Every month we take a look back at the best new releases from Northern Ireland in our featured playlist. A showcase for the sheer amount of talent coming out of the North, and a playlist worthy of repeat listening. This month’s cover artist is Yinyang.
FEATURED TRACKS
Yinyang – Happy Money
‘Happy Money’ is the latest release from Lauren Hannan aka Yinyang who’s released a string of singles since lockdown. Skirting the edge of chaos with samples, heavy beats and a style that blends rap, hip hop and a little bit of punk, Yinyang delivers fiery vocals about antidepressants and the profit driven pharmaceutical industry. An artist brimming with confidence and direction.
Parker – Never Miss
Heavy on the live circuit for the past year, it’s hard to believe ‘Never Miss’ represents the Derry trio’s first single. Vocalist Dylan Bradley’s distinct and impassioned vocals sit over riffs and a steady beat. A combination of punk edge and catchy melodies.
Niall McDowell – Brokeback
A soft and introspective, McDowell reflects on a panic attack as a child in a cathedral choir and present day feelings of grief. McDowell’s voice and emotion is laid bare on the track’s simple arrangement, recorded with producer Chris Ryan.
Michael Mormecha – Kraken
The TRU and former Mojo Fury man is back with his latest solo project and new single ‘Kraken’. An off-kilter vignette with Mormecha’s lyrics delivered in a constant stream over odd beats, acoustic guitars, swirls of synths and whatever else the multi-instrumentalist has thrown into the gorgeous mix.
Drew Makes Noise – Secret to Life
Carefully considered beats and melodies sit under stated vocals in the latest from Andrew Wilson, formerly of Ed Zealous. A real pleasing mix.
King Villain – Wave
Heavy and grungy from Belfast based King Villain. ‘Wave’ moves through big riffs, prog territory and a wash of underwater atmospherics. Their most ambitious release to date.
Clara Tracey – Baby Witch
On ‘Baby Witch’, Tracey sets out to capture the highs, the desires and the danger of falling in love. That feeling is distilled into laid back acoustic rhythms while Tracey’s gorgeous vocal floats atop of it all.
Playlist:
