New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

Danzino, ‘SZNZ’

Marking his first release of 2026, Danzino has returned with ‘SZNZ’.

The Afro-beats track combines Danzino’s knack for songwriting and his talent for crafting addicting house rhythms – perfect for easy listening.

The Dublin rapper/singer spent 2025 on an impressive release streak, dropping several singles, as well as his EP CLOUDY, all in a matter of months.

You can catch Danzino supporting drill group FSG at the Racket Space in Dublin on February 27. Additional support will come from fellow R&B artists Farai and Two Tone. Tickets for the show are available here.

KNEECAP, ‘Liars Tale’

With the first single of their upcoming 3rd album Fenian, KNEECAP once again bring us raw power.

KNEECAP have said that ‘Liars Tale’, speaks directly to the British government, following a year of legal debacles for group member Mo Chara.

High energy (well what else) and full of confrontation - their messaging is clear. ‘Liars Tale” addresses the ongoing genocide in Palestine, as well as colonisation around the world, calling out governments for not standing up to United States’ powers. In any way the song may provoke you, inaction is not the desired outcome.

“You’re not getting away with fuck all,” they repeat on the track.

The group have released an accompanying music video for the track, directed by filmmaker Thomas James.

SPRINTS, ‘Deceptacon’ [Le Tigre cover]

Not that anyone’s forgotten what an absolute tune Le Tigre’s ‘Deceptacon’ is, but why not let SPRINTS jog your memory?

SPRINTS bring their own energy and edge to the cover, effectively communicating the song’s original prevailing message. Still, no one's settling for a “man’s world”.

While SPRINTS are currently on their US tour, we’ll keep tunes like this on repeat until they're back to give us more.

PICTURE THIS & MICHAEL SCHULTE, ‘Giants’

Picture this have collaborated with German singer Michael Schulte to create ‘Giants’.

An inspirational story of optimism, 'Giants' is a tender tune that encourages believing in one's self.

"Throughout our lives, experiences can chip away at our childlike wonder and blind naivety," says vocalist Ryan Hennessey. "But it doesn’t have to be that way. We can maintain—or regain—that pure, unashamed confidence we were born with. Through friendships, through love, and through the awareness that we control our own destiny, we can still be giants.”

You can catch Picture this at Hot Press's History In The Making: The Concert at the 3Arena in Dublin on February 6. Tickets are available here.

Frendan, ‘Celebrate Saints Not Seasons’

Rapper, producer and animator Frendan has brought us ‘Celebrate Saints Not Seasons’, his first release since 2022!

Frendan’s knack for narrative and conceptual writing, makes listening to tracks like this all the more immersive. Comparisons to KNEECAP and Fatboy Slim are definitely there, but with Frendan’s multifaceted talents, he gives us even more.

He has additionally released an accompanying video. Kind of weird, kind of trippy, but nonetheless an instant hit!

Papa Boyle, 'King Of The Late Night'

Papa Boyle is a retro indie artist based out of Dublin, Ireland. From an early age, he was given exposure to a wide range of music that spanned multiple decades and genres, which fuelled the fire to become a songwriter and performer.

'King Of The Late Night' finds Papa Boyle blending cheeky self-reflection with retro indie melodies. Inspired by the idea of hosting a TV show and interviewing yourself, the track dives into curiosity, nostalgia, and those questions you only dare ask in the quiet hours. With smooth grooves and clever lyrics, Papa Boyle reminds us that sometimes, the most interesting guest is you.

After a night out, Papa Boyle was glued to the couch and binge-watching documentaries, which led him to randomly watch one on Johnny Carson called 'King Of Late Night'; this is where the inspiration for the track was born.

"Creating the visuals for the song was great craic, it was a good laugh leaning into the TV show host character, and who knows, this alter ego might make an appearance at the next show!" said Papa Boyle.

Ailbhe Reddy, ‘Kiss Big’

The title track off of Ailbhe Reddy’s new record, out today, ‘Kiss Big’ is a magnificently stirring tune which kicks off with a gentle, stripped back opening before slowly building into expansive soundscapes in its bridge, complete with grandiose strings and layered vocals, making for a bittersweet love song, lined with a moving blend of regret and romanticism.

Speaking of her new record, Reddy explains: “It’s about the aftershock of a break up. That liminal space where you’re equal parts sad, hopeful, terrified and probably a bit delusional.”

