New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

Meryl Streek, ‘Rags To Riches’

Meryl Streek has built his reputation on uncompromising spoken-word punk that confronts everything from political disillusionment to social inequality. On 'Rags To Riches', the Dublin artist shifts the focus inward, delivering a rallying cry about taking chances, cutting ties and refusing to let fear dictate your future.

The sentiment feels hard-earned rather than sentimental, reflecting Streek's own journey from DIY outsider to one of Ireland's most distinctive punk voices.

“I took a chance with this project and if I had never taken the jump I wouldn't be here right now, he said.

“Things aren't always as hard as they seem. It's about having the courage to let go of people holding you back and encouraging yourself that you can do it.”

Bricknasty, ‘bobinov’

Bricknasty’s new single, ‘bobinov’, is a groove-heavy return that bridges  the gap between indie, soul, and alt-sensibilities. There’s a wonderful, psychedelic elasticity to the beat here, reminiscent of Steve Lacy’s low-slung cool, but it’s underscored by the kind of emotional weight that has become a hallmark of the Bricknasty world.

Fatboy’s delivery remains the anchor with his vocals navigate the space between vulnerability and resolve with ease. It’s a mission accomplished. ‘bobinov’ is wonderfully chaotic, melodic, and undeniably addictive.

“This song comes from our time touring overseas just wanting to inject more energy into the live show and show case tight song writing that blasts angst and feeling out of it so we can rock the shop and give people that buzz when we're all in the room” says Fatboy. 

Kate Prendergast, 'Exhale'

Kate Prendergast has released her track ‘Exhale’ via Stray Dog records today. Prendergast blends genres, mixing elements of folk, blues, country and alternative rock. The reflective song lyrics are emotionally dynamic and reminiscent of Jeff Buckley, Phoebe Bridgers and Taylor Swift.

'Exhale' reveals the emotional turmoil of struggling to maintain a one-sided relationship. The multi-instrumentalist has two EPs in the works, as well as a growing list of live performances set to take place in the Summer including, Galway Folk Festival and Your Roots are Showing.

Slowpoke, 'Sink Or Swim'

Dublin band Slowpoke released their new song ‘Sink Or Swim’ on Monday, July 20. The single comes off the back of their first release ‘Montana’ in June, showcasing their Alternative rock sound.

Featuring raspy vocals, flowing guitar riffs and a stop-start beat, it strikes the perfect weight between cinematic dramatism and simplicity. The four-piece band draw from 90s grunge and alternative rock influences using gradual melodic build up and powerful guitar tones. The band’s instagram has said that there will be “lots of music coming very soon”. 

Diveboy, ‘I’m Not The Only One’

The Cork indie-rockers continue with their rich, nostalgia-soaked indie sound with their newest single ‘I’m Not The Only One’. Diveboy’s new single explores themes of heartache while maintaining a beat that makes you want to get up and dance.

The song tells a story of loving someone who has been living abroad, capturing the bittersweet experience of time spent together before facing a difficult goodbye, knowing it will be a long time before you’re reunited. Reflecting on distance, longing and connection, the track also speaks to the way loved ones bring out the best in us, reminding us of who we are when we're with them.

Fin Furey, ‘Move Closer’

As the son of Irish folk icon Finbar Furey, Fin Furey has steadily forged his own path, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary influences. On 'Move Closer', however, he ventures into fresh territory, embracing vibrant electronic production while retaining the heartfelt lyricism that has become his trademark.

Built around irresistible grooves, live instrumentation and an atmospheric pulse, the track captures the excitement of an instant connection, balancing dancefloor energy with emotional sincerity. Furey's warm, expressive vocal remains the focal point, bringing an authenticity that elevates the song beyond polished pop.

Strange Boy, ‘Foul’ feat. Rebel Phoenix

Strange Boy continues to blur the boundaries between hip hop and Irish traditional music on 'Foul', an arresting collaboration with fellow Limerick artist Rebel Phoenix. Taken from his forthcoming album Say Nothin', the track pairs razor-sharp lyricism with a rich backdrop of bodhrán, flute, banjo and guitar, creating a sound that feels rooted in Ireland's storytelling traditions while remaining unmistakably contemporary.

“You have no power to stop what's happening, so you just become a product of your own time and circumstance" said Strange Boy.

Drawing on his upbringing in Caherdavin, Strange Boy reflects on the lasting impact of growing up amid poverty, violence and addiction. His spoken-word delivery is both intimate and uncompromising, examining how childhood experiences shape identity long before there's any chance to understand them.

The Butterfly Graveyard, ‘Big City’

The Butterfly Graveyard continues to carve out a distinctive niche with 'Big City', a beautifully understated slice of indie melancholy. The Cork artist's latest single tells the story of two star-crossed lovers chasing the promise of a fresh start, capturing both the excitement and uncertainty of leaving everything behind.

Built around shimmering guitars, atmospheric production and a delicately delivered vocal, 'Big City' unfolds with quiet confidence, allowing its emotional weight to emerge naturally rather than relying on grand gestures. There's a timeless quality to the songwriting, balancing intimacy with an expansive sound that evokes late-night city lights and endless possibility.

Binmen, 'Talking to Robots'

Wicklow four-piece Binmen lean into the absurdities of online romance on ‘Talking To Robots’, a tongue-in-cheek post-punk track about falling for an artificial companion.

Driven by a brisk, upbeat rhythm, the song balances wiry guitars with a playful sense of unease. Its central idea could easily have tipped into novelty territory, but Binmen keep things sharp, using the robot romance as a neat way into questions of loneliness, projection and modern connection.

Vonnie, 'Side Profile'

Vonnie’s debut single ‘Side Profile’ is an indie rock ballad written by an artist whose goal is catharsis. It explores the devastation of unrequited love, showing the beauty in heartbreak without reverting to the all-too-common sad love song script. With a voice strikingly similar to Adrienne Lenker, a raw, delicate sound and overwhelmingly relatable lyrics, Vonnie delivers a brilliant piece to mark the beginning of her catalogue.

The song features “earnest, playful lyricism set against emotionally guttural vocals. Think Courtney Barnett’s slacker-rock sensibilities with the dark comedic ballads of Father John Misty.”

With her “cynically optimistic musings,” Vonnie is unique in a way that captivates. She will perform the newly-released single at O’Regans Pub on Sunday.

Asylum Road, ‘Desolate’

Groove metal band Asylum Road have released their newest single, ‘Desolate,’ as a follow up to their EP Cerca Trova. The song features their characteristic heavy riffs, intricate rhythms and visceral vocals. Delivering a raw, crushing punch, ‘Desolate’ establishes the band as a force to be reckoned with.

“’Desolate' is a track that delves into everything about our world, ourselves and interactions that are inimical, adversarial, malicious, truculent and virulent,” wrote the band. “From our own thoughts and feelings, to the actions of those around us and nature itself, ‘Desolate’ is brimming with all the vitriol and contagion that is possible on this earth.”

Caitríona O’Sullivan, ‘Love Me Tonight’

Irish singer Caitríona O’Sullivan is back with a Nashville-style single ‘Love Me Tonight.’ Co-written by her and Irish country singer Johnny Brady, the track features an Americana style different to her traditional Irish sound. A familiar face to many for her appearance on TV as a resident judge on Glór Tíre, TG4, Caitríona is looking to expand her music and ‘Love Me Tonight’ does just that. She just finished up the showcase of her new song in Nashville and will return to Ireland for her musical collective, Women of Éire’s (W.O.É), debut show.

“’Love Me Tonight’ features an intoxicating fusion of Nashville, Americana and Pop Country musical styles that will be enjoyed by fans of Ella Langley, The Chicks, Lady A and the likes.”

Peer Pleasure, ‘Meat Inside’

Wexford band Peer Pleasure have released a new single ‘Meat Inside’ that showcases their abrasive, punk-blues sound. The over 6-minute long track delivers a snarling, playful, boisterous groove. For a band that undoubtedly knows who they are and what they’re about, ‘Meat Inside’ comes as a welcome addition to their catalogue. The finale that keeps you guessing when the song’s truly ended perfectly encapsulates Peer Pleasure: a fire refusing to be put out.

“Each line is kind of a really petty and personal call out to our enemies past, present and future that only they would really get,” they said. “It’s a messy song that kind of channels the energy of a dirty night out where someone’s fallen out, someone’s missus has gone home early annoyed and that one lad is about to start a fight again!”

The Whileaways, ‘Don’t Say You’re Gone’

Galway trio The Whileaways return with a beautifully optimistic new single. A song that embraces friendship and hope, ‘Don’t Say You’re Gone’ comes as the first release from their upcoming fifth studio album, When You Are Falling.

Characteristically emotionally resonant, the song features a contemporary folk sound, blending in traditional Irish elements. Their acoustic sound, like their other tracks, invokes feelings of familiarity and a sense of harmony. It brings a refreshingly joyful take to a music scene too often plagued by melancholy.

“It’s about leaning on each other, finding positivity and embracing the light, even when that’s hard to do,” said the band.

Last Apollo, 'Home'

Last Apollo, real name Lucy Rice, in advance of her debut album I’ll Walk Towards You released her new single ‘Home’ on July 17. The song builds with a classy string section to support her sweet breathy vocals. When she sings “Goodbye Baby” her voice and the piano sync up to match notes showing Rice’s connection to the music. The introduction of drums and further dramatic strings, with a resonant cello creates a rich soundscape. The simple piano and her voice transports you to a time in the past. 

Her vocals are reminiscent of Fiona Apple and Adrianne Lenker of Big Thief. Her album is set to be released on September 4.

“Last Apollo delivered an awe-inspiring headline set at The Grand Social” said Hot Press in 2024. “Each one of us were attending a spiritual event.”

Beauty Sleep, 'We Don't Talk About It'

Alt-pop duo Beauty Sleep, comprising producer/songwriters Cheyenne Murphy and Ryan McGroarty, release their new single ‘We Don’t Talk About It’ on July 21. The track comes from the Derry pair’s second album The Whole Damn Cake, released late last year.

Blending synth-pop, indie rock guitar and autotuned vocals, the song is a dreamy reflection of avoiding discomfort in relationships. The album is entirely self-produced, with the pair recording almost every element. They are set to appear at the Fleadh this coming summer, following performances at Stendhal Festival and 2000trees. 

Chasing Abbey, ‘Greedy Pigs’

The Irish trio have released their new song ‘Greedy Pigs’ on July 22. The single comes ahead of their upcoming album CYBER CELT, set to release on September 18, and world tour. The trio incorporate elements of traditional Irish music, creating an electronic fusion that puts a contemporary spin on Ireland’s past. Their tour includes a stop at Dublin’s Vicar Street and Belfast’s Limelight.

Smithereens, 'Road 3'

Cork-based Smithereens create the purest blend of jazz and rock with their new track ‘Road 3,’ that feels akin to the yellow street lights of a lively European city at night.

“Road 3 was born of a late-night jam between five best friends. It's probably the best example of our mix of genres and influences, blending funk, jazz, rock and grunge. Like a lot of our favourite songs, it started with no real plan beyond sitting in the groove and seeing where it took us. The result is a danceable track that doesn't take itself too seriously but still hits hard when it needs to.”

The single was released ahead of their upcoming EP, Shapeshift, to be released on August 23.

The band are performing in a multitude of venues from now up until the end of the year, including international dates in the UK and Germany.

3rd Degree, 'Sweet Time'

Jason Burns, also known as 3rd Degree, explores a dreamlike state with ‘Sweet Time.’ The bass and rhythm transport the song through a vortex of emotions. The single will be released on July 24.

The song was written during his recovery after a life-changing injury in 2024, a direct result of finding strength during difficult times.

“This track is very special to me,” Burns said. “I wrote it during a difficult period, and it's probably the first time I've shown real vulnerability in my music.”

Alongside the song release is a music video set along Waterford’s Copper Coast, capturing the reflective tone of the track.

KIDD, Podge Collins & téga, 'Sunlight'

‘Sunlight’ is a summer anthem and a nostalgic tune. The saxophone heightens the expressive lyrics that centre around the timeline of friendships and how they can fall apart.

After a recent collaboration on KIDD’s debut EP ‘Kiddology’ in December, KIDD, Podge Collins & téga have been producing their first full EP together. ‘Sunlight’ is the third and final single from the upcoming project.

Téga, supported by KIDD, will be performing a show at Odd Mollies, Drogheda on July 24 to celebrate his debut release ‘REDEYE.’

Hurriyya, 'Brothers and Sisters

More than a protest song, ‘Brothers and Sisters’ is a plea for peace and an end to suffering, depicting the current state of Gaza.

Hurriyya, which is Arabic for ‘freedom,’ keeps their identity anonymous and encourages listeners to hear the deep, saddening lyrics and not be complicit to what is going on in the world.

“Driven by raw grief and frustration over what I see as Western complicity, this song acts as a mournful apology to the people of Palestine, unequivocally calling out the actions of the aggressors, and finally offering a hopeful wish that the 'violence of silence' can end and we will eventually escape this darkness together,” the artist said.

Goth Fight Cage, 'UNTAXED VEHICLE EP

Goth Fight Cage is the solo project of Mark Holloway, previously a member of Belfast group Fagish McCann. His latest EP ‘UNTAXED VEHICLE’ incorporates a lo-fi twist to a typical indie rock style.

“Five songs written and self recorded in my uni days back in the old student gaff,” Holloway wrote in an Instagram post announcement.

“We explore heartbreak, sleep deprivation, fancying your ex girlfriend's mates as well as the art of dodging traffic wardens and the wheel clamping squad.!”

Constant Supply, ‘In the Summer’

Constant Supply from Donegal, otherwise known as James Gillen has released their new song ‘In the Summer’ today ahead of his upcoming album The Gist of the Plot Twist, out in September. With brief moments of Blur and The Gorillaz wrapped up the instrumentation and a voice that resembles the rugged-ness of The Pixies, the alt-pop song gently pulls you forward with its quirky and slightly bizarre nature.

Banríon, ‘Roseland’

Banríon, the musical project of songwriter Róisín Ní Haicéid, shares a new single ‘Roseland,’ a track as beautiful as the name implies. The song, taken from her upcoming debut album Untarnishing, captures themes of place, family and identity. Beginning as an assignment during an Adrienne Lenker songwriting workshop and named after her grandparents’ house, ‘Roseland’ sees soft, acoustic melodies over confessional and place-driven lyrics.

“My mother’s side of the family is from Donegal, and I spend a lot of time there visiting my grandparents and other family, so I had a wealth of descriptive imagery to work with,” the artist explained. “The medium sized house, the dog with two different eyes and the abundance of love that flows from there.”

Cormac Looby and Pádraig Hughes, ‘You’ve Done Nothing Wrong’

‘You’ve Done Nothing Wrong,’ the third track off Cormac Looby and Pádraig Hughes’ debut EP horses, tackles themes of anxiety, growth and loss with a folk-pop sound. The artist was highly influenced from artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Samia and Ben Howard. With introspective lyrics and gentle acoustics, Looby says he found inspiration from attending therapy in person for the first time and some of the issues that came up.

Pádraig Hughes mixed and produced the four track EP completely within the confines of his spare bedroom, with mastering by Pete Maher.

Sharyn Ward, ‘Breaking Bonds’

Sharyn Ward's latest single, ‘Breaking Bonds’, has Ward stepping into the light as a formidable songwriter with an innate storytelling ability.

It’s a bold, deeply personal anthem. A meditation on shedding the past and facing the future with open arms, the track feels like a declaration of independence, one defined by the kind of quiet determination.

Musically, the song is infectious, anchored by the delicate, cello that leads the chorus. Ward embodies country and trad music in a delicate and poised way, bringing something completely unique to the genre.

Niamh Bury, ‘I Haven’t Gone’

With echoes of Norah Jones and a striking similarity to Carole King, Irish singer-songwriter Niamh Bury returns with an intimate new single, ‘I Haven’t Gone’. Exploring the quiet power of love expressed through actions rather than words, the song serves as a gentle reminder that the smallest gestures can often say the most.

Rooted in warmth, restraint, and emotional honesty, the track captures a quiet stability that unfurls into a beautiful chorus of vocal layering. It’s quintessential cloudy Sunday morning music, elevated by a slight rasp in Bury’s delivery that holds a wise vulnerability. Bury’s rich ability to capture emotion, results in a gorgeous, if all-too-brief, new classic.

Pa Sheehy, ‘The Top of Bín Bán’

Pa Sheehy, a name synonymous with raw, honest storytelling, returns with his new track ‘The Top of Bín Bán’. The song, having already amassed over 600,000 streams after an impulsive online upload, is a set hit.

The track itself embodies the classic folk-pop dynamics of his music. It begins with the quiet, vulnerable intimacy that listeners have come to associate with Sheehy’s best work, before blossoming into an anthemic chorus. The refrain, “Put a statue of Paul on the Top of Bín Bán,” is an instant earworm, delivering a singalong moment that feels destined to be chanted from festival fields

June, ‘NoBody But You’

Emerging from Laois, June weaves together threads of alternative folk, pop, and dance with her new energetic track ‘Nobody But You’.

Blending alternative folk, pop, and subtle electronic elements, June leans fully into the track’s soaring melodies, offering a vocal performance that balances raw vulnerability with commanding strength. This ballad mixes the lyrics of a classic singer-songwriter love song and the beat of a pop song. This blend offers something unique to her discography and demonstrates her ability to blend genres.

Paddy Mulcahy, ‘The LFO That could’

Limerick experimentalist Paddy Mulcahy’s latest single, ‘The LFO That Could’, constructs a soundscape of synth textures that unfolds with a palpable, creeping sense of unease.

It is an inspiring, hypnotic piece of work that allows the listener to become completely immersed in the machinery of the music. It is a mysterious, compelling, and ultimately rewarding listen.

Martin Garrix & U2, ‘Fireflies’

'Fireflies’, by U2 and Dutch DJ Martin Garrix, premiered at last weekend’s Tomorrowland festival. The track is a distinct gear-shift, seeing the quartet embracing a modern pop swing that blends a nostalgic 2014 electronic pop with a more alternative rock sound.

Garrix brings a driving energy, but the song remains firmly anchored by the unmistakable DNA of U2. When Bono delivers the chorus, “You and I are Fireflies / Born for the summer skies,” it hits that specific sweet spot of earnestness that has defined the band’s biggest moments.

U2 are setting up for a new album release, set to arrive later this year.

Robbie Doherty, ‘Ah Ah Ah’

Northern Irish producer Robbie Doherty is making a compelling case for the dance floor with his latest single, ‘Ah Ah Ah’. It’s an intense, high-octane club tune that uses evocative synths, which feels undeniably infectious. The pulsing beats, of 'Ah Ah Ah’ make it a thrilling rave anthem, the perfect soundtrack to your next big night out.

Listen to our playlist: