New Irish Songs to hear This Week

Virgins, ‘s o f t er’

Virgins’ new single ‘s o f t e r’ accompanies the announcement of the group’s debut album, ‘nothing hurt and everything was beautiful’ due for release April 11, and what a delicious sonic teaser of what is to come. With a guitar riff that wouldn’t sound out of place in a Stone Roses track, ‘s o f t e r’ is nostalgia fuelled grunge track. ‘s o f t e r’ is a shoegaze tour de force built around a looping lead riff and the ethereal yearning vocals of Rebecca Dow, while the gargantuan walls of dense, beautiful reverbs and dreamy fuzz, transport the listener to a world of abstract beauty and bliss.

Saibh Skelly, ‘Lost & Found’

‘Lost and Found’ is a sentimental pop track by Skelly about the coming of age problems of building a career in the music industry: “It’s about always knowing that wherever you go and whatever you do you’re always able to come back home and to your roots”. A veritable internet sensation Saibh Skelly’s new track is a candy floss injection of heartfelt pop. The perfect Friday night pick me up piece of bedroom pop; catchy, emotional and danceable.

TV People, ‘Fade’

A gorgeous dream pop affair, ‘Fade’ by TV People is a track designed to resonate with anyone who’s adrift in the sea of uncertainty. The latest offering from the Dublin alt rock duo is an introspective and moving single which capitalises on rich vocals and layers them in plenty of reverb and immersive rhythms. ‘Fade’ is a coming of age song for when you haven’t quite come of age yet and you’re still lost, but TV People’s track could be a sonic stepping stone on that complicated journey of growing pains.

The Swedish Railway Orchestra, ‘Once Upon a Time in Palestine’

‘Once Upon a Time in Palestine’ by The Swedish Railway Orchestra takes influence from LCD Soundsystem but plays with a much darker theme than the usual woes of James Murphy's affluent New Yorkers. It's a beat orientated dance track but has a slight existential edge to it, not normally found in the genre. Dublin electronic music project The Swedish Railway Orchestra is the brainchild of Rob Smith who wrote, performed, and produced the new electronic track. The single is the latest release off of The Swedish Railway Orchestra’s upcoming LP Once Upon a Time.. set for release on March 7.

 

Lyra, ‘Drink Me Up’

A seductive pop track with a healthy dose of R & B ‘Drink Me Up’ is a dramatic new tune to kick off your weekend with the Cork pop sensation Lyra. Released just a week after the artist commences her Irish tour, Lyra’s new single heralds in a high drama era for the performer. ‘Drink Me Up’ is full of powerful belting vocals overlaid on a beat to thrust your hips to. It’s difficult not to get swept up in the intoxicating theatrics of the track. ‘Drink Me Up’ is a diva driven pop banger.

Fishwyfe, 'Ricky'

Formally known as Host, and also known as Tara Carroll is now going to be known as Fishwyfe after their debut single ‘Ricky’. After losing all the music that was on her harddrive, Fishwyfe wanted a fresh start for her music and Fishwyfe was created.

‘Ricky’ is a bold and unique track about being stuck in an endless cycle of poor decisions making that is impossible to climb out of. Fishwyfe is always striving for bigger and bolder sounds and ‘Ricky’ is the perfect combination of eclectic guitar riffs, relatable lyrics and a head bobbing beat. With new music on the horizon as well, ‘Ricky’ will be on repeat as we wait.

ROCSTRONG, 'Moon'

ROCSTRONG, also known as André Bangala, is a Congolese-Dubliner who incorporates pop, rock, and soul to create an unforgettable musical experience for all listeners. His career got a boost when his single ‘Go Head’ appeared in one of the Coen brothers’ films Hail Caesar.

‘Moon’ was made with vocal collaboration with Tolü Makay, is a dynamic track that has that feel good melody. This song will definitely shine on our list of new Irish songs. The acoustic guitar riffs pair with ROCSTRONG and Makay’s harmony beautifully. ROCSTRONG pulls inspiration from artists such as Frank Ocean and that is the influence that shines through in this track.

MELTS, 'Altered'

MELTS, hailing from Dublin have released their newest single ‘Altered’ which will be a part of their upcoming LP entitled Field Theory which will be released April 12 from Fuzz Club. The LP will be released just before the group goes on their UK/EU tour starting in Birkenhead April 24 and ending in Dublin September 28. ‘Altered’ is the culmination of the psych-rock music the group is known for which creates the perfect level of chaotic fun.

"Altered is a love song about how love can be a catalyst that allows you to be more open to the world around you, and transforms your perspective on life. You become influenced by your environment, maybe more vulnerable to it, but overall, more aware of your surroundings" the band explains.

Greywind, ‘You're My Medicine’

Irish sibling duo Greywind, made up of Steph and Paul O’Sullivan, continue their impressive return with their latest single ‘You’re My Medicine.’ The follow-up to recently released ‘Swing and Sway,’ the new track marks the third drop from Greywind’s upcoming five-song EP Antidote. An energetic pop-punk anthem, ‘You’re My Medicine’ is the perfect blend of visceral lyricism and fiery melodies.

“‘You’re My Medicine’ is the story of our lives so far,” the duo explained. “ It is a love letter to our fans for supporting us through our darkest times. They’ve saved us many times over by believing in us, in our music, and by standing with us in the face of trauma, grief, and adversity. Art is a two way street, and they are just as much a part of the songs on this EP as we are.”

Lea Heart, ‘If I Did What You Did’

Lea Heart has stepped into a new era of empowerment and fearlessness with her latest release ‘If I Did What You Did.’ A new blistering breakup anthem, Heart’s new single dives into the intricacies of betrayal, posing defiant questions that challenge societal norms as she takes back her power.

'If I Did What You Did' is a declaration of independence and strength," said Heart. "It's about recognising your own value and refusing to settle for anything less than you deserve. It highlights someone’s bad behaviour by calling them out and holding them accountable for their actions. It’s also about singing along REALLY loudly to a new liberating anthem.”

HAVVK, ‘Take It From Me’

Dublin grunge trio HAVVK are back with a new pop-punk banger entitled ‘Take It From Me.’ A cartoonish response to the all-too-common trend of men taking credit for female ingenuity, the new single comes just before HAVVK’s Dublin headline at Workman’s on 22nd March. 

“While it’s obviously serious,” explains lead singer Julie Hawk, “the song is also laughing in the face of these kind of eye-rollable scenes, which we should surely put behind us by now. I imagine it being sung by a sassy girl band of seven-year-olds performing it in the mirror and dressing up in their older sisters’ clothes.”

The Butterfly Graveyard, ‘Bad Kitty’

Irish alt-rock act The Butterfly Graveyard returns with a new synth-heavy single entitled ‘Bad Kitty.’ Nailing the self-described “future/retro vibe,” the indie artist expertly blends 80’s-inspired melodies with contemporary experimentation to form a timeless and unique soundscape.

“I wrote [the song] one afternoon while watching my cat in the garden,” The Butterfly Graveyard explained. “I ended up writing a fictional account of her life as a young kitten. I reimagined her as a Samurai manga cat, arriving in New York, penny-less but ambitious. Then, despite almost being muscled out by the big dogs, she rose to the top of the cat underworld, eventually running a chain of nightclubs and Sushi bars. I suppose the moral of the story is to follow your dreams."

Greg Tisdall, 'it don't make sense to me'

Greg Tisdall continues to evolve his sound, displaying an acoustic edge on his newest single 'it don’t make sense to me.'

Produced by Tisdall and Daniel O’Brien (The Love Hour, Operator Theater), the offering teems with acoustic indie and shoegaze sensibilities. 'it don’t make sense to me' features a hazy soundscape of cellos, blown out guitars, tape effects and a propulsive rhythm section.

Lyrically, the song disentangles one’s attempt to “"reconcile the insecurities felt in a relationship due to your own shortcomings," says Tisdall.

‘it don’t make sense to me’ is the latest in the artist’s varied exploration of genre, from indie-pop to R&B and beyond. Last summer, The artist developed his stage presence, performing at the likes Forbidden Fruit and All Together Now with a full band. Tisdall continues to blur genre lines and test new sonic waters as he works towards the release of his forthcoming EP nosebleed.

KNEECAP, 'Sick In The Head'

One of the most lauded and vital acts in music today, Irish rap group KNEECAP have shared a new single 'Sick In The Head' from their upcoming debut LP Fine Art, out 14th June via Heavenly Recordings.

"When working on the album we had periods of great productivity but also periods with a total lack of anything creatively. Towards the end of recording we hit a proper wall and this is the result,” KNEECAP members say of the track. “Our mental health was being tested and we said f*ck it it we’re doomed to mental torture we want to have some money to get through it. We’ve had enough of it while being broke round Belfast."

Channelling Wu Tang’s 36 Chambers, 'Sick In The Head' teems with old-school hip hop grooves and dual voices frustrated at reaching the ends of both their overdrafts and tethers.

Polly Barrett, 'Sparrow'

Polly Barrett has released her first single of 2024. Her song ‘Sparrow’ is a calm, meditative piece that feels like it was created by a woodland fairy. The song is light and emulates traditional Irish music. Track is intended to make those feel as if they are reconnecting with nature.

This track is a part of her new album Sapling be… in which she plays all the instruments used herself which includes the acoustic guitar, tongue drum, bodhrán, tin whistle, low whistle, bass guitar and piano. Hailing from West Cork, Barrett’s new music focuses on how she moves through writer's block and motherhood and the challenges and triumphs that have come with it.

Jessica Brett, 'Your Karma'

Hailing from Tipperary Ireland, Jessica Brett has released her new single ‘Your Karma’ produced by platinum selling producer Robert Grace. The song highlights Brett’s unbelievable vocals paired with her dazzling guitar skills for a wholesome and heart wrenching musical experience.

When speaking about the track, Brett says, “I wrote ‘Your Karma’ about when a relationship turns sour that it’s best to move on, rise above it and let karma work its magic because once you know that you’re a good person they’ll always just be a lesson in your life but you’ll forever be their loss.”

Siobhán Franks, ‘Bakers Corner’

Dublin indie singer-songwriter, Siobhán Franks, has released her latest single ‘Bakers Corner’. Her new track is soothing and is reminiscent of young love. This tender ballad explores the feeling and the innocence of new love.

Franks repeats the line “I think about you when you’re not around,” which reflects the vulnerable state of falling for someone that everyone can relate to. This pop style song paired with her powerful lyrics create a song that is both heartwarming and nostalgic. Franks says how, “nostalgia is a common theme throughout my songs, I always hope the listener gets something out of it. If I feel nostalgic writing or listening to a songs storyline, I’m instantly attached to it.”

John Gibbons, 'Lie To Me'

In his new single, ‘Lie To Me’, John Gibbons has created the next song to dance to until you drop. The world renowned Irish DJ, has created his next hit with its fast tempo and catchy lyrics that feels like it should be played under flashing coloured lights.

Speaking about the track, Gibbons says “'Lie to Me’ is all about breaking free from a toxic situation and taking time out to look after yourself, which I think it’s a sentiment we can all relate to at different times. The message is delivered in an upbeat, euphoric, and energetic way, and I hope it encourages everyone to let their hair down, shake off any inhibitions, and dance all summer long!”

Toria, 'Belief.'

Trained on a classical piano, Toria has come out of her shell and created a song that dark and edgy rock track that demands the listeners attention. This track marks a turn in Toria’s music where she is able to explore alternative rock more, and does so impressively well.

“'Belief.’ is one of my later creations, and during the writing process I wanted to see how heavy I could go with it. I've always liked listening to heavier rock and up until this track I had been too afraid to try to implement that into my own music…I still find it very therapeutic to perform this during my live set,” Toria says.

Seán Joyce, 'My Face'

Seán Joyce follows his captivating debut single ‘While You Were Out’ with his sophomore release ‘The Face.’ Out today, the song echoes powerful sentiments of passion, pain and hope, accompanied by a sonic arrangement that skillfully builds in verve and intent throughout.

The artist has quickly emerged as a fully formed artist, evolving his craft in collaboration with some of the leading figures in the Irish music scene, including James Vincent McMorrow and Cormac Butler.

Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bon Iver, Declan J Donovan and RY X, Joyce’s music blurs and transcends genre boundaries. With ‘The Face,’ the Mayo artist continues to showcase his versatility as a singer-songwriter, weaving together relatable narratives and evocative melodies.

Mathman, 'Show Me'

Dublin producer Mathman has today released his debut solo album SK83 – The Prequel, with a dazzling lead single. Haunting and intoxicating, ‘Show Me’ immediately draws listeners in and transports them to late ‘90s - early ‘00s Dublin, at a time when the city saw massive artistic transition.

‘Show Me’ deftly channels powerful vocals, old-school drum breaks, swanky strings and propulsive bass lines to produce a distinct soundscape that is both nostalgic in spirit, yet modern by design. The pull of Dublin’s rave culture is especially apparent throughout the lead single, buzzing with jungle, drum and bass and breakbeat stylings.

Anamoe Drive, 'Procrastination'

Following his first single ‘Goodbye & Goodluck,’ Anamoe Drive — the moniker for THUMPER’s Oisín Leahy Furlong — tenders a new offering where lo-fi indie meets alt folk sensibilities.

‘Procrastination’ opens with creaky vocals, stripped-back guitar and the found sounds of radio signals redolent of Daniel Johnston’s Hi, How are You. The influence of Sparklehorse and Big Thief soon fills the margins as the song breaks into a rockier, anthemic chorus.

Laced with kinetic basslines, lively drum breaks and a rhapsodic guitar backing, ‘Procrastination’ is an addictive indie-folk banger that sounds best in a car with the windows rolled down and a brick on the accelerator.

The track was released alongside news of Anamoe Drive’s upcoming debut album Breakfast in Bed, which is scheduled to drop on Friday, 8 March via Faction Records.

Chubby Cat, '100 Miles an Hour'

Ethereal vocals and skittering club beats find a home in Chubby Cat’s '100 Miles an Hour.'

Boasting a prismatic 2-step rhythm section and pastel-hued synths, the track sees Chubby Cat pushing at the boundaries of her ambition. Unlike a lot of electro-pop, Cat's vocal performance balances a warmth and tenderness that sounds like a friend whispering secrets in your ear on the dancefloor.

‘100 Miles an Hour’ sees Chubby Cat at her freest, vocally and thematically, while maintaining the kind of compelling energy and lyrical hooks she has made her calling cards.

Dominda, 'She Got Into Berghain'

Funk-punk rockers Dominda have today released their semi-eponymous EP Don’t Mind That.

The second track, 'She Got Into Berghain,' speaks to an ever-relatable experience for patrons of Berlin club culture, that is the marvel of getting past the doors of Berghain nightclub into the steamy microcosm of hedonism and decadence.

Affectionately deemed the world capital of techno, Dominda’s new track ‘She Got Into Berghain’ shies away from such EDM sensibilities and basks in the sunlight of indie rock airs with a punk bent.

Fans of The Scratch and ‘Mardy Bum’ era Arctic Monkeys will find a familiar palette in Dominda’s ‘She Got Into Berghain,’ with a bantering, electrifying and fresh-faced offering that entrances listeners into a two-stepping, head-banging hypnosis.

Pauric O’Meara, 'Smilin''

' Smilin’ ' opens with shimmering, U2-esque guitar progressions which neatly foregrounds Pauric O’Meara’s heady brew of narrative lyricism. The indie-rock track seamlessly departs from the tempered soundscape as it blossoms into a pummeling, mid-fi chorus with a hammering bass line and rhythm section.

‘Smilin’’ is a catchy, enlivening offering of meat-and-potatoes guitar rock, layered over drum breaks, sky-reaching vocals and throttling bass lines.

“‘Smilin’’ is an open letter to anyone who has forgotten how powerful a smile can be. Be it from a loved one, or a complete randomer, it can change your day. Sometimes after going through a tough period, we can feel like we don't deserve to smile, or be happy,” the singer reveals. “We can often wonder if being happy will affect how someone else feels… F**k that. Your happiness should be number one, and if you don't feel like that, surround yourself with those that will remind you.”

Braydee, '3am In Dublin'

The closing track from Braydee’s debut EP The Prologue, ‘3am In Dublin’ is an experimental trap project filled with smooth R&B energy and intoxicating late-night beats atop a backdrop of perfectly placed synths. Drawing influence from the likes of Lil Wayne, Migos, Ken Carson and Sofaygo, Braydee’s stellar debut has laid the groundwork for an exciting future on the urban music scene. 

“All these songs represent different moods I was feeling, different victories or defeats I had experienced,” said Braydee of his latest work, “but I wanted all of them to contain happy feelings, or atleast hope, because there’s always hope.”

Ciara O'Neill, 'Woman'

Fresh off the heels of celebrated singles ‘La Lune’ and ‘Le Soleil,’ Irish singer-songwriter Ciara O’Niell has shared her latest track ‘Woman.’ The new song will mark the first release from O’Neill’s upcoming EP of the same name, out 8th May. Co-written with NI songwriter Ciaran Lavery and produced by Belfast-based producer/composer Dan Byrne-McCullough, ‘Woman’ features O’Niell’s undeniable vocal talent alongside heartfelt lyricism that never shies away from emotions that are simultaneously uncomfortable and universal. 

“‘Woman’ is an exploration of the beauty and complexities of being a woman in modern society,” explained O’Niell. “Looking at myself, my own female relatives and those women in history who have lived lives in the shadows, it’s about having a desire for more, not feeling the need to conform to expectations placed on us and allowing ourselves to be visible and speak our truths.”

Tolü Makay, 'Mind & Body'

Tolü Makay’s latest single, ‘Mind & Body,’ is the reminder we all needed to be present rather than losing ourselves in plans for the future or problems of the past. Effortlessly blending electronic synths with infectious pop melodies and the smooth energy of R&B, Makay shares her “new song, new sound, [and] new vibe” with eager listeners. 

“‘Mind & Body’ explores the anxiety we feel when our body is numb to the moment, while our mind is drowning in senses, screaming for us to be present in the here and now,” Makay explained via social media.

Niamh Murphy, 'Where We Will Always Be'

The third single born of Niamh Murphy’s stellar collaboration with producer and musician Declan Sinnott, ‘Where We Will Always Be’ is a testament to Murphy’s inevitable stardom on the Irish music scene. With a driving beat and groovy tempo, the new release carries listeners back to a place of inescapable and undeniable love, marking her as one of Ireland’s finest emerging talents. 

 “Niamh’s voice and her songs paint very complete pictures,” said Sinnott. “She takes you somewhere really true.”

Peer Pleasure, 'Rest In Bits'

The newly shorn eight-piece Peer Please have wasted no time in releasing their fourth single ‘Rest In Bits.’ An explosive surf-rock anthem, the Wexford natives expertly blend the fierce spirit of garage punk with chart-topping bops from the 1950s. 

“Each line of ‘Rest In Bits’ refers to or reflects on a real-life human being I knew who is now dead,” said frontman Brandon Murphy. “ It’s more on the nose than previous offerings, but that’s fine. They are in fact dead.”

The new single, engineered by Joe McGrath, mixed by Ivan Jackman and mastered by Killian Taylor, comes ahead of a soon to be announced debut EP from the group.

SIIGHTS, '6AM To Paris'

SIIGHTS have released the latest track from their upcoming EP Through Thick And Thin, out 22nd March. ‘6AM To Paris,’ a break-up banger reminiscent of Alanis Morrisett, is the best-friend duo’s most infectious song yet, filled with tight vocal harmonies, cascading guitar riffs and liberating emotional defiance. 

“We’ve always been fascinated by how many people all over the world have love stories attached to Paris, and this song is about moving on but still being able to enjoy those places on your own,” explained the Dublin-Glasgow two-piece. “While the subject matter of some songs is quite heavy, the energy is actually very upbeat. We speak a lot about wanting people to feel good through our music, to feel less alone and realise your own potential. Sometimes you can be so focused on the future you can forget to live in the moment and be present for yourself and with the people you care about.

Lucy Blue, 'End Of The World'

Lucy Blue is back with her highly anticipated doomsday single ‘End Of The World.’ Featuring an apocalyptic photoshoot, volcanic make-out session and February spring-time, the 22 year-old singer-songwriter paints a picture of unapologetic demise, saying “we’re all just one phone call away from the end of the world.” 

Hailing from Dublin and finding her start during the pandemic, the young vocalist has wasted no time in perfecting a unique and personal sound, drawing influence from the likes of Frank Ocean and PJ Harvey. The ambitious coming-of-age pop track perfectly captures Blue’s ingenuity and reliability.

“I hope you're dancing in wherever your end of the world is,” the singer wrote on her Instagram page. 

Outstraight Records, 'Drive Around'

Ireland’s brightest up-and-coming hip hop collective, Outstraight Records, has released their debut EP entitled Being Outstraight, a collaborative project offering a wide range of sounds and styles from old-school to experimental. The album’s lead single, ‘Drive Around,’ takes centre stage as Graham and hikii blend traditional hip hop with a distinct Irish edge. 

Founded by David Balfe alongside other creatives in 2015, Outstraight Records provides Irish hip hop artists with a platform to showcase the community’s wealth of diversity and talent. Being Outstraight has clearly marked the ten artist collective as a group to watch moving forward.

Monjola, 'OFTEN'

Spirited and mesmeric, ‘OFTEN’ by Monjola opens with a sharp uptempo synth line layered under a chorus of backing voices which fade as Monjola’s vocals kick in.

Produced with his brother and collaborator MOIO, the swirling number blends electro-hip hop, R&B and traces of rock cadences. ‘OFTEN’ confronts the fear of overthinking, its gnawing impact on one’s confidence and its ability to back artists into a corner.

Monjola looks to depart from such brooding rationales and move towards lighter, welcome reliefs. A breath of fresh air, the optimism in the artist’s delivery is joyfully contagious and well-ventilated on this buoyant gem.

 

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The High Llamas, 'Sisters Friends'

The High Llamas have unveiled another track from their upcoming album Hey Panda, out 29th March. ‘Sisters Friends’ is a glitchy soul number featuring smooth lead vocals from Rae Morris.

‘Sisters Friends’ exemplifies what the outfit’s frontman and founder Sean O’Hagan was looking to experiment on his new modern pop material, blending and clashing various techniques new and old, to create a singular sound. When Rae and Sean’s vocals meet in the chorus, there is a euphoric twisting of those elements.

The track’s instrumentation trails active fault lines through combining and clashing various techniques — new and old — to create a distinctive sound that is nostalgic and familiar in spirit, yet contemporary by design.

James Vincent McMorrow, ‘Never Gone’

An ethereal folksy offering, ‘Never Gone’ is James Vincent McMorrow’s first teaser of what fans can expect from his upcoming 7th studio album Wide Open Horses. Fans of McMorrow will instantly recognise the artist’s signature brand of earthy folk. Featuring masterful guitar plucking, and McMorrow’s remarkable vocals- ‘Never Gone’ transports the listener to another age, one without smartphones, laptops and Apple watches.

Which isn’t too surprising as the musician hammered out this track at an intimate National Concert Hall gig where he performed his entire upcoming album to iron out any creases. No phones were allowed at the event, and the artist has said: “Without cameras, they were the best shows I’ve ever played—which is interesting because no one knew the music! Everyone was just experiencing it though”.

Cardinals, ‘Unreal’

'Unreal' acts as the group's much-anticipated follow-up to last year's debut single proper, "Roseland", a song that saw them heralded across press for the maturity and fully-formed nature of their sound. Cork’s Cardinals have released a melodic rock ditty and reminds listeners of what it is to be young and swooning. Speaking of the new release frontman Euan Manning says: Unreal was written in the back of a Ford Transit van that I happened to be living in at the time. It reminds me of warm days spent on the beaches at home back in Cork”. A truly feel good rock tune.

Basht., ‘Gone Girl’

Dublin indie rock five-piece Basht. have today released ‘Gone Girl’, the first single to be taken from their upcoming debut EP Dirty White Lies. Gone Girl is a dirty rock n roll track featuring an almost sinister bassline tempered with a catchy Raconteurs style guitar riff. ‘Gone Girl’ is a fresh new indie rock offering that will keep 90s grunge fans happy as well as a subject matter that will keep zoomers engaged. The lyrics focus on the chaotic nature of growing up too quickly and the pains of having to navigate your own way in relationships without any prior experience to help.

Tim Chadwick, IOU

A refreshing new pop offering, Chadwick’s ‘IOU’ takes its cue from the clean new pop genre that fans of Harry Styles will be familiar with. The sound takes Chadwick in a different sonic direction from his previous more dance and beat orientated work. ‘IOU’ is a full bodied and playful track- taking elevator music keys and layering it with Chadwick’s full bodied vocals. Speaking of the creative process, Chadwick said: “It was incredibly fun to make, albeit scary at the beginning because it sounded so uncharted, new and different for me. I had to truly learn the art of letting go and remember to enjoy the process”.

Emma Noodles, Spare Key

A beautifully luscious piano track, Emma Noodles’ newest track is an enveloping song about heartbreak. From the very first note, you are invited to join Noodles into the world of sonic yearning. An enchanting and intimate piece Emma Noodles says of the ‘Spare Key’: “I feel like Spare Key is a journey that brings you through every stage of heartbreak. From that initial sadness, the desperation for answers, feeling used and isolated but ultimately, you feel that acceptance. The song ends at a place of peace, leaving it all behind and overcoming it.”

Quirke, ‘Áit Uasal’

Fans of Bicep will appreciate the latest single by Eoin Quirke, known by his stage mononym of Quirke. ‘Áit Uasal’ is an instrumental electronic track with a pulsating beat that will have listeners invigorated with the teeming energy of the song. The Irish composer and electronic music producer originally started out in traditional music from the age of 11. It wasn’t until his late teens that Quirke became inspired by the world of electronica and began making original compositions. ‘Áit Uasal’ fuses the Irish language elements of trad with the neo rhythmic sounds of electro.

 

SPIDER, ‘an object of desire’

Ireland’s feminist answer to Avril Lavigne, SPIDER has dropped a new girl power, boot stomping single ‘an object of desire’. The Irish musician says that: “This one is about that fine line between desire and objectification”. A catchy song with complex lyricism and the conflicting feelings individuals have surrounding intimacy and the dynamics of a one night stand. Featuring an acoustic verse the chorus kicks in with a cathartic dose of feminine rage for the ultimate let loose punk rock anthem.

TraviS x Elzzz, ‘Naij Blood’

Despite their recent arrival, Irish-Nigerian TraviS and Elzz have quickly found themselves at the forefront of Dublin’s burgeoning drill scene, hitting audiences with another new single this week entitled ‘Naij Blood.’ 

The bass-heavy number showcases the TraviS and Elzzz at their best, with spot-on delivery, unflinching confidence and an effortless style that will undoubtedly propel the rap duo towards superstardom. 

Bailey333, ‘Vice Versa’

Bailey333’s latest single was the most arduous to write, being the artist’s longest track to create, however ‘Vice Versa’ shows that good things come to those who wait. A heartfelt R & B track ‘Vice Versa’ straddles the line between icy beats and the feeling of being down bad. A Drake influence is present throughout the track, but there’s a more pop-y and conversational element. Bailey333’s latest sonic offering is a tune which has cool sonic tones but red raw emotions.

Pat Donnelly, ‘Seeing Your Face Again’

Tipperary- based artist Pat Donnelly’s newest single, ‘Seeing Your Face Again’ layers guitars and earnest lyrics over a track that is reminiscent of an acoustic pop-punk era that Donnelly hopes to revive. The Tipperary musician’s defiant voice sails over a sonic bed of bright, steadfast instrumentation. Donnelly’s latest single reflects on the feelings that return when seeing an ex again after a long time. Both parties have moved on and the strange sense of nostalgia and closure that comes with that.

Blue Whale , I Wanna Be Your Da

You never know what quite to expect from the term ‘jazz-punk’ but Blue Whale surpass anything you could have drummed up yourself with their new track ‘I Wanna Be Your Da’. The Belfast four piece wield their masterful musicianship with this single, as the track rises and falls all around this sick bassline- which the group have described as a “thickety dose of experimental instrumental rock”. An almost viscous track, ‘I Wanna Be Your da’ is entirely instrumental and wholly experimental and makes for a cracking New Irish song- not just in the literal sense but in the genre defining nature of the track.

You can hear all this in our  New Irish Songs playlist below: