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 Joshua Burnside. Words by Aaron Cunningham.
Joshua Burnside – Marching Round the Ladies
One of Ireland’s finest songwriters has returned with a double single for his first new release in two years. ‘Marching Round the Ladies’ has been a live favourite for a good while, with its universal shout of “it doesn’t matter where you’re from, the Tories fuck us all” met with a rapturous cheer every time. A track that leans into Burnside’s love of trad, adapted from an old children’s song. Combined, both singles show the strength and depth of Burnside’s songwriting.
Eve Belle – Atalia
Belfast based songwriter Eve Belle follows on from her debut independent EP last year with ‘Atalia’, the lead single of her second EP Sad City, Baby!, out later this week. ‘Atalia’ is an incredible introduction. Belle’s new approach to production and instrumentation pays off in this stirring ode to Galway’s Lough Atalia.
RÓIS – FEEL LOVE
Captivating live performances have garnered plenty of attention for Fermanagh artist RÓIS, though last year’s Uisce Agus Bean flew under our radar. ‘FEEL LOVE’ is her second 2024 release, with an EP celebrating Ireland’s ancient traditions around death releasing this week. Written from the perspective of someone on their deathbed, ‘FEEL LOVE’ is a sonically intense track that moves through tension and catharsis.
Broncos – Erode
A debut single from new three-piece Broncos, featuring a few familiar Belfast faces. There’s a contrast in the punishing instrumentals backing vocalist Shane’s softer vocal with a dose of reverb thrown across their post-hardcore sound.
Reasy Ajarro – Take It Out (On Me)
Belfast three-piece Reasy Ajarro are back for their first release in two years with ‘Take It Out (On Me)’. A track full of dynamics, with the band throwing varied musical passages around the main refrain. The alt-rock trio are recording their debut album.
Little Rivers – Lacuna
A surprise new release from Liverpool based Callum Cairns aka Little Rivers. Little Rivers’ pre-2020 releases were well worth a listen and ‘Lacuna’ comes with the news of a new album on the way. The melodies of ‘Lacuna’ again has Little Rivers combining his unique voice with a palette of soft electronics though there’s perhaps more urgency now.
Playlist:
