Author: Zoé Piater

SWELTR, the dynamic two-piece music ensemble, are set to release their 5th single, “About’Chu” on the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day, February 14th.

Wrapped in intricate lyricism, the song’s melody unfolds with captivating guitar and rhythmic drums. Navigating the delicate balance between outward appearances and unspoken thoughts, it paints a vivid picture of inner complexities.

With a captivating chorus echoing the sentiment “About’Chu” the lyrics capture the yearning to express personal emotions and thoughts Through its repetition, it gains a poignant quality, accentuating the central theme of self-understanding. The bridge dynamically transforms, intensifying the music from the chorus into a heavier sonic landscape, metaphorically addressing a situation where “the lights are on but nobody’s home.” This evocative imagery suggests a sense of emotional detachment, adding a layer of depth to the overall narrative.

In the outro, SWELTR guides listeners through a resonant journey as the repeated echoes of “About’Chu” create a rhythmic conclusion. These final heavy notes serve as a melodic reflection, inviting a deep connection with the emotions expressed throughout the song and as the intensity swells at the end, adds a raw and powerful layer to the evolving emotional climax. “About’Chu” is more than just a song; it’s an exploration of the multifaceted aspects of human connection and the intricate emotions that accompany it.

ABOUT SWELTR

SWELTR, the Dublin-based DIY rock duo who exploded onto the scene in October 2022 with their debut single “What’s It Gonna Be?”. Crafted from a mosaic of vibrant childhood memories, whacky teenage escapades, and threads of the complexities of adult life, SWELTR has cultivated a distinctive and powerful sound that commands your attention.

Taking in the punk scene in Ireland, Noel and Tony are reshaping the genre by reintroducing grunge into the contemporary music landscape. Drawing from a diverse range of influences and personal experiences between them, they skillfully incorporate these elements into their sound, providing a unique musical experience that reconnects audiences with the raw
energy of the genre in this new era.

Tony Keyes from Blanchardstown, the creative force behind SWELTR, skillfully shapes the sonic landscape. Utilising an impressive guitar pedal and multi-amp setup, he masterfully simulates bass tones while seamlessly composing intricate guitar melodies into the band’s tunes. His grunge-style vocals, accentuated by a distinct Dublin flair, demand attention, delivering a mix of metaphors and slang that invites listeners into a world of intriguing stories and powerful messages.

Noel Dempsey from Finglas, the rhythmic heartbeat of SWELTR, plays a pivotal role in shaping the sound. Serving as the driving force, he crafts the necessary rhythm that breathes life into the band’s musical expression. Drawing on a self-taught skill, Noel skillfully creates beats that linger in the memory, forming the pulsating heartbeat that propels the essence of their songs with an unmistakable energy and resonance.

As a DIY band still in its infancy, SWELTR has achieved significant milestones, including an interview and front-cover feature in the September 2023 issue of Totally Dublin. Looking ahead to 2024, there’s plenty in store for their growing fan base. Anticipate the release of their debut EP, more unforgettable gigs, and undisclosed features that are currently under wraps, creating an air of suspense and excitement. Together, Tony and Noel are an unstoppable musical momentum.

Don’t miss out on their fifth single, “About’Chu” releasing on Valentine’s Day, 14th February, 2024.

Connect with SWELTR here: https://linktr.ee/sweltrband 

Purveyors of alternative rock, Limerick (Ireland) based trio Raging Sons arrived in 2021 with their critically acclaimed debut album titled ‘20:20’; dubbed “a fire starter” by Hot Press Magazine. This followed a string of ear-catching singles, including RTÉ 2FM’s Track Of The Week ‘Breathe Easy’, which collectively amassed 200K+ streams on Spotify, despite the band being a completely independent outfit.

The Treaty City ensemble made up of Fint Tynan (vocal/guitar), Colum Kelly (guitar/bass) & Adam Reeves (drums/percussion) have been playing together since the inception of Raging Sons in 2018, artistically inspired by bands like Muse, Smashing Pumpkins and Nothing But Thieves.

Described as “melodious and avant-garde” by Sound Read Six, the inaugural ‘20:20’ fittingly showcases their unique sound: a medley of dark, enigmatic synth, roaring guitars, driving bass and powerful drums all forming a hurricane around mercurial and absorbing vocals; full of energy, angst, stoicism, heart, and honesty.

2023 saw the release of ‘Talk’, the bands much anticipated first single since their debut album. ‘Talk’, a representation of a journey back to their youth, garnered much national interest and was named as a Spin South West Track Of The Week. Following a busy summer festival run which saw the trio on bills with the likes of Basement Jaxx, The Academic and The Stunning.

Raging Sons released their second single of the year: ‘Feel Love’, met with similar acclaim. ‘Black Room’, set for release in March 2024, will be their third successive single and thematically follows suit, exploring an autobiographical journey back to childhood.

ABOUT THE TRACK

In keeping with the thematic spirit of Raging Sons’ recent singles,’Talk’ and ‘Feel Love,’ their upcoming release, ‘Black Room,’ unfolds as an expressive autobiographical journey delving into the youth of songwriter Fint Tynan. The narrative traces his upbringing in a tumultuous and rebellious household in Limerick City, Ireland, spanning the 90s and 00s.

The lyrical journey encapsulates the evolution from navigating the chaos of a formative environment to the process of self-discovery and independent decision-making. ‘Black Room’ explores various facets of this journey—from the influence of religion and the dynamics of education to the desire to embrace the freedom of staying out late into the night. The track meanders through the intricate thoughts and emotions of a child navigating adolescence, ultimately emerging on the other side of this transformative period.

‘Black Room’ serves as a contemplative gaze into the past, addressing the ghosts that linger in the memories of youth. The song encapsulates the universal experience of grappling with one’s identity and choices during the turbulent years of adolescence, offering listeners a nostalgic and introspective musical journey.

Musically, ‘Black Room’ attacks with weight and darkness, showcasing the signature elements that define the sound of the Limerick trio. The track unleashes a relentless assault of vox-y guitar riffs, commanding drums, and enigmatic vocals, solidifying the band’s distinctive musical identity. The marriage of these elements creates a powerful and immersive sonic experience, reinforcing Raging Sons’ penchant for delivering intense and evocative songs.

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Limerick singer, songwriter, and electronic producer Rory Hall—better known as Proper Micro NV —debuts his new single ‘Forever’ today, 12th February, 2024 via Strange Brew , along with the accompanying music video, which premieres at 10am on YouTube.

Hall says of the single: “‘Forever’ fairly reflects the kind of house music I love and listen to. Pure, honest, deep, and dark house music with a bit of grit to it. I wrote it about a year ago with the dance floor in mind. I’m really proud of it. I filmed the video on the floor covered in old paper because why not?”

Hall’s releases have been hailed and played by BBC Radio , Nialler9 , Dan Hegarty & Jenny Greene of RTÉ 2fm , The Irish Times , Hot Press , The Last Mixed Tape , and Clash Magazine , who described his music as “dazzling.” His first LP, Dormant Boy , was released in 2018. The record was lauded by Nialler9 as “surprisingly fully formed for a debut release” and ranked among their best albums of 2018. The Limerick Post proclaimed Dormant Boy a “lavish and joyous electronic production.” With this in mind, it’s no surprise that he was listed as a Whelan’s Ones to Watch artist in both 2018 and 2019.

Since the project’s creation, Proper Micro NV has performed at various venues and festivals throughout Ireland and the UK including Electric Picnic, Body & Soul, Latitude, Castlepalooza, Whelan’s, Dolan’s, Roisin Dubh, The Workmans, and more. Hall’s electronic, dance-driven, and theatrical shows have turned heads across the island and abroad.

From 2021 to 2023, Hall took the stage in front of an energetic London crowd, performing a live show in Shoreditch and Stoke Newington on the same night; enjoyed festival performances at Fall Right In To Place festival (2022, 2023) on the grounds of Claregalway Castle; and landed special guest slots for both Gemma Dunleavy and HousePlants in Limerick. Last year, he released his single ‘Never Go On,’ which Nialler9 praised for sounding “like Jamie Lidell singing on a blissed-out dance track.”

Following on from his widely praised 2018 debut record Dormant Boy , Hall will soon announce details of more brand new music.

Connect with Proper Micro NV:

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The new single “Alive”  is a testament to Becky McNeice’s prowess as a songwriter, producer, and performer. 

Belfast, February 12th – The singer-songwriter and producer Becky McNeice announces the release of her latest single “Alive”, set to drop on February 15th. Becky promises to captivate her listeners with the new single, merging poignant lyricism with a fusion of emotional pop and Jersey club music.

Penned by McNeice herself, “Alive” delves into the struggle of seeking fulfilment in relationships, either because of a need for emotional stimulation or a fear of monotony. With raw honesty and poetic lyrics, Becky explores the temptation of doing things just for the thrill of sensation.

What makes the track unique is its seamless blend of genres. Produced by Becky McNeyce in collaboration with Eulogy Beats, “Alive” combines the vulnerability of emotional pop with the pulsating energy of Jersey club music. Described as “sad music you can dance to,” “Alive” invites listeners to immerse themselves in its emotive rhythms and introspective lyrics.

In a statement about the inspiration behind creating “Alive”, McNeice shares:

“Creating all the aspects of my music is an empowering and liberating journey; it allows me to translate my musical tastes and inspirations and craft a more unique and personal sonic identity. Alive is particularly significant to me because it embodies this journey of self-expression and musical exploration. Through Alive I not only share my emotions and experiences but also assert my artistic vision, showcasing a sound that is authentically me.”

Becky McNeice is a singer-songwriter known for her expressive vocals and introspective lyricism. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the world around her, McNeice creates music that resonates with listeners on a profound level. With a diverse musical background and a passion for storytelling, McNeice continues to push boundaries and evolve as an artist, captivating audiences with her authenticity and vulnerability.

“Alive” will be available on all major streaming platforms on February 15th. Pre-Save here: Alive (lnk.to)

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‘Colour Me Pink’ is the latest single by singer songwriter Kelley Brassington (K E L). This was produced by Daniel De Barca in JeJune Studios and Mixed as well as Adam O Leary. This is an upbeat, energetic dream/ bubblegum pop track that describes the feeling you get when you’re first falling in love with someone new. The lyrics explores the apprehensiveness that is conflicted with the butterflies of excitement.

This song is inspired by the likes of Dodie Clarke and Leanna Firestone. This track shows another side to K E L as an artist who usually gravitates towards indie RnB styles of singing and writing. Following on from her debut release ‘Sweet Temptation’, it was important to celebrate and explore a queer relationship in a mainstream way.

“When I was growing up as a young queer kid in Ireland in the 2000’s, love wasn’t celebrated in a way that I understood. This is the kind of song I needed when I was growing up. A celebration of young love”

K E L Instagram

Renowned singer-songwriter Larissa Tormey is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of her second single under her new pop persona, LARA V. Following her remarkable foray into the pop music scene in March 2023, Larissa has been diligently crafting a diverse catalogue of pop songs through her participation in the DWB Publishing (UK) songwriting mentorship course.

Having immersed herself in co-writing for the past 10 months, Larissa has successfully compiled an extensive collection of pop compositions, showcasing her versatility as an artist. These songs have been recorded not only by Larissa herself but also by various talented vocalists, with submissions made to pop record labels globally.

However, Larissa’s musical journey does not end there. With an unwavering love for folk and singer-songwriter genres, Larissa continues to release music under her original brand established in 2014—Larissa Tormey. Her recent release, “In The Bleak Midwinter,” earned recognition from Hot Press magazine, securing a spot on The Best Irish Songs and The Best Irish Christmas Songs playlists at the close of 2023.

Under her pop pseudonym LARA V, Larissa is thrilled to present her latest creation, “Rose Colored World,” a song written by Larissa herself and produced by the exceptionally talented EDM producer Bram Meester from the Netherlands. Reflecting on the genesis of the track, Larissa shares, “I initially wrote ‘Rose Colored World’ as a topline with the intention of pitching it to EDM DJs. However, as the song took shape, it became evident that it was a profound reflection of my own positivity, and I knew I had to record and release it myself. I also love making my own videos, and this time I am releasing a very funky pop art video with footage literally filmed on my phone! It was such fun to make it together with my daughter as my filmographer!”

“Rose Colored World” is released February 9th on all major streaming platforms. Larissa Tormey invites her fans and music enthusiasts alike to embark on this vibrant and uplifting musical journey with her as she continues to navigate the diverse landscapes of both pop and folk genres.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/RDFfXW-J1h8

Irish punk funk outfit Def Nettle unleash their wild card debut album DN001 today, 9th February, 2024 , along with focus track ‘Don’t’ . Led by vocalist and producer Glen Brady , DN001 brings together the live band and many other musical contributors in a fiery and emotional mix of lyricism and punk rock attitude, built over solid funk and indie grooves.

There is a distinctly eclectic feel to the music that comes together consistently with Brady’s mixture of “arresting baritone,” as per the Irish Times , combined with his spoken word and almost rap-like deliveries. Sprinkled throughout the album are hard-hitting verses and choruses with co-vocalist Lisa Doyle , whose sharp Dublin tones jump out at the listener with gritty authenticity.

Often hailed as multi-genre and stylistically unpredictable, the storytelling and poetic vision in the lyrics reflect Brady’s broad life experiences. Bombastic anthems like ‘The Pills’ have an air of tragedy and reflection that is brought centre stage on ‘Four Years’ . The latter track delves into femicide, specifically the murder of Brady’s ex-girlfriend.

Brady says of ‘Four Years’: “This is an honest and intense ballad of lost love, death and the injustice of violence against women but it’s also an expression of angst, frustration and helplessness within modern masculinity. It’s a tale of the profound impact that the murder of my ex had on me and the personal transformation that came in the aftermath of that event. While not being overtly political, there’s a feeling within the album of disenchantment with modern society, the role of artist and the commercialization of our lives.” 

Songs like ‘God’s Trainers’ and ‘Piss Take’ rail against these same issues while still being introspective and examining the trials and tribulations of creating art. Addiction and recovery come to the fore on the abrasive yet dreamily personal penultimate track ‘German Cars’ .

The guitars range from melodic goth and alternative melodies like on 2022 single ‘Architecture’ (which stayed at #2 on the German Indie charts for 8 weeks) to more aggressive rock tones reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age, such as on tracks ‘Invisible’ (played by Grouse frontman Ronan Carroll ) and the resonance of opener ‘Don’t’ .  There’s also a distinctly proto-punk feel to much of the album’s guitars with harsh skate rock vibes, as heard on their debut single ‘The Pills’ (guitars by Dan Donnelly of The Levellers) and recent single ‘Boat Race’ (guitars by Greg Earl of Californian skate punk heroes Cement Eater).  Indie tones are apparent throughout the record, with much contribution from collaborator Joe Donegan .

Bass duties on ‘War Machine’ are instantly recognizable as being played by recently deceased guitarist Andy Rourke of The Smiths , whom Glen worked with on the D.A.R.K. album with The Cranberries’ legendary chanteuse, Dolores O’Riordan (RIP). Guitars on ‘War Machine’ are played by Graeme Slattery (The Devlins, Boy in Cords), who brings a softer vision to the album with hints of Talk Talk and even Prefab Sprout. Some tracks use synth bass, but overall live bass duties are taken care of by band member Ely Siegel , whose liquid yet funky and distorted basslines tie together the diverse styles displayed on the record.

Brady’s years as a DJ and producer in electronic music and his interest in the world of analog and modular synths is also unmistakeable throughout the album, at times setting a melancholy juxtaposition to driving arpeggios and energetic keyboard lines.

The majority of the live drums are played by Jay Oglesby , well known as one of the busiest session drummers in Ireland and as a founding member of Liquid Wheel. Combined with Brady’s hip-hop and punk based production techniques, the drums on DN001 have a boom-bap quality while still retaining speed, innovation and variation.

DN001 is an album that combines many eras of rock, punk, hip-hop, alternative and electro music with a rich tradition of storytelling, tragedy and the brevity of artistic life (and human life in general). It’s no wonder that The Sunday Independent labeled Brady as sounding like “a punk Tom Waits rapping over Primal Scream” , but it’s hard to miss the influences of bands like The The, Public Enemy, Joy Division and The Butthole Surfers, as well. Eclectic indeed.

DEF NETTLE – DN001
FRIDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2024
TRACK LIST

1. Don’t
2. The Pills
3. Invisible
4. Boat Race
5. God’s Trainers
6. Four Years
7. Piss Take
8. Architecture
9. German Cars
10. War Machine feat. Andy Rourke

Connect with Def Nettle 

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19-year-old Bea and Her Business is quickly becoming one of the great new hopes of the UK pop scene. Led by the single ‘Born To Be Alive’, her debut EP ‘Introverted Extrovert’ has already exceeded 42 million streams and resulted in her first airplay at Radio 1. Now Bea builds upon her flying momentum by sharing the new single ‘Me Against My Head’. Teasers for the track has already ignited anticipation, with 2.5 million views on TikTok alone and over 10,000 pre-saves.

A beautifully stripped back piano ballad, ‘Me Against My Head’ finds Bea opening up her inner most insecurities for the world to see. The exquisite, expressive tone of her vocal dares to share those vulnerabilities which so many people face: from body confidence issues to questions of self-doubt in social settings. And yet in spite of its challenging subject matter, it’s a song that possesses the honesty to inspire others. You might be struggling with such thoughts, but it’s entirely normal and natural to feel that way.

Bea says, “I am so excited to share my new single ‘Me Against My Head’ with you all. It paints the brutal relationship that I have had with myself and my body over my teenage years and I think in writing the song, it has allowed me to come to terms with it all a little bit more. Please be warned, it might rip your heart from your chest but it’s worth it, I promise. I can’t wait to hear what you all think!

Bea wrote ‘Me Against My Head’ with the track’s producer, the Grammy and Ivor Novello winner Fraser T. Smith (Adele, Sam Smith).

‘Me Against My Head’ emerges as Bea prepares to play just her second headline show at London’s Lafayette on April 9^th after selling out her debut headline gig at Omeara late last year, while her first European tour has also just been announced. Her first public performance was on one of the biggest stages imaginable: in front of 100,000 people at a festival in Oslo. That moment also coincided with her first international breakthrough as she landed a Top 50 hit in the Nordics.

Bea started writing songs in childhood. Her ability to capture honest observations and a little caustic humour from universal coming-of-age experiences reflects her early admiration of Lily Allen, while Lana Del Rey and Olivia Rodrigo are two of her current inspirations. But her influences go beyond personal experiences with a particular interest in the art of poetry, most significantly from Leonard Cohen and Kate Bingham. Bea’s first social media following came with her expressive cover versions, but her own songs have forged a much deeper connection with fans.

Her upcoming tour dates are listed below and tickets are available HERE:

APRIL

9^th – London, Lafayette
10^th – Paris, Point Éphémère
11^th – Amsterdam, Bitterzoet
14^th – Cologne, Yuca
15^th – Berlin, Maschinenhaus
17^th – Oslo, Parktreatret
18^th – Copenhagen, Hotel Ceci

Follow Bea and her Business:

Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Website

Driven Snow are thrilled to announce the release of their début album, “A Kind Of Dreaming”, (Driven Snow Music / FIFA Records) on 9 February 2024. It will be available on strictly limited Sea Blue heavyweight vinyl (with a Band-Made Colouring Book), CD and Digital.

The band, the songs and, ultimately, the album began slowly and tentatively during lockdown, Kieran explains:

“Songs were mostly written at night in our back room in the depths of the lockdown while the kids were fast asleep. We started to record whatever songs we sang to them at night, staying up recording little demos of pop songs on a 4-track. One night, just for fun, we wrote an original song and over the months we built up a handful that we liked.”

“As soon as there was an opportunity, we headed up with the family (and the grandparents) to our friend Tommy McLaughlin’s Attica Studios in Donegal to record a couple of songs, just for ourselves. Excited by the results and the reactions of friends we wrote more, and made more trips until suddenly we had a collection of songs that told a story of who we are, what we care about and how we were developing as a family. And the process (writing quietly in the shadows of a back room at night) felt like a kind of dreaming…”

Meanwhile from early 2022 Kieran and Emily (whose musical careers grew, respectively in Delorentos and Republic Of Loose) had begun to make their songs available as they were recorded. “Trying”, “Sunlight” and “Flickers Of You” led the way offering gentle, poignant melodies and instrumentation, bolstered with electronic swathes wrapped up in lyrical tales that told their story and the stories of the people who surrounded them. 2023 brought two more releases and their first tentative live shows.

Which brings us to the here and now. Driven Snow’s début album of dreamy pop and the announcement of the first dates of their album tour.

“It’s so exciting to see the songs we’ve been working away on grow into a full album – and then be able to release them in a physical form. We just can’t wait for people to hear it now!”

“A Kind Of Dreaming” will be available as:

• LP: A limited edition of 250 copies pressed on Sea Blue coloured heavyweight vinyl in 300gsm Matt Artboard cover with a 150gsm Matt Artboard insert.

*Plus a band-made colouring book with illustrations based on the the album and its songs
*Also: download code and 3 songs made available instantly on purchase.

• CD: A limited edition of 250 copies packaged in an Digifile Wallet
• Digital

Opening with a soulful guitar riff over a bedrock of slick production before the smooth delivery of an emotive and captivating vocal, Hold On speaks to personal struggles with self-identify and uncertainty. With dream-like soundscapes & intricate electronic percussion, this empowering pop anthem builds towards an uplifting & cathartic release that will connect with listeners on a personal level. With its’ infectious melodies & hopeful message, the track serves as a beacon of light for those who might be struggling – particularly at this time of year where many people find mental health struggles magnified – & will resonate with those who feel isolated & may not realise that they’re not alone.

Speaking of the story behind the song, Nadia said “While the main message in the song speaks to resilience and hope, the story of it channels my own struggles, feelings of uncertainty and battles with my personal identity. These are backed with positive intent in the knowledge & belief that things will get better.”

– ABOUT THE ARTIST –

Nadia Desree is a Dublin based singer-songwriter. 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.

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 the Electric Picnic festival & was recently selected to take part in Three’s ‘City Stages’ which showcases the best of in the next generation of Irish musicians.

Now, with a number of self-penned releases scheduled for 2024, Nadia Desree is ready to share her music with the world. With her passion, drive, and unwavering determination, she is set to become a rising name in the Irish music scene over the coming months.

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