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 Brand New Friend. Words by Aaron Cunningham and Martha Greer.
FEATURED TRACKS
Brand New Friend – Stars Bleed
A song about pain & loss, inspired by the likes of Pavement, its a considered and sparkling effort that leads us into the band’s new album Grandstand out 15 September. ‘Stars Bleed’ and June’s ‘Talk It Out’ show a new approach to the band’s maturing songwriting. All hands on deck for the new album and a UK/Ireland tour in late September & early October. AC
Susi Pagel – Headspace
Spooky pop princess Susi Pagel delivers an in-your-face performance with her headbanging single ‘Headspace’. Riveting lyrics are carried by powerful vocals amongst a stellar production of punky guitar and fluttering synths. MG
Amerik ft Sasha Samara – The Real Thing
We’re big fans of Adam Booth aka Amerik’s previous collaborative releases and he’s returned with this uplifting collaboration with another favourite in Sasha Samara. Samara lends her voice to Amerik’s smooth production on this love song. Two further collaborations are set for release. AC
Moonboot & Leo Miyagee – Feel
Moonboot and Leo Miyagee join forces to bring us ‘Feel’, an effortlessly smooth tune that merges the sounds of funk and soul. Brought to life by a jazz ensemble of brass instrumentation, the vocals are serene and drumming stylistically tight. MG
Vandal – Best Days Of Your life
‘Best Days Of Your Life’ is the latest single by Belfast four-piece Vandal. The jam-packed four and a half minutes blends the essence of punk with its thrashing drums and the sounds of classic rock as listeners become hooked by the guitar motifs and commanding vocals. MG
BLÁNID – Tourists
BLÁNID’s music often has a taste of the dramatic, with her distinct, mesmerising vocals married to sweeping production. ‘Tourists’ leaves nothing to chance, with the track hitting every note. AC
Polar Bolero – Portrait
The delicately beautiful noise created by Derry outfit Polar Bolero is prominent in ‘Portrait’, an alt- folk song that is infiltrated by fuzzy guitars and emotively harmonious choruses of layered oohs and aahs. MG
Buí – Fears Not Worth Fearing
The lo-fi nature of Buí’s music often extends to their online presence with last month’s ‘Fears Not Worth Fearing’ perhaps going under the radar. Josh Healy’s vocals sit amongst a raw sound of synths and programmed beats. Understated but heartfelt as always. AC
Playlist:
