Author: Zoé Piater

“Hauntingly beautiful lyricism, unique vocals and a great storyteller” BBC Across The Line

“With shades of Americana, Buckley captures the essence of introspection, whilst enchanting anyone who listens to her sensational storytelling.” Wonderland

Sarah Buckley released the unique and endearing new track ‘Things We Leave Behind‘ on Fri 21st June.

Sarah is an alt-folk artist from Cork, Ireland. A unique and intriguing songwriter, she gained immediate attention with the release of her debut single ‘You’ve Got Me’ (1.3 millions radio impressions) and built on this success with her debut EP ‘Magic Powers’ in Feb 2023, produced by Karl Odlum (David Kitt, Gemma Hayes) followed by her sophomore EP ‘Wind Chimes’ in Oct 2023.

Sarah has been gigging extensively playing showcases and support slots around Ireland.  In summer 2024 she was selected to take part in a songwriting programme for a week in Nashville. In summer 2023 she was selected to take part in an EU funded project that allowed her to spend time working on her music in the new environment of Berlin.

Inspired by the world class lyricism of Alex Turner, the introspective songwriting of Matt Berninger and the uncompromising authenticity of Julia Jacklin – Sarah manages to avoid the trap of imitating her heroes; instead channels their influence into something rare and immediately compelling.

Her story is not the oft-told tale of the 5 year old with a hairbrush for a mic and a lifelong dream. Music came later in Sarah’s life, and that subtle difference stands her apart from many of her fellow artists. This is an adventure undertaken by a woman who found her voice in life first, before bringing it to song.

With each release Sarah continues to hone her sound and develop her sound. Her next EP is due for release in autumn 2024.

Caroline Reel, a singer-songwriter from Silverbridge, South Armagh, is currently based in Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland.

Caroline’s music blends country, folk, rock, reggae, and blues, defying traditional genres. Her latest single, “I Want You To Tell Me (Blue Suede Shoes),” recorded at her brother Ben Reel’s Drumill Lane Recording Studio, is a lively track designed to get people dancing, with a nod to Elvis’s “blue suede shoes.”

Following her successful debut album “The Waters of Life” (2019) and her EP “Standing Still Feeling Free” (2012), Caroline continues to perform at intimate venues and festivals across Ireland and has played in Amsterdam and Haarlem, The Netherlands. She regularly performs at The Spirit Store and Toales Tavern in Dundalk.

Caroline is also the co-founder of Avocado Rocks, a monthly showcase for independent artists and bands. “As an independent artist, I understand the importance of live performance opportunities. Avocado Rocks provides this platform for others,” she says.

Caroline Reel releases the first of two singles recorded in Skinny Elephant Recording Studio, Nashville, Tennessee on 28th June.

“‘My Old Man’ has a lot of my own father in it but I was also thinking of other peoples’ fathers when I wrote this song. You may well recognise your own Dad in the song.”

With a lovely acoustic folk vibe, Caroline reflects on the simple, yet important aspects of her Dad’s life.

Caroline Reel Facebook

Caroline Reels Instagram

Photo credit: @mayaofthehope

Dublin Songwriting Circle are to host their 6th songwriting feedback and networking event on June 27th in The Black Sheep on Dublin’s Capel Street. The event, inspired by the successful Camden Songwriting Circle in London, looks to create a safe space for Dublin songwriters to present their works in progress and receive supportive and constructive feedback from the audience. Attendees will then be given the opportunity to network with other songwriters and creatives, where they can share advice and discuss whatever they may be struggling with when it comes to their songwriting. Collaboration conversations are also very encouraged.

Talking about the events so far, Dublin Songwriting Circle’s Creative Director and Singer Songwriter, Luke Clerkin said ‘As we hit half a year of Dublin Songwriting Circle, it’s amazing to reflect back on what a beautiful community we’ve created, and the love people have for the safe space that comes with it. We’re very excited for the next half a year as we have so much stuff planned to expand our circle into something even more special.’

Adding to that, Dublin Songwriting Circle social media manager and singer/songwriter Eve (All Things Eve) said “June is Pride Month. This month (and every month, forever), we want to send a specifically warm welcome to the queer people in our community and want to put an emphasis on the countless talented artists coming out of the LGBTQIA+ community. We have established a safe space within our monthly events and would love to share it with you.”

Information:

Dublin Songwriting Circle’s 5th songwriting feedback and networking event will take place at 8 pm on  June 30th downstairs in The Black Sheep on Capel Street.
Sign up for the event is at 7.30 pm, with 15 places only, first come, first served.
You can find more information on Instagram here.

BIO:

Dublin Songwriting Circle is a community of songwriters founded by Dublin based songwriter’s Luke Clerkin, All Things Eve and Navya. Their aim is to provide a safe space for songwriters to share their songs and connect with other like minded souls.

On the eve of its tenth anniversary Stephanie Rainey is bringing her timeless anthem ‘Please Don’t Go’ to a whole new audience as she is set to appear on the upcoming series of America’s Got Talent on June 25, 2024.

Almost 10 years since its first release ‘Please Don’t Go’ has found new audiences with over 8 million Spotify plays and a staggering 40 million combined views on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram since September 2023. In 2015, Stephanie emerged onto the music scene with ‘Please Don’t Go,’ a song born from the depths of her soul, dedicated to her one-year-old nephew, Fionn, who tragically lost his life to meningitis. At a time before ‘going viral’ was even coined, the single reached 5 Million people worldwide on YouTube and Facebook when it was first released.

Six years later, in 2023, ‘Please Don’t Go’ resurfaced, this time thanks to TikTok. The recent resurgence of ‘Please Don’t Go’ catapulted Stephanie to the top of the Singer-Songwriter Chart in Canada, claiming the number 1 spot, and reaching number 2 in the United States. Her heartfelt music also charted on the main iTunes Charts in Ireland, Australia (reaching number 16 on the Main Chart), and the UK (reaching number 31). The outpouring of support online underscores the song’s profound impact, with countless messages attesting to its ability to guide individuals through grief and healing. The accompanying music video, a poignant tapestry of personal tributes, amplifies the song’s universal message of love and loss.

As a result of this recent resurgence Stephanie travelled from Ireland to bring this heart stopping anthem to the America’s Got Talent stage. This audition will air to an audience of 10 million viewers in America alone this June 25. To coincide,  Stephanie unveils a 10th-anniversary version, capturing the essence of resilience and hope anew. This moment marks a pinnacle in her career, offering unparalleled exposure in a territory that has in recent months fallen in love with this song.

The re-release of ‘Please Don’t Go (Steph’s Version)’ on June 22, 2024 follows up the phenomenal success of recent singles ‘Woman’, ‘Remember Who Your Friends Are’, ‘No Cowboy’ and ‘Ross & Rachel’. Stephanie Rainey’s story is one of resilience, connection, and the unbreakable power of music. Her new found TikTok fanbase, with over 27 million views, confirms her anthemic songwriting continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world, proving that music can be a force for healing and unity.

Often compared to the likes of Adele, Dermot Kennedy and Ed Sheeran, Stephanie Rainey possesses a unique voice that is both authentic and honest. Since her breakthrough, Stephanie has amassed over 70 million streams across all her social media platforms and has become one of Ireland’s most played female artists on radio.  Stephanie Rainey’s success in 2021 and 2022, with hit singles like ‘Ross & Rachel,’ ‘No Cowboy,’ ’13,’ and ‘Remember Who Your Friends Are’ also showcased her appeal to a new generation of fans. ‘Remember Who Your Friends Are’ climbed to No.2 in the Irish Breakers Radio Chart and the top 20 Irish Homegrown Chart. These singles were playlisted across national radio stations such as 2FM, RTE Radio 1, iRadio, Beat 102-103, Cork’s 96FM, Today FM, and Northern Ireland’s Cool FM. Stephanie also made her Irish TV debut on Ireland’s prestigious Late Late Show and The Heart of A Saturday Night.

The release of ‘Please Don’t Go (Steph’s Version)’ and her appearance on AGT has sparked Stephanie to revisit her music and fans can expect further releases in the coming months. Watch her audition next Tuesday, June 25 to see how the judges and audience react to Stephanie’s performance of this already groundbreaking song. You can watch it on Peacock TV, YouTube, Tik and Instagram.

Tik Tok / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

“It is a beautiful piece” – TG4

“The artist’s new single is unlike anything out at the moment. Unique isn’t a unique enough word for what Echo Harte brings to the table.” – Hot Press

Echo Harte’s upcoming single ‘Illumination’ is a departure from his Dark Techno vibe, delving into the realm of Alternative-Gospel Rock, with a powerful message of self-belief, self discovery, and embracing one’s inner strength.

‘Illumination’ is a testament to the power of belief, the joy of discovery, and the triumph of following one’s passion. With its release scheduled for July 5th, 2024, on all major music platforms, Echo Harte invites listeners to join him on this exhilarating musical odyssey.

‘Illumination’ promises to uplift listeners with its inspiring lyrics, soothing instrumentation and an infectious energy. The song serves as a love song, offering gratitude to those who inspire creativity and passion in our lives.

Accompanying the release will be a captivating music video, showcasing people engaging in ordinary activities throughout a typical day. This visual
emphasizes the beauty found in the simplicity of human existence.

Echo Harte drew inspiration for ‘Illumination’ during a soul-stirring musical adventure in Paris, where he visited the resting places of legends like Jim
Morrison and Oscar Wilde, while also experiencing the electrifying performances of U2 on consecutive nights.

Reflecting on his own journey, Echo Harte’s story is one of courage and determination. After returning from Paris to a mundane factory job, he was compelled by the trip’s profound impact to make a bold decision—to leave behind the familiar and pursue his musical aspirations with unwavering dedication.

Echo Harte is a dynamic, innovative and experimental musician hailing from Galway City, Ireland. His musical exploration spans an array of genres such as techno, jazz, classical, acoustic folk, punk and country with a core foundation rooted in rock music. Echo’s debut album ‘Masks’ garnered attention for its eclectic sound, and his previous single ‘A Miracle’ is a testament to his ever-evolving creative spirit. Echo Harte’s TikTok has gained a steadily growing and loyal following in the past few months by going live on the social media platform for every gig he performs.

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@echoharte_music
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/echoharte_music
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/EchoHarteMusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1GlXon5Pp3s14dUYzO2wGC
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX8JfBeOO3o6YRUSK4qUl_w

Left on Read are finding a gap in the Irish music market”  – Hot Press

“There’s no doubt that Left on Read are a band poised for a remarkable future” – Fame Magazine

“One of Ireland’s most impressive up-and-coming bands” – ilovelimerick.ie

Indie alt-rockers Left on Read return with their seventh single ‘Making the Moment Count’, a return to the funk inspired indie-rock that they’re known for.

‘Making the Moment Count’ is a fun and upbeat song made to be danced to. It’s proven to be a fan favorite on the live scene with its funky groove, the sort of which you’d get from Mark Ronson, Nile Rogers of Chic or Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

As is customary of the band, it boasts a strong narrative which somewhat contradicts the tone.

“It’s a break-up song,” says Steven, lead singer of the band. “More-so about break-up sex to be honest. I guess sort of a last hurrah for the time spent together. You’ll spot those subtle hints in the lyrics now that I’ve said that!”.

Making the Moment Count is the second release by the band in the same number of weeks with their latin inspired single ‘IDK’ dropping on the 19th of June. “We’ve written a lot of tunes”, says the band. “We’re kinda sick of sitting on them waiting for the right moment to release. The right moment is yesterday, so now will have to do.”

Hailing from Limerick, Ireland, Left on Read began as a series of impromptu jams between friends at sessions and open mics in their city. “It was a no-brainer to start a band with our best mates,” the band recalls. “We were just having so much fun”.

Forming in 2020 with the goal of working on a couple of demos together, the band has developed their sound far beyond those humble beginnings. The band’s love for experimentation has allowed them the opportunity to play with different styles and they already have a huge catalogue of music in their locker ready to call on.

In 2021 the band was awarded Creative Ireland’s ‘Made in Limerick’ Grant, which gave them the opportunity to head into the studio to record their debut. Finally, in July 2022, Left on Read released their debut single ‘Never Enough’, followed by ‘Pick Yourself Up’, ‘Duet’, ‘Most of All’, ‘Dreams’ and ‘IDK’.

‘Making the Moment Count’, the bands 7th single, sees Left on Read return to their roots with a funky indie-rock tune backed by a powerful vocal hook, and it’s proven a big hit on the live circuit.

“Every time we’ve played live this past year people have asked about this track.” the band says. “I guess it’s about time we give them what they’ve been asking for.”

After marking the end of 2022 by being named the recipients of the Dolores O’Riordan Music Award from Limerick City and County Council, Left on Read are ready to capitalise on their work so far with a host of further releases planned for 2024.

“We want them to connect with it” the band says of their listeners, “Not necessarily take our message from our music at face value but to be able to apply it to their own experiences. Most of all we want them to enjoy the tunes and dance, cry or sing along – that’s what they’re there for.”

‘Making the Moment Count’ is available on all streaming platforms July 2nd, 2024

LIVE Shows Announcement:

Sunday June 9^th, Little Whelans, Dublin
Solo Acoustic Show with support from Abe Soare

Suaturday June 15^th, Myo Café, Cork City
Solo Acoustic Show

Thursday June 20^th, De Barras, Clonakilty
Double Bill with Greenshine

Monday July 29^th, Skibbereen Arts Festival, Take Me To The River
A River Cruise Show with Molly O’Mahony

ADT (Alan Daniel Tobin) is a member of Irish band LOWmountain and honorary member of the legendary Interference.  His two solo albums  – Volume I & II – were recorded remotely in his garden cabin, and produced by multi-instrumentalist,  Justin Grounds , from a little room overlooking the beautiful town of Clonakilty, West Cork.

Lives in Carrigaline with his wife, Catherine, and three daughters, Ada Rose, Evie May and Eliza Jean. He also works as a graphic designer, amateur film-maker and photographer.

ADT flexes between the sadness and delight of everyday life. He paints the darkness with atmospheric soundscapes and simple words. Hugely influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, the West Cork landscape and his family, he has a minor obsession with lighthouses.

“It’s bloody masterful… ”
Glen Hansard – The Frames, The Swell Season

Music Videos

Even the Sun don’t shine on lonely hearts in Shadow
https://youtu.be/4c9tHBVEn2Q

From The Eastern Shore
https://youtu.be/3QP00j4TGMU

Mad About You I Am
https://youtu.be/5N_wT8cg9lg

There’s something terrifically trippy about Circles. Think Jefferson Airplane’s psych-pop classic White Rabbit mixed with Sinead O’Connor’s brave melancholy and you’re halfway there. – Tony Clayton-Lea, Irish Times

Circles is the first release from the upcoming debut, and self-titled album, Far Away Blonde (AKA Julie Horton). “This song just seemed to come about: an urgent call for togetherness in a seemingly ever-separated planet”.

“I made the video from the train window – symbolizing this journey of life. Global surveys on Happiness show no surprises – we all want the same thing: love, shelter, peace. It should be easier to pull together, and recognise we are all connected!”

Julie shows how instinctive an arranger she is on Circles, as on all the songs on the album: “Setting up my own studio has given me the opportunity to score for a multitude of instruments — to create sonic landscapes: I love this new freedom”.

The album will be available at the end of the year.

Julie Horton firmly believes that she would not have chosen to pick up a guitar and write songs if she hadn’t moved to Ireland over 20 years ago. In this cultural shift – the sing-songs at gatherings, the sight of instruments casually strewn on house visits, the new found love of intimate gigs (with or without company) –  she absorbed the associations that seeped from the performances of many singers and songwriters, little knowing that such immersion would slowly strengthen her creative reach. 

Under the name of Far Away Blonde, Julie has written a collection of songs that disprove numerous things, one of which is that anyone over the age of 50 might as well give up the ghost when it comes to making art or creating music. Although not a multi-instrumentalist, during the pandemic she set about learning how to master everything she could place her fingertips on, “so that I could go beyond acoustic versions and put as much of myself into each song.” 

Increasing awareness over the past few years of how intuitive a musician and arranger she is, has enabled much more control over her work. You can hear such confidence and proficiency in the music, while you only have to listen to the songs to know that vibrancy, clarity of thought, and human connectivity run through them like words through a stick of rock. Tracks such as Like It’s the First Time, I’ve Travelled Far, Circles, This Love, Come to the River, and All That Fire display everything that is right with song composition and arranging.

Like It’s the First Time comes across as a sweet-voiced Marianne Faithfull diving headfirst into Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks (“In all this tragedy, all this sorrow, all this pain, it’s plain I’m in love with all of this stuff… reachin’ for the rain…” Julie sings as horns and flute filter their way through the lyrics). I’ve Travelled Far is a sublime, tender song that outlines life’s knotty twists and turns without a hint of bitterness (“Nobody’s out, no one’s alone,” Julie discloses, bathed in a warm sonic wash, “we’re all in the light heading home”). Circles is like the spirits of Sinead O’Connor and the Cocteau Twins playing crafty word games with each other (“with a hand upon a beating heart to the rhythm of a song, let’s get along…”), while the song’s simple but effective grace carries it towards the skies. This Love is like tears seeping into silk, a song about how loving oneself is crucial before transferring your heartfelt feelings to someone else (“Every thought’s unchaining me, releasing all that pain in me, it’s something almost heavenly, I swear…”) as Julie’s voice floats over and through it like a will o’ the wisp. The result is a soft beauty that connects with the regret-tinged Superpower, which craves for a time before a multitude of experiential issues got in the way of living an easy life. “If we could talk of each perfect day, we might remember… what lovers say.” 

All of the songs radiate layers of a life lived to the resounding rhythm of a singular drum. Admitting to living life on a different, more forward-thinking level, Julie has fashioned her songs to reflect her maturity, and the desire to live a more examined life. “I remember when I came to Ireland, friends would call me eccentric, explaining that if they phoned this or that girlfriend, she would either be in the pub or shopping, but if they phoned me, I’d probably be in a meadow.”

We are tempted to say that Julie Horton is outstanding in a field of her own (but we won’t). What we will admit is that she is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets just waiting to be uncovered, discovered, downloaded, absorbed, and praised.

+++++

Julie Horton’s debut single, Circles is released on June 28th.

Watch the video here: Far Away Blonde – Circles (youtube.com)

Stay connected with Far Away Blonde here:

Far Away Blonde Website

Instagram: http://instagram.com/farawayblondemusic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farawayblondemusic
You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFMdA-pqEdVr-Yyx1upW2tA
X: https://x.com/FarAwayBlonde

“RTE 2FM TRACK OF THE WEEK WITH SINGLE CAN’T SAY I LOVE YOU” – RTE 2FM 

“Americana-twinged ‘Let Me Be’- the singer’s Taylor Swift’s influences on full display in impressive fashion.” – Hot Press Magazine

“Taylor D’s latest offering resonates with fans as a testament to her artistic growth and versatility. With its blend of infectious melodies and introspective lyricism, “Can’t Say I Love You” reaffirms Taylor D’s status as a dynamic force in the contemporary music landscape.” – Pure M Zine Magazine 

Taylor D is an incredible singer-songwriter and musician who has been making waves in the music world. With multiple awards under her belt, including being named “First Choice Radio UK Artist of the Year” in 2022 and 2023, Taylor’s talent has been recognized globally. Also achieving remarkable milestones, such as winning the Irish Youth Music Awards in 2021 and the President Gaisce Award for Music in 2022. Taylor D’s songs have also been featured on various radio stations worldwide, solidifying her presence in the industry and position as Irish Queen Of Alt-Pop

Her music has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Coming from Dublin, Ireland, Taylor D’s pop music knows no boundaries. She takes inspo from artists like Taylor Swift and The Arctic Monkeys, which gives her a unique sound. She’s performed at renowned venues and events such as Whelans, The Workman’s Club, A Sold out Sugar Club, Riverfest Music Festival, Irish Youth Music Awards National Day, and many more.With her impressive track record and unique sound, Taylor D is definitely an artist to keep an eye on as she continues to soar to greater heights in her musical journey.

Taylor D is back with another incredible single after the massive success of “Can’t Say I Love You” which gained positions in major spotify editorial playlists such as All New Rock and It’s A Hit.  This time, Taylor D is taking us on a thrilling journey into a Pop Rock vibe with her latest track, “Let Me Be.” Brace yourself for a musical experience like no other as this pop rock-infused gem hooks you right from the start. The powerful chorus, fueled by heavy synths and booming electric guitars, will have you singing along in no time. And let’s not forget about the hints of desire that create an irresistible and passionate atmosphere throughout the song. Get ready to be captivated!

Twitter     Instagram     Spotify

Dublin singer-songwriter Nadia Desree returns with her vibrant new pop-offering ‘Falling’ in line with Irish Pride Month ahead of the Dublin Pride March and Parade. Opening with ambient soundscapes infused by clever production before the delivery of Nadia’s instantly catchy vocal over a rich piano loop, the track builds in tension towards a sharp pause. What follows is a powerful chorus packed with a cathartic release of emotion over a driving rhythm section that flips the tracks energy into an uplifting & inspiring message of strength.

Exploring the opposing themes of connection & distraction, with its infectious melodies & meaningful lyrics, this catchy pop track captures a blend of emotions covering isolation, loss and battling through with positive intent.

Never afraid to explore the challenging emotions that are part of the human experience & known for her unique abilities of being able to bring internal struggle to the fore through her art, Nadia showcases a more colorful sound with ‘Falling’ than that of her previous release ‘Hold On’, which garnered widespread support across Irish media & radio, amassing 250,000 radio impressions since it’s release in March. The new single is a testament to her versatility as an artist while cultivating her own signature sound that listeners can connect with on a deeper level.

Speaking of the story behind the song, Nadia said “Falling was crafted from a sense of being lost, while trying to navigate the emotions that arise when facing that feeling; the battle between seeking solace within myself & looking for distraction from others”

Nadia Desree is a Dublin based singer-songwriter and mental health advocate. With the pandemic bringing the world to a halt in 2020 in line with her Graduation from BIMM with an Honours Degree in songwriting, this allowed Nadia the time & space to craft her sound, which at its’ core combines catchy melodies with empowering messages. With her soulful voice & heartfelt lyrics, her intent is to uplift & inspire through her art.

At this early stage in her career, the 26 year old Dublin native has already shared the stage with legendary Irish artists such as Damien Dempsey and Aslan, performed at Electric Picnic & was selected to take part in Three’s ‘City Stages’ which showcases the best of in the next generation of Irish musicians.

With a number of self-penned releases in her locker – the first of which “Falling” released in March 2024 – Nadia has already garnered a name for herself as one to watch & is performing regularly on the gig circuit in Dublin showcasing what’s to come. Falling marks the next chapter in this journey – join her.

Falling is released today, Friday June 21st.

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH NADIA
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