Malaki, 'Long Face'

Irish rapper Malaki, has released his new single ‘Long Face’ as well as its accompanying music video. The track's orchestral opening draws the listener into the artist's mind, as his hard-hitting lyrics mirror the track's sombre tones.

When speaking about ‘Long Face’ Malaki said it “is an introspective dive into the mind of the character. For me it outlines reasons for the way I am and how I cope…This is me stepping away from a foggy depression detailing the experience and how I can be better.”

David Kitt, 'Sleep'

Dubliner, David Kitt, has released the first track, ‘Sleep’ of his reissued album Not Fade Away. This album has been 18 years in the making and comes from a point in Kitt’s life where he thought he would lose all the work he had created. ‘Sleep’ and the rest of the album reflect this struggle.

“My personal life was also a complete mess and general confidence was at an all- time low," Kitt said. It was the first time in my life where the sacred space of making music had been invaded by these kinds of fears and outside forces, it was a dark time looking back now and I guess that comes through pretty loud and clear in the lyrics.”

Winter Aid, '20th and Mississippi'

San Francisco based Irish songwriter, Winter Aid, also known as Shane Culloty, has released his latest single ‘20th and Mississippi’. This track is from his upcoming sophomore album, Pull The Sky Inside. This track is peaceful and nostalgic, but leaves the audience with a small sad knot in their stomach.

When talking about ‘20th and Mississippi’, Culloty said the song “was inspired by a painting by the same name by a San Francisco artist, Robert Bechtle, of an intersection near my home. It captured the isolation and bleakness that descended as the pandemic dragged on. The deepening anxiety I found myself dealing with after the pandemic, along with an episode in the mountains, when I attempted to escape it all."

Bobby Basil, 'I'll Die First'

Dublin born hip hop singer, Bobby Basil, also known as Isaac Nelson, has released his new single, ‘I’ll Die First’. The track carried significant religious motifs and Nelson describes it as a “suicide letter to God.” The choppy base and disjointed melody mimics that back and forth internal struggle Nelson faces.

The track’s religious symbolism expresses the journey of a young man's coming emotional expedition that results in him finding comfort in his religion. Nelson says how, “I created this track in my mate’s studio drunk off whiskey after six months of being sober and a dedicated Christian.”

The New Leaves, 'Donaghaguy Reservoir'

Folk four-piece The New Leaves have unveiled their first release under the newly launched Corn Crake Records, a mesmerising acoustic number entitled ‘Donaghaguy Reservoir.’ Taken from their upcoming album A Sketch of Home, out on June 7, the new track attempts to capture the essence of Donaghaguy Reservoir, a small duck pond on the outskirts of Warrenpoint.  

Hailing from County Down, The New Leaves are composed of Decky McKay (vocals, guitar), Cian O’Hare (vocals, guitar), Patrice Mc Kevitt (vocals, bass) and Paddy Goodfellow (drums). Through lush, three-part harmony, The New Leaves bring McKay’s expertly penned songs to life, finding inspiration in nature, history and mythology. 

Niamh Bury, 'Bite The Bridle'

One of the most lauded folk artists to emerge on the scene, Niamh Bury has unveiled her debut album Yellow Roses, featuring brand-new single ‘Bite The Bridle.’ Written after an encounter she had with a horse in Dublin’s Temple Bar, the new track is a mesmerising mix of Bury’s shining vocals and poignant lyricism.

“It was a hot summer evening, and the driver had just loaded six large men into [the horse’s]  carriage,” Niamh tells us. “She wouldn’t budge, but started to stomp her hooves on the cobblestones, as sparks started to fly. The driver simply remarked, ‘She’s not happy about something’. It made me think of the ways we ignore the needs of ourselves and other beings just to keep the cogs turning. There comes a point when the bridle must be broken and we run for the hills.”

The PVP, ‘Callan’

Promising Irish Noisemakers The PVP (Personal Vanity Project) have taken the lush screeches of My Bloody Valentine, meshed it with the wistful sonic habitats of Duster and thrown in some purposefully chaotic leads à la J Mascis to create this wry, kick-ass, slice of psychedelia-infused indie rock.

““’Callan’ is about the misgivings older generations have about the younger,” says lead singer Chris Quigley.

“The name comes from a lake by the village where I grew up, which was a common drinking spot for young people, especially the abandoned house. Legend has it the butler of the abandoned house went on a bender, neglecting to feed the dogs kept on the land. When he returned, he was devoured by the dogs.”

Pier, 'Like A Moth To A Flame'

Dublin-based Italian Pierfrancesco Dessì, provides a hypnotic combo of vocals and guitar licks unfolds to create a rich, reverbed soundscape on his latest alternative number ‘Like a Moth To A Flame’.

“I was in Sardinia when I had the idea for the song,” says Pier. “Driving back to Sarroch (my hometown), you can see two tall towers and their flames that stand out from the rest of the refinery skyline, it gets pretty epic at night. That was the view I had while I was driving back home, and the person I wrote the song about was on the passenger seat. So I guess the song is as much about that as it is about anybody that keeps chasing delusional love to their own detriment.”

Aaron Nestor, 'Don't Take It All'

Rising Dublin talent Aaron Nestor has embarked on his latest musical journey with the new release ‘Don’t Take It All.’ A unique blend of soulful storytelling and sonic exploration, the track showcases Nestor's evolution as an artist, seamlessly weaving elements of folk with the dynamic energy of electronica. 

A lush tapestry of harmony and dissonance, ‘Don't Take It All’ promises to be the cornerstone of Nestor's discography, highlighting his ability to cross genres and soundscapes while finding his artistic niche. 

Annie-Dog, 'Double Cherry'

Annie-Dog, a singer-songwriter recently stepping into the Dublin pop music scene, has released her second single ‘Double Cherry’. This follows her release of her debut single ‘The Pressures Of The Heart’. Her new indie-pop, electronic track pulls influences from Grimes and Pinkpantheress, and provides a sonic experience worthy of filling your headphones.

“I suppose it’s a song about relationships. My relationship with myself. My relationship with my boyfriend. His relationship with people he knew before me. Mine, before him. It’s always love at the start of things. And everything feels fated,” Annie-Dog said.

Elliot Crampton, 'This Town'

Hailing from Greystones, Elliot Crampton has released his new single ‘This Town’. This self-taught multi-instrumentalist who is a postman by day and an audio engineer by night. Crampton’s heartfelt lyrics match the emotionality of the melody that feels like it is straight out of a coming of age movie.

“I became a postal operative a year ago so I’m used to early starts. I made the career change because it gives me so much more time to work on my music than I’ve ever had before. Now I can start song ideas while walking around with the post or while driving my van,” Crampton said.

LYRA, 'Queen'

Irish pop sensation Lyra has followed up the recently released bangers ‘Chess’ and ‘Drink Me Up’ with a new self-love anthem entitled ‘Queen.’ The third release from her upcoming album, ‘Queen’ is instilled with a sense of freedom and sexual liberation, centred around themes of promiscuity, pleasure and womanhood. 

“This song is bad-ass,” explained Lyra. “I wanted this song to be grittier and underground, with a lot of attitude. It’s a sassy song…It presents a version of myself that I was always scared to be. It’s a reminder that you need me and I don’t need you, and I can be my own Queen.”

Ciara O'Neill, 'Mother'

Following the successful release of celebrated singles ‘La Lune’ and ‘Le Soleil,’ Ciara O’Neill is back with a brand new track entitled ‘Mother.’ The second advance offering from her upcoming EP Woman, out May 8, the new track is an unflinching portrayal of the female experience. 

“'Mother' is a deep dive into the world of Women," O'Neill said of the new track. "What it means to be a woman in the modern world, the desire to live a life on your own terms without the pressure of looking, acting and living a certain way, a way that is deemed acceptable by society.”

Darren Doherty, 'Violence'

Northern Irish artist Darren Doherty's ‘Violence’ is a track,  “about transcending feelings of hurt” and offers up a tranquil melody which puts the listener at ease. To support this release, Doherty will be playing five shows across Ireland in Ballybofey, Belfast, Derry, Strabane and Bangor.

When talking about the track, Doherty says, “‘Violence’ feels very much like the starting point of my new direction and it’s a perfect blend of the sounds that I want to present. It’s full of contrast. It’s beautiful but disturbing, catchy but angular, sunny and dark.”

TV People, 'Adore'

Dublin alt-rock duo TV People, consisting of multi-instrumentalists Paul Donohoe and Brendan Clarke, continue to impress the global music scene with their electrifying new release ‘Adore.’ Exploring the joy of human connection, the new track represents a seismic shift from the poignant depth of its predecessor ‘Fade.’ 

An uplifting expression of peace, serenity and optimism, ‘Adore’ explores into the intimacy of tender love through ear-worm melodies and engaging lyrics. The new release comes just before two London performances at The Old Blue Blast and Two Palms Hackney along with a soon-to-be-announced headline at the Workman’s Club Cellar.

Eimear, ‘To Be Loved’

Following the digital success of her 2023 hit single ‘I am Woman,’ Kildare-based artist Eimear returns today with ‘To Be Loved,’which enlists the SUSO Focus Youth Choir to accompany the artist’s arresting vocals.

The track is an absorbing, piano-driven ballad that explores the complexities of self-worth and the uphill battle to attain it. The singer’s heart-wrenching delivery and soul-stirring melodies are at once resonant and endearing. It seeks to remind audiences that “true love stems from staying true to oneself.”

Speaking on the lyricism, Eimear muses: “‘To Be Loved’ is about reclaiming that time and giving a message to my younger self, and to people everywhere of all ages, that we are enough as we are and we don’t need to do anything to be worthy of being loved.”

and he, the fool, ‘Good Aches’

and he, the fool returns with a swaggering new tune, ‘Good Aches.’ This latest offering from the 7-piece outfit maintains their unbounded sonic approach, filtered through the lens of doleful rock, broody folk and neo-soul. These stylings are propelled forward with the quirked-up rhythm of new-wave.

From the outset, the track dissects the anatomy of a James Bond theme, playing with its form, lacing it with new-wave punchiness, macabre surf-rock and big-band sensibilities.

"A tight groove, huge saxophone riffs and diversions into psychedelia all come together to paint a rapidly decaying portrait of a relationships’ last breaths in bed in the morning Good Aches is that moment,” the band says. “It’s a breakup song, but it’s still full of love. Love that exists within too much comfort, yearning and wishing for the discomfort, the good aches of the past."

HousePlants, ‘Every Flower Is A Field’

The latest single from HousePlants’ forthcoming sophomore album is an effervescent offering that draws from a scintillating palette of indie and electronic airs.

‘Every Flower is a Field’ sees the duo - Bell X1 frontman Paul Noonan and Daithí - depart from the nightclub grooves and upbeat propulsion of their previous single ‘No Pushover.’

Noonan’s emotive vocals flourish over the sparse backing, comprising wistful keys and a stripped-down rhythm section. Such sonic modesty lends itself to the poignant lyricism buttressing the track.

“Lyrically, the song tries to speak to how the unknowing blank canvas of early childhood gives way to the awkward, burdened teenage bit. My own children are 12 and 14 now, and there is much eye- rolling when we talk about the cuter times,” Noonan says of the track. “There’s also still something really arresting about seeing how a child’s mannerism or expression can be exactly like one of your own parent’s moves, a genetic torch burning on.”

Abe Soare, ‘An Muilte’

On ‘An Muilte,’ Limerick singer-songwriter Abe Soare embarks on a quest towards self-discovery.

Crafted against the backdrop of this insular idyll, the track encapsulates the essence of existential exploration and the quest for self-discovery. Soare’s distinct narrative unfolds through soul-stirring melodies and heart-rending lyricism, underscored by the soothing cadence of oceanic waves—a poetic ode to the symbiotic relationship between the self and the natural world.

“The song is a reminder that it's ok to feel lost and not know who you are, because when you look back on it, the journey is always the fun part.”

Karl McConnon, ‘Heaven Has Gained Another Angel’

Dublin indie-rocker Karl McConnon returns with his latest single ‘Heaven Has Gained Another Angel,’ out today.

The track offers a heart-rending exploration of universality of grief and resilience. With deft lyricism, the song seeks to serve as comfort and for times of grief, while also delivering a message of hope and solace.

“'Heaven Has Gained Another Angel' is a reflection of the shared human experience of navigating grief amidst conflict,” McConnon says. “Through this evocative piece, I aim to offer listeners a powerful and emotive journey, blending deep, emotional narratives with the soulful essence of indie rock.”

Sticks, ‘Agora Mono’

Distortion and lo-fi find a welcome home in Sticks’ new single ‘Agora Mono.’

‘Agora Mono’ boasts a unique palette of red-blooded drum breaks and throbbing bass lines which activate the song’s heartbeat and propel it forward.

Sticks has a definitive flow, with a keen eye for delivery and articulation. His approach is casual, almost as though the words are spilling out from him, recalling the likes of Kojaque or Curtisy.

“I'm really proud of how this turned out and I can't wait to share it with you all,” the artist said via Instagram.

 

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Dora Gola, ‘Humble Your Eyes’

Dora Gola's 'Humble Your Eyes’ is a dazzling track funnelled through a refracted sonic kaleidoscope. Its lyrics are suffused with lush visions and spiritual epiphany. The choruses boom like a warning from the depths of wilderness but are sung like a primordial offering.

Dora’s vocals are melodious and enchanting. The fragile wisps of the artist’s register recall the diaphony of Billie Eilish or Bea Miller. The song's orchestral score ebbs and flows without ever letting up, never resolving the unending quest to find life's deepest answers in the dark embrace of the wild.

Lord Jane, ‘I Did It To Myself’

Belfast post-punk rockers Lord Jane are back with the vibrant and propulsive ‘I Did It To Myself.’

The five-piece outfit deftly channel widescreen vocals and a high-octane rhythm section that is sure to rouse listeners to their feet. From the outset, the heavy-set, metallic rock stylings jolt like electroshock therapy, firing immediate dopamine to the head.

Lead vocalist Clodagh May commented: "‘I Did It To Myself’ is the perfect introduction into what the band represents. Lyrically, it is an inner dialogue of the vicious cycle of self-destruction, and in the end, there’s no one to blame but yourself. The song is driven by catchy guitar hooks and an unrelenting bop of rhythm.”

Rufous Nightjar, ‘Nettles’

Three-part harmony trio Rufous Nightjar, consisting of Branwen Kavanagh, Anna Bishop and Zoe Basha, have released their latest album, aptly titled Songs for Three Voices. Among the stunning collection of ballads is standout track ‘Nettles,’ an entirely a cappella number complete with the group’s signature lush harmonies. An impressive display of vocal talent, each note hit with pinpoint precision, the trio’s effortless blend creates a soundtrack of pure bliss. 

“Many beautiful places and memories went into the making of this album,” the band said in a recent Instagram post. “The songs exist to be your companions and ear-worms! Do sing them, share them, dance to them and bring them on adventures!”

 

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modernlove. ‘Don't feel Myself’

Irish indie-rock outfit modernlove. are back with their latest headbanger ‘Dont Feel Myself.’ Taking inspiration from the likes of The 1975, Inhaler and Block Party, modernlove. continue to make waves on the international stage with their ear-worm pop-rock melodies. 

“‘Don’t Feel Myself’ is about going through bouts of disassociation, existential crisis and having a crisis of identity compounded with unhealthy lifestyle choices and coping mechanisms,” the band said of the new track. 

“It explores these themes through an analogous story of a ‘mad night out’ in which we drunkenly stumble through a number of different shady settings and wrestle with all kinds of troubles/ situations from panic attacks and derealisation to bursts of mania that inevitably end up in us being consumed with existential dread the morning after.”

David Murphy, ‘Bridget Cruise’

Back with another serene instrumental track entitled ‘Bridget Cruise,’ David Murphy transports his listeners to a world of peace and luminous tranquillity. The second release from his upcoming album Cuimhne Ghlinn: Explorations in Irish Music for Pedal Steel Guitar, out April 19, ‘Bridget Cruise’ is a modern take on the 17th century traditional Irish harp tune of the same name.

“Stories of friendship and unrequited longing are eternal themes," Murphy said. "O'Carolan's ability to inspire beyond the 400-year divide is a testament to the strength and beauty of his compositions. In this arrangement - one of two O'Carolan tunes on the album - I wanted to present it in a contemporary setting, demonstrating how a 17th century piece still has a power to flow ever-forward, to evolve and  transform into something new, yet can convey the same sentiments of melancholy and lost love that the writer had intended, way back through the mists of time."

 

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Annika Kilkenny, ‘Stone’s Throw Away’

Annika Kilkenny promptly draws listeners into her dreamlike, tender soundscape with ‘Stone’s Throw Away.’

Over a soft bed of piano and shimmering guitar, the singer-songwriter makes a shimmering appeal about the importance of home and belonging, and how it can exist intangibly or in far-away places. Annika’s vocals are a perfect match for the blushing instrumental, which comprises mild piano, resonant vocal harmonies and abstracted guitar.

Evocative of Taylor Swift’s ‘champagne problems’ or Big Thief slow-burners, Annika Kilkenny offers a heart-rending number that makes for a welcome slot on any indie sadcore playlist.

The High Llamas featuring Bonnie "Princess" Billy, ‘How The Best Was Won'

Anglo-Irish avant-pop group The High Llamas have released their long awaited album Hey Panda, featuring standout track ‘How The Best Was Won.’ Made in collaboration with Bonnie Prince Billy, the new song is the brainchild of singer-songwriter and founding member of The High Llamas, Sean O’Hagan. 

Imbued with a near futuristic techno groove, ‘How The Best Was Won’ is the definition of digestible avant-garde pop media, expertly combining today’s hit trends with exciting new production techniques. 

Local Boy, ‘Speculate’

Dublin artist Local Boy says that his new track ‘Speculate’ is about “my dislike of every opportunistic hack who works behind the scenes in the music industry” (although surely all hardworking and fair minded staff at the Hot Press Newsdesk can be excluded!) . An acid-and psychedelic rock track, ‘Speculate’ is a melt in the ear tune. With plenty of guitar distortion and powerful lyrics  ‘Speculate’ is a DIY spirited rock n' roll track. 

 

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KNEECAP, ‘Fine Art’

A furious and pulsating new single from the Belfast Irish language rapping trio, ’Fine Art’ is a banger. And we would expect nothing less from the title track of KNEECAP's debut album, due for release June 14. The album and the single are both inspired by the frenzied media reaction to the reveal of the band’s mural of a police jeep on fire in 2022. 

 

Speaking on the single Mo Chara said: “The mural ended up on the BBC with Steven Nolan. They had a massive debate about the painting, and he says, ‘The band KNEECAP claim the mural is just a piece of fine art’. So we sampled it into a dance tune and dropped it in where it kicks”.

 

Sadhbh Keane, ‘She Really Loves You

Another single from the incredible talent that is teenager Sadhbh Keane ‘She Really Loves You’ is a beautiful guitar-led track. Demonstrating remarkable artist and emotional maturity, ‘She Really Loves You’ is a honeyed track about love, and how best to show it. With it’s soothing course ‘There’s only so much I can do/To tell you how much she really loves you”. With Keane’s vocals and keen guitar playing as the foundation of ‘She Really Loves You’,  the track is lifted by the dulcet violin strings which make the track soar. 

 

Back to Winnipeg - ‘Slowdown’ 

A feel-good guitar orientated track, ‘Slowdown’ wouldn’t be out of place in the rolling credits of a classic coming of age movie. Featuring nimble guitar playing from the Galway group Back to Winnipeg , the single is elevated by the group anthem worthy harmonies. At the heart of the pop-y rock track, there's an earnest message at the heart of the track, that we all need to put our feet up and relax from time to time. 

 

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James Vincent McMorrow, ‘Give Up’

‘Give Up’ opens with a surprising wall of children’s vocals  in a striking stylistic choice for James Vincent McMorrow. The tune is the artist’s latest single off of his upcoming release Wide Open Horses, his seventh studio album. This single is his boldest one yet and incorporates some rock sounding drums and a sleazy baseline along with McMorrow’s signature ethereal vocals. ‘Give up’ is a brave folk rock mash-up that demonstrates both McMorrow’s musical skill and breadth. 

Ryan Mack, ‘Better Half Of Me’

A heartfelt and tender offering from Ryan Mack, ‘Better Half Of Me’ is a love song dedicated to Mack’s longtime partner, and as you can guess- his better half.  ‘Better Half Of Me’ is a crooning pop single that will hit you in the feels this Friday. Baring his soul, Mack’s vocals soar against the backdrop of the emotional keys. ‘Better Half Of Me’ is a raw and sincere pop song that is not too unlike the vulnerable pop artistry of major Irish artists such as Moncrieff and Cian Ducrot. It’s easy to imagine ‘Better Half Of Me’ getting some serious airplay. 

 

Malik, ‘Step’

A song dedicated to years of graft and hard work Malik’s ‘Step’ is a high energy banger that teems with artists’ signature zest. Featuring verses from Tom Fallover and Kuruk, ‘Step’ is a playful back and forth between rappers flexing their lightning fast bars. Weaving between artists and languages, ‘Step’ is an inspiring new offering from the new wave of pulsating Dublin rap. 

 

49th & Main, ‘Self Sabotage’

A cooler than cool dance offering, ‘Self Sabotage’ is an icy banger that will have you side stepping this weekend. Lyrically simple, the track relies on the infectious and catchy beat as the backbone of the dance single. Sharing the single just before 49th and Main embark on their UK and Ireland tour, the band said: “We’re getting back to what we do best”. And we couldn’t agree more, closing‘Self Sabotage’ is the surprise but very welcome.