New Irish Songs To Hear This Week

KhakiKid, ‘Must Be A Man’

Dublin-born alternative artist KhakiKid has returned with ‘Must Be A Man’, a sharp-witted single that takes aim at the absurdities of traditional masculinity. With infectious production, uplifting melodies and KhakiKid’s candid, characteristically playful lyricism, the single offers a timely and tongue-in-cheek take on the often contradictory expectations of being a man.

"I wrote the hook for 'Must Be A Man' the day after performing at a Movember event,” he explained. “I wrote the hook the following day, playing with the clichés and tropes of masculinity, but sat on it for a couple of years before feeling comfortable enough to use it.”

Holly Munro, ‘What’s For Us Won’t Pass Us’

Holly Munro has released a new single ‘What’s For Us Won’t Pass Us’, previewing her upcoming debut record. The song features a slow-burning blend of indie-pop and folk, with gentle folk inflections and Munro’s distinctive Irish lilt bringing warmth to the melodies. Hazy textures and cathartic instrumentals bring it to life, balancing melancholy with a sense of reassurance. It’s a track that creates big expectations for her first-ever album.

“I wrote it at breaking point,” she said. “It’s about learning to let things unfold instead of forcing them, and trusting that what’s for you won’t pass you, even when you can’t see where things are going.”

Mael Vogue, 'Women and Children First'

Mael Vogue is an MC and producer in Belfast, known for Hiberno hip-hop that incorporates breakbeats and electronic elements with political satire. In the aftermath of the anti-immigrant riots, Vogue saw fit to create ‘Women and Children First’, which he calls a “blistering condemnation of anti-migrant violnce, far-right hypocrisy and the cynical exploitation of women's safety to justify racism."

The track is a rattling call-out with surprisingly upbeat vocals. "You can’t be bothered reading up on stuff before you speak /You’re posting comments from behind the safety of your screen /A stream of bollocks and ignorance flowing from your phone /The fault of immigrants you’re inadequate and all alone", Vogue spits. Proceeds from the single are being donated to Anaka Women's Collective, which supports communities displaced by racist violence.

Ó Wander, 'Orbiting the Everyday'

The title track on Ó Wander's latest album is a bittersweet ode to his daughter. A fun, 80s-vibes guitar riff opens it, joined by drums, a second groovy guitar melody, and vocals that speak to teenage ennui and sass.

"It was written while my eldest daughter was in the Gaeltacht and I missed her. It's a celebration of her teenage attitude of 'fine' and 'I don't care' response to most things, but the middle 8 did allude to me realising she's now going on holidays on her own, and pretty soon she will be old enough to leave the house altogether", said the artist, whose real name is Andrew Phelan.

Jordan O'Keefe, 'Forever 23'

‘Forever 23’ has the sound of a number one pop hit, except instead of falling in love or partying, Jordan O’Keefe’s single is about the loss of a friend to suicide.

Having struggled with his own mental health over the years, which kept him from making music after a stint on Britain's Got Talent in 2013, O'Keefe has come a long way. Allowing himself to process the grief, O’Keefe does a masterful job at describing the ache and regret he still feels, in a crooning voice similar to Shawn Mendes’.

Rea Garvey, 'I Wish You Were Here'

"We all miss someone we love. But at Christmas, we miss them most of all", said Rea Garvey. The single started as a live show several years ago and is now out. The Tralee native, now based in Germany, has had seven consecutive gold or platinum albums. He became known as the lead singer of Reamonn.

'I Wish You Were Here' is a bittersweet ode to a holiday spent missing someone. From childhood Christmases in Tralee with seven siblings to celebrating in a new country, Garvey channels the nostalgia and love felt.

Michelle Burke, 'Smile A While'

Michelle Burke, a folk singer from East Cork living in Glasgow, has released her album Mind How You Go. The former lead singer of Cherish the Ladies, Burke also has experience in theatre. 'Smile A While' began as a poem the artist's grand-uncle wrote in 1921 while a political prisoner on Spike Island during the War of Independence.

The album's final track, it is an attempt at cheer in a bleak situation, set to melancholy piano backing.

The Swine, 'Going Home'

‘Going Home’ is the first single to be released from The Swine’s upcoming album Somewhere in the Nowhere. Formerly known as The Swinging Swine, the band dissolved years ago and have recently reformed. Clocking in at exactly 3 minutes, ‘Going Home’ is a medley of strong throaty vocals, toe-tapping drums, guitars, violin, and trumpet backing. The track captures that familiar bittersweet return to a place that’s been missed or forgotten for a long time.

Ciaran Gowran, 'Let It Hurt'

Ciaran Gowran's single urges: "It's worse for me to tell you if it hurts it's for the better, so let it hurt." Music can be an emotional outlet, and especially as a man when vulnerability can be taboo, Gowran says, it is vital to allow for emotions. The guitar and multi-layered vocals work together to create a track as catchy as it is insightful.

The Guzzlers, 'Killarney'

'Killarney' is a throwback to simple, traditional Irish folk songs. Brothers Cian and Tom O'Dowd began their band after being sacked from a job playing Irish music on a ferry. Now based in Liverpool, the Limerick natives play at every Liverpool FC home game.

"Killarney follows the story of an American who falls in love with a girl who's from Killarney in Ireland, and when she moves back home, he pursues his mission to search for her in every Irish town until he finds her", the Guzzlers said.

"It's based in a time with no mobile phones or internet so to find someone you thought was the one you really had to take a risk and search hard which makes for a quite romantic song. Killarney is also one of Ireland's most beautiful spots so it deserves a song in itself."

Simple Things, 'Nothing At All'

Three-piece from Kerry Simple Things are made up of vocalist and rhythm guitarist Dylan O' Sullivan, bass guitarist and backing vocalist Shane Kennedy, and accordion-playing keyboardist Kealan Cahill. They will play Dublin's Button Factory on December 3 and Belfast's Ulster Sports Club on December 8.

Their latest release 'Nothing At All' is a betrayed heartbreak track combining trad instruments with pop melodies.

Brian Finnegan, 'October Nine'

Brian Finnegan has fronted the traditional outfit Flook for more than 30 years. On new track 'October Nine', he creates a high-octane, rhythmically complex, and deeply cinematic piece of Irish traditional music.

Backed by fast flute and whistle atop complex piano and articulation that drives the melody forward with massive urgency.

yes chef!, 'cya mum'

Tallaght's alternative four-piece yes, chef! take notes from The Japanese House, Bon Ivor, and Dijon as they bring distorted guitars and banjo with samples, synths and echoed vocals, driven by rapping drums to new track, 'cya mum'.

This song sees them craft high energy, sharp timing, and a driving sense of movement.

Unique Freaks, '4 Billion Revolutions'

Dublin psych pop duo, Unique Freaks, have found themselves in a moment of blossoming with new track, '4 Billion Revolutions'.

"4 Billion Revolutions' is the sort of naivety only a child could have," says Darragh Hansard. "Current events would give the impression that the towns folk have finally sniffed out the stinking demons running the show, although it doesn't take a cadaver dog to tell where that wretched smell is coming from. The world is a bad trip where no trip sitter or benzodiazepine can save you."

CABL, 'Dog Collar'

CABL blends shoegaze, indie rock, emo, pop, and nu-metal elements on 'Dog Collar'.

Drawing inspiration from acts like Title Fight, Elliot Smith, and Deftones, their lyrics explore mental illness, addiction, and difficult family dynamics.

Vocalist Ava Durran's melancholic voice sits neatly over clean and muted instrumentation, making it a standout on their new EP.

 

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hotgirl, 'Going Around'

Drogheda-Dublin band hotgirl have released their new single, 'Going Around.' The track is from their upcoming third EP, Blah Blah, and captures the raw energy of their earlier work while sharpening it into their most urgent.

'Going Around' evokes the mood of a late 90s indie flick soundtrack, with their coming of age chaos.

Flynn Johnson, ‘MADE IN PRESSURE’ feat. Nealo

Dublin rapper Flynn Johnson has released ‘MADE IN PRESSURE’ feat. Nealo off his recent concept album THE GREEN BOX THEORY: FRIDAY EDITION. The track reflects on adversity and the influence of longtime collaborator ROC. It features buzzing synths, Johnson’s distinctive lyricism and vocals, and enthralling beats.

