The Inside Track: Who's the boss?

Neither a mafia don nor an errant Strokes member, Boss Volenti is the moniker of the impressive Dublin rock combo that features the talents of drummer to the stars, Graham Hopkins. Following a successful few months on the live circuit, the outfit, comprising Rob Daly (Vocals and Bass), Laura Mackey (Lead Guitar) and Dan O’Connor (Lead Guitar) are on the verge of their debut single release. There will be a slew of live dates in February to promote the offering, which precedes their long-player due in the summer. 'Deeper Than Deep' will be available nationwide from February 10th.
Dublin’s live circuit gets an additional boost when Maximum Joy kicks off in The Tap in North King Street on January 27th. Givemanakick do the honours on opening night alongside resident Maximum Joy DJs. Confirmed for future Fridays are DataPanik, The Lamps and Long Lost Brother…
...Following a very successful 2005, Gary Dunne has been confirmed as support to Nizlopi on their March UK tour. This is a great opportunity for Gary to cultivate a following in the run up to the British release of his album…
…Limerick’s Roper are currently in studio putting down seven tracks for a new EP. The band had a very busy 2005 playing gigs from Downpatrick to Tralee and back again following the release of their Left To Stampede EP. Finalists in Whelan’s Brave New Stage competition, they were crowned Miller Strat Band of the year and were the opening act for US heavy weights Mudvayne in Dublin’s TBMC. The band have spent January recording a new EP and play Dolans Upstairs Friday February 17th…
…More news from the south east is that Wexford’s Stephen Hill will launch his debut album Public Transport on February 11th in Crawdaddy. The first single from the album ‘Conspiracy’ received a glowing review from our very own Lisa Coen late last year. The album is a sonic cocktail of sounds, blending indie pop, new wave and folk-rock in a unique quirky style…
…Local label Cherish Records are currently looking for bands for their forthcoming South East Rocks 2 compilation CD.
Last year’s collection featured the talents of regional faves Bengie, FireGarden and Adam Venn. The local buzz around the CD gave many artists the opportunity to take part in radio sessions for promotion purposes. In addition to airplay, the supporting tour also provided great exposure for the artists involved. This year’s offering will be a two-disc CD set, including the best of the heavier bands in the south-east, as well as some of the best indie bands and solo artists. Artists who wish to take part, or who would like to find out more details, should email [email protected] or log onto www.cherishrecords.tk.
…Belfast’s Gimik have a busy few months ahead. The northern outfit are due to start shooting their first proper promo video next month, and after that are off to LA for a string of dates, including pit-stops at the Viper Rooms and the Whiskey A Go Go. Having previously wowed crowds opening for Wheatus and Presidents of the USA, the band are sure to make an impression across the pond…