When Chordblossom came into existence, it was always our aim to shine a spotlight on the artists and bands that make up the music scene in Northern Ireland. We’ve been doing it for over ten years now and one of our favourite methods is our Introducing feature.
Put the kettle on, curl up on your sofa and and join us for a quickfire Q&A with some of our favourite new musicians. Who knows, maybe you’ll even discover your new favourite artists.
This iteration of Introducing features the musical talents of Jet Black Tulips who just released their latest EP ‘Passion for the Past’.
What was the inspiration behind your artist name?
The name was inspired by Kasabian guitarist Jay Mehler’s Instagram handle, which itself was taken from their track “Narcotic Song.” We’ve always loved how it sounded — distinctive, slightly mysterious, and tied to a band that’s been a big influence on us over the years.
You’ve just released a new EP. How did it come about and what does it mean to you?
Our new EP, Passion for the Past, developed from ideas Lennon had been writing and refining over the past few years. As a band, we shaped those ideas into something that reflects who we are right now. The record explores themes of navigating life as working-class musicians, nights out on the rip, and the bittersweet yet uplifting reality of chasing a dream. It means a lot to us because it feels honest — it captures both the struggle and the joy of committing to something you love.
Have you any more releases or studio time lined up for later in the year?
There’s always the possibility of heading back into the studio — we’re constantly writing and evolving. At the moment, though, our focus is firmly on live shows and tightening up as a unit. We want the songs to properly grow legs on stage before we look too far ahead.
Tell us about your song writing process.
Most of our songs begin simply — usually in Lennon’s bedroom with a guitar and a lyric idea. Once there’s a solid foundation, he brings it to the band and it really starts to take shape. Everyone adds their own touch, and that collaborative energy is what gives the songs their final character.
Who were your favourite artists/bands growing up? Have your influences changed over time?
Growing up, we were massive fans of Tom Petty, The Stone Roses, Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon, The Courteeners and The Who. Our influences have definitely evolved. We began heavily inspired by ’90s Britpop, but more recently we’ve taken cues from bands like The Strokes and The View. We still love big choruses and strong melody, but there’s perhaps more groove and edge in what we’re doing now.
What’s been your favourite local release from the last twelve months?
Duncan’s pick would be Madams Last Discovery’s “Orange Juice”, Lennon’s would be Red Hot n Dizzy’s “Ceasefire Child / I Had a Feelin’”, Ryan loved :Panic :Over’s “Actor”, and Dylan’s choice would be the thing is…’s “COINT.” There’s a real wave of quality coming out of NI at the minute.
If you weren’t musicians, what line of work would we find you in?
Lennon would probably be a football manager. Ryan would work as a zookeeper, Dylan would be a filmmaker, and Duncan would likely move into graphic design.
If you could collaborate with one artist or band from NI, who would it be and why?
We’d love to collaborate with Max Keenan. We really admire his songwriting, and he’s also genuinely great to get on with — which makes all the difference creatively.
It is intensely difficult to be successful in the music industry. What does NI need to do to invest in/develop to boost your chances?
Grassroots support is everything. The best way to help any local band grow is to share the music, keep streaming the songs, and show up to gigs. A strong, supportive scene makes it far easier for artists to break beyond it.
What does success look like for you?
Success would be hearing crowds sing our songs back to us, building recognition beyond Belfast, and creating a body of work that shows genuine growth over time.
You’re going out on tour and can have anything you want on your rider, what would we find on yours?
Captain Morgan’s for Lennon, Guinness for Dylan, Diet Coke for Duncan — and, most importantly, two packets of Hobnobs for Ryan.
Where and when can we next catch you live?
You can catch us supporting The Davids at Queen’s SU on 23rd April, and supporting Second Arena at Ulster Sports Club on 15th May. We’re really looking forward to these shows and sharing the stage with great bands as we keep building momentum.
If you enjoyed this feature and fancy discovering some more new artists, we suggest you jump on over to our archive of Introducing pieces.
If you are a band or musician based in Northern Ireland interested in taking part in our Introducing feature, we recommend submitting new music to us via our Contact page and if we enjoy it, you’ll no doubt hear from us.