The Kyd G, ‘Ride A Wave’

Blanchardstown rapper The Kyd G today releases his new single ‘Ride A Wave’, the first track to come off his upcoming mixtape, currently in the works. Featuring immersive production from Mubi and F3miii, the tune is as heavy as it is atmospheric, filled with melodic trap flows, clever wordplay and layered arrangements.

KING CARA, ‘Aon Scéal?’

Dublin alternative rock band KING CARA today release their new raucous track ‘Aon Scéal?’, a heavy and gritty number still lined with catchy melodic flair. Translating to 'Any Story?', 'Aon Scéal?' is about the feeling when you have a serious urge to head out on the town but no one's replying, and about feeling that your friends think you're disposable.

7th Obi, ‘Let Go’

Waterford hip hop artist 7th Obi releases the silky new track ‘Let Go’, an R’n’B number blending delicate and dance-inducing rhythmic sections, glistening and sulphurous piano instrumental and slow-building arrangements, perfectly accompanying the catchy and deliciously smooth autotuned vocals.

NewEra, ‘All Night’

NewEra return with their explosive new single ‘All Night’, after teasing the track over social media. Featuring driving 4x4 drums, a weighty rolling bassline, crisp piano stabs and an emotive, soulful vocals, the tune comes together to deliver a standout peak-time moment built for the dancefloor.

Todd Kessler, 'Birdsong'

Straight off of his brand new album, Here Is All We Have, Todd Kessler delivers the sombre, gut-wrenching single, 'Birdsong'.

'Birdsong', the eighth track on the 10-song album that was recorded in Ireland, is a ballad about letting somebody you love drift off to the sound of birdsong.

It's a track that will bring you to tears within the first minute, so remember to have tissues close by; you'll need them!

Shimmering guitars and delicate piano chords personify the bird that's carrying the loved one away, with Kessler's vocals delivering the final punch with the lyrics 'Be still, let the birdsong take you there.'

Calling Todd Kessler a singer/songwriter simply wouldn’t do him justice. The rising folk-rock star is the consummate storyteller, with a remarkable ability to take listeners on a winding, wonderful journey through the depths of the human experience.

 

Ye Vagabonds, ‘Danny’

Carlow-based Ye Vagabonds have released their third studio album All Tied Together and, with it, a heartfelt new single, ‘Danny’.

Produced by Philip Weinrobe (Big Thief, Adrianne Lenker), the twangy song features brothers Diarmuid and Brían Mac Gloinn harmonizing over tender harmonium, cello, and synth.

Ye Vagabonds garnered inspiration for the album from the writings of George Saunders and Claire Keegan.

“All these songs have addresses,” writes Diarmuid Mac Gloinn. “They’re about specific locations and specific people.”

Indeed, the brothers’ tunes are packed with careful description, and ‘Danny’ is no exception. The track is an ode to an old Carlow pal who “ran like he could feel something snapping at the heels of his worn-out shoes.” It’s wistful without any overly saccharine sentimentality, just what we love about Ye Vagabonds.

All Tied Together is out now via Rough Trade.

Ultras, ‘Some Flowers’

Ultras are back with more of the rousing rock we loved at Whelan’s in November. Their new single ‘Some Flowers’ solidifies their place in the Irish alt-rock scene.

The laid-back yet insistent garage noise of ‘Some Flowers’ sounds like today’s answer to Franz Ferdinand or early Cage the Elephant. Lead singer Jay O'Donoghue’s languid, sliding vocals coupled with heavy, layered guitar make the track into a genuine headbanger.

“Here’s a song about the kind of beauty that grows quietly,” the band said in a press release. “About heritage, belief and finding light whether you’re standing in the shade or the sun.”

Ultras, which formed only seven months ago, bring their authoritative swagger and fresh energy to both the stage and the recording studio. We’re excited to hear how they continue to gel and define their sound. They’ll play the Scene and Heard Festival—their first festival appearance—on February 26 at Smock Alley Theatre.

Fiachra Meek & Kaspar Laval, ‘Rose’

Fiachra Meek and Kaspar Laval have joined forced for their new post-trad EP, Fancy Brogues. Standout track ‘Rose’ is an unexpected combination of gentle melody and sonic maelstrom.

“From Belfast to Bangor and the Midlands, I’ll go, from Carlow and Mallow, where the black waters flow,” Meek sings with a lilt, playing on traditional Celtic themes as he lists the places he’ll travel to forget his great love.

The Co. Louth-raised, Netherlands-based Meek is best known for playing uilleann pipes in The Pogues’ touring band and the Irish-Appalachian trio Alfi.

Both Meek and Laval bring their low whistle and bouzouki skills to ‘Rose’, imbuing it with a folk feel. Their metallic plucking grows from tremulous to tremendous as the track progresses, making for a dynamic listen.

Muirġen, ‘Brushstrokes’

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen has announced her debut EP Loinnir, alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.
‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

“This song is a commitment to going inward, reconnecting to my younger self and coming face to face with that which I've been ignoring for so many years,” she added.

Seán Joyce, FRAUD

Fans of Bon Iver, The 1975 and Bob Dylan will adore this new track by alt-folk musician Seán Joyce.

Titled 'FRAUD', this record is a vocal masterpiece where his full range is on display. Joyce weaves together shimmering synths with real-world sounds of birds tweeting to create an earworm that you'll have on repeat.

Seán Joyce is a 25-year-old alt/folk artist from County Mayo, currently based in Dublin. He has been releasing music since 2022, debuting with ‘While You Were Out’. Early in his career, he gained momentum with support slots for Paul Noonan in Cork and Sorcha Richardson on her 2022 German tour (Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg).

Last year saw Joyce perform at Whelan’s Ones to Watch and much like its title, Seán Joyce is an artist you'll want to keep an eye on. If this record is anything to go by, he's destined for stardom.

Teagan Nolan, 'No One Wants Your Boyfriend Babe!'

Teagan Nolan Starts 2026 With A Bang! ‘No One Wants Your Boyfriend Babe’ is a power anthem about standing up for yourself and not giving in to intimidation.

'No One Wants Your Boyfriend Babe' is a fierce clapback to being falsely accused of something and being shunned as a result. Social life is messy and full of traps. When someone comes at you, you can run and hide or fight back. You didn’t ask for the drama, but you’re not backing down either.

‘No One Wants Your Boyfriend Babe’ is unrelenting power pop with grit and edge, and Teagan gives us the permission to defend ourselves with power and passion.

Brandon Statner - 'The Burning of Your Life'

26-year-old singer-songwriter Brandon Statner has released his debut single 'The Burning of Your Life'. The single is a classic take on soft rock, with folk and country undertones.

It’s a hopeful track that reflects on the process of giving up on a sustainable yet unfulfilling way of life to pursue your dreams. Brandon studied to be a physicist, but discovered that music makes far better sense of the world to him than maths ever did.

The backing vocals, accompanied by an acoustic guitar, and catchy 2010s whistling will make you think of The Lumineers, and Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros.'The Burning of Your Life' was recorded at Dublin Studio Hub with Larry Hogan.

Pilgrims, ‘My Own Swollen Heart’

The debut album Wintering from Pilgrims, the new collaboration between Bell X1 founding members Paul Noonan and Brian Crosby, has been released today. This project is significant as it marks the duo's first full joint release in 16 years. One track, ‘My Own Swollen Heart,’ stands out as a deeply contemplative melody. Despite its soft chords, it carries an emotional weight that hits hard, serving as a powerful soundtrack for quiet reflection, much like some of Hozier's more melancholic ballads.

Dani Larkin, 'I Wake'

Dani Larkin, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, is preparing to release her highly anticipated second album, Next Of Kin, in January 2026. A standout track is the six-minute ballad, 'I Wake,' which evokes the feeling of a rainy Sunday morning. This unique and ethereal song builds slowly, adding depth with sharp piano lines and layered vocals that increase in pace and intensity with precise execution. The music is characterized by Larkin's distinctive narrative style, which is paired with bold, contemporary sonic textures to forge a profound new sound.

Toshín, ‘Pillars’

Meath-based soul singer Toshín has released her new song 'Pillars', a track driven by a bright piano, strong vocals and nicely layered harmonies.

The song features a heartfelt audio message from the singer, where she talks about the expectations and peer pressure she’s felt about getting married and having children. The track addresses themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and rejecting societal rules. Toshín described 'Pillars' as "the song that healed me from within". 'Pillars' is an empowering protest against conformity, nicely completed by its good production and a strong lyrical delivery.

Mark Lyndon, ‘The Brothers Graham’

Cork-based folk singer Mark Lyndon has released his fifth single, ‘The Brothers Graham’. Following the release of ‘Nocturne’, ‘The Brothers Graham’ is a darker track with a fuller folk instrumental arrangement.

The song is about the folk story “Amandán Peter”, who crossed the Blackwater River near Ballyhooly, Cork, to save the life of a local Parish priest, who was going to be murdered for a bounty by the Graham brothers.

“I’ve taken care to stay true when collecting these folk stories,” said Lyndon. “My sources for this one came from several areas, including 100-year-old handwritten versions by primary school students from the Dúchas.ie website. The opportunity for artistic license comes in the music.”

Jess Young, ‘Chainsmoking’

London-born, Irish-raised pop artist Jess Young has released her newest single, ‘Chainsmoking’.

‘Chainsmoking’ is a mid-tempo guitar-driven pop track with subtle 80s leaning synths that balances an upbeat energy with warmth and restraint.

Written during a time of personal rebuilding, the song reflects on survival and self-reclamation, capturing the feeling of lightness that comes after a difficult period.

“I want to hear people scream the chorus aloud while they’re driving their car and when I’m playing this live, and I want every single person to feel empowered to change their own lives, no matter what they’re going through,” said Young.

Wynona Bleach, ‘Be Positive’

Belfast quartet Wynona Bleach have shared their new single ‘Be Positive’ ahead of the drop of their upcoming album Animal Style, which will be released on May 29.

The alt-punk track with shoegaze and grunge influences uses heavily distorted guitars, punching drums and grounding bass under soaring lead vocals, which make the song intense, atmospheric and mysterious.

“When nostalgia may seem your only way to feel positive about the future, it might be best to kill your darlings,” said Wynona Bleach.

“The track title is a nod to one of the band members’ blood type, and a nod to goth rock heroes of ours, Type O Negative.”

THUMPER, ‘You Didn't Hear This From Me’

Irish alt-rock band THUMPER have released their newest single ‘You Didn't Hear This From Me’, following the drop of ‘There Will Be Blood’. Both tracks were shared ahead of the drop of their sophomore album Sleeping With The Light On, which is set to release on February 20.

‘You Didn't Hear This From Me’ is an energetic and strirring guitar driven track that makes use of dynamic shifts between quieter and moodier moments to loud and explosive ones.

 

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Dave Lofts, ‘Mary’

Irish singer-songwriter Dave Lofts has released a new single, ‘Mary’. The song starts with a pared-back acoustic guitar accompaniment, and slowly builds, introducing piano, drums, and multilayered voices by the final chorus. Throughout it all, though, the star is Lofts’ powerful voice, running with emotion through the song.

“‘Mary’ is written as a prayer,” said Lofts. “It speaks to finding the love of my life, knowing I will never see her again because I had to leave. The prayer becomes a place of solitude, where loss and peace exist together.”

Lofts’ new single comes after a run of 10 consecutive sold-out Irish headline shows including Whelan’s, The Academy, and the Ambassador Theatre.

Bren Berry, ‘Fire Drill’

Bren Berry has released a new single, ‘Fire Drill’. The song’s release comes almost exactly one year after Berry put out his first album, In Hope Our Stars Align, the title of which was taken from a line in ‘Fire Drill’. The song was inspired by activism, and continuing legacy of the fight for Irish independence.

“I think Fire Drill is one of my strongest songs lyrically and I wrote it around the time of the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday,” said Berry. “I was reading “On Bloody Sunday” by Julieann Campbell and “Butchers Dozen” by Thomas Kinsella. Like Kinsella, I was enraged by “the cold putting aside of truth” by the British establishment and in particular Boris Johnson and the Tories who personified an increasingly dangerous normalization of lies and ‘alternative facts’. The heart-breaking image of Father Edward Daly waving his blood-stained handkerchief as a white flag as he attempted to lead a group carrying one of the Bloody Sunday victims out of the Bogside on that day is also a key image for the song.”

Roe Byrne, ‘An Ocean Away (I'll come back home)’

Roe Byrne started out busking in Dublin, inspired by Irish artists like Dermot Kennedy and Hozier. Byrne’s career took off when Dermot Kennedy posted a video of Byrne performing Kennedy’s hit ‘Kiss Me’, and the clip went viral. Since then, Byrne has released a number of singles, and is, according to Kennedy, “the next big thing in Irish music”.

Byrne’s latest single, ‘An Ocean Away (I'll come back home)’, built around Byrne and his guitar, is about leaving home.

“I wrote it during the first week I moved to Germany from Ireland, mainly for my Mam and my sister but it was very cathartic too,” said Byrne. “It’s always super special when I play it at a show, I feel like a lot of people can relate to the feeling of missing home, whether that be a place or a person.”

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