THE GREEN BOX THEORY documents Flynn’s childhood and adolescence in Dublin 15 during the mid-to-late 2000s, with themes of friendship, heartbreak, grief and the experiences that shaped his identity. ‘MADE IN PRESSURE’ is a great addition to the record, showcasing Johnson’s masterful ear for music.

Pauric O’Meara, ‘Armageddon Laws’

Tipperary indie artist and Traitors star Pauric O’Meara has released ‘Armageddon Laws', the title track off his new EP Ocean Floor. With jumping guitar, resonant lyricism and punchy melodies, the song makes a great addition to his catalogue.

“This EP is a very important one to me, as it deals with themes that have shaped how I look at the world, and contains songs that I often listen back to for both guidance and reassurance,” O’Meara said. “The floor of an ocean can be viewed in different ways – scary, dark, uncomfortable or beautiful, untouched and free of judgment.”

Fergal Lawler, ‘The Elphinstone Voyage’

The Cranberries drummer Fergal Lawler has released ‘The Elphinstone Voyage’, as part of upcoming album From The Tombs. The track is inspired by the true story of Waterford native John and Patrick Connery who, in 1838, were sentenced to fourteen years transportation onboard the Elphinstone. With seafaring-inspired instrumentals, an ocean-like melody and brilliant cinematic tones, the track truly captures the story.

"I was fascinated by the idea of creating a piece of music to soundtrack a particular period of time, to try to imagine myself as one of the people on board the Elphinstone [a convict ship sailing to Australia] but also as an observer or narrator,” said Lawler.

Power of Dreams, ‘Somebody Somewhere’

Dublin alt-rock band Power of Dreams have shared a vibrant new single ‘Somebody Somewhere’. The track features rousing instrumentals, driving rhythms and cathartic vocal interpretation from lead vocalist Craig Walker. The self-produced track marks their first new song with their original lineup since 2010.

"We wanted to mark our return with all 4 original members with a bang, a song that carried the essence of who we are and always have been whilst sounding fresh and exhilarated by this new chapter in the band's history," said Walker.

Gilbert O’Sullivan, ‘I Suppose’

Irish singer-songwriter Gilbert O’Sullivan has shared ‘I Suppose’, a track off his newly released album On the Record. Warm, witty and emotionally resonant tones blend with his gifted ability for storytelling, creating a tune that captures O’Sullivan’s timelessness. The album comes nearly sixty years after embarking on his musical journey.

“Why are we able to keep doing it? You do it because of your love of music,” said O’Sullivan. “You love what you're hearing. You hear the chords of Burt Bacharach? You want that. I’m a rhythm pianist, I can't tinkle the ivories, but we have the ability to write music because we love what we hear.”

Fia Moon, ‘Leave The House’

Dublin-born, London-based musician Fia Moon today releases her delicately silky new tunes ‘Leave The House’, a gorgeous indie pop number filled with complex harmonies and glistening acoustic guitars, all underlined by a distinctive rhythmic section and hypnotising bass-line, making for the perfect stirring track on a cold November morning.

how r u, 'sometimes i wish we'd never met'

Irish slowcore artist how r u, aka Thom Southern, has shared ‘sometimes i wish we’d never met’ off his newly released album don’t let your light go out, exploring heartbreak, mindfulness and the quiet resilience of the human spirit. Intimate and atmospheric, the song features richly layered production and gentle, flowing melodies.

On his new album, listeners can expect the same masterful songwriting, with themes of confronting the contradictions of being human in how r u’s distinctly introspective style. Hazy textures, delicate guitar and understated vocals make up the foundation of his replay-worthy new song and album.

Def Nettle, ‘Trauma Removal Machine’

Dublin punk outfit Def Nettle return with cosmic new single ‘Trauma Removal Machine’. Blending new wave, post-punk and indie dance, the track pairs pulsating synths and driving disco-rock rhythms with the band’s distinctive grunge energy. It features Glen Brady’s signature raspy vocals alongside Lisa Doyle’s rhythmic delivery.

Musically, the single brings together pulsating analogue synths, Damien Fox’s thumping drums and Ely Siegel’s driving disco-rock bass lines, with Brady taking over guitar duties to deliver funky leads and powerful crescendos. The single explores how music can help us work through difficult experiences and find a sense of release, renewal and hope.

Laurie Purkiss, 'Levitate'

'Levitate' is the latest release from independent singer-songwriter, producer, and musician Laurie Purkiss. Originally from Cork, and currently based in Lisbon, Portugal, this track follows the earlier single 'Neon'.

Purkiss blends electronic production with R&B-leaning rhythms with jazz piano on a track that bounces instrumentation off atmospheric vocals. The track focuses on the ephemeral experience of festivals. The raw, harsh lows, and the ethereal, inspirational highs.

Frankie Gavin, 'Eleanor Rigby's Jig'

Galway's fiddle-singing pioneer, Frankie Gavin has released 'Eleanor Rigby's Jig'.

Gavin has played the flute and fiddle from an early age, inspired by Irish and Irish-American fiddle players like James Morrison. His unique style has allowed Irish traditional music to evolve through the generations.

He gives The Beatles track a new lease of life, adding a traditional Irish spin through elements such as his signature fiddle and flute.

Liffey Light Orchestra, 'Strawberry Beds' 

Dublin musical group Liffey Light Orchestra mark their fifth studio album with Ana Livia.

A collection of over 21 songs mixing Irish traditional, folk and progressive rock, features the track, 'Strawberry Beds'.

The title nods to the Strawberry Beds, a historic stretch along the northern banks of the River Liffey in Dublin - and is the first of four tracks that focus on the album's Celtic idiom.

Michael D. Higgins & Myles O’Reilly, ‘An Arid Season’

'An Arid Season' is the second track from Michael D. Higgins and Myles O'Reilly's Migrants In Time.

The track is a poem, reflecting on the devastating consequences of climate change and the shared experience of those who suffer, came to Michael D as both a gift and warning. The theme of migration, which forms the bedrock of their new album, has interested him throughout his life.

"We are living through the consequences of a retreat from the commitments which have been made relating to the disaster of climate change," he says. "The great ravages across previously fertile areas that have made living impossible for people who have to leave and become migrants, only to in turn be rejected in different parts of the world."

Collette Brady-McEntee, 'Living'

Collette Brady-McEntee is classically trained, holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice and Piano, and is a music teacher and music director at t Mary's Secondary School in Edenderry, Co. Offaly.

'Living' is an anthem about breaking free from the paths we are expected to follow and finding the courage to pursue what truly matters. Driven by cinematic instrumentation and soulful vocals, this emotive pop track delivers a message that's both deeply moving and universally resonant."

Travy, ‘Leave Me Alone’

Dublin rapper Travy today releases his brand new mixtape B4YFLA, including the explosive single ‘Leave Me Alone’, a deliciously heavy tune which perfectly underlines the rapper’s powerful flow and carefully constructed lyricism.

"This is a collection of songs I've put together while working on my baby YFLA," Travy wrote, announcing the new mixtape. "I've recorded over 300+ songs since January... I fell in love with this shit all over again. My listeners are the best in the world so I wanna show you where I'm @ rn."

Maverick Sabre, ‘I love the way that you feel’

Maverick Sabre returns with his delicately moving new single ‘I love the way that you feel’, a shimmering acoustic guitar track which lets the singer’s powerful vocal performance, underlined by gentle harmonies and silky string instrumentation. A melancholy-filled love song which is certain to perfectly accompany the upcoming gloomy months.

Bricknasty, ‘forever’

The opener and title-track to Bricknasty’s brand new album, out this week, ‘forever’ is a gorgeously catchy yet deeply complex tune like only they can make. Deeply marked by the group’s R&B influences, the tune juxtaposes electronic elements, samples and deliciously moving acoustic guitars, making for the perfect, nostalgia-filled background to Fatboy’s perfectly measured delivery.

glances, ‘Nothing Changes’

Dublin alt-rock trio glances have released their intoxicating debut single ‘Nothing Changes’, a breathless and perfectly atmospheric piece of guitar music which offers a particularly enticing first look into this new band. With driving bass lines, silky guitar riffs and sultry vocals, the track explodes into a powerfully gritty piece of instrumental that wraps up the tune perfectly.

 

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Chris Cresham, ‘Chaos’

Singer songwriter and winner of our 2026 A New Local Hero Wildcard Award Chris Cresham today releases the deliciously catchy folk tune ‘Chaos’, a stirring single heavily influenced by his Irish roots while also being perfectly suited for huge stadium gigs, thanks to its cinematic chorus and the powerful tones of Cresham’s vocal delivery.

Oceanna and Q.bana, ‘Skaggy Rollies’

Dublin psychedelic jazz band Oceanna have teamed up with Cuban-Irish neo-soul artist Q.BANA on the brilliant track ‘Skaggy Rollies’, which today receives a brand new music video. Blending psychedelic neo-soul and jazz, the track perfectly blends complex guitar riffs with the singer’s silky smooth vocal performance, making for a magnificently experimental tune.

GARAGE, ‘Inner Revolution’

GARAGE - a.k.a. Charlie Travis – today releases the brand new single ‘Inner Revolution’, a powerful rock tune dabbling in psychedelic soundscapes and experimental synth instrumentation, perfectly underlining the carefully constructed, layered vocal performance and widely compelling lyricism.

Gerr Walsh, ‘Knockraha Live’

Indie-folk artist Gerr Walsh returns with his new single ‘Knockaraha – Live’, A live recorded performance of the folk tinged ‘Knockaraha’ from his current album ‘Ages & Ages’. Recorded in The Unitarian Church Dublin in June 2026. A gently stirring piece of folk music, the tune features Walsh on guitar and main vocals and beautiful harmonies provided by Naimee Coleman and Suzanne Walsh.

Obskür x Robbie Doherty, ‘Gimme A Beat’

Irish dance music heavyweights Obskür and Robbie Doherty today collaborate on the new single ‘Gimme A Beat’, a dance-floor ready, deliciously melodic tune infused with nostalgic synth and irresistible rhythmic section, perfectly measured and gorgeously catchy.

Elton John & CMAT, ‘Step Into Christmas’

CMAT this week collaborates with Elton John on the holiday classic ‘Step Into Christmas’, offering a reimagined version which retains the original’s lively rock’n’roll rhythm and joyful singalong chorus, while bringing a fresh new feel with CMAT’s undeniably vibrant vocals and new musical elements.

Elton John said of the collaboration, "I've loved CMAT since I first heard her and saw her videos years ago. She has this incredible personality, and a wicked sense of humour. You can tell she has Rock n Roll and Country and Americana at the heart of what she does - we're kindred spirits in so many ways. And that's why I was so thrilled with the idea of us collaborating on Step Into Christmas. She's done an amazing job.”

CMAT added, “When I listen to the music of Elton John, I am 7 years old in the back of my mam’s car. It doesn’t matter how old or famous I become - whenever I listen to Elton John I will always be 7 years old in the back of my mam’s car. Reconciling this feeling with the reality of getting to work with the man in question has been confusing to say the least, but the greatest joy of my life. Christmas is my absolute favourite thing in the world, second maybe only to Elton John. I would like to invite the whole world to step into Christmas with us and make your yuletide dreams come true!”

Scustin, 'Key Fob'

Scustin have released their new single 'Key Fob'. The post-punk band explores the culture of a 9-5 job with a brutal, frenetic track. Using the image of a company car that comes with an accompanying plastic key, the group examines the dichotomy of being musicians, while also still having to work in a corporate environment just to make ends meet.

Combining infectious vocals with booming bass and drums, the track is another witty, colourful banger from Scustin.

The band shared an insight into the song in a statement.

"We’re all working stiffs. One Saturday night you’re playing the Royal Albert Hall, and on Monday morning you’re back in a suit and tie making money for someone else.

"It’s bleak and hilarious at the same time. That’s the reality of being a musician now, and the reality for loads of people who don’t even have music as an outlet."

Robert Grace, 'Come Home'

Robert Grace has released his new album, My Father's Son, which features the song 'Come Home'. The deeply personal track explores the complex relationships associated with family. Featuring Grace's powerful vocals, the song also features his extended family serving as his backing choir.

Robert Grace shares the story behind the tune.

