New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

Jazzy, ‘Get This Started’

Electronic dance sensation Jazzy returns with a new single ‘Get This Started’. The upbeat track turns up the energy once again, delivering an infectious burst of driving rhythms and high-octane vocals designed for the dance floor. With intense synths, creative beats and a techno, cyber-pop vibe, ‘Get This Started’ makes an impressive addition to Jazzy’s growing catalogue.

The Dublin-born artist has seen a whirlwind as of late, with the new track following a rapid string of successful releases that have established her as one of dance music’s most dominant vocalists and DJs. Her debut studio album, Peace & Patience, is set for release on October 23.

Morgana, ‘Car Lot In Montana’

Dublin artist Morgana has released ‘Car Lot In Montana’ ahead of her debut album The Whole Thing Was Very Very Emotional. The resonant track features melancholy rhythms and an ethereal soundscape – conveying a distinct floating feeling that perfectly plays into the artist’s masterful lyricism.

“It’s about how each choice you make shapes the life you end up living,” Morgana said. “There are so many unknowable versions of our future. There are bridges on North Strand, there are car lots in Montana, and they’re all a possibility and they’re all beautiful and also ugly and in each world I’m looking at the rain on the windscreen for something else to do.”

MrPink ‘Cry Wolf’

Belfast band MrPink have broken their 2026 silence with a groove-heavy new single ‘Cry Wolf’. On it, they explore a vast sonic territory embracing the freedom in their genreless approach to songwriting. Bringing together distorted, rhythmic elements of funk and heavy rock, with a bass line that snakes throughout the track and drums that add exclamation points, the track is a great seventh single to add to their catalogue.

‘Cry Wolf’ is about the frustrations associated with the “mind-numbing monotony of the everyday 9-5 work life, of feeling your sense of individuality dwindle daily,” according to a press relase. “But ultimately, it’s about rebellion and reclaiming control, kicking back against the shackles and embracing the unknown.”

A.S. Fanning, ‘Take Me Back to Nowhere’

Dublin-born, Berlin-based alternative artist A.S. Fanning has released ‘Take Me Back to Nowhere’ from his new EP Unbearable Miracle. The gentle track features the artist’s deep, soothing vocals and cathartic instrumentals. With a distinct melancholy, bittersweet energy, the song could only be the work of Fanning.

Drawing comparisons to Leonard Cohen, Scott Walker and Nick Cave, Fanning’s ability to transform unease into hauntingly beautiful soundscapes comes alive on this track. At the intersection of alternative rock, folk and psychedelia, he blends acoustic intimacy with subtle electronic flourishes to create a timeless sound.

Radie Peat, ‘The Moon And Stars’

Lankum’s Radie Peat has released 'The Moon and Stars' off her upcoming debut solo album. The doom-folk song brings resoluteness, as Peat inhabits the song’s expressions of anger. Her unique, raw vocals bring a steady and intense energy to the gentle acoustics. And, her masterful storytelling brings a resonance to the lyrics that make it incredibly emotionally powerful.

“There are coded references to unwanted pregnancies and abortions within the song,” she explained. “As well as references to rue, a herb which was used to cause miscarriage. I wanted to represent these experiences from the women’s perspective – to connect us with her experience.”

Haunted Images, ‘Electric Sheep’

Three-piece alternative rock band Haunted Images have released ‘Electric Sheep’ – an exploration into the psychology behind dream images and sleeping. More specifically, the use of sleep as a way to disassociate from the waking world. The Louth artists’ new song sees them showcase a more alternative side to the band, blending elements of R&B and indie with their usual emo wall of sound.

The unique track highlights Haunted Images’ versatility, continuing to push themselves forward and develop their distinctive voice.. Through live performances, the track has become a crowd favourite at shows, making it a highly-anticipated release.

Good Swim, ‘Sink Like A Stone’

Belfast folk artist Good Swim (aka Dave McConnell) has shared a melancholic new single, ‘Sink Like A Stone’ – the final song ahead of his debut album, The Mountains Sure Don’t Give A Damn About The Sea. A poignant track, ‘Sink Like A Stone’ explores doubt and the feeling of losing control in a relationship. The lyrics are filled with striking imagery of ash, broken mirrors, blood and thunder. The sound features Good Swim’s raw, earnest voice and gentle acoustic rhythms.

“’Sink Like A Stone’ is a rueful look at a relationship gone bad and how the hate that brings can weigh you down and poison every party of you … And it’s all your own fault,” he said.

David O’Dowda, ‘Like New’ feat. IORA

Dundalk-born songwriter, composer and producer David O’Dowda has released a bittersweet new single, ‘Like New’ featuring IORA. The track marks a new chapter for the artist – who has spent more than two decades building an international career and now wishes to turn his attention back to original music-making and reconnect with his Irish roots. The resonant song sees gentle rhythms, cathartic vocals and a soothing energy.

“’Like New’ is loosely about understanding how it can sometimes be difficult to make meaningful changes in your life, and embracing that uneasy feeling you get when you venture out of your comfort zone.”

Luke Haines and Mike Smalle, ‘The Black Maria, O’

Luke Haines and Mike Smalle have released ‘The Black Maria, O’ – a fantastic new single that was originally written in the 1800s and came from the musical comedy McNooney’s Visit. The dark, melodic and misanthropic interpretation brings a 21^st century take to the long-forgotten track. ‘The Black Maria, O’ evokes the criminal underworld of late 19^th century New York. Haines’ dark, gritty vocals string above Smalle’s brilliant guitar, evoking the intense energy of the original track.

The duo are set to release their second album later this year, which takes the listener on a journey through the history of crime, law and order in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora in the 19^th century.

Chasing Abbey, ‘Colonised Minds’

Chasing Abbey are a collage of traditional and new. Their new single ‘Colonised Minds’ opens with folk style riffs, but layers electronic sounds on top. The song about imperialism includes a verse as Gaeilge.

Their debut album CYBER CELT is out today. “CYBER CELT represents both a subtle description of the music and a philosophy we hold", the trio said. "The coming together of ancient and modern. A soulful respect for the tradition with a burning desire for innovation.”

Chasing Abbey played at Vicar Street this week, and will play in Belfast tonight. In December they embark on a tour encompassing Waterford, Cork, Killarney, Bantry, and Derry.

The Love Buzz, ‘The Message’

Cork band The Love Buzz have been labeled as alt-rock, but they call themselves DIY scuzz pop. Inspired by 70s power-pop, 90s alt-rock and 00s garage rock revival, their sound is surprisingly cheerful. Their new single ‘The Message’ is all cheerful riffs and hazy lyrics that don’t come in until 0:38.

"This song was put together at the last minute in the recording studio, the main intro riff had been sitting on the cutting room floor for years. The riff had been sitting around with no sign of finishing it, one day a spark came to give it a new arrangement. Late night in the studio in a drunken haze it came together, exactly as it is", the band said.

Empty Spaces, ‘Do You Wanna Be The One’

The single is from Empty Spaces' new EP, Prologue. 'Do You Wanna Be The One' is a headbanger with a catchy rhythm and a cryptic hook: Do you wanna be the one to know right now? 

Founding members Stevo Baird and Rahul Mancin started Empty Spaces in uni. The emerging Belfast hard-rock band recently switched out their guitarist and drummer.  Half the EP, including 'Do You Wanna Be The One', was created and recorded by the original four members.

KiiKO, ‘Dance World’

KiiKO is the Dublin-born collaboration of Emmy Shigeta, a DJ from Tokyo; John McDowell, an Irish producer; and drummer Dave Rogers. 'Dance World' also features Naoise Dack on violin and Caitriona Finnegan on cello. KiiKO mix languages in their vocals, and electronic synths with live instrumental backing.

KiiKO's style has been called playful, energetic and bubbling with positivity. Their debut album KiiKO Forever releases on October 9, following their Irish Music Week performance on October 2.

Ash, ‘Bittersweet Blue’

'Bittersweet Blue' has been performed live and recorded, but the song wasn't finished at the time and the tape was poor quality. So, the song written in the 90s has been officially released for the first time now.

"[I] delivered, getting in touch with my teenage self, writing lyrics and resurrecting this long lost treasure for your listening pleasure", drummer Rick McMurray said.

The rock band from Co. Down, NI achieved fame with their 1996 album 1977, nearly went bankrupt several years later, but got back on the road to success. 'Bittersweet Blue' is part of the 30th Anniversary Edition of 1977.

Tommy Cullen, ‘Red Wood’

Cullen's new EP is an experiment with the old-fashioned. Its four tracks were recorded in 4-track format, meaning only four distinct elements make up each song. ‘Red Wood’ refers to the California tree, a fitting theme for the folk indie singer. The song is a slow, haunting earworm.

"This technological limitation was once the standard for recording, and birthed countless classic records. We hope you enjoy our small contribution to that legacy", Tommy said. "We kept true to the vision, with no more than 4 elements in each arrangement and a lo-fi, anti-perfectionist approach that let the songs breathe & shine on their own merits."

BABYRAT, ‘Roses’

Cork four-piece BABYRAT have released their highly anticipated debut single ‘Roses’, following almost two years of touring across the country. A ferocious gig favourite, the track is filled with magnificently catchy pop hooks and a serious dose of punk attitude, all layered over gritty yet perfectly melodic guitar riffs.

“‘Roses is about love turning to spite in a coming-of-age setting,” explains BABYRAT. “The reason it's the opening song in every set is the same reason why it is our first release, it's the perfect introduction to us and sets the tone for what we are and what's to come.”

Aaron Rowe, ‘Forever Now’

It's been a mad week for Aaron Rowe, who made headlines for all the right reasons this week when he pulled out of his support slot on Ed Sheeran's tour, in solidarity with Macklemore. In the middle of it all, he's dropped his colourful new single ‘Forever now’, an upbeat love song that has already cemented itself as a firm favourite during his acclaimed live shows. Lined with country flavours and heartfelt lyrics, the tune perfectly highlights the musician’s powerful vocal performance and bright songwriting.

Robocobra Quartet, ‘Haha’

Coming ahead of Robocobra Quartet’s newly announced 100-song album Hundred Pieces, ‘Haha’ is a delicious ear-worm from the Belfast experimental collective. With complex, layered production of driving bass lines and jazz instrumentals, making for the perfect backdrop to tongue-in-cheek spoken vocals, the track is as unique as it is addictive – and clearly the result of hours of experimentation in the studio.

The Mary Wallopers, ‘Workers Song’

The Mary Wallopers’ highly anticipated new album Paddywhackery is finally out - including a fantastic rendition of Ed Pickford’s ‘Worker’s Song’, a powerful trad tune and firm live favourite, built on simple drum and tinwhistle instrumentals, allowing for its politically-charged lyrics, to shine in all their glory. A great look into a record which was rated a 9/10 by Hot Press, who said it mixed “anti-establishment ire, pints and rebellion, all wrapped around a delicious melody.”

Was Man, ‘Edward Dycer’s Vault’

Hailing from Was Man’s (aka Warren McCarthy) new album A View of Other Hills, ‘Edward Dycer’s Vault’ is a deeply stirring, lo-fi folk tune, where the singer’s delicate vocal delivery is gently highlighted by velvety guitar arpeggios and slow-building strings, drums and harmonies nestling their way into the track as it progresses. The perfect track to play back on these rainy, nostalgic September mornings.

David Geraghty, ‘Normal Two Point Zero’

On ‘Normal Two Point Zero’, the opening track to David Geraghty’s new album KOMOBERI, the Bell X1 founding member explores gorgeous synth pop soundscapes and deeply distinctive rhythms, blending clear inspirations from later David Bowie records with uniquely indie-pop sensibilities - making for an enticing first look into the solo record.

“I recorded the album in my home studio ‘The Numbers Station’,” says Geraghty, “with some guest appearances by friends and family. While the writing and recording of the album was used to iron out some of life’s wrinkles, it also ended up being an exciting technical process. With the assistance of the brilliantly talented engineer Luke Conlon, this album was mixed in a way that further equipped and informed me for future recording projects. Which was an amazingly liberating experience.”

Kevin Laughlin, ‘Katie’

Donegal-born, Belfast-based singer-songwriter Kevin Laughlin releases his new single ‘Katie’, a heartfelt track blending the warmth and storytelling of folk with the melodic accessibility of contemporary pop, with grandiose guitars, deeply layered instrumentals and silky smooth vocals.

Speaking about the track, Laughlin said: “‘Katie’ is written about a friend who, like us all, was having a hard time figuring out the direction her life should go in.”

Kynsy & Lemonade Shoelace, ‘how things are today’

Dublin star Kynsy collaborates with Belfast-based indie-pop artist Lemonade Shoelace for the new single ‘how things are today’, a delicious bedroom pop number flavoured with a healthy amount of shoegazy soundscapes. Glisteningly pretty, the track mixes sulphurous electric guitars with velvety vocals and synths, making for an incredibly cinematic indie track.

 

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Dave Lofts, 'Whistling on a Bottle'

Dave Lofts has released his newest single 'Whistling on a Bottle.' Following the success of his debut EP Holy in July, Lofts has returned with a new song.

The Wicklow singer-songwriter has created a raw, brash track about love and resilience.

"I want people to listen to my soul. In this one, gritty, brash but honest with love, I believe when writing a song you need to be as vulnerable as ever, show people the hurt, happiness and overall madness," said Lofts.

"‘Whistling On A Bottle’ is the people’s song — sing it to your girlfriend, wife or your enemy, whoever else says turn it down. This one is here to mean business. ‘Whistling On A Bottle’ is for those who stick two fingers up in the air and scream, ‘come at me motherfuckers’."

Dave Lofts has several upcoming Irish shows, all of which are sold-out.

Joycult, 'My First Holy Confession'

New band Joycult have released their debut single, 'My First Holy Confession.' The band comprises Lydia Murphy (vocals and guitar), James O'Neill (drummer), and Abi Rafter (bass and vocals).

With a youthful, frenetic energy, the song's lyrics are accompanied with a pulsating rhythm section. Vocals by Murphy creates an image of youthful discontent in the opening verses, before the song speeds away, falling into an urgent, careening tempo, that leaves the listener wanting more. A very strong first output from a band eager to get going.

Bash Tru, 'D'Ya Suppose So'

Berlin-based and Dublin bound post-punk band Bash Tru have released their new single 'D'Ya Suppose So.' The group's members hail from Ireland, South Africa, Norway, and Germany. The band features Seb Truda (vocals and guitar), Daniel Sabbagh aka Oz (bass), Kian Mac Lochlainn (guitar/backing vocals), Konsti Schülke (drums), and Jonathan Arnøy (guitar/backing vocals). The song begins with a tension-filled spoken word, before breaking out into a roar. There is a pessimistic tone to the song, which is a deliberate choice.

Truda explains the meaning behind the song.

"It’s a song about talking highly of yourself and then being knocked flat in the same breath. Or the opposite. I suppose we wanted it to feel like the world starting to spin off axis and in the other direction."

The band have an upcoming headline show at Thomas House, Dublin, on October 2, the closing night of Irish music week. Their debut album King Pleasure will drop in early 2027.

Brother Vice, 'For A Lifetime'

Rock band Brother Vice have released their new single 'For A Lifetime.' The song was written by lead guitarist Neil for his future wife Leanne, with the couple ending up choosing the song for their first dance at their wedding.

The song blends heartfelt songwriting with the band's rock sound. The song delves into the feeling of meeting somebody and realising you want to spend the rest of your life with them. The band have created a special track with a lovely memory attached to it.

Sarah Crean, 'I Want To Be So Happy'

Sarah Crean has released her new album Heirloom, along with her song 'I Want To Be So Happy.' The indie singer has created a beautiful, dreamy song about wanting something better for herself.

She feels the pull of destructive behaviours, but she is committed to 'being so happy she could cry.' With a lowkey guitar instrumental, and eerie synths fading in and out, the listener is taken on Crean's journey, as the song builds, the mood lifts.

The singer has several upcoming shows in the UK following the album's release.

Nixer, 'The Roy Keane Theme'

Nixer has released his new single 'The Roy Keane Theme.' Louth native Séan Keenan returns with a pulsing, gritty track. Keenan's echoing spoken-word delivery combined with sultry backing vocals and twitching instrumentals creates an uncanny atmosphere.

He speaks directly to the listener, as if he is telling you a story over a pint or on an evening walk. The song builds, with Keenan finishing his story and taking over for the close of the song are the excellent background vocals by Grace O'Malley.

Paddy Keyes, 'Relapse'

Following five shows as a supporting act for Westlife, Paddy Keyes has released his new single 'Relapse', ahead of the release of his upcoming second EP. The Sligo indie artist returns with a heartfelt song about the disappointment of growing apart with somebody, either romantic or platonic, that was once close to him.

Keyes is searching for this person throughout the song; his turmoil and yearning is palpable. His vocals are accompanied by vibrant guitar and drums, all the elements of the song flow together in a natural way. One element never overpowers the other.

Hotgirl, 'Skin'

Hotgirl have released their newest single 'Skin.' The Dublin band have created an earworm of a track. The song is centred around being so jealous of a person, you want to wear their skin.

With a premise straight out of The Substance, the song combines punchy vocals with twanging guitar, drums, and bass. There are also some interesting synth sounds in the backing, that add to the icky, odd atmosphere the band have created. As is Hotgirl's trademark, the song is playful, confident, and unique.

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