The View at the Academy, Dublin

The View at The Academy

24 / 02 / ‘09

Angela Macari O’Looney


‘The View, The View, The View are on Fire! This is the chant you’ll hear from the fans of one of the best and most notorious Punk/Indie bands of