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 Conchúr White. Words by Aaron Cunningham.
FEATURED TRACKS
Conchúr White – Atonia
Conchúr White’s first new music in a couple of years comes with news of signing to record label Bella Union. It may be no surprise on first listen to ‘Atonia’; an absolutely gorgeous sounding track that makes full use of White’s soft vocals in a dreamy lament. The new chapter is off to a great start.
Dark Tropics – I Bet You Can
Two-piece Dark Tropics began their 2023 in earnest with a CQAF performance the other night and ‘I Bet You Can’ is their first release of the year. A big pop tune which borrows the percussive and vibrant urgency of Primal Scream, with vocalist Rio carrying the track’s hooks.
Jock – What a Drag
Belfast three-piece Jock have been making a name for themselves with fiery, complete live sets over the past few months so this first single has been well-anticipated. A self produced garage punk track with no let up, as they relentlessly reel off a tongue in cheek ode to queer community.
Ferna – Bleed
On one of the standouts from her just released debut album, Ferna is joined on vocals by some of the North’s best female artists. The rhythms and various movements on ‘Bleed’ lend even more variety of sounds on an already versatile album. Ferna launches the album in the Empire this Thursday.
Luc Garrett – On My Mind
Armagh born Luc Garrett began his music life here in Northern Ireland but a move with Manchester meant moving on from his previous band and delving into a solo career; ‘On My Mind’ is his second release. There’s an emotional element to the songwriting, but not confined by genre it whirs into psych rock territory.
Rosborough – Oh My Sweet
The journey to Derry songwriter Rosborough’s latest single is a long one, but his knack for great songwriting combined with his distinct vocals has ensured he’s remained a favourite at Chordblossom. ‘Oh My Sweet’ ups the tempo with a bass heavy rock track that keeps the Rosborough character in a call to resilience.
Cathal Murphy, Charlie Stacey – Home by 9
A March release that passed us by but we couldn’t make that same mistake twice following Murphy’s Songbook performance last month. Jazzed up romance with funky bass and rhythm back up the Edinburgh based songwriter’s smooth vocals.
Playlist:
