David Keenan & Evanne Kilgallon, ‘Christmas’ll ruin me’

David Keenan is joined by his partner Evanne Kilgallon for this romantic Christmas duet. The song deals with real-life struggles that can accompany the holiday season. It explores anxiety, addiction stigma, and the pressures that come with conforming to consumerism around this time of year. In truth, it’s a hopeful and humorous tale with flashes of nudity and the important reminder that love and compassion for ourselves and each other is vital at Christmas.

Donations raised by the single will go to Dublin Simon Community which provides homeless, housing and treatment services to people facing the trauma and stress of homelessness in Ireland, especially vital during these winter months.

Ispíní na hÉireann, ‘And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda’

From their new EP Worse Than Dying, Ispíní na hÉireann have nailed it with ‘And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda’. Originally written by Eric Bogle, the breathtaking ballad has a unique way of storytelling. You may recognise the tune as Shane MacGowan sang it beautifully with The Pogues in a 1985 cover.

Ispíní's new EP highlights Tomás Mulligan’s evocative and authentic voice. They have grown together as a musical force - their ability to weave lyrical narratives with the banjo, guitar, bodhran, cello, sax, pipes, and whistle, creates this powerful body of work. They bring the listener on a journey to understand the fragile nature and uncertainty of happiness, wars fought on the battlefield or wars fought in the mind, and what it means to rise again.

KEHLI, ‘This Christmas’

KEHLI has released her latest single. This festive track encapsulates what Christmas is all about – the people around you. Speaking about the new release, she said, "‘This Christmas’ is a song about love and missing that one person you love at Christmas. It's about realising that you could have absolutely everything in the world, all the presents, all the money and it still doesn't add up to spending Christmas with the one you love or your family or just anyone you feel fills your heart at Christmas time. Wishing everyone a very happy Christmas with their loved ones!"

Maura O'Connel, 'From A Distance'

Irish singer Maura O'Connell's  emotional version of anti-war song 'From A Distance', features Declan O'Rourke and Dani Larkin, and has been shared in aid of Doctors Without Borders. The cover is said to have come about after O'Connell and long time friend Fiona Prine had a conversation about the distressing images of war being broadcast on a daily basis.

“My hope is that this beautiful song will bring comfort to those who feel heartbroken and hopeless witnessing the images of conflict and war in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere," said the Ennis-born singer.

"Doctors Without Borders are a wonderful organization whose doctors and nurses work at great personal risk with no agenda other than to bring care and healing to victims of war all over the world.”

‘From a Distance’ was originally penned by Julie Gold in 1987, recorded by the late Nanci Griffith on her 1988 album Lone Star State of Mind .

Conor Furlong, ‘In My Arms’

Irish indie-pop merchant Conor Furlong hands over a dazzling new synth-pop track today in the form of ‘In My Arms,’ a single taken from the singer’s recent album Undo The Past. An edited version of the original album track, Furlong’s newest song boasts an expansive sound that sits somewhere between murky grunge and nostalgic synth-pop, featuring his expressive vocals woven through euphonious instrumentation to create a dream pop soundscape.

The single release is accompanied by a new music video out today, which depicts ballerinas in black-and-white film, before transitioning to striking scenes from a Trans Rights march. Furlong’s fifth full-length album was shared with the world in September, boasting a compilation of irresistible and entrancing pop-rock offerings that showcase the Dublin-based artist’s musical arsenal.

OWLS, ‘Bury Me’

It’s been a busy 2023 on the live circuit for Irish electronic producer OWLS, with a string of electrifying summer festival appearances and underground performances. Ahead of his end-of-year headline show in the Pawn Shop, Dublin on December 16, the synth-punk artist shares his second single of the year, ‘Bury Me,’ today – available on digital and limited edition 12” vinyl via Blowtorch Records. The single is paired with a video shot by Nathan Sheridan in OWLS’ native Longford, Ireland.

OWLS digs into the human experience on the track, with haunting, abrasive vocals guiding the listener through a dark tunnel of emotions and suspense to the pulsating heartbeats of intense techno. He expertly fuses the sounds of post punk, techno, EDM and synthwave with introspective lyricism surrounding life and death’s unanswered questions.

Overami, ‘O Wa Ma’

On his newest single ‘O Wa Ma,’ 22-year-old up and coming Irish-Nigerian artist Overami showcases his unique sound: a blend of immersive afrobeat and afrobini woven through crafted layers of synth and harmonious melodies. He’s an artist who defies easy categorisation, with a commitment to sonic exploration derived from his multi-cultural upbringing.

The tune carries an unconventional yet groovy rhythms, producing a track which stands apart, captivates, and pushes its listener onto the dancefloor. With an amalgamation of influences from classical Afrobeat, R&B and a special kind of musical sound from the great Benin kingdom where Overami’s parents are originally from, the artist’s sound is authentically and entirely his own.

David Hedderman, ‘In Your Own Way’

Dublin-born, Berlin-based multi-disciplinary artist David Hedderman releases ‘In Your Own Way’ today, his newest instrumental single and third snippet from his forthcoming debut album Pulling at the Briars, due February 9, 2024. The track envelopes its listener with rich soundscapes of emotive guitar melodies, soft percussion, and wistful strings and keys which create a lush, vibrant picture in the mind’s eye.

Of the single, the artist shares, “This song was a piece I started writing the year I left Dublin for Berlin 16 years ago. Its writing was like a companion – a soundtrack and reflection on the twists and turns and the learning…it bubbled over time.”

A ten-track compilation of deeply personal and resonating work, Hedderman’s visual portfolio of strikingly idiosyncratic portraits seamlessly translates into his songwriting on his dynamic and deft debut album, coming soon. Catch Hedderman live at the Workman's Cellar, Dublin on December 16 – tickets available here.

Connor McCann, ‘These Fires’

Belfast-based singer-songwriter Connor McCann caps off a memorable year with the release of ‘These Fires,’ the stunning final song from his new 4-track EP Without Wax. An album highlight, McCann’s newest single moves from spare motifs at the start to a full-blown firework show of instrumentals by the end, pairing sublime harmonies and strings with the singer’s gut-punching lyrics.

Having previously enjoyed musical success as the frontman of Northern Irish riff-slingers the Stonemasons, McCann’s solo journey has seen the Glenravel-raised artist straddle the worlds of pitch-perfect folk paeans on ‘Hard Times’ and ‘Lady Rest,’ while also treading into prog-leaning, amplified rock on tracks like ‘I Believe.’ His new EP offers a delicately crafted fusion of everything in between, from evocative lyricism and striking acoustics to earworm hooks.

The Prongs, ‘The Now Now Express’

Dublin new wave pop band The Prongs’ newest single finds itself manifesting as the perfect Christmas song: a wintery, melancholic tune about haunting break-ups, the cult of friendship and the festive weight upon us all. The title track from their debut CD, Theme Music from The Now Now, ‘The Now Now Express’ is a much-needed gift.

The track strikes an emotive nerve with John Fleming’s seasonally-themed lyrics and moving instrumentals from Niall Toner Jr., all elevated with a beautifully existential music video shot by Dave Clifford. Fleming tells a story with his captivating vocals, singing, “Some Christmas party in a vast Georgian room / It was shabby genteel / Functional footwear and the occasional high heel / In the magic dark of a new year’s eve / You held her hand and tried to believe.”

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, The Prongs deliver a song to hear on the radio, to have on repeat in your head, and to hold close within your heart.

Molly Vulpyne, ‘Dead In The Water’

Better known as the vocal powerhouse and guitarist of Irish punk duo Vulpynes, Molly Vulpyne releases her first solo single today, ‘Dead In The Water,’ delivering an infectious sound with bite. Her solo debut follows Vulpyne’s recent collaborations with avant-garde punk artist Meryl Streek, who plays drums on the single alongside Peter Jones (Paranoid Visions) on second guitar and Tony Carberry (The Lee Harveys) expertly wielding the bass.

The Irish musician’s solo project marks a deliberate shift towards melody over raw power, revealing a new side to her musical prowess. ‘Dead In The Water’ sets the stage for this new chapter, which will reveal itself in the form of her forthcoming EP Amortise, due in February 2024 and available to pre-save now. Vulpyne will celebrate the launch with a gig in Whelan's Upstairs on February 24; tickets available today at the link here.

Rofi James, 'Berlin Wall (ELL Remix)

The latest from Galway-based pop-rock trio Rofi James, ‘Berlin Wall (ELL Remix)’ is a new spin on the band's 2021 single, ‘Berlin Wall.’ Mixed by ELL production and mastered by Turan audio, the track is a wistfully penned lyrical ode to escapism, with heavy pop theatrics, catchy hooks and danceable melodies to boot. “We’ve been playing this one live for a while and can’t wait for you guys to hear this new approach to the song!” The band says of the newly remixed cut. “Hope you like it, play it loud in your car, blare it out your window and play it to your neighbours!”

 

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Brian Deady, 'Beginning'

Cork maestro Brian Deady’s latest track ‘Beginning’ is an introspective wash of piano and soaring vocals, as he poetically ruminates on the paralysis of beginnings. Having garnered sustained critical success since his 2016 debut Non-Fiction, Deady’s soulful sonics are moored by his rich and impassioned, yet gritty, vocal delivery.

A delightfully abstract and poetic piece of slickly produced songwriting, ‘Beginning’ marks Deady’s first release in over two years. Of the new track Brian said: “It's been over two years since I released any music – not because I didn't want to but because I felt I couldn't… For anyone who has ever felt stuck – this is for you.”

Moncrieff, 'Ghost Reality'

Ahead of the release of his forthcoming debut album Selfcare, ‘Ghost Reality,’ marks the first of nine songs Irish singer-songwriter Moncrieff is set to independently release every two weeks. A soaring ballad of heartfelt lyrical introspection, it’s a melancholic cut – anchored by Moncrieff’s distinctly soul-inflected, powerhouse vocals, as he reflects upon love lost and the tragedy of heartbreak. Of the recent releases, Moncrieff said: “I finished my debut album. But before it comes out, I’m sharing 9 songs, one every two weeks, no label, no big team, just 9 songs. From me to you…”

 

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Shafto, ‘Sunshine’ feat. Blakkheart

Irish rapper Shafto delivers a long-term dream realised on his new concept album, Round and Round, an homage to classic hip hop featuring new raps alongside some previous releases. Standout album single ‘Sunshine,’ featuring Blakkheart on mellifluous harmonies, opens the album, with each song following it standing in as a symbol for the seven days of the week.

Shafto’s album arrives “after many, many years of procrastination and doubt and over thinking and excitement,’ an idea which began simmering in 2011 while the rapper was living in Canada. It features some stellar guest artists and follows Shafto’s typical week, starting with ‘Mornin’ Blues’ and ending with ‘Shots’ at the weekend.

Kean Kavanagh, ‘Christmas Mode’

Fervent Irish singer-songwriter Kean Kavanagh returns from the release of his recent EP Wrestling Music with a new single, ‘Christmas Mode.’ The track arrives just in time for the festive song circuit, breathing a fresh new life into classic Christmas songs with its soulful sonics and mellow vocals. All proceeds from the song will go toward the Red Cross Gaza Emergency Fund.

Co-founder of Irish label Soft Boy Records, Kavanagh is known for being an imaginative, genre-bending storyteller, whose introspective projects have influenced the Irish music scene and led to him sharing the stage with such renowned acts as Loyle Carner and Lana Del Ray. ‘Christmas Mode’ is released along with a lo-fi performance video shot by Thomas Davis and follows a string of stellar live performances this year, including two October headline shows in Dublin and London as well as a slot at this year’s Cork Jazz Festival.

Mórda, ‘Off The Block’

For fans of indie rock, psychedelia and dream-pop sonics, dive into Mórda’s third single release this year, ‘Off The Block.’ The track follows a highlight debut year for the rising Irish artist, whose debut single ‘Out Of My Mind’ was released in February, produced by Chasing Felix — aka Damien Fegan, a longtime friend and fellow Tallaght native.

Chasing Felix features on the production of the newest single from Mórda, the brainchild of Dan 'Mórda' Murphy. His just-starting musical journey has seen the Dublin artist perform in famed venues such as Whelan's, The Grand Social and The Workman's Club, appearing both solo and accompanied by his live band. With an honest accent, he breathes life into every searingly honest, intricately woven line, creating a unique sound that embeds itself into the mind of its listener on a loop.

XIII Doors, ‘Unleash the Beast’

Hailing from the West coast of Ireland, XIII Doors have only emerged this year yet they’re already blazing their way through the Irish punk-rock scene. The four-piece rock band share their sophomore single ‘Unleash the Beast’ today, a high-energy, fiery metal rock number that invites listeners to seize command of their power.

The track is composed of incessant drums and grungy guitar, with lead singer and guitarist DJ O'Sullivan's soaring vocals leading the way. XIII Doors’ personal brand of hard rock and heavy metal is further enriched by a diverse spectrum of influences, melding the sounds of Alter Bridge, Tremonti, Daughtry, Alice in Chains and more. Of their forthcoming debut album, due for release March 2024, O'Sullivan shares it “promises to be an anthology of our distinctive sound, illuminating the journey we're set to embark upon."

 

Sinéad White, ‘Common Denominator’

Talented Kildare singer-songwriter Sinéad White is back with the bouncy, electro-tinged ‘Common Denominator’.

Bright arpeggiated synths over a digital drumbeat provide the foundation for White’s self-critical meditations, the lyrics painting a personal picture of self-blame and betrayal in a floundering relationship – “I don’t want to blame myself but I’m the common denominator”.

“It’s about love making the absolute shit of you. The usual”. Said White on social media.

Her first single of the year, the track follows up from her Bye Chicken EP which was released in December 2022. Alongside her solo work, the songsmith and pianist is known for her work fellow Irish acts HousePlants and Daithí.

 

Vendetta Love, ‘Might As Well’

2022 Bloodstock Metal To The Masses finalists Vendetta Love’s latest track, ‘Might As Well (MINDFVK)’ is a deliciously heavy hard rock number.

With shades of Alice in Chains and Pantera, the song is enunciated by chugging descending guitar riffs, an infectious groove and throwback wah guitar solos, culminating in a triumphant breakdown of howling vocals.

A ‘90s-inspired, no-frills grunge and heavy rock outfit hailing from Dublin and the Midlands, it’s been a fruitful year for the four-piece, with their latest single following up from the previously released ‘It’s so Easy’ and ‘On & On’.

Aby Coulibaly, ‘Big Pharma (Withdrawal)’

Eclectic Dublin r&b singer and songwriter Aby Coulibaly discusses her journey to being her authentic self with ‘Big Pharma (Withdrawal)’

With a stripped back production approach from longtime Chamomile collaborate MOIO, the song is a deeply personal number touching on mental health, buttressed by smooth jazzy plucked guitar and haunting vocal harmonies.

“My most vunerable but necessary song so far. Hopefully it speaks to those struggling physically or mentally & reminds you that you’re not alone,” said Coulibaly on Instagram. “So grateful for music because it allows you to turn pain into art.”

 

 

 

Cam Thomas x Willhouse, ‘Fade To Black’

Carlow DJ/hip-hop producer Willhouse is joined by UK rapper Cam Thomas for this raw hip-hop track. Willhouse’s 90’s golden era-influenced beat featured a beautiful piano melody that lends itself perfectly to Thomas’ darker lyrics. This song battles ideas of looking back on a happier past and suffering from dark thoughts. Willhouse has been making beats since 2011 so it’s no surprise that they sound nothing less than polished.

 

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Kingfishr, ‘Shot In The Dark’

Limerick three-piece, Kingfishr have released ‘Shot In The Dark’ and it has already left a mark on fans, the band said: “SITD is probably the song that means the most to us as a group. So it’s class that a lot of you feel the same”. Each band member took to their Instagram to explain what the new track meant to them along with a picture from their childhood. Eddie explained: “Shot in the Dark was never supposed to be released. It was just a footnote to what was happening to us, written the night we all decided we were quitting our jobs in the kitchen in Doonane.”

Gabry Ponte, bshp, Joe Cleere, ‘Losing You - Spotify Singles’

Dublin-based, singer/songwriter Joe Cleere joins bshp and Gabry Ponte on ‘Losing You - Spotify Singles’. Cleere’s unique voice pairs beautifully with bshp’s impressive vocals. This upbeat tune is fun and playful. Cleere has been in high demand as he has written and featured on a host of DJ tracks such as Sam Feldt’s “Forgiveness” and “Just Dropped In (My Condition)” (Spinnin’ Records), Sondr’s debut single “Surviving” (Ultra) which is Gold-certified in Sweden, and Mossiman’s “Never Let You Go” (Parlophone).

 

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Louis Cormack, ‘Lose Track of It All’

Cork songwriter Louis Cormack has released his newest single ‘Lost Track of It All’ with an accompanying video that showcases the artist’s “days at the cottage losing track of it all”. This laid-back folk track is the perfect tune for a cold winter's night. Since releasing his debut album Black Water back in 2020, the singer has been releasing a string of promising singles in anticipation of his next album.

 

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Aimee Carty, ‘2 Days into College’

A bittersweet song of yearning, ‘2 Days into College’ is a charming nostalgia fueled track, filling listeners with the unbearable pain of being pure at heart. Featuring as a finalist in Galway Bay FM’s A New Local Heroin March of this year, Aimee Carty has gone from artistic strength to strength. With over 200 thousand followers amassed on Instagram, Aimee Carty has endeared her fans with her raw and honest songs and ‘2 Days into College’ is no exception. A sentimental track with an upbeat rhythm, ‘2 Days into College’ will have you romanticising coming of age experiences.

 

Luke Dunleavy, ‘Forever & Always

With his latest pop music offering, Luke Dunleavy has once again lived up to his description of artist, producer and writer of love songs, with ‘Forever and Always’ fitting squarely into this category. ‘Forever & Always’ is a piece of heart-throb pop, with sweet lyrics and a feel good melody. If Coldplay and One Direction produced a musical brainchild, it would sound something like ‘Forever & Always’. If you need a romantic little pick me up this Friday, then look no further than Dunleavy’s ‘Forever and Always’.  

ALYXIS, ‘NONBINARYICON’

Featuring eerie and electronic noise, NONBINARYICON is a futuristic track propelling listeners into the space age gender fluid tomorrow. With sentimental lyrics that at times are morose, ALXYIS explores their identity as a self described ‘non binary entity’. NONBINARYICON sounds like a track off of Radiohead’s 1997 OK Computer in its chilling futuristic cool tone, but with an electronic beat. In spite of this, ALYXIS for sure produces something new and different. 

 

 

Check out our New Irish Songs playlist below!