New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

Ciarán, ‘K-Bar’

Irish songwriter Ciarán leaves behind his Bearface moniker to embark on a new solo project, beginning with ‘K-Bar.’ The track comes as his first release since BROCKHAMPTON disbanded in 2022.

A hazy, low-slung groove works with warped synths, a heavy bass and clipped percussion, all surrounding Ciarán’s understated vocals – an intimate and almost disorienting sound.

Ciarán took time to experiment with different approaches after his band’s end, wanting to create something totally his own.

“I’d rather wait and take my time than just put something out because of any sort of perceived pressures from anyone else,” he explained.

GNS, ‘LOVE FORMS DEEPLY’ feat. McJordan & Kendino

Alternative hip-hop artist GNS returns with ‘LOVE FORMS DEEPLY’ off his 4-track EP of the same name.

The upbeat, optimistic track features GNS’ classic indie melodies with his deeply personal storytelling and anthemic energy. His raw vocals counter the gentle backing sound, fusing to form a unique and layered track.

The song “explores the idea that while life is finite, love is infinite,” GNS said. “Built around themes of ambition, connection and the lengths we go to for the people who matter most, the track blends alternative rap and indie R&B with an emotional and playful edge.”

Absolute Lilt, ‘Monaghan Twig / John McHughs’

Hailing off Absolute Lilt’s debut EP CRIOSTAL, out today, ‘Monaghan Twig / John McHughs’ is the newest delicacy from the two members of BIIRD. Built on minimalist production, with only honey-smooth vocal harmonies leading the track’s intro, it slowly builds on delicious intensity with the addition of fiddles, guitars and flute, for a tune that would force even the most shy of listeners to get on their feet and twirl.

Love, Builder of Worlds, ‘Omítórera’

Blackrock, Dublin artist Love, Builder of Worlds returns with their bold new single, ‘Omítórera’. Blending Afrobeats, afro-trance and alternative electronic influences, the track is their first song performed in the Yorùbá language. Drawing influence from artists across the African diaspora, it blends fast-paced African percussion with shimmering piano textures and trance-inspired production for an atmospheric yet dancefloor-ready tune.

Ezra Williams, ‘Blight’

Wicklow singer-songwriter Ezra Williams is back with her new track ‘Blight’, a deeply moving tune blending nostalgic textures with warm guitar instrumentals, profoundly evocative with the addition of the singer’s delicate vocals. With its gentle soundscapes mixed with almost dissonant instrumental, the track is both disconcerting and widely comforting
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LORCAN, ‘Snakes and Ladders’

The title track from LORCAN’s brand new album, out today, ‘Snakes and Ladders’ is a gorgeously dark, profoundly catchy drill inspired tune - an absolute earworm of a tune. Hard-hitting and straight-to-the-point, with its two minutes run time, ‘Snakes and Ladders’ lays down LORCAN’s flawless flow, and gives an enticing look into the new record.

 

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Bronagh Gallagher, ‘Edamame’

One of Ireland's leading actors and voices of soul music, Bronagh Gallagher returns with her brand new single ‘Edamame’, a sulphurous, deeply sunny tune that will perfectly accompany the final day of July, all guided by the musician’s warm vocals and delicately layered harmonies, as well as soulful instrumentation that makes the heart flutter with its rhythms.

Kíla, ‘Cé A Chum’

Contemporary Irish group Kíla are back with an innovative and exciting track rooted in tradition. The band’s sound fuses effects of their own melodies and Irish lyrics with a multitude of folk instruments such as whistles, fiddles and Uilleann pipes.

The freewheeling band’s new song is a dance-worthy track that innovates upon classic Irish folk music.

“Fonn bríomhar beo. Amhrán álainn lán le gleo. In onóir don laoch dána Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí. Dorn san aer dos na Gael.”

“A lively, vibrant tune. A beautiful song full of clamor. In honor of the brave hero Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí. A fist in the air for the Gaels,” said band member Colm ó Snodaigh about the album.

Haint, ‘Hal’

Rising Belfast band Haint released new song ‘Hal’ which features a different style to the rest of the songs on their debut EP Terminally Evolved. A gentler, hypnotic rhythm, with a guitar down-tuned so heavy it sounds like a bass, sits behind clean, spoken-word vocals.

The lyrics center on the advancement of technology and artificial intelligence, seeing themes of hypocrisy, emotional detachment and human indifference. ‘Hal’ showcases the breadth of Haint’s abilities along with their ability to convey deep meaning through their lyrics. It comes as a welcome addition to the dynamic metal trio’s catalogue.

Sushee, ‘DECEIVE ME’

Dublin-based electronic artist, Sushee, is back with ‘DECEIVE ME,’ a dark, hypnotic track with haunting vocals.

Known for her soulful sound and immersive production, Sushee has quickly emerged as a strong alternative artist in the Irish electronic music scene. ‘DECEIVE ME’ fuses intense house rhythms, deep percussion, amapiano-inspired drums and layered vocals to create a track worth dancing to.

On ‘DECEIVE ME,’ Sushee’s distinctive sonic identity shines comes as a welcome addition to her catalogue, marking a new evolution in her sound.

Oran Byrne, ‘Days of Future Past’

After the release of ‘Knock Some Sense’ in May, Waterford artist Oran Byrne is back with a new track that features a different sound to his past songs. A stripped back track lacking in bass and drums, ‘Days of Future Past’ is an emotionally resonant and happy track.

Rich harmonies and Byrne’s soft-spoken, poetic lyrics, co-written with Jess Meyer, shine through gentle piano and funky guitar.

Produced by Paul Butler, the layered track  is a strong new path for Byrne, showcasing the depth and breadth of his musical capabilities.

Roseanna, ‘Awake’

British-Irish artist Roseanna has released her single ‘Awake,’ a pop song with R&B-inspired guitar and smooth and passionate vocals detailing a carousel of love.

According to the artist, the song came out of a 21-day songwriting challenge she set for herself. She wrote 21 songs in 21 days, each fully demoed by the end of each day. ‘Awake’ was day 18.

‘It’s about a kinda simple but well-known exciting feeling: that person you just can’t get out of your head, daydreaming about them is almost better than actually dreaming … at least when you’re awake, you know you’re going to see them again,” Roseanna said.

The Savage Hearts, ‘Dead Letters’

The Savage Hearts’ new single, 'Dead Letters' finds the band pairing driving garage rock riffs with a darker psychedelic edge. Exploring the frustration of searching for answers only to be met with silence, the track balances brooding introspection with the swagger and melodic hooks that have become hallmarks of The Savage Hearts' sound.

"Dead Letters' is a song about trying to improve your current situation, but getting nothing back from the people and things you thought might help,” said vocalist and guitarist Darragh Muldoon.

Ciaran Gribbin, ‘Tighten Up The Knot’

Former INXS musician Ciaran Gribbin returns with his latest single, 'Tighten Up The Knot', an uplifting pop-rock anthem built around soaring melodies, driving piano and Americana-tinged guitar work.

While the track is undeniably anthemic, its message is rooted in something deeply personal. Written from the perspective of a parent, 'Tighten Up The Knot' reflects on the strength of family and the instinct to protect loved ones in an increasingly uncertain world, pairing heartfelt lyricism with an infectious, hook-laden chorus.

"I wrote this song from a parent's perspective," Gribbin said.

"The love I have for my children and the desire to protect them from whatever storm the world brings."

Dave Loft, 'I'm All Yours'

Irish singer-songwriter Dave Lofts unveils his debut collection Holy, out now. It includes the heartfelt closing track 'I'm All Yours', built around Loft's soulful vocal delivery and understated instrumentation, bringing the EP to a deeply affecting close, with profound honesty and emotional openness.

"For me this EP is powerful, moving and real, no bullshit” explains Dave, "just old school story telling with a guy who makes the stories personal, I bleed in my music and I’ll keep giving the fans what they deserve, a man that isn’t afraid to be vulnerable.”

Matt Rowley, ‘Toast To Decline (Free)’

With his latest single ‘Toast To Decline (Free)’, Matt Rowley taps into the soaring hooks of classic new wave and arena rock, blending them with polished indie-rock production to create a track that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Beneath its bright, summery sound, however, lies a far more bittersweet narrative. The song explores the emotional limbo of a relationship that has run its course, capturing the conflicting feelings of familiarity, fear and lingering affection that can make it difficult to let go, even when both people know it's time to move on.

"I wanted to write a tune with 80s vibes but still have real meaning behind it," Rowley said.

"I grew up watching Miami Vice and Knight Rider, and I wanted to capture that atmosphere while writing about something deeply personal. Although it sounds like a happy, upbeat song, it's really about couples who know their relationship is going nowhere but stay together because they're too afraid—or too comfortable—to end it. I could have written a sad ballad, but instead I wanted people to headbang to a massive chorus while connecting with the story."

Joe Butler, ‘Come Find Me’

Kildare alt-pop singer Joe Butler consistently delivers heartfelt lyricism and emotional depth in his music, nowhere more evident than on lead single 'Come Find Me' from his latest EP, A Few Cans and a Dance.

Raw yet undeniably tender, the track is full of Butler's easy charm as he reflects on the comfort and security found in a loving relationship. Its stripped-back, lo-fi production leaves plenty of room for his intimate vocals to shine, while smooth R&B-inspired guitar hooks and understated percussion create a warm, late-night atmosphere. Never overcomplicating its message, 'Come Find Me' finds its strength in sincerity, showcasing Butler's ability to turn everyday emotions into something quietly affecting and deeply relatable.

The Love Buzz, ‘Pushing On’

Cork indie outfit The Love Buzz continue their run of hook-filled guitar anthems with new single 'Pushing On'. Having built a reputation for infectious melodies and energetic live performances, the three-piece once again blend indie rock and power pop into a track that's both immediate and emotionally resonant.

Driven by bright guitars and an anthemic chorus, 'Pushing On' is a reflective look at growing up and learning to navigate life's changing priorities. Balancing introspection with the band's trademark upbeat energy, the single captures the push and pull between holding on to the past and embracing what's next.

Ciaran Quigley, ‘I’ve Got Drugs’

Ciaran Quigley’s new single ‘I’ve Got Drugs’ is built around swelling indie-folk instrumentation and Quigley's expressive vocals and gradually unfolds into a stirring, emotionally charged anthem. Lyrically, it reflects on the temptation to seek comfort in fleeting distractions while questioning what truly brings lasting happiness, with Quigley delivering one of his most vulnerable performances to date.

"It's about chasing things you think will fill a gap inside you, only to realise they never really do," said Quigley.

"There's a push and pull between wanting something and knowing it probably isn't what you're actually looking for. I wanted the music to mirror that feeling, starting quietly before building into something much bigger."

Conor Furlong, ‘You Won’t Break Me’ 

Dublin solo artist Conor Furlong has released his new song ‘You Won’t Break Me’ today ahead of his new album Descent, due for release in September. His voice is life a soft combination of Morrissey and Matt Maltese. The song begins with some gentle guitar picking before the beat kicks in. Electric guitar takes over, sounding distinctly like Radiohead. The chorus is uplifting with the major melody, fast tempo and soaring vocals. The building of dynamics in the song transforms his soft vocals into a more raw emotional sound. Influences of Elliot Smith and David Bowie create a distinct alternative indie rock sound. 

Cathal Fitz, ‘Paper Planes’

Rising Cork singer-songwriter Cathal Fitz has released his new country-pop single ‘Paper Planes’ today. 

The bright, twangy guitar brings lightness to a heavy subject matter supported by soulful violin. The song is a call to action to care about others and to rise above hatred as it serves no one. The catchy song confronts political division and social fatigue, highlighting the challenges of modern day life.  

He recently performed ‘A Rock and Hard Place' on the Six O’Clock Show. The single comes ahead of his debut EP Concise Waffle, set to release September 4. 

SAL, ‘Love’ 

SAL has released the second single today from her upcoming album due for release in September. ‘Love’ is an intimate acoustic track, that is simple and perfect for a sing-along. Gentle strumming guitar introduces her smooth whispering vocals. For the Kildare artists “first love song” she’s “ever written” it captures the joy of finding somebody that you don’t have to try with, “I wasn’t looking, til you made me feel something”. Interspersed with Irish words that celebrate love such as ‘mo chuisle’ and ‘mo chroí’, it presents a partnership that feels like home. 

Rebel Phoenix, ‘Star Sign (P-Mix)’

Rebel Phoenix has released a remix of his original track ‘Star Sign.’

With a fast-paced beat and dreamy synths, the remix offers a more upbeat take on the original track, building on the characteristic otherworldly qualities.

“When I sat down to make this version of it I went into a flow state and had the guts of it done in about an hour,” Phoenix wrote on an Instagram post announcing the release. “I wrote the words to this during a particularly difficult time in my life and now whenever I hear them I’m reminded that things always work out how they’re supposed to.”

Christian Cohle, ‘Venus’

Irish avant-pop artist Christian Cohle has released a new track off his album Queen of Ashes, featuring hypnotic drums by Alex Reeves and saxophone by Renaud Pion.

The song portrays themes of love as spider-like, beautiful and divine – an all-powerful force of nature. With a dark, winding beat, ‘Venus’ features shimmering synth textures and a nocturnal ambience characteristic to Cohle’s sound.

“Love can terrify… love can enrapture… love can enrich… love can open,”  Cohle wrote on Instagram. “Once you unify with its gravity, there’s no escaping it.”

Empty Spaces, ‘The Enemy’

The four-piece rock band based in Belfast have released their fast and furious track ‘The Enemy’ today. Their music is infused with heavy riffs and fast guitar solos. The reverberating guitar, pummeling drumming and rough vocals create a heavy and rich sound, supported by gentle backing oohs. The line ‘take down the enemy’ is able to shine with the instrumental allowing it to breathe, the beat syncing with the words screamed by Stephen ‘Stevo’ Baird.

For fans of the Foo Fighters and Nirvana, the song captures the feeling of pushing past limits and embracing challenges. 

Paahto & The Bull, 'Tenpenny piece/Elizabeth Kelly's Delight'

The guitar duo Paahto & The Bull have released their single ’Tenpenny piece/Elizabeth Kelly’s Delight’ today. It comes ahead of their debut album The 123, due for release August 21 via Claddagh Records. The project of Patrick ‘Paahto’ Cummins and John Francis Flynn began in 2011 with the two experimenting with bluegrass flat-picking and unique accompaniment.

The 10-track album is called The 123 to pay homage to the old Dublin bus route that connected the two musicians to each other. The Irish instrumental tune takes a new spin on the traditional slip-jigs, with dramatic breaks and a pulsing rhythm that pulls you forward, it makes you want to tap along. 

Kingfishr, ’The Sunnyside of the street’

The indie-folk band Kingfishr have released their latest track ‘The Sunnyside of the street’ ahead of the highly anticipated album 20th Century Paddy - The Songs of Shane MacGowan. The tribute project celebrates the life of The Pogues singer in a new emotive reinterpretation, showcasing their talent for storytelling. The collective project brings together an array of Irish musical talent including Lisa O’Neill, David Gray and Bruce Springsteen. Honoring the legacy of a famous Irish artist is incredibly challenging to get right, needing to strike a balance between respecting the music and making it uniquely your own, something Kingfishr do perfectly.

"We picked Sunnyside of the Street because of how surprisingly sad the lyrics are when you focus in on them," Kingfishr said.

"We thought the song deserved to be shown in a light that reflects that. Shane made an incredible contribution to music and it’s an honour to be included in the project with so many talented people, especially given the cause it serves.”

Listen to our playlist: