New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

$ONA BLU€ & HYMN, ‘Adore You’

$ONA BLU€ and HYMN team up for ‘Adore You’, a richly layered R&B track blending warmth and vulnerability with lush sonic textures. A fusion of alternative R&B, pop, and melodic rap, the track is rooted in a chilled, romantic energy and creating a sensual, emotionally resonant sound.

Bricknasty, ‘is é a locht a laghad’

Ballymun collective Bricknasty have released the captivating Irish language track ‘is é a locht a laghad’. This latest release is perhaps the most folk-influenced of their discography. While their soul and jazz roots still shine through, the track begins with a stripped-down section driven by Irish traditional influences. It leads into a magical fusion of folk with electronic, modern jazz, chill hip-hop and natural sampling.

Frontman and guitarist Fatboy, producer Cillian McCauley and drummer Korey Thomas are joined by musicians Alannah Thornburgh, Sweet Jayne and Aedín Caverly. Together, they’ve made something truly beautiful. It’s archaic and new all at the same time, with sound design that feels like walking through a dreamscape. As is usually the case with Bricknasty, it feels wrong to pigeonhole them to a few genres. But with ‘is é a locht a laghad’, it would be sacrilegious to define them to any preexisting genre. This song is like nothing else.

Chris Wong, ‘For Me, I Try’

Chris Wong with ‘For Me I Try’, the title track to his upcoming EP, due September 12. A soulful and relaxed number of nylon string guitar and groovy rhythm sections, the track is deeply peaceful and transporting despite its darker lyricism. Described as “a deeply personal song, but one that was written for the masses,” Wong comments on the track : “I saw a lot of bad in myself at the time. I was struggling to see myself in a positive light.

“Writing ‘For Me, I Try’ helped me in understanding that we all fight similar battles at different stages of our lives.”

AikJ, ‘Opaque’

AikJ delivers a new standout R’n’B number with ‘Opaque’, a soulful track which adventures into indie soundscapes, while bringing a drill heartbeat through its rhythm section, and adding an orchestral crescendo to amplify its emotion.

Speaking on the new single, AIKJ comments: "'Opaque' is an emotional track placing a topic of neglect and needing reassurance at the forefront of the relationship. How is it that when I say how I feel, you get angry and pick a fight over it, do you see love when you look at me? This is the question that never really builds a foundation due to underlying self-serving reasons for initiating an emotional relationship with someone. Opaque is a plea for understanding.”

Tolü Makay, ‘Highnote’

Nigerian-Irish artist Tolü Makay is bringing listeners along on a dreamlike journey with her latest single ‘Highnote’. Her harmonious blend of soul, pop and R&B is on full display in this newest track, ascending to a level that is beyond great. Ethereal, celestial and heavenly are words that come to mind.

The instrumentals are undeniably impressive — blues-y guitar and drums are reminiscent of all the greats of soul, while still incredibly modern and new — but Makay’s angelic vocals are the star of the show. Her range and talent stun as she shifts effortlessly from soulful storytelling to soprano riffs and shining harmonies. All considered, ‘Highnote’ is a masterclass.

Forg.ie, ‘Adolescence’

Forg.ie reflects on his journey from adolescence to adulthood, drawing on personal experiences and growth on his new track ‘Adolescence’. The track include a touching sample from the iconic TV show Adolescence, adding both nostalgia and emotional depth to the sound.

Niall Breslin, ‘The Credence Frequency’

Niall Breslin today releases his new piece ‘The Credence Frequency’, hailing from his upcoming album The Place That Has Never Been Wounded, out Ocotber 24. Reflective, emotionally resonant and grandiose, the piano piece is a powerful first look into Breslin’s upcoming record.

Speaking of the single, Niall says: “‘The Credence Frequency’ is about tuning back into the primal transmission between body and mind, the signal that the chaos of modern culture drowns out. Endless metrics, curated feeds, the circus of self-optimisation, spiritual bypassing, individualism… it all distorts the frequency until you mistake the noise for your own voice.”

Nerves, ‘Through My Chest’

Off of their new EP Iarmhaireacht, Nerves have released ‘Through My Chest’. The experimental noise punk group keeps it heavy and dark in ‘Through My Chest’. From a toned-down intro to a crashing cacophony of a chorus, Nerves have thoroughly earned their title as one of the most brutal punk bands in Ireland today. Grinding guitars, harsh vocals, aggressive drums and a deep bassline draw together in ‘Through My Chest’, united by lyrics in the band’s typically dark style. It’s grungy, it’s gritty, it’s Nerves.

Bambie Thug, ‘REDRUM’

Once again breaking past genres and crushing expectations, Bambie Thug has released 'REDRUM'. The 2024 Eurovision contestant is back with their screaming choruses and heavy instrumentals. Guitar and bass dig into grunge while drums drive the track to a headbanging rhythm.

The highlight of the song, however, is the lyrics: It’s a loud, proud, rebel cry. “It’s hard to wake up when you’re raised on misery and the whole world’s set up for shock awe,” sings Bambie Thug, before launching into a raucous, aggressive chorus of “I wanna redrum, rage, rot, riot and raw.” In both lyrics and sound, ‘REDRUM’ reflects the feeling of anyone fed up with war, oppression and disconnection: frustration, overwhelmingness and rage, but also hope. Bambie Thug is fighting on, and we’re here to listen along.

BoaChitta, ‘Sparkling Dynamite’

Northern Irish musician BoaChitta releases her debut single ‘Sparkling Dynamite’, a powerful track fusing raw emotion, lyrical honesty, and a fearless blend of alternative, indie, and soul. The track is accompanied by a music video filmed on the Camino by Hot Press' writer Jason O'Toole.

‘Sparkling Dynamite’’s producer Gavin Goldberg said: "In a sea of fakers and wannabes, BoaChitta’s music is like a breath of fresh air. Her unflinching songwriting and uncompromising style touches nerves as well as hearts. Her empassioned vocals can be belting like a banshee’s wail one moment, and a vulnerable lament the next. I’m really excited about the record we’re making together and if there was any justice in the crazy world, Boachitta’s music will be taking it’s place in the long and esteemed line of great Irish songstresses!”

Ultan Conlon, ‘Boomerang Baby!’

Ultan Conlon releases his new summer anthem ‘Boomerang Baby’, a reggae inspired sunny tune that is as ear-catching as it is dance inducing, lined with boisterous melodies and head bobbing rhythms, which will perfectly accompany the last weeks of summer.

"Boomerang Baby! has a reggae/surf feel to it and comes in at just under 2min:45sec's,” Ultan says. “Perfect pop time!"

Offica, ‘Currently’

Offica has put out his new rousing number ‘Currently’, a deeply catchy and reflective track which blends delicate instrumentals, drill-inspired rhythmic sections and incredibly powerful bars, further cementing the rapper as one of Ireland’s biggest technical heavyweights.

Cabin, 'Grind'

Alternative producer and songwriter Cabin has released his new single 'Grind'. After sharpening his skills with post-punk act Brass Phantoms, Cabin went independent with a new sound that combines alternative rock, indie folk and more.

The Dublin artist’s latest release holds a new garage-rock influence; Grungy guitars take the lead in driving the track and punctuating it with scorching riffs. Just as hard-hitting are the impressive basslines and upbeat, perfectly crashing drums. The mid-song guitar solo, moulding harmoniously in with Cabin’s soaring vocals. It’s well mixed but still holds a slight DIY feeling that any fan of a good alt rock guitar riff and catchy drums would love.

MOIO, ‘Figure It Out’

Nigerian-Irish singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist MOIO unveils the new single ‘Figure It Out’, blending R&B, indie, alternative, and soul. A strong and steady beat pulsates beneath delicate guitar, highlighting MOIO’s powerfully moving vocals.

“I wrote the song to tell myself, ‘Life has its ups and downs, but you can always figure it out.’”, MOIO says. “It’s literally a simple reminder. Every time someone listens to it, I hope it's a song of affirmation. When I listen now, it brings me back to a certain moment—like a time capsule.”

Flynn Johnson x hikii, ‘ÁINE’

Flynn Johnson collaborates with hikii for the new track ‘AÍNE’, a dark and rousing rap tune which is as moving as it is powerful, lined with minimalist piano and rhythmic instrumentals, which make the perfect accompaniment for the rapper’s melodic bars, and the tracks burning hot chorus.

 

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BRIARS, ‘Odds and Ends’

Alternative indie folk group BRIARS is back with their latest single, ‘Odds and Ends’. The Cork band has played Irish favourites by the likes of Electric Picnic, When Next We Meet, Galway Folk Festival, Guinness Cork Jazz Fest and more, and rightfully so. They set themselves apart from the alt-folk crowd with an almost pop-punk tone and a talent for portraying a wide range of emotions.
Their blend of modern rock influences with classic Irish traditional soul is in the spotlight in this latest track. Combining their talent for Irish traditional instruments with upbeat drums and cheerful guitar strums, the track leads up to a catchy chorus all the way through to a wonderfully danceable completion. For anyone who loves folk, trad, pop-punk, indie and alt rock, BRIARS have delivered.

Negro Impacto, ‘NWANNE’

Negro Impacto return with the soulful single ‘NWANNE’, hailing from their new EP TV DREAMS, out today. A chilled out number of slow-building instrumentals and vocal performances, the track is as transporting as it is summery, blending delicate strings with groovy trumpets and carefully layered voices.

Just Mustard, ‘We Were Just Here’

Dundalk’s Just Mustard return with ‘We Were Just Here’, the shimmering title track from their forthcoming album, out October 24. Known for warped guitars and twisted sound design, the band have steered their sonic arsenal towards a warmer, more anthemic horizon this time around. Katie Ball’s ethereal, echoing vocals still drift above guitars carved into jagged industrial edges – but here, the result is euphoric and communal, with an undercurrent of simmering intensity. Imagine sweat dripping from nightclub ceilings, filtered through a trance-like, Lynchian haze. It’s an intoxicating shift that still feels unmistakably theirs. Catch them at their biggest headline show yet at Dublin’s Olympia Theatre on May 1, 2026.

The Fynches, ‘Find It For Yourself’

Alternative indie quartet The Fynches deliver a sun-dappled slice of harmony-driven devinity on ‘Find It For Yourself’, the latest single from their self-titled debut album, out October 7. Built on a groovy, toe-tapping beat and lush string arrangements, the track shimmers with layered harmonies that recall the golden-hour warmth of The Beach Boys. It’s an uplifting ode to self-worth, encouraging listeners to take ownership of their own path, all while wrapping its message in a rich, feel-good sonic glow. Effortlessly catchy yet musically intricate, it’s the kind of song that lingers long after the final chord fades.

As If I Always Knew, ‘Danny Boy’

Cork composer and pianist Cian Sweeney, known as As If I Always Knew, offers a stripped-back, meditative reimagining of the classic Irish ballad on ‘Danny Boy’. It's the third single from his upcoming album Improvisations 1, out September 10. Recorded live in one take at his Birds of Paradise studio, Sweeney pares the piece down to its bare essence – spacious, vulnerable and quietly powerful. “I wanted to remove the pretence and expectation to reveal the beauty that’s always been there in its simplicity,” he explains. The result is gorgeously unadorned piano work. Catch him at Dublin's Fringe Festival on September 16, 17, 18 and 20, and Culture Night in Cork City on September 19.

Sun Merchant, ‘Hold My Sober’

Blending alt-rock, blues, jazz and Balkan flourishes, Sun Merchant mark their debut with ‘Hold My Sober’. The new project from Stephen McGrath (Crow Black Chicken) and Aury Livingstone (The Underscore Orkestra), now completed by drummer Jamie Ryan, fuses oriental and Balkan-style motifs with an alternative rock backbone, touched by prog and grunge. Lyrically, the track confronts societal pressures towards addiction and failure, transforming them into an anthem of defiance. “It’s about rising above the expectation of failure,” says McGrath. The aftermath is a genre-spanning statement of intent – bold, intricate, and unafraid to challenge both musical and personal limits.

Cathal Gavin, ‘Out Of Love’

Pop singer Cathal Gavin has released ‘Out Of Love’. Gavin's voice lends itself quite well to the theatrical electronic-pop style of 2010s Sam Smith or John Legend, which is on full display in his latest single. Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter Billy Farrell contributes to a vocal-driven track that is anchored by piano rhythms and elevated with synth scales. Electronic strings create a cinematic effect that makes Gavin’s layered vocals just that much more soulful. ‘Out of Love’ is one of the Co. Mayo singer’s best tracks yet, largely thanks to the exhibition of his impressive vocal range and talent.

Teagan Nolan, ‘Pretty On Purpose’

At just 15, Irish pop rising star Teagan Nolan delivers a confident, high-energy anthem with ‘Pretty On Purpose’. Packed with passion and unapologetic self-assurance, the track carries a message that’s as empowering as it is catchy: don’t dim your light, embrace your creativity, and be the confident example you wish to see in others. Nolan’s powerful, pop-perfect vocals drive a bright, infectious sound that captures the rush of summer’s final moments. Bursting with charisma and polish well beyond her years, ‘Pretty On Purpose’ is both a bold statement of intent and a celebration of self-belief.

Runner, ‘Distance’

Dublin quartet Runner channel nostalgia and grit on ‘Distance’, a shimmering yet raw blend of alternative, shoegaze and post-punk. With 70s-tinged guitar textures, grunge-leaning tones and emotive, understated vocals, the track builds patiently – layer by layer – before erupting into a chorus that’s both powerful and deceptively catchy. “Recording this song was tough for us… but we’re excited to show our more experimental side,” the band said. What's left is an immersive, guitar-led soundscape that feels at once reflective and urgent, balancing introspective lyricism with a driving, melodic punch. It’s a bold step into new territory for the rising Dublin outfit.

PTRNS, ‘Mary Jane’

Belfast indie alt-rockers PTRNS hit a new stride with ‘Mary Jane’, blending Paramore-esque emo-pop, Two Door Cinema Club grooves and post-hardcore punch. Opening mid-breakup call, the track’s tension builds as drums drive sparkling Midwest-emo guitars into a tsunami of a chorus – walls of sound, rumbling bass and Nicole Smyth’s soaring, warning-shot vocal. Harmonies deepen the hook, while call-and-response verses add a level of urgency. In the final third, the song frays into despair, mirroring its theme. “Mary Jane is a relationship on the brink,” says Smyth, “where love begins to decay and devotion shifts towards someone new – watching someone you care about walk into a toxic situation.”

Jack Devlin, ‘Default Days’

Indie singer-songwriter Jack Devlin has released his single ‘Default Days’. Hailing from Co. Down, Devlin has taken his busking talent to the recording studio– and with great success. ‘Default Days’ comes after his previous release ‘Radio’ last month, after his 2022 debut single ‘Lies’ put Devlin on the map.

His latest track is an elevation from his previous work. Whilst preserving his distinctive upbeat style, ‘Default Days’ sees a level of mixing that sets Devlin apart from the indie crowd. Bright guitar lines and peppy drums give a summer feel to the song, while producing by Shea Tohill puts Devlin’s voice front and centre in soaring harmonies. Armagh singer Conchúr White lends songwriting talent to a track that is well-mixed, well-played, well-sung and well worth dancing to.

Wild Valentine ‘Electric Eyes’

The Belfast artist Wild Valentine has released their debut single ‘Electric Eyes’ following a recent signing with Confused Panda Records. 

The alt-pop artist is keeping a low profile with “no interviews, no selfies and no digital curated persona,” according to management.

The single is vibrant and atmospheric with synth infused, smokey sounds. The track really opens up about a minute in with a thumping, dancey chorus. Its moody and electronic edge make it an optimistic debut for the singer. 

Emily Doyle ‘By Your Side’

Pop-folk artist Emily Doyle has released her sophomore single ‘By Your Side’ , a brutally honest storytelling and poignant track about letting go.

The midlands singer released her debut single ‘St Giles’ earlier this year, Doyle’s work tells the story of navigating through life in your 20s.

The lyricism is moving, as the song vividly paints a story that you can watch in your mind as you listen. The heartfelt words along with the beautiful melody make for an emotional pop song with depth and strong folk themes. One for fans of Lizzie McAlpine.

Madraí ‘When The Lights Go Down’

Emerging pop-rock band Madraí have released 80’s inspired single ‘When The Lights Go Down.’ 

This comes off the back of their sold out show, in Belfast’s Ulster Sports Club and their previous single ‘Leaving On My Own' being nominated for single of the year for the Northern Ireland Music Prize. 

The track is described by the band as a “breakup anthem" where the protagonist tries to delay the inevitable, questioning whether there’s anything left to save.”

The song's piano, fuzzy guitar and pop harmonies offer a lush 80s style. It is a sincere offering of heartache and catharsis in equal measure. A melancholic indie-rock display that builds into a story about what it means to be human. 

Picture This and Joris, ‘Heart Over Head’

Picture This have teamed up with German artist Joris for 'Heart Over Head'. The track is a reinvention of Joris’ ‘Herz über Kopf’, with Picture This lending a newness that drives the track into new territories of alternative pop and indie folk.

‘Heart Over Head’ is an anthem defined by its bright, uplifting sound and poetic, catchy lyrics. “My heart says stay, my head screams go,” sings Picture This frontman Ryan Hennessy in the lead up to a sparkling chorus that recalls summer road trips on the coast and time spent dancing and laughing with friends. Along with Hennessy’s vocal talent, rhythmic guitar strums and minimal riffs create a song that deserves to be put on the car radio and sung along to at the top of your lungs.

Middler ‘Asking Angels’

Post-punk band Middler's new single ‘Asking Angels’ is a dark telling of a plea for help and hope. 

 ‘Asking Angels’ is the third single from Middler’s debut album Sacrosanct, out October 24th. Following the release of ‘Turismo’ and A Martyr Beneath.’ 

The latest work marks the band's descent into a more electronic, industrial sound with their usual DIY edge. The post-punk roots of the song lend itself to a layered sonic experience that makes for a spirited and exciting release from the Irish band.

Mark McCausland ‘We’ll Be Just Fine’ 

Mark McCausland’s new single comes from his upcoming soundtrack album The Spin. 

McCausland is one half of Americana duo The Lost Brother. The Spin is due for a theatrical release in selected cinemas nationwide this October. The singer wrote the short story that inspired the film.

“I had pretty much forgotten about the story until a few years ago when I played a film-maker friend some demos, they told me this music belongs in a film, but the film doesn’t exist yet, said McCausland.”

The track is a singalong duet with singer/songwriter Matt McGinn, the song begins with sincere simple strings, the harmonies are soft and sweet but the tone livens up with some real mardi gras flavour.

Podge Lane ‘Let Me Ask You’ 

Podge Lane returns with ‘Let Me Ask You’ following his recent single ‘Heatwaves'.

The Irish alt-country singer has recently moved from Ireland to New York and has played over 50 shows since moving, including headlining New York's iconic Pete's Candy Store, Big City Folk and Gallery 198. 

The single is a melancholic and emotional acoustic story. The harmonies and lyricism work together to tell a lamenting tale that is easy on the ears and heavy on the heart. A sweet and heartfelt return from Lane.

Seán Feeny, ‘1969’

Donegal singer-songwriter Seán Feeny has released his debut single ‘1969’.

The folk pop tune focuses on the year his parents were married, 1969, and the state of Ireland at the time.

“I wanted to write something that honoured my parents and the world they stepped into as newlyweds,” said Feeny.

“1969 was a time of incredible uncertainty for so many people in Ireland, but also a time of love and new beginnings for them. This song is a tribute to that and a message of hope for all of us, that despite hardship, we’re still here, still standing, still loving.”

The song features a slow, soft piano line imitates the tone of the singer’s voice. The song uses news headlines to cleverly paint a picture of the climate in 1969. The overall somber tone of the track is speckled with hopeful undertones.

MICAH, ‘X’s’

Alt-dark pop artist MICAH has released her single ‘X’s’ ahead of her upcoming debut album.

The track is a “blistering anthem for the heart-weary, 'X’s captures that universal tension of trying to play friends with someone who once meant everything.”

The artist previously released her debut EP VILLAIN in October 2024.

‘X’s’ features upbeat, complex instrumentals with a heavy use of bass. The melancholic lyrics are juxtaposed with the track’s lively, techno-like beat; creating a unique listening experience.

Von Venn, ‘Only In The Night’

Alternative band Von Venn have released their new single ‘Only In The Night’ ahead of their upcoming album Forgetting the Fall.

The track tells the story of a relationship that has come to an end, however, the narrator wonders what would have happened if they stayed.

Von Venn formed in 2022 and have since released their 2023 album Jeanie is Out and a handful of singles.

‘Only In The Night’ has a 70s/80s rock style with a fresh, modern twist. The smooth, slow-paced vocals glide or the fast-paced rhythmic instrumentals creating a compelling sound.

In Athens, ‘Or Anything’

Post-punk band In Athens have released their debut single ‘Or Anything’ ahead of their upcoming EP MIRRORISM.

“There’s nostalgia in what we do, for sure - 90s alternative tones, a bit of shoegaze sprinkled here and there - but it’s not about looking back. We’re interested in contrast. Warmth and detachment. Collapse and control. We like when things feel familiar yet slightly off, in the same way that a vivid, lucid dream can sometimes feel,” said In Athens.

‘Or Anything’ is a modern take on classic punk with vivid instrumentals and delict yet angsty vocals.

Lauren Wallace, ‘Wild Like The West’

17-year-old singer-songwriter Lauren Wallace has released her new single ‘Wild Like The West.

This comes just over a month after the release of her debut EP Salt Stained Lungs.

“I wrote 'Wild Like the West' without realising I was putting a name to everything I was struggling with at the time. I was going through everyday life feeling really disconnected,” said Wallace.

“I was unsure of who I was, but somehow ended up writing a song that understood me better than I did.”

The song takes on a narrative style, with the instrumentals matching the storyline of the track. Wallace’s soft voice contains cheerful undertones despite the song’s somber lyrics, creating an overall sense of hope.

Tanya O, ‘COLD SUMMER’

Tanya O has released her new single ‘COLD SUMMER’.

“This is just a carefree song about a summer romance and that forever feeling of summer adventure,” said O.

“I think it evokes a sense of freedom through the lyrics.”

‘COLD SUMMER’ takes on an upbeat tone with a strong grounding beat and rhythmic drums; paring seamlessly with the singer's powerful voice.

Listen to our playlist below: