Month: October 2020

Since the release of her debut album ‘Hemet’ one month ago on the new label Black Gate Records, Galway artist Niamh Regan has received consistent praise for this game-changing record, as she carves out her own niche in the world of contemporary folk music, and puts forward a strong contender for album of the year.

“Regan’s craft has grown in scope and vision, making Hemet, one of the finer albums released in Ireland this year.” Nialler9

“Regan has inched her way out of early influences (Laura Marling, Karen Dalton, Nick Drake, et al) to present tunes with a collective distinctive oomph… a memorable debut from Galway singer…” Tony Clayton Lea, Irish Times 4/5

“’Hemet’ is a stunning debut from the Galway singer-songwriter. Her potential to be a future mainstay of the Irish music scene is clear. But, for now, Hemet stands on a pedestal of its own as uniquely, unmistakably the work of Niamh Regan.” Hot Press Magazine

“To blend specificity with universality, pop melodies with eerie silences, and retain a singular voice throughout, is a feat indeed. Hemet goes gently, but do not be fooled by the obvious comparisons – Regan is an artist of singular talent and substance.” Andrea Cleary, Journal of Music

“The Galwegian troubadour has fashioned a bewitching album and her artfully wrought songs are in the confessional vein…. Joni Mitchell and Carly Simon are touchstones, but Regan’s gorgeously arranged songs signal the arrival of a special talent” Irish Independent, Album of the Week

Recent singles ‘How About That Coffee?’ and ‘Save The Day’ have showcased Regan’s immense songwriting prowess and her stunning vocals across the album have brought about rich comparisons with Lisa Hannigan, Sarah Jarosz and Laura Marling. However, rather than provide some standout moments ‘Hemet’ is holistically connected throughout both sonically and philosophically. ‘Hallelujah Game’ and ‘Two Seagulls’, both co-written with her husband, display an observant delicateness. “With all these highs, there comes the lows,” is a poignant summation of the breadth and perspective of Regan’s debut.

There is evidence of traditional and bluegrass influences on tracks like ‘Sweetest Drop’ and ‘She’ but her strongest craft on exhibition here is to mix these ingredients with the sparse contemporary sounds of drum machines and synthesizers as heard on ‘Ode To Youth’ and album opener ‘Something So Good’. The result is something which is synchronously earthly and familiar, yet intoxicatingly fresh.

Regan says “’Hemet ‘is a collection of songs I am very proud of. It was a labour of love and I am glad people have received it so well. I never imagined to be opening messages from people all over the world telling me ‘Hemet’ struck a chord in them or  waking up to a 5 star review in Swedish. It’s bizarre and I’m still wrapping my head around it. 

I simply cannot wait to get to play this album live in as many places as possible when the time comes.”

‘Hemet’ is out now on digital, CD, and vinyl, via Black Gate Records.

Buy ‘Hemet’ on digital/CD/vinyl via Bandcamp: https://niamhregan.bandcamp.com/album/hemet

Stream ‘Hemet’ on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/y6s74nu6

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The music video for ‘Haunted’, which is set for release on 8th October, is inspired by a short documentary about actor Jim Carrey called ‘I Needed Colour’. It visualises the idea that creativity can be found in anything you do. Whether you’re washing dishes or painting walls, you can get lost in yourself no matter what you do, which, in turn, helps you to re-discover who you are.

The video was directed by Jafaris’ long-term collaborator Nathan Barlow (Dermot Kennedy, Soulé, Robert Grace) and fashion videographer Keith Driscoll, with the former explaining the thought process behind the clip.  “The video itself is completely interpretive. he concept really stemmed from us having to shoot in lockdown, with minimal pre-production, time, and budget.

“Everything that happens with the projector and the white room is all just in Jafaris’ head, seemingly. He’s in his day job, just painting walls, yet he can still find some sort of creative outlet through that. Something is on his mind, and, while he’s at work, he lashes out a bit but it’s ambiguous as to whether that’s actually happening or not.”

Now in its sixth year, Tradition Now reflects the diversity of contemporary traditional music from Ireland and further afield. This year’s festival, presented in partnership with The Arts Council, and supported by Davy and The Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, sees an array of artists perform a relay of forty-minute sets in two marathon concerts in a unique event for livestream audiences. 

Marathon#1 kicks off on Saturday 24th October with a bill that features powerful Irish folk songs and music from Choice Music Prize nominee Ye Vagabonds, Donegal traditional music icon Mairéad Ní Mhaonigh agus a cairde and the refined musical stylings of Uilleann piper Barry Kerr (NCH Liam O’Flynn Award winner for 2020) in the company of Beoga’s Niamh Dunne and Seán Óg Graham. The evening also sees a fusion of Irish and Persian cultures with Nava, sublime four-part harmonies courtesy of Landless, father and daughter team Mick and Ciara O’Brien and a joyful celebration of American old-style singing with Cahalen Morrison.

Marathon#2 on Sunday 25th October sees the multi-talented Sam Amidon makes a welcome return to the National Concert Hall stage. The evening’s activities also include compelling sets from Norwegian hardanger virtuoso Nils Økland, The West Ocean String Quartet, riveting sean-nós evocations from Saileog, Eoghan and Muireann Ní Cheannabháin, eclectic folk fusions from John Francis Flynn and Elizabeth LaPrelle’s ethereal Appalachian ballads 

Speaking about Tradition Now, Simon Taylor, CEO of the National Concert Hall, said: “We are very excited to announce this year’s Tradition Now Marathon, celebrating all aspects of the genre from the established to the progressive. This year’s programme features some of the finest exponents of the form and we are delighted to provide artists, whose livelihoods have been so severely affected by the pandemic, with the opportunity to perform once more. In these difficult times we need the uplifting power of music more than ever, so we are honoured to bring these enriching livestream performances to a national and international digital audience.” 

Maureen Kennelly, the Director of The Arts Council said: “The Arts Council is delighted to be celebrating the sixth edition of Tradition Now and values this important partnership with the National Concert Hall. Tradition Now highlights the diversity and innovation that exists within traditional music and song and is committed to improving the visibility and career success of emerging and established traditional artists. While current circumstances have seen concert halls and music venues dark in recent months it is heartening to see so many excellent artists at different stages in their artistic journeys presenting their work on the national stage and online to world-wide audiences.” 

The evenings will also see DJ, radio presenter and filmmaker Donal Dineen in conversation with the artists through the stream. Tradition Now Marathon 2020 promises to be a showcase of the most exciting new traditional music and a forum for musical connection. 

Immerse yourself in the rich world of the new and exciting in traditional music: Tradition Now will be available to stream for one week for you to enjoy. Tickets for the stream are available exclusively via DICE.fm Tickets: €10. Weekend Ticket: €15 On Sale Now. 

Tradition Now is a partnership between NCH and The Arts Council, supported by Davy as Innovation Partner and The Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht. 

Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th October Ireland, UK, Europe, 6.00pm BST / 7.00pm CEST 

Tradition Now Marathon #1 Saturday 24th October

Ye Vagabonds | Mairead Ni Mhaonigh agus a cairde | Nava | Landless | Cahalen Morrison | Barry Kerr with Niamh Dunne and Seán Óg Graham | Mick & Ciara O’Brien | Host Donal Dineen

Tradition Now Marathon #2 Sunday 25th October

Sam Amidon | Nils Okland | The West Ocean String Quartet | Saileog, Eoghan and Muireann NÍ Cheannabháin | John Francis Flynn | Elizabeth LaPrelle | Host Donal Dineen 

‘Let This Go’, the third of six singles Ireland’s newest alt-pop queen Fia Moon will release as part of her debut mixtape, is a reminder to herself and her listeners that time really is the best healer. Set for release on October 9th, ‘Let This Go’ builds on the stories told in previous singles ‘better days’ and ‘XX’ and continues Fia’s journey towards building back confidence, self-assuredness, empowerment and acceptance.

Describing the concept of the song, Fia says: “It’s about accepting things for what they are and learning to let go of things that don’t make you happy. When you’re so comfortable in a situation, it can be really hard to detach yourself and recognize that you need to walk away and let go of the things that are ultimately holding you down. 

It’s cliche, but it’s true that time is a healer and I guess that’s what I meant when I wrote the lines ‘know in time it’ll be ok’. I actually find the song quite self-soothing and I hope that comes across to other people who hear it.”

‘Let This Go’ was co-written with London producer Neave Applebaum, who recently worked on Joel Corry’s ‘Head & Heart’, which spent six consecutive weeks at No.1 on the UK singles chart. The song uses the original demo vocals recorded last year, as Fia wanted to hold on to the original emotion. However, it has undergone some change since its conception as a ballad, with Alex O’Keefe and Laurie Revell (Just Kiddin) brought in to give it a more energetic, electronic production, with the atmospheric beat enabling Fia’s vocal tone to soar.

It has been a hugely successful year for Fia so far, with prior singles ‘better days’ and ‘XX’ achieving copious radio play (14 million impacts), with the former reaching No.13 on the Official Irish Homegrown Chart as well as a recent Love Island USA TV sync. Meanwhile, both songs have been added to a number of Spotify editorial playlists such as ‘New Music Friday’, ‘A Breath Of Fresh Éire’, ‘Chilled Pop Hits’ & ‘New Pop Revolution’. Deezer also included Fia in one of their largest new music playlists ‘Brand New UK’, which boasts over six million followers.

Impressive streaming stats aside, 2020 has seen Fia collaborate on the successful Irish Women In Harmony charity cover of The Cranberries ‘Dreams’, which went straight to No.1 on the Official Irish Homegrown Chart and at No.15, was the highest new entry in the Official Irish Charts, raising over €220,00 for Safe Ireland. Fia also made her first TV appearance alongside artists Gavin James and Denise Chalia, when she performed as part of RTÉ’s fundraiser for workers in the live music industry ‘Songs From An Empty Room’. 

Fia has garnered plenty of media acclaim too, with the likes of CLASH, The Irish Times, The Business Post, EARMILK, Nialler9, GUAP, GoldenPlec, Record of the Day and The Official Charts highlighting her undoubted potential. Fresh off her first virtual performance at Ireland Music Week last night, it won’t be long before Fia Moon is at the forefront of a new crop of Irish music ready to take over the world.

‘LET THIS GO’ // OUT 9TH OCTOBER 

Pre-save/Streaming link: https://ffm.to/fiamoonletthisgo

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Dublin composer and producer BK Pepper is releasing his debut single ‘Colours’ ahead of his forthcoming debut album ‘Territories’ out November 20th. A beautiful simplistic piece with melodies that take the listener on a reverie to a simpler time, ‘Colours’ solo piano intro is joined by a chorus of strings that rise and fall to leave us pining for what’s to come on November 20th with the full album. ‘Colours’ was the first track to be recorded for the album with the string orchestra recorded in a converted swimming pool studio in London. 

Classically trained on piano and trombone, BK Pepper’s musical projects include composing for film and theatre as well as touring with both orchestras and rock bands. After many years performing and releasing collaboratively, BK is now releasing his debut album. Recorded in London’s Abbey Road, The Pool and Angel Studios, the collection of compositions is a neo-classical mix of piano, strings and electronics, with lead single ‘Colours’ a tribute to melody and imagination. 

About the album BK says.. “the theme of ‘Territories’ reflects how borders have become increasingly visible in recent years, with migration, trade disputes and now a global pandemic reshaping how territories are perceived, defined and enforced around the world.” 

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The GOLDHOUSE remix of Johnny Bourke’s debut ‘Can’t Do Without’ is the belated summer anthem that 2020 is crying out for. It’s an ode to the one we simply cannot resist, brought to life by GOLDHOUSE’s electronic finesse and successfully captures the long-forgotten buzz of live music. Produced by Jackson Dimiglio-Wood (Shawn Mendes) and mastered by multiple GRAMMY winner Randy Merrill (Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift) this is the eagerly awaited debut track from Johnny Bourke. 

Discussing the single, Bourke says: “When I listen to a song I want to be moved; I want to be consumed by the lyrics, the melody, and the story. These are the kinds of songs that make me want to listen to music and these are the songs that I want to write. If one of my songs doesn’t move me then how could I expect it to move others?”

GOLDHOUSE is an American DJ/producer/songwriter/vocalist who more than matches his versatility with relentless energy and razor-sharp artistry. Born Grant Harris and bred in Chicago, GOLDHOUSE breaks electronic music’s boundaries by merging tight production skills, super-smooth songwriting craft, and a mastery of radio-ready delivery. Past collaborators include dance legends Armada and Spinnin’ Records

Johnny is a new and exciting Irish musician who is bringing guitar back into pop. 25 years old and hailing from Tipperary, his sound is fresh and fluid and echoes artists such as Shawn Mendes, Khalid, and John Mayer. No stranger to the live scene, he has crafted a career as a session musician playing all over the world including shows in Australia and New Zealand. 

In summer 2019, Johnny worked alongside London producer Jackson Dimiglio-Wood (Shawn Mendes) to create the scintillating debut track ‘Can’t Do Without’. Johnny’s popularity has been rising steadily since with his ever-growing fanbase.

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On Friday 9th October, NEALO will release ‘Let Your Dreams Collect Dust Until You’re Desperate’ (featuring Molly Sterling, Jehnova and Adam Garrett) on DFL Records.  

The single heralds the release of NEALO’s highly-anticipated debut album, ‘All The Leaves Are Falling’, which will be released on Friday 30th October. The track also signposts some of the album’s key themes: emigration, loss, transformation. 

In addition, NEALO plays four socially-distanced live shows at The Workman’s Club, Dublin, on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th November. All four shows sold out within 24 hours of going on sale. 

NEALO teams up with long-time collaborators and good friends Molly Sterling, Jehnova (Nuxsense) and Adam Garrett on this track. In his signature, searingly honest lyrical style, NEALO once again manages to capture the experiences of many who lived through post-Celtic Tiger Ireland through an autobiographical lens. 

“When I was 21, I worked in an insurance company. It was your average suit and tie cubicle job. I despised it. I had a dream of moving to Canada and exploring a new part of the world, but everyday I trudged down to the multi story office beside the Blanchardstown Centre and clocked in,” he says. 

He continues: “I used to stay up until 3am so that work seemed further away. One morning I got halfway to the office, looked down and realised that I was wearing one white runner and one black shoe with my suit. I had been up so late and gotten dressed in my sleep. I think I was in such a bad place at a time that I couldn’t even see the funny side of that. The desperation.

Eventually I applied for a visa to Canada and booked flights to Vancouver. I handed in my notice and that was it. No more insurance company. The whole experience had a huge lasting effect on me. Now I can’t stand the thought of being caged up and I’ve worked my whole life to avoid that. Monday morning for me is walking dogs in the forest and hanging with my son. It’s music, and trees and animals. It’s not cubicles and insurance claims and ties.”

As we move closer to ‘All The Leaves Are Falling’ with the release of this single, it’s plain to hear how much NEALO’s home, and the people around him, mean to him. He is an artist who cannot be anything but himself and through his music he wears his heart permanently tattooed on his sleeve.   

The artwork images for ‘Let Your Dreams Collect Dust Until You’re Desperate’ were taken by photographer and film director Bobby Zithelo (Director of the wonderful ‘This Land’). Bobby also directed the music video for ‘You Can’t Go Home Again’, Nealo’s most recent single which has racked up over 2 million impacts on Irish radio and over 50,000 Spotify streams since July. 

‘Let Your Dreams Collect Dust Until You’re Desperate’ is out on Friday 9th October 2020.

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‘Who I Am Today’ is a reflective country ballad, about taking it easy on our younger selves and realising that all of the mistakes we made along the way have led us to where we are now.

The song was written with American songwriter Gary Ferguson and recorded at the Sessions in the House studio in Northern Ireland. It will also feature on the upcoming album ‘Ferguson’s Farewell’, a collection of songs Gary has co-written with Irish songwriters (including Niall Toner, Errol Walsh and Mary Greene).

Gillian narrowly missed a trip to Nashville in March of this year, where she had planned to continue making her debut album. With the world standing still and some extra time on her hands, her collaborations moved online and she began exchanging ideas via email and Skype with other songwriters. She also rediscovered her love of reading fiction, something she had set aside during her legal studies, and had an opportunity to further develop her fingerstyle guitar skills.

Based in Pennsylvania, Gary Ferguson has been a frequent visitor to Ireland and has toured the country extensively over the last 20 years. After being introduced through mutual friends on social media, he and Gillian met when she collected him from the airport to begin his most recent tour in the summer of 2019. She was delighted when he reached out to her this year to work on a song for his new album. With restrictions easing in July, Gillian travelled to Northern Ireland to record ‘Who I Am Today’ with producer Joe Murray at Sessions in the House.

“I feel as though I have wanted to write this song for a long time; maybe I just needed a little time out to let it flow naturally.” (Gillian)

www.gilliantuitemusic.com                   www.facebook.com/gilliantuitemusic

Three brothers: Arthur (drums), Ademar (keys/guitar), and Theodore (vocals) make up KinetiX. Seven singles in, they have enjoyed airplay support from Spin1038, iRadio, and Midlands 103, aiming to expand on that with their new single ‘Strive’, out 7th October. Their preivous single ‘Lullaby’ brought the band to new heights on TikTok, where New York artist Devon Rodriquez @devonrodriguez (3.3million followers ) used the song for a video that currently stands with a whopping 11 million views –https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSHAasfD/

Some of their most successful tracks include ‘Remember Days’ amassing over fifty-thousand Spotify streams and the video attracting one-hundred and fifty-thousand YouTube streams, ‘Loved and Lost’ with over thirty-one thousand Spotify streams, and ‘Toys’ exceeding one hundred and thirty thousand YouTube streams. The guys also love to work at creating content for their Instagram and TikTok followers. With a rapidly increasing following, it’s fair to say that KinetiX are thoroughly establishing themselves as a band to keep an eye on over the course of 2020 and 2021.

Join KinetiX on social media for upcoming releases, performances and videos!

KinetiX – Spotify
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On October 9th one of Ireland’s most enigmatic artists R.S.A.G will release his third single from his critically acclaimed album ‘Chroma’. ‘The Spark’ is released as RSAG showcases at this year’s Ireland Music Week, the annual showcase of the freshest new Irish acts and rounds off a huge year for the Kilkenny based multi-instrumentalist.

“’The Spark’ is about keeping that thing in you that makes you unique alive. It’s also about using your creativity to help get you through times of uncertainty. Like rescuing embers from a fire to keep it lit.” – Jeremy Hickey 

Since the early days when he picked up a Choice Music Prize nomination, he has pressed two celebrated LP’s, secured billings on the most enviable festivals in both Europe and America and made multiple international TV appearances along the way. As well as all that Hickey’s undeniable talent behind a kit has led to some very impressive collaborations at the request of Justice’s, Grammy Award-winning Xavier de Rosnay and Parisian electronic outfit Bot’Ox. In his onstage vocal and drum performances, R.S.A.G. is set apart from his contemporaries. Combining frenzy with serenity, this human fuelled energy also forms the core of his records