Month: August 2020

Irish pop newcomer Robert Grace releases the video to his hit single ‘Fake Fine’ via Sony Music Germany/RCA Records. ‘Fake Fine’ was released last month and marked Robert’s first release with Sony Music Germany/RCA Records.

In the video to ‘Fake Fine’, Robert Grace sarcastically talks about the inner and outer disguises we put on for self-protection. Including real life facemasks, a minimum distance, and the will to once again be yourself. The video is directed by Nathan Barlow.

Robert says, “The idea behind this music video was to shed some more light on mental health. To show in a slightly light hearted way that there really is no quick fix for depression or anxiety. Happiness isn’t easy for everyone (especially at the moment!) and I don’t think enough people realize that!“

“The song is about acting like you’re fine when really you’re not,” Robert says, explaining the story behind ‘Fake Fine’. “When it’s all just pretending. The situation itself might not even be that bad, but, for some reason, something just isn’t right and you try to find out why that is.” It’s a topic with which the Irish songwriter, musician, and producer from Graignamanagh, Kilkenny perfectly captures the zeitgeist of this day and age. In true Irish storytelling fashion, Grace discusses the somewhat hazy feeling of being beside oneself. Of somehow finding yourself in the wrong movie, which ends up being about yourself, and hiding behind a mask in order to not have to reveal your true feelings. The irony of course being that masks play an especially important role these days – a fact that marvelously aligns with Robert’s clip to ‘Fake Fine’, in which he moves somewhere between sheer sarcasm, black humor, and the bittersweet hope for a better life. The track peaked at #1 at the Spotify viral charts in his home country Ireland, is currently at #3 on the Shazam charts, and on #25 in the Irish airplay charts. And also over in the US it’s only a matter of time until ‘Fake Fine’ will find its way into the hearts and ears of listeners!

Already his previous single ‘Be Your Friend’ made it into the New Music Friday playlist on Spotify UK, was on rotation on Irish radio, and became track of the week on 2FM’s Breakfast Show. While still in the process of being written, ‘Fake Fine’ already reached over 700,000 views on TikTok and within only seven weeks, over 160,000 followers subscribed to him. Robert Grace has developed into a highly sought-after songwriter who has written tracks with Dan McDougall (The Wanted, The Shires), Blair MacKichan (Paloma Faith/Sia/Lily Allen) and Josh Wilkinson (One Direction/5 Seconds of Summer). The track before that, ‘Moving Fast’, was track of the week on 2FM and his song ‘The Good Place’ made it into the influential Easy-Playlist on Spotify. The singer / songwriter from Kilkenny has also performed at Ireland’s biggest festivals, including Electric Picnic and Indiependence and has written songs with some of UK’s most reputable songwriters.

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Irish artist Stano has been a recording artist and composer since the early ’80s. With 9 albums (released on Berlin label ‘Dossier’, Independent labels ‘Hue’ and ‘Loscann’ and the debut album for U2’s Mother Records), numerous singles and film soundtracks to his credit. He is regarded as a true innovator, with an intense understanding of sonic structure.

Stano has always been known for pushing boundaries and being ahead of his time. The re-release by Dublin’s All City Records in October 2018 of his debut album ‘Content to Write in I Dine Weathercraft’ (1983) really brought this to the fore, with UK publications Quietus Magazine, Boomkat, and DJ Magazine, shining a light on Stano’s influence citing the current crop of new Irish bands Fontaines DC, Girl Band, Murder Capital.

Following on from All City’s 2018 repress of Stano’s debut album, the store’s off-shoot label, AllChival, is delighted to present an Anthology of Stano’s productions spanning the start of his solo career in 1982, to his 1994 ‘Wreckage’ LP, due out on Record Store Day, September 24th. Featuring 18 tracks from the five LPs he released in that time span on double vinyl with extensive liner notes, it is a comprehensive look at one of Ireland’s more enigmatic musical characters.

Stano says: “When I’m recording an album I’m totally focused on it and when it’s finished I don’t really think about it anymore, my focus turns to the next one.

The anthology has encouraged me to look back at not just the body of work, 15 albums since 1982 but to those early days of being a young punk in Dublin, the freedom and excitement of the time. Searching out the old reviews and the posters of all the gigs here and in London and remembering the great musicians and performance artists I’ve shared a stage with.  Truly exciting times.

It’s been an amazing experience and a surprise to me that we could only fit 1982 – 94 on the double vinyl. I suppose I’ve underestimated the quantity of work I’ve produced over the years.  Now I’m really looking forward to Volume 2 which will include tracks from number 16 which is being cooked in the studio at the moment.”

This anthology shows the depth and breadth of Stano’s musical history. He never repeats himself from album to album or song to song. Always an outsider, his significance and influence are finally getting the recognition he so justly deserves. Because his music was never part of any scene, it remains timeless.

‘Stano – Anthology’ is released on AllChival for Record Store Day, September 26^th, 2020, via AllChival – a dedicated reissue label of Irish sounds from the past, which has previously released compilations of Irish jazz, disco & rock as well as LP’s from Roger Doyle’s Operating Theatre, Michael O’Shea & Cork’s Five Go Down To The Sea.

Pre-order Stano’s Anthology 1982-1994 here: https://stano.bandcamp.com/album/anthology

Christy Moore has re-released his ‘Live In Dublin’ and ‘The Iron Behind the Velvet’ albums digitally remasteredd on LP (180g Vinyl) and CD.

Just over 40 years since Christy Moore released ‘Live in Dublin’ the re-issue will be out on multiple formats CD and Vinyl.  With Christy Moore at the helm of this project for his inate musical virtuosity, the second release, also features ‘John O Dreams’ which previously did not make it onto the original vinyl album ‘The Iron Behind The Velvet’. The sleeve and label are exact replicas of the original issues.

Padraig Jack releases his new single ‘Minnie’ on 24^th August. ‘Minnie’ is taken from his upcoming album ‘Making Sand’ which will be released in September, after its original April release date was postponed. ‘Minnie’ was released in the UK last October to excellent reviews and lots of airplay, with BBC Radio Leeds saying that it’s an, “absolutely lovely song…Padraig is going on to great things,” BBC West Midlands saying Padraig has a, “beautiful voice,” and Boogaloo Radio commenting that it’s a, “stunning track…can’t wait for more.”

Padraig composed the song on a stormy winter night in Aran a few years ago. It was the first song he recorded with legendary music producer John Reynolds (Sinéad O’Connor, Damien Dempsey, Shane McGowan) who went on to produce Padraig’s album. ‘Minnie’ tells the story of a woman who has lost her way in life and is trapped in a loveless marriage. When she ends up in a whirlwind affair with a younger man he reminds her that there can be joy in life and that it’s not too late to “reignite her spark.” Eventually they part ways after a passionate evening under a Galway sunset, and Minnie seeks and eventually finds lasting love.

Padraig Jack is from a musical family from the Aran Islands, ten miles off the west coast of Ireland. His dad is bilingual songwriter Barry Ronan and he is the nephew of the Irish poet and Aosdána member Mary O’Malley. Like his father, Padraig is proudly bilingual and writes music in both Irish and English. With influences ranging from James Taylor and The Eagles to Van Morrison and Shane McGowan, Padraig appreciates strong songwriting with a distinct point of view. He might describe his music as a mix between R.E.M. and Sinead O’Connor.

Although playing live is usually a huge part of Padraig’s career, he has had to postpone tours in the UK, Ireland, Germany and France in recent months (no prizes for guessing what the cause of that is!). However in October and November he will be playing with Damien Dempsey at five dates around the country (see below), as well as a couple of solo gigs, so if you want to catch Padraig in his true element, tickets are available through the usual outlets. For those who can’t travel to see him, Padraig will be livestreaming a concert in the coming weeks, so keep an eye on www.padraigjack.com and his social media feeds for further details.

Sat. 12 Sep.          Westport Town Hall, Co Mayo  (solo concert)
Sun. 27 Sep          Online Stream Event – Album Launch (tickets on www.padraigjack.com)
Wed. 30 Sep.       Joe Wattys, Cill Rónán, Co Galway  (solo concert)
Sat. 03 Oct.          Asgard Theatre, Arklow, Co Wicklow  (solo concert)
Sun. 9Oct             Róisín Dubh, Galway (solo concert)
Fri. 30 Oct.           Maritime, Bantry (with Damien Dempsey)
Sun. 1 Nov            The Venue, Ratoath (with Damien Dempsey)
Sat. 14 Nov           Judge Roy Beans, Newbridge (with Damien Dempsey)
Fri. 20 Nov            Crescent Concert Hall, Drogheda (with Damien Dempsey)
Sat. 21 Nov           The Haven Hotel, Waterford (with Damien Dempsey)

Dublin duo We Cut Corners release ‘Muscle Memory EP’ on Friday 28th August on Irish Independent label Delphi. The title track, ‘Muscle Memory’ is another irresistible offering from the band, which they succinctly describe as ‘a treatise on separation anxiety’.   

The band’s work across four albums has consistently drawn praise and attracted multiple nominations for Irish  album of the year.  ‘Muscle Memory EP’ is We Cut Corners’ first release since their 4th album ‘Imposters’ in 2018.   

The two-piece have carved out an enviable reputation for their critically acclaimed, lyrically rich songs over the release of four albums. ‘Muscle Memory’ will be serviced to radio in the UK and Ireland, and a video for the track will go live on Social Media week of release. 

We Cut Corners are guitarist/vocalist John Duignan and drummer/vocalist Conall Ó Breachain. The dynamic drum/guitar combination, and the blending of powerful, unique vocal harmonies is principal to their success. 

FACEBOOK:facebook.com/wecutcorners
TWITTER:twitter.com/wecutcorners
WEBSITE:www.wecutcorners.net 
DELPHI LABEL:www.delphilabel.com/home

Jerry Fish releases ‘True Friends’ feat. RTÉ Concert Orchestra & Friends in aid of A Lust For Life on 4^th September

The single features Imelda May, MayKay, Loah, Kodaline, Steve Wall, Mundy, Hudson Taylor, Roisin O, Soule, Celine Byrne, Angeline Ball, Samantha Mumba, Una Healy, Walking On Cars, Emma Langford, Cliona Hagan, Gemma Sugrue, Lisa McHugh and Daniel O’Donnell. Mixed by Damien Chennells.

Jerry Fish is over the moon to announce the release of this truly wonderful and unique version of ‘True Friends’ originally created for RTÉ’s “Comic Relief” charity TV Show.

With Comic Relief’s blessing ‘True Friends’ will now be available to buy on iTunes with all proceeds going to the mental health charity ‘A Lust For Life.’ People are also encouraged to make a donation on www.alustforlife.com/amplify-our-voice

Since the Covid19 crisis and lockdown began in March 2020, the mental health and wellbeing content curated by A Lust for Life to support the nation during lockdown has reached over four million people.

“As a father of four I am thrilled to do all I can to get behind this very important Irish charity, supporting our children’s mental health and well-being during this historically difficult time.” says Jerry Fish.

A Lust for Life charity co-founder, chairperson and acting CEO, Paula McLoughlin, said:

“We’re delighted that Jerry Fish has chosen to release ‘True Friends’ for A Lust for Life. The message of the song reflects so much of what is important to us and what we convey with friendship and sticking together, even when apart. It’s especially important for young people to know that true friends will always be there, even if you don’t get to see them for a while. We’re all big fans of Jerry Fish and love how he has brought so many fantastic musicians together for this song. Check us out on www.alustforlife.com.” A Lust for Life is a registered charity.

Every artist on ‘True Friends’ recorded their performances while in lock down in Ireland and elsewhere. The recording is a time capsule of artists in lock down.

PRE-ORDER

‘Carolina’ is Nathan Mac’s second single: a song of second chances. Once again this track is an outstretched hand to anyone struggling with self-worth.

Through his lyrics, Nathan explores the power of being seen by a stranger (and artist) by the name of ‘Carolina’. They met online when Nathan commissioned a portrait of his little sister.

“Back then I was so low that any interaction with a stranger would add to my self-worth. The people who liked my songs or just wanted to say ‘hi’ made me feel like I had value.”

Using the metaphor of an artist drawing him back into existence, Nathan set about writing this song as a thank you to ‘Carolina’, not just for the wonderful portrait, but for giving him a new sense of self.

The crystal clear production is decorated with dreamy synths and airy vocals. Pulsing bass forms the backbone of rhythm for a track that you’re supposed to dance to. This is a song that suits everything from your headphones to the largest stadiums in the world.

‘Carolina’ is the latest link in the chain of the ‘Start of Something Blue’ project. As the second major release, the bar has been set by the success of his first single ‘Better Off Without You’. This song hit 70,000 streams on Spotify in the first two months alone and has received acclaim internationally from the likes of  ‘Buzz Music LA’, and ‘The Music Nerd’.

27 year old Dubliner: Nathan Mac, once again in collaboration with producer Brian Dwyer, is setting out into the world, with an Irish flag in hand.

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Snow Patrol have released a brand-new EP. Written and recorded during lockdown, ‘The Fireside Sessions’ is out now and is made up of five songs written with the band’s fans during a series of streams on Instagram Live dubbed ‘Saturday Songwrite’. In a nod to this collaboration, The Fireside Sessions is released under the banner of Snow Patrol And The Saturday Songwriters. The EP was produced by Iain Archer and is released digitally and on CD.

Speaking about how ‘The Fireside Sessions’ came about, frontman Gary Lightbody says, “During lockdown I wrote a song each Saturday on Instagram Live. People from all over the world participated and each week there was 4 or 5 thousand people involved over the course of the hour: The Saturday Songwriters. They would suggest chords and lyrics and I would put them all together and add in a few of my own where appropriate but my unwritten rule was that there would be lyrics from a Saturday Songwriter in each line of the song. We did it for 11 weeks and wrote 12 songs together. It was a lot of fun.”

Completing the EP’s tracklisting alongside ‘Reaching Out To You’ are ‘On The Edge Of All This’, ‘The Curve Of Earth’, ‘Dance With Me’ and ‘Light Years’. ‘The Fireside Sessions’ follow’s last year’s ‘Reworked’ album, which saw the quintet offer up alternate versions of iconic tracks alongside some deep cuts. ‘Reworked’ reached Number 3 in the UK charts and this week has just hit Silver certification in the UK.

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Following the release of singles ‘Ivy Honey’ and ‘Bright Windows In The Night’, Dublin five-piece indie rock band, INSIDEAWAVE release their self titled debut EP with lead single ‘Tour Guides’ on vinyl and across all streaming platforms on August 21st. 

For fans of Tame Impala, Thom Yorke, Radiohead, Alt-J.

INSIDEAWAVE are a five-piece indie rock band based in Dublin. Since forming in 2017, their work has drawn influence from the likes of Grizzly Bear, Beach House, Villagers and Bell X1. Utilizing elements of bright grizzly guitars, strong vocal harmonies and dashes of drum machines to create their dreamy soundscapes, INSIDEAWAVE have received a positive response to their single catalogue nationally. Recently selected to play Ireland Music Week, it’s shaping up to be a prolific year for the indie five-piece

Following their win of Nova Discovered 2018, a competition run by Radio Nova aimed at finding the best in Irish unsigned music, consistent touring has seen INSIDEAWAVE broadening their audience with appearances on Spotify editorial playlist ‘An Alternative Éire’ and recently added to
playlists from GoldenPlec, This is Galway and First Music Contact. 

To date, the band have amassed over 15,000 streams on Spotify, with ‘Ivy Honey’ having achieved 4,000 streams in 2 months.
Their mid-tempo, heartening indie vibes have led them to performing extensively in premier music venues in Ireland such as Whelan’s and The Grand Social, The Bello Bar, Workman’s Club, The Wiley Fox, Bruxelle’s, Tramline, Spirit Store and many more. 

The band has received radio coverage from the likes of Radio Nova, BBC Radio Ulster; Across the Line, RTE 2XM, KCLRFM, SPIN SW, West Limerick FM, Wired FM, John Barker’s Totally Irish (98FM) and Dublin City FM. 

The band have also achieved press coverage with the likes of Hotpress, JOE.ie, Golden Plec, the Revue, RUE X Magazine and American Pancake.

Festival appearances include Forbidden Fruit 2019, Whelan’s Ones to Watch 2019/2020 as well as support slots with Aslan and Mick Pryo. 

‘Tour Guides’ was written after travel in Central and South America. The driving distorted bass line, and powerful percussion are interwoven with segments of raw, traditional instruments that were picked up along on the excursion. The lyrics are reflections on biodiversity and wildlife, mixed with fond memories of exploration.

INSIDEAWAVE’s self titled debut EP is a collection of three songs that were written, recorded, mixed and produced by the band in 2019/20. The EP explores themes of nature, relationships and travel and is a snapshot in time of the band’s experiences of these themes when travelling both abroad and at home. This brought an interest within the band around biodiversity and the fostering and protecting of native species of flora and fauna. A limited edition of their debut EP will be released on 12″ vinyl and will include a pack of native Irish wildflower seeds as well as a double sided lyric and artwork pullout. This EP is also available to stream and download across all platforms from August 21st.  

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Following the success of ‘Don’t Say It’, Wyvern Lingo present their second new song of 2020. The sober, unflinching ballad ‘Brutal Lottery’.

“I saw the headline: ‘10,000 refugee children are missing’ in 2016, and couldn’t stop thinking about it. With some friends, I embarked on a lot of research and ended up being part of a campaign (10,000 Missing Children) aimed at changing policy on the European Union’s treatment of unaccompanied refugee minors. During this time, Caoimhe, Saoirse and I wrote this song about the topic, and about the harrowing stories and statistics we came across. With guidance from organisations such as Missing Children Europe, the Irish Refugee Council, the Children’s Rights Alliance and the Immigrant Council of Ireland along with the help of many Irish MEPs, we were able to gather over 30,000 signatures and submit the petition along with demands to the Justice and Home Affairs council of Europe. Four years on, however, it seems that there has not been much of an improvement in Europe’s reception policy that is failing these children. We recorded this last winter in Berlin, all singing live together in one take. Given the recent shift in the global conversation about racism and the many dangers that people of colour are subjected to in our society, this felt like the right time to release this song, which is unfortunately as relevant as it was four years ago.” – Karen Cowley, Wyvern Lingo.

Sales revenue from Bandcamp downloads of ‘Brutal Lottery’ will be donated to Wyvern Lingo’s chosen charity partner – Missing Children Europe. 

To donate now, without downloading, go to https://missingchildreneurope.eu/bank

More on the subject of ‘Brutal Lottery’ here:

In 2016, Europol reported that 10,000 refugee and migrant children were missing upon arrival in Europe. The most recent report from the European Migration Network in 2018 states that the number had risen to at least 30,000. Two years on, fears are that the number is now much, much higher, but without the political will to report and solve these cases, it is impossible to know exactly how many are missing, and what has happened to them. 

This failing of the European immigration system reflects the anti-immigrant and racist sentiments that are on the rise in Europe. The idea that a child might be considered more or less important to a community based on their origin is a jarring thought, but unfortunately it appears to have been the case over the last number of years. 

No parent would send their child on such a dangerous journey unless they really believed there was no better alternative. It is in our nature to care for those most vulnerable, and that should be the case regardless of race, religion or nationality.

Wyvern Lingo – Brutal Lottery – is released by Rubyworks on Friday 21st August.