Dropkick Murphys – The Body of an American
Celtic folk punk legends Dropkick Murphys deliver a powerhouse cover of The Pogues’ ‘The Body of an American’. I’m instantly drawn into their authentic sound as it sounds grounded and completely natural, yet packs an intensely uplifting and energetic punch. Driven by powerful, raw vocals, the track captures the exact fiery grit that makes the Boston outfit so beloved. The band proves once again that they know how to flawlessly translate their infectious live energy into their recorded music. Covering The Pogues’ timeless classic, this release forms a centrepiece for the tribute album ’20th Century Paddy – The Songs of Shane MacGowan’, which is out now. It’s an essential, spirit-raising listen!
MORGANA – Sidekick
Newly landed onto our radar, MORGANA makes an unforgettable mark with stunning and captivating pop release ‘Sidekick’. Bringing a rich, mature sound similar to London’s queen of her craft, Marie Naffah, MORGANA instantly cements her place on my radar. Driven by intriguing, character-rich vocals, the track unfolds across a beautifully slowly building soundscape that gradually draws you into its core. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, ‘Sidekick’ hits you with eccentric hooks and punchy flourishes that keep its energy magnetic and fresh. It is an extraordinary, alluring pop single that promises big things to come from MORGANA.
Serra Marinheiro – the way a woman sounds
Serra Marinheiro delivers a deeply moving masterpiece with her soaring and harmonious alternative pop release, ‘the way a woman sounds’. Emerging as a remarkably powerful, woman-driven anthem, the track speaks directly from the heart, channelling pure emotion into every single note. Marinheiro masterfully translates the shared pain, strength, and raw reality of womanhood worldwide into an immersive sonic experience that lingers long after its final chord. Her exquisite vocal harmonies are dressed by a lush backdrop, balancing vulnerable intimacy with a resounding, anthem-like power. ‘the way a woman sounds’ is a captivating, deeply authentic piece of storytelling that demands to be heard.
Harley – Gold
‘Gold’ is the shimmering indie anthem that turned our heads towards Harley, the track is instantly uplifting and makes it nearly impossible not to move and sway along to its addictive soundscape. Subtly dressed in powerful guitar lines and driven forward by incredible vocals, the song feels brilliantly personable and natural, stripped of any unnecessary frills. It stands as a powerful release from the very get-go through to the end, keeping its momentum effortlessly high throughout, a true talent on its own. ‘Gold’ is a stunning, high-energy single that we simply have to listen to on repeat!
Bella Shields – One Wish
Bella Shields makes a strong statement with ‘One Wish’, a powerful and emotive new pop release that serves as a captivating introduction to her musical directory. Built around a warm, soft, and minimalistic arrangement, the song carries a simple, perhaps slightly too simple, soundscape, yet it holds a genuine magic that effortlessly pulls on the heartstrings. Driven by sharp, impressive vocals, the track shines brightest through its infectious chorus, which is instantly memorable and bound to have you singing along (if you are able to reach those soaring high notes…). ‘One Wish’ acts as a beautifully intimate and delicate release that warmly announces, “hi, here I am!”.
The Youth Play – CDMX
Having caught The Youth Play supporting Ist Ist at The Grove in Newcastle not too long ago, where they thoroughly impressed, I was excited to see their latest single ‘CDMX’ land in my inbox! The band delivers a charming and wonderfully dark indie rock sound, cleverly hinting at influences from the iconic new wave and shoegaze acts that left an incredible mark on the music scene. It is genuinely refreshing to see a young band carry out this style so effortlessly. Those warm, dark vocals carry a delightfully “Halloween-y” atmospheric edge, and while I’m not usually a fan of the modern holiday, I am a huge fan of the rich, dark rock textures that shine through on ‘CDMX’!
Live Oak Sunburst – Psychic Reading
Live Oak Sunburst offers a captivating touch of dark emo dream pop on their latest single, ‘Psychic Reading’. Slower and a tad less anthemic than expected for the genre, the track leans into a deeply introspective atmosphere, acting like a soft press on ‘pause’ in musical form. Softer vocals almost deliver a soothing mantra over the song and its lyrics, enveloped in a warm, subtly colourful soundscape. There’s an enchanting, almost “Merlin”-like wisdom woven into its vocal delivery, casting a quiet spell over the entire piece. It is a wonderfully cosy, reflective release that invites you to slow down, breathe, and get lost in its gentle magic.
Echo Union – Until You Needed Money
Echo Union delivers a deeply moving experience with ‘Until You Needed Money’, an outwardly introspective pop ballad anchored by soft piano work and led by rich, warm vocals. Drawing subtle parallels to the classic Oasis-style indie ballads I adore so much, the track layers in a web of strong harmonies, creating a lush, cinematic feel, it feels like the perfect soundtrack to the closing scene of a romcom that ended on a hopeful note. Powerful from start to finish, the single really shines as soaring high notes showcase the true extent of its vocals’ capabilities. It is a stunning, emotionally resonant track that lingers long after the final chord.