"'Come Home' is deeply personal indie folk track that elevates a solitary wish into a powerful collective plea, featuring my brother, Joe Grace, and my own personal choir made up of my entire extended family."

He has several upcoming record store performances in November to promote the album.

Indigos Ego, 'Following'

Indigos Ego have released their new single 'Following'. The track is the band's fourth single for their upcoming sophomore album, set to be released later this year.

'Following' explores the uncertainty of the future, however it emphasises the importance of support and reassurance from loved ones in difficult times. The dual vocals on the track add a layered, highly emotive quality to the song. The guitar and percussion create a memorable instrumental accompaniment that add a impactful edge to the song.

Graceless, 'Pillow Talk'

Graceless (Grace Tooher) has released her debut eponymous EP, which features the song 'Pillow Talk'. She is joined by guitarist and longtime collaborator Richie McNeill, along with Michele Doddi (bass), Gavin Carroll (guitar) and Ethan Butler (drums).

The singer's vocals are self-assured and emotive, blending well with the moody guitar and percussion featured on the track. The song has a frantic, yet sultry sound, Graceless creates an engaging atmosphere that leaves you wanting more.

Graceless describes the meaning behind the song.

"There is a moment after intimacy when the room goes quiet. I wanted to write about wanting what comes next: the chat, the curiosity, the excitement of getting to know someone."

Lorc D, 'Mica (Forgotten Place)'

Lorc D has released his new single 'Mica (Forgotten Place)'. The song explores the Mica crisis in Donegal, which saw thousands of homes across the county develop severe structural damage, due to ineffective concrete.

He uses his own family's experience with the crisis as inspiration for the track. His emotive lyrics and heartfelt vocals emphasise to the listener the pain this crisis has caused hardworking families.

"It’s impossible to truly measure what it feels like to watch your family home slowly fall apart, or what years of uncertainty, fighting and waiting does to a person, Lorc D shared in a statement about the track.

"Even when compensation finally came, the damage had already been done. Some families never recovered financially, and many people never recovered emotionally."

Johnluke, 'Leave the Party'

Johnluke has released his new EP, Comical Romance Vol. 2, which features the song 'Leave the Party'. The song is a light-hearted exploration of the early days of a relationship, the initial meeting and pull of attraction. The singer paints a picture of youthful energy and affection; his vocals are clear and engaging. Guitar and banjo provide a toe-tapping, accompaniment to Johnluke's singing.

Johnluke embarks on his Irish tour this November to promote his new EP, with stops in Listowel, Dublin, Galway, and Limerick.

Carrie Fitz, 'Stupid Boy'

Carrie Fitz has released her new single 'Stupid Boy'. Fitz returns with a pop-rock anthem about toxic relationships, and how easy it can be to fall into a cycle of manipulation.

Featuring catchy lyrics, boosted by Fitz's impactful vocals, the song is another impressive addition to the Waterford singer's growing catalogue.

KYNSY, 'eleanor'

KYNSY (Ciara Lindsey) has released her new single 'eleanor'. Her first release since her 2024 EP, Utopia, the Dublin-born and London-based musician returns with a bang.

The brooding indie-rock track combines glitchy, quirky production along with catchy pop hooks. 'eleanor' was co-produced by KYNSY along with drummer Rory Gilmore, and guitarist Tyler Darrington, who are both members of her live band.

KYNSY shared a statement about the track.

"'eleanor' is about being enthralled by someone from afar, knowing they’ll only hurt you. It’s a dark, poetic take on teenage infatuation and unrequited love, wrapped in a romantic, reckless, early-2000s Skins atmosphere."

Angie, 'Bad Ass B'

Meath rapper Angie has released her debut EP, Plot Twist, which features the song 'Bad Ass B'. Following a brief hiatus from music, the rapper returns with more confidence and an exciting new release.

'Bad Ass B' is an unapologetic anthem about self-belief, powered by a drill beat. Angie's vocals are energetic and combine a classic hip-hop flow with her own unique style.

Angie shared a statement about the track.

"Looking at my discography up to now it is a song that many people may not expect me to bring out. I hope that this song can be a catalyst for me to create different styles of music within the hip-hop genre."

 

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