Some of said gale can be heard on 'The Feast'.”

Kojaque, 'Phantom Of The Afters'

Dublin rap titan Kojaque is back with his third studio album, Phantom Of The Afters. The eagerly awaited project traces blurred outlines of childhood trauma, depression, grief and love.

Beginning with the sound of a departing flight from Dublin to London, the record weaves through the physical and emotional journey of central character Jackie Dandelion with bigger questions about immigrant identity, homesickness, cultural stereotypes and ultimately the reconciliation of self.

On the LP’s title track, the Cabra native dives into these issues headfirst, a soulful, old-school beat laying the foundation for Kojaque’s to  recount Jackie’s late-night escapades with trademark authenticity.

FIZZ, 'Strawberry Jam'

From the band’s debut album The Secret To Life, out today, ‘Strawberry Jam’ is a dreamy alt-pop track which seems to have a Queen influence. Their first offerings from the album including, ‘Close One’ and ‘High in Brighton’ set the bar pretty high but FIZZ exceeded all expectations with ‘Strawberry Jam’. You may recognise some of the members of FIZZ including Dublin’s own Orla Gartland and English singer/songwriter Dodie.

The band formed earlier this year and has been going from strength to strength ever since. Born out of love and blind optimism, FIZZ came together in a whirlwind of pure joy and escapism, inverting everything each artist knew about making music to produce an album with fun and a love of the craft at its core.

 

Niall Horan feat. Lizzy McAlpine, ‘You Could Start a Cult’

The show isn’t over yet for Hot Press’ August cover star Niall Horan, after he recently announced an extended version of his third studio album The Show for 3 November, featuring live versions and collaborations with various artists, including John Legend and Lizzy McAlpine.

McAlpine appears on ‘You Could Start a Cult’, penning an extra verse and offering her vocals, pairing seamlessly with Horan in a sweet and heartfelt reimagination of the song.

"I’ve been a huge fan of hers for a while now and am so grateful she was able to hop on the song and write a special new verse," shared Horan about McAlpine.

Offica, ‘Have Fun’

A freestyle Off of his majorly anticipated new mixtape Hokage Pt.1 , Irish drill maestro Offica’s ‘Have Fun’ is a clear example why he’s risen to the top of the genre. Over a head banging sample and driving drill beats, he lays down witty bars while giving room for A92 and A9Nikz to show off their skills.

Cian ducrot and Ella Henderson, ‘Rest of Our Days’

Ella Henderson and Irish star Cian Ducrot come together for their newest track ‘Rest of Our Days’. Both of their voices are uniquely emotive and blend beautifully together, creating a christmassy pop anthem complete with rousing fiddle. “We’ll remember this night for the rest of our days,” they exclaim, and it’s hard not to picture them gleefully raising a pint together.

 

 

Yunè Pinku, ‘killing bee’

Adding to the spooky offerings this week is Mayalsian-Irish artist Yune Pinku with ‘killing bee’. As an artist who describes her sound as “music for introverted ravers”, it’s a perfect club track for any ghost or ghoul who wants to get down this Halloweekend. Glitchy vocals over a steady club beat, it’s a spooky new tune from Pinku.

 

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Rachael Lavelle, ‘Travel Size’

Ahead of her upcoming album release, Rachael Lavelle gives us a taste of what to expect from it with ‘Travel Size’. And boy, what a sound— her ghostly vocals harmonize to create a sound that is otherworldly, almost siren-like in its beauty. It’s absolutely unique and undeniably special.

 

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Rory Sweeney, feat, Ahmed, with love., EMBY and Curtisy, ‘Loose Lips’

A flurry of rising favourites collides on the latest offering from Rory Sweeney – plying his trade around the Dublin scene as a multifaceted experimental musician – he releases his inner Danger Mouse on ‘Loose Lips’, with infectious cinematic violins characterising the laidback beat.

Joining him are a cast of hip-hop up and comers in Ahmed with love., EMBY and Curtisy, who each take over the track with their unmistakable flows and timbres.

“We made this song last Friday and decided we should drop it ASAP,” said Sweeney on social media. “This link up has been too long in the making.”

 

Levi Evans, ‘Complicated’

Hot Press : Hot For 2022 act Levi Evans has gone from strength to strength since 2021’s smash hit ‘Back In My Head Again’ – which has since gone on to garner millions of streams online. It’s been a busy year for the son of iconic U2’s iconic The Edge, with Evans releasing six singles thus far in 2023.

His newest offering ‘Complicated’, is the latest in a series of feel-good, sunny-sounding indie bangers, with 80s sounding guitars and synths providing a upbeat contrast to the song’s lyrics - as Evans ponders the complicated nature of trying to be happy.

 

Midnight Wayne, ‘Intuition’

Former Hot Sprockets frontman Wayne Soper is no stranger to the Irish music scene, having cut his teeth in one of the most well-loved live bands of their time on our festival circuits. Since branching out as a solo-artist in 2019, he been making even more of a name for himself with his psychedelic brand of pop.

From his sophomore EP Ouroboros, ‘ Intuition’ is simultaneously intense and chilled out, with hard-hitting Tame Impala inspired drums and beautifully layered synths resulting in a song that sounds like it came straight from outer space.

 

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Pagan, ‘Take You Back’

Since first breaking out back in 2021, Pagan has gone on to sell out shows across the UK and Ireland, his chops being recognised by some of the world’s biggest DJs – including TSHA, Prospa, DJ Heartstring, X-Coast and more.

His latest tune ‘Take You Back’, from his upcoming EP by the same name, is the latest in a long line of electro bangers. The trance-driven dance track has somewhat of a spooky feel, right in time for Halloween, with eerie synths and haunting vocals complimenting the irresistible high-energy beat.

 

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Martellos, 'Another'

Irish duo Martellos started making music in 2022 with the aim of combining their vastly different musical styles and tastes into something new.

The Martellos' upcoming EP Strawberry Blonde has been described as 'an earworm sound with a certain depth'. The EP exhibits the pair's eclectic tastes, taking influence from LCD Soundsystem, Neutral Milk Hotel, Jamie T, Earl Sweatshirt and Jack Kerouac to name but a few.

'Another' is a heavy, and sometimes downright sinister sounding song, with a dirty bass. The song details the performance of dealing with poor mental health. 'Another' is a testament to the pressure to say 'you're fine' when you're really not- a uniquely Irish state of being. Lyricist Lorcan has witnessed this phenomenon at home in Donegal in particular, and says 'this is a dangerous precedent'.

REM$, ‘OFFTHEFLOOR’

Dublin artist REM$ returns with his first new single of 2023, and it blurs the line between his go-to Hip-Hop and something more melodic and narrative. His blistering delivery of witty lyrics that cut straight to the themes of adversity and determination elevate this track: as REM$ himself puts it, “It's a declaration of resilience, a call to embrace life's struggles and keep moving forward, unapologetically.”

Bróna Keogh, 'Nature Boy'

Dublin indie-folk singer Bróna Keogh’s latest single ‘Nature Boy’ is a powerful, sensual and hypnotic track and a celebration of recovered sexuality in the aftermath of a traumatic assault.

A survivor of sexual assault, Keogh has been integrating these experiences through her art and has found liberation in the song's gentle expression of sensuality.

The soulful vocalist has played shows supporting some of Ireland's most celebrated artists, including Pillow Queens, Niamh Reagan, Dani Larkin, and Wyvern Lingo.

Currently self-funding a residency in Berlin, this single marks the start of a GoFundMe Campaign that Keogh will use to fund the recording of an EP.

'I am impatient and frustrated with the amount of material I have unreleased, and I want to just lean into my work,” said the artist.  “I am asking for the price of a CD to contribute to recording my next EP which I am eager to share.''

Datqidexcel, ‘Daily Thoughts’

18-year-old Limerick MC, Datqidexcel, drops his brand-new single ‘Daily Thoughts,’ following his previous release ‘Time Will Tell’. The track is a journey through maturity and portrays depictions of his life experiences and the constant thoughts that go through his mind.

“It apprises the ambitions and goals I aspire to reach before I can truly say I’ve made it. The aim behind this song is to show people I’m not the same person I was when I made ‘Time Will Tell’, my debut single. I don’t care for what’s trending anymore. From now onwards when I make music, I want it to be on my terms.”

Uly, ‘33s’

After a devastating hard drive malfunction caused irreversible and irreparable damage - resulting in the devastating loss of a decade’s worth of work, Uly had to start from scratch. ‘33s’ was written on the artist’s first day back in the studio after officially losing all his work. The track is an ethereal contemplation of romantic love and his relationship with it. This single highlights his growth as an artist - both in craft and technical ability. It is rich, vibrant and full of texture.

Dee Fitz, ‘Sleep Tight’

This release is an alt-pop lover's dream. The Dublin-based, Galway-born artist talks about loss from a late-night perspective. How we keep remnants of memories alive in different ways during times of turmoil. 'Sleep tight' is catchy, bright and fun, Fitz is on to a winner with this one.

“It’s a universal theme, we all experience it in different ways and for different reasons. 'Sleep Tight' is my take on that. The way we let our minds wander to other places when things are difficult.”

MOIO, 'Moments'

Dublin artist MOIO has released his third single, ‘Moments’, a chill pop track that is as funky as it is laid-back. The singer only released his first single earlier this year and has been making waves in the music scene ever since. With other Irish artists such as Kojaque and KhakiKid showing their love for the new tune, this Dublin star is definitely one to keep an eye on. The reality is you've probably already heard MOIO's music, as he's been making music for a few years as part of Dublin-formed Chamomile Records, producing songs alongside the likes of the ever-popular Aby Coulibaly and his older brother Monjola.

 

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Oscar Blue, ‘Ghost’

Continuing to expand his lo-fi indie-pop sound following his previous release 'Skeletons', and ahead of a sold-out London show at Servant Jazz Quarters and an Irish tour later this month, Oscar Blue arrives with his latest single 'Ghost'. The song plays with lo-fi soundscapes and soaring melodies; using powerful metaphors, and vivid imagery to convey the sense of being a "ghost" in another person's life.

Blue describes the meaning behind the track as the feeling, "when someone pops into your head more than you’d like them to at every street corner or streetlamp, it's a kind of haunting feeling."

DOLLFACE, ‘Love Me Better’

Emerging electro-pop artist DOLLFACE – the pseudonym for Irish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Caela Murphy – releases her fierce and infectious single ‘Love Me Better’ today. A distinctive act, she infuses her diverse musical influences into her boundless sound, having studied music from classical to jazz and contemporary. Her melodic pop ballads centre poignant themes drawn from the artist’s own personal experiences.

Produced by Richard Power, DOLLFACE’s newest track is an ultimately cathartic rollercoaster of a listen that probes into the theme of moving on and letting go, while learning to love oneself. Electronic effects and soundscapes add a hopeful ambience to the production, and as the tempo accelerates, the singer gains vigour and finally ruptures into a sanguine electronic chorus.

Evan Miles, 'Did it Once'

On the heels of a sold-out London debut supporting Two Lanes, Evan Miles’ effervescent new track ‘Did it Once’ pulses with life – citing Bonobo, Fred Again… and Four Tet as sonic inspirations. A resonant sea of humming synthesisers, pounding drums and echoey vocals, ‘Did it Once’ is electronic at its dreamiest. “The latest single stems from the afterthoughts of summer, what you've done, what you shouldn't have done, and what you're fearing to find out,” says Miles. A captivating glimpse of things to come.

Dave Nulty, 'Eraser'

Following his highly praised summer release 'All Just A Dream,' Dave Nulty is back with his electrifying new single 'Eraser.' His fourth release of 2023, 'Eraser' sees Dave pursue a more tech-house infused soundscape. Having never considered or attempted DJing himself, Nulty was recently invited to guest-mix for RTÉs Pulse 'Month In Dance' show in September, he provided a mix of some of his favourite releases and influences that make up his varied sonic palette; sparking a renewed sense of appreciation and interest. With screaming synths, pounding drums and driving basslines, the new track is a bona fide tech-house floor filler, inspired by time spent engrossed within the vibrant tech-house communities of Valencia. Of the track Nulty said: “The process of writing Eraser was influenced by spending time with the various electronic sub-culture communities in Valencia, bringing to mind feel good club nights & that feeling of getting lost in the noise together."

Jock, 'Moving'

Belfast garage-punk trio Jock has something to say– or shout– about Ireland’s housing crisis. Their new track is a claustrophobically raucous lament about the reality of housing, one that aims to make the people living through it feel heard. “You go to a house viewing in Belfast, there’s a queue of people out the door and at least four of them are your friends”, the trio explains. “You get to the front of the queue and a man in a suit tells you the rental price has just went up by £300 per month. You try to fill in an application form anyway and before you’ve even done that, they want you to pay £200 just to apply.”

Elaphi, 'Diamond Walls'

Elaphi is a Dublin-based four-piece band founded in 2021 by songwriter and guitarist Sara Barberio, along with fellow guitarist Jacopo Stofler, Federico Camici on bass, and drums provided by Grim Nordahl. Elaphi describes themselves on Instagram as 'Moody Folk / Abrasive Sounds'.

Elaphi’s alt-rock debut song "Diamond Walls" aims to capture the overwhelming surge of thoughts and emotions that flood our minds and hearts when we are faced with a difficult predicament, specifically when it revolves around the profound sensations of love and loss. The debut single 'Diamond Walls' is out today Friday the 27th and the band will perform a headline single release show at Whelan's on November 17th. Tickets available here.

Katharine Timoney, ‘Ruminate’

Award-winning Northern Irish singer-songwriter Katharine Timoney is the most authentic kind of artist: the kind who uses songwriting as a tool to cope with life, making good from the bad. Fusing barbershop jazz harmonies with disco guitar, her newly released single ‘Ruminate’ is a lively neo-soul track, made infectious by Timoney’s giddy, rich vocals and a driving R&B beat. A pop-soul throwback tune at its core, ‘Ruminate’ takes its listener right back to the ‘90s neo-soul golden age.

First gaining recognition upon winning the 2018 BBC NI Platform Award, sponsored by The Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Timoney has performed with The Ulster Orchestra at The Ulster Hall, Belfast and at the BBC NI Proms in 2020. Her debut 2022 EP Life Came Into Colour received rave reviews, leading to the singer receiving the UK Songwriting Contest Award in the Jazz category.

Theo Fitzgibbon, ‘Jonah’

There’s no reading between the lines with Theo Fitzgibbon, the Dublin singer-songwriter whose powerful vocals and indie-rock anthems have caught the Irish music front’s attention. Returning from a summer of festival performances and writing, the rising Irish artist releases his third single ‘Jonah’ today – a heartful, insistent number that hooks you from the start.

Drenched in acoustic nostalgia, the track rides on a relentless guitar beat. Fitzgibbon’s vocals are at level ten from the first line, captivating the listener with lyrics that are simple and clear-cut. Drenched in nostalgia, ‘Jonah’ is the epitome of a modern indie pop anthem, bursting with soul.

Conchúr White, ‘Rivers’

Conchúr White announced the release date of his debut album Swirling Violets, which is January 19, with the first single from the release last month. Today he graces us with the second offering, 'Rivers,' from the album.

“'Rivers' was recorded in a cottage outside Pomeroy in Tyrone. I went away for a few days to demo tracks for the album, one of which was 'Rivers'. I’d always intended to re-record it but never did as I came to like the idea of having something on the album that I’d made by myself; my recording of my vocals and acoustic guitar. I committed to all the effects and sounds pre-recording as I didn't want to spend a lot of time mixing demos, so everything you hear on the song was as I heard it."

Stout Talk, ‘Afraid of the Sea’

Stout Talk’s highly anticipated debut single is finally here. ‘Afraid of the Sea’ was born after lead guitarist Cormac Flanagan escaped on a solo fishing trip to Donegal. Overcome and burnt out by the stresses of day-to-day life, the trip served as the perfect opportunity to let go of these impinging elements. The track touches upon the relationship between two people confronting a fork in the road for that relationship. It’s the relationship between the band, the place, the people around them and the people who helped make the track that are at the heart of this release.

Hannahbella, ‘secret!’

Cork’s very own Hannahbella reveals her battle with mental health struggles with the genre-shifting track ‘secret!’  “I wanted to bend the rules of harmony and songwriting with this song,” said the artist.  “The choruses may be different lyrically but it all comes together in the end as a poem. I took inspiration from genres such as techno, alt-pop, and shoegaze”. November is set to be an exciting month for Hannahbella, as she gears up to support Baby Queen at The Academy on the 21^st, while also playing her own headline show in her native Cork at The Roundy on November 28^th.

Clare Sands and Aisling Urwin, 'Ghost on The Waves'

'Ghost on the Waves' is the latest offering from Cork-born fiddler and contemporary singer Clare Sands, featuring long-time collaborator and fellow UCC music alum Aisling Urwin on harp.

Having recently performed at 'El Cervantino', Latin America's largest music and arts festival, and with a UK headliner tour announced for November 2023, it seems that Sands is on a roll this year.

'Ghost on the Waves' takes inspiration from the 'Pursuit of Diarmuid and Gráinne' and features lyrics in Irish to honour this classic folk tale. One particularly moving lyric reads as "Maireann an lá go ruaig, maireann an grá go huaigh" - meaning ‘a day lasts until it's chased away, but love lasts until the grave’.

Sands and Urwin wrote the song together over a period of 2 days, in a place which Sands describes as 'west of the west'- the Dingle Peninsula. Indeed, the music video for 'Ghost of the Waves', was filmed in Dunmore, on the Dingle Peninsula.

The song pays homage to the ethereal and ominous West Kerry landscape and the accompanying music video, directed by twin sisters  Liadain Kaminska and Kasia Kaminska, perfectly compliments this. The sisters said: "We must have been drinking water from the same cup as Clare and Aisling, because the film and song met beautifully in the middle".

The Would Be’s, ‘Two Wrongs (Made Me Feel Alright)’

Hailing from Cavan, The Would Be's, have released their first new material since 2017. 'Two Wrongs' is a joyous upbeat track providing a feel-good wave of power pop.

The track marks the first single off the group's upcoming 2024 album HindZeitgeist. Winning over BBC Radio's legendary presenter John Peel, 'The Would Be's' first rose to prominence with their 1990 debut single 'I'm Hardly Ever Wrong'.  The early nineties indie sensation 'The Would Be’s' infamously turned down 14 major labels choosing the obscure indie label Decoy Records. The band broke up one year later.

In 2012, with 20 years of material in their arsenal, 'The Would Be's' got back together and their first EP, Beautiful Mess.

The 2024 album, HindZeitgeist, will be the group's sophomore album.

Manilla Times- 'Miracle Worker'

A track which has been described as "a fan favourite at gigs for a while," 'Miracle Worker', was released by Welsh-Irish band 'Manilla Times' earlier this week. Miracle Worker is a crowd-pleasing, guitar-heavy, feel-good indie rock track.

Fresh off the back of their sold out UK and Ireland tour earlier this year, Manilla Times are no stranger to playing feel good indie bangers, and 'Miracle Worker' is no exception. Heavy on drums, with a sleazy guitar solo, this song is the perfect sing along indie track to kick off your weekend.

Manilla Times are set to play their biggest ever headliner gig at The Deaf Institution Manchester next Friday November 3rd where fans can expect to thrash around to this bouyant track.

 

Niamh Bury, 'Discovery'

Rising Irish folk talent Niamh Bury carries on climbing since her July debut with her recent single ‘Discovery,’ released last week. The soaring tune got a fresh take this week with the release of the singer performing the track live in Dublin’s lush Phoenix Park.

Bury shares of the song, “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.” Spine-tingling vocals bring the lyrics of the track to life, evoking a simultaneous sense of hope and longing. RTÉ Radio 1 will air a specially-commissioned orchestral arrangement of ‘Discovery’ this Monday, October 30, featuring Bury performing the single live alongside the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, so make sure to tune in!

 

Little Known, 'Daylight'

Cork band Little Known have just dropped their debut grunge album As It Is. Featuring their new single 'Daylight', As It Is, is a 10-track LP packed with dense guitar and throbbing drums sure to get your head thumping.

'Daylight' contrasts Little Known's LP, providing a dreamy foil to the fuzzy alt rock of As It Is. Reflecting subject matter, the single is a light track, sounding like the sweet younger sibling to the likes of Sonic Youth.

'Daylight' is a hazy tune which puts that rose coloured tint on indie grunge. 'Little Known' are set to perform a Halloween Album release gig on Tuesday October 31st at Cork's Fred Zepplin's. Tickets available here.

Elaine Mai, 'The Moment' (feat. Soft Centre)

A electronic pop offering, 'The Moment', is a tender teenage pop song, calling upon a certain youthful innocence. Mai, is a Mayo born, Dublin based electronic music power house.  Elaine Mai has been referred to as one of Ireland's top electronic music producers by RTE Radio One, and her debut album Home was shortlisted for the RTE choice music prize.

Written over the pandemic, 'The Moment' was a collaboration between soft centre and Mai created over zoom, without the pair ever meeting in person. Speaking of the collab Mai said on Instagram: "Soft centre's lyrics focus on the emotion of meeting someone from the past, the nostalgia, longing, and acceptance you can feel that can hit you all at once. I tried to emphasise these feelings as well".

 

Kyla Belle, ‘Need Me’

Kyla Belle has released her debut single, ‘Need Me’. This pop track is a self-love, female-driven anthem. You may recognise the rising star from her frequent busking on Grafton Street. Kyla has been releasing covers for a few years now so it’s finally time for people to get a taste for her original music. This feel-good tune is a great start for the young singer/songwriter and it’s no doubt only the start of her journey.

The Daisy Chain, ‘Postcards and Pictures’

This sweet folk tune is sure to put a smile on your face. The Daisy Chain is a Belfast-based musical project which, in the studio, consists entirely of clones of 23-year-old Rhys Mayes. He creates 60s inspired psych-pop/folk music under his pseudonym. The raw nature of his music is what really makes it stand out. The artist does not set out to create a polished sound but instead a jarring and heartfelt forgery of Rhys Mayes’ favourite music, such as The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Beach Boys, and Ros Sereysothea.

 

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Kingfishr, 'Flowers-fire'

Originally composed for piano, Kingfishr’s newest release ‘Flowers-fire’ is a nostalgic redux of the band’s 2017 debut single. Entirely re-arranged, the track is a fitting retrospective on the band’s journey so far; expressing a warmly melancholic reflection on relationship issues over a lilting wave of finger-picked banjo, soaring vocals and mellow acoustic guitar. Mining a similar vein to Mumford and Sons, ‘Flowers-fire’ is essential new Irish listening.

 

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The Scratch, 'Cheeky Bastard'

Armed with amped acoustic guitars, the Scratch are as eclectic as they come, drawing from the unlikeliest of sonic bedfellows; trad, folk and metal. The band’s latest was also produced by James Vincent McMorrow. Blending Irish traditional sensibilities, alt rock instrumentation and dashes of “full-blown” metal for good measure, Scratch’s latest ‘Cheeky Bastard’ is as anthemic as it is scathingly comedic.

Sophie Doyle Ryder, ‘Falling’

Hot off the heels of her debut EP Beginner’s Luck, Malahide-based singer-songwriter Sophie Doyle returns with ‘Falling From Hell.’ an infectiously danceable slice of expertly crafted pop – vis-a-vis Olivia Rodrigo, Rihanna and Ariana Grande – Sophie’s new track is steeped in pop-punk nostalgia, with slightly eerie atmospherics – perfect for Halloween… Recorded in Windmill Lane, the track is an exceptional showcase of the singer’s soaring vocals and catchy lyrics. Co-written by fellow Malahide musician Lauryn Gaffney, ‘Falling From Hell’ charts the emotional heartache of being difficult to love, moving on from insecurities and owning one’s imperfections – it’s a powerful musical evocation of self-love.

Naoise Roo, ‘Sick Girlfriend’

Following her 2022 debut Lillith, Belfast-based singer-songwriter Naoise Roo is back with Emotionally Magnificent – and opener ‘Sick girlfriend’ is a bona fide alternative anthem for the ages. With driving drums, waves of wailing guitar and a charmingly idiosyncratic vocal delivery, Naoise’s latest is a stellar opener of the anthemic variety; an triumphantly angsty evocation of queer intimacy, and well – the trials and tribulations of having a sick girlfriend. The track was produced in collaboration with Liam Mulvaney (Girl Band) and Jamie Hyland of M(h)aol. Gritty, infectious and brilliantly produced, Emotionally Magnificent is shaping up to be more than a worthy successor to an already impressive musical debut…

Problem Patterns, 'Terfs Out'

Feminist punk quartet Problem Patterns make their hotly anticipated debut today, with a charged suite of gritty queer feminist anthems. “Bigger than The Beatles, not quite as big as Slipknot," with 'Terfs Out,' Problem patterns critique the lousy activism of so-called trans exclusionary radical feminists, with razor-sharp lyrics, pounding drums and blistering vocals. A delightfully fiery condemnation of “faux feminism” and trans-exclusionary hacks – cough, cough, Posie Parker – the latest from Problem Patterns is modern Riot Grrrl still at its very best…

 

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Lucy Gaffney, ‘Next Year’

If you’re a fan of Phoebe Bridgers, Gracie Abraham or Clairo, Lucy Gaffney is right up your alley. The singer/songwriter is set to make a huge impact on the music industry with the iconic Liam Gallagher even calling her music “celestial”. Her effortless voice pairs beautifully with her indie-pop track. 

Gaffney explained the meaning of the song on her Instagram: “It’s a favourite of mine, very much a tune for the winter months & reflects on times passed and new experiences to come as we each delve into the unknown of a new year.”

 

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Pat Lagoon, ‘FourFour’

Waterford city artist Pat Lagoon is ready to make waves in the Irish rap scene. His influences stem from artists like NAV, Tyler the Creator, Joey Badass, 88Glam and Majid Jordan. ‘FourFour’ is only a two-minute-long song but boy, does it pack a punch. Catchy, fresh and the 22-year-old rapper has a great, unique flow. This artist is definitely one to watch in the Irish hip-hop scene. 

David Hedderman, ‘Permanent Blush’

Dublin-born, Berlin-based singer/songwriter David Hedderman is extremely passionate about his work. The singer has cultivated an impressive career as a visual artist with his vibrant style of portraits which often feature beautifully textured and captivating backdrops for his figures to exist within.

Hedderman’s striking idiosyncratic style seamlessly translates into his songwriting. His newest track, ‘Permanent Blush’ is a beautiful laid-back pop track that showcases Hedderman’s musical capabilities.

Winnie Ama, ‘Wide Open’

Blending electronic beats with Ama’s laid back smooth vocals. The artist sets out to create soulful and empowering alt-pop/R&B music and she nailed it with ‘Wide Open’. The song is reminiscent of 90s pop/R&B and has a nostalgic sound with a fresh twist.

The artist talks about working with David Goode on the track: “We made a folk-inspired soulful pop song about unrequited love, the verses and the choruses are two different perspectives. I hope you like it.” 

Jordan Nocturne, ‘Over & Over (feat Read In LED)’

When he’s not travelling around Berlin, New York, Japan and London playing his music, Jordan Nocturne is busy making absolute belters such as his newest dance track, ‘Over & Over (feat Read in LED)’ from his brand new EP, Dolly EP. 

Polari Records have taken to Instagram to praise both Nocturne and Read in LED saying: “Read in LED has made a stellar contribution to Jordan‘s forthcoming EP, she lends her extraordinary vocal prowess to the opening track, "Over & Over," infusing it with captivating strength."

James J. Clarke, 'White Roses'

Meath-based singer-songwriter James J. Clarke’s latest ‘White Roses’ is a deeply personal and meditative piece of folk gold. A rich and introspective cut, laden with poetic lyricism and earthy acoustic guitar. ‘White Roses’ is excellently complimented by Ailbhe’s lush vocal harmonies. 

Elkin, 'Alright Darling'

Combining thought-provoking folk lyrics with dazzling alt-pop production, Dublin-based female duo Elkin delve into new sonic territory with ‘Alright Darling,’ pursuing a sound that is danceable and offbeat in equal measure. With vocoder adlibs, ebbing pulses of synth and remarkable vocals, ‘Alright Darling’ is a promising glimpse of things to come. 

Alicia Rayes, 'Close To Me'

Belfast-based singer-songwriter and rapper, Alicia Rayes, returns with her electric new single ‘Close To Me,’ A groove-heavy blend of slick hip-hop beats and R&B soul, ‘Close To Me’ is a catchy rumination on intimacy and desire. 

Jen Ella, ‘We Were Kids Back Then”

Cork native and singer-songwriter Jen Ella released her new single ‘We Were The Kids Back Then’ a song that takes the listener on a journey of being a teenager growing up in rural Ireland. Based in London, the Cork native carries on from her last single ‘‘I Must Go To The Party Alone’ a song about experiencing freedom and strength after an adverse life event.

‘We Were The Kids Back Then’ is a mediation on what it is to grow up and look back, now with uncomplicated sentimentality, but with a sense of longing yet sadness. A slow paced homage to what it is to be a teenager, ‘We Were The Kids Back Then’ is a beautiful new track about being lonely but not alone.

Belters Only, ‘Life Lesson’ feat. Sonny Fodera & Jazzy

As the name ‘Belters Only’ would suggest, ‘Life Lesson’, the duo is not in the producing anything short of club classic anthems. Featuring Jazzy and Sonny Fodera, ‘Life Lesson’ is the new offering from the Irish electronic music group ahead of their sold out 3Arena show next week. 

If you’re looking for an end of week pick me up, ‘Life Lesson’ has you covered, featuring Jazzy’s smooth vocals, and Sonny Fodera’s signature clean electro touch, ‘Life Lessons’ truly is an anthem to dance away the working week blues. 

Fortune Igiebor (feat danzi), ‘DUBLIN REIGN’

Fortune Igiebor, known for his eccentric and intense rap, has released another signature Fortune Igiebor track ‘DUBLIN REIGN’ featuring Danzi. ‘DUBLIN REIGN’, is the lead song off his latest release, EP ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’. 

Bringing his typical enormous energy ‘DUBLIN REIGN’ is a high powered tune with heavy drums and beats, and an almost reggaeton undertone. ‘DUBLIN REIGN’ is an adrenaline inducing rap track, not one to be missed. 

 

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Elle Coves, ‘Lost Cowboy’

Born in Germany to Spanish parents, Elle Coves moved to Ireland when she was 13, Coves at only 19, has an impressive list of accomplishments. Having toured with Lewis Capaldi, Moncrieff and Wild Youth, Ella Coves’ debut single ‘Before I Fall Apart’, amassed over 1 million views on Tiktok alone in May of this year.

The teenager is not one to rest on her laurels however and has released a new folk pop single entitled ‘Lost Cowboy’ today. Part of the new wave of fashion featuring the revival of Dolly Parton, Barbie and pink cowboy boots, ‘Lost Cowboy’ is a tender, thoughtful pop song. Is Coves Ireland’s answer to Olivia Rodrigo fans? For now, ‘Lost Cowboy’ is a soft hearted pop song.

Slow River School, ‘Turn To You’

Featuring a bass-y guitar line, ‘Turn To You’ is a Sunday morning type of song. Smooth, soft and hazy, ‘Turn to you’ makes for the ultimate easy listening track.

Slow River School is a project brought to you Brian Magee, artist, musician and teacher based in Dublin. ‘Turn To You’ was written in D tuning and features a baritone guitar. According to Magee, ‘the song focuses on those moments upon waking where sometimes a feeling of dread greets one, the source of which is not clear, sometimes as the result of a difficult dream, the excesses of the night before or an anxiety feeling without a source’.

Moon Landing, ‘Feel, Don’t Think’

Moon Landing’s latest single ‘Feel Don’t Think’ brings to mind something Sigur Rós might write, only written in English. Moon Landing is the project of multi instrumentalist Jake McCrea, who was crowned champion of Chordblossom’s Kickstarter’s award in 2023, and nominated for the Joe Cassidy Chrysallis award.

Described by McCrea as ‘my favourite song that I’ve ever written’ on the musicians social media, ‘Feel Don’t Think’ is a meditative track, allowing listeners to lose themselves in the instrumentals and be gently caressed by Moon Landing’s soft vocals. 

Alex Konchar, ‘Gasoline’

DIY indie artist Alex Gonchar first came onto the scene with his self-written and produced single ‘Fresh’. Konchar’s Spotify bio, reads ‘been away for a while, went to uni, was in a band for 10 days, broke a couch’.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that this was not the bio of a musician, but Konchar’s newest track Gasoline shows that he’s back with a bang. Featuring My Bloody Valentine like guitar lines, and fuzzy vocals with a healthy helping of reverb, Gasoline is a grungy indie rock offering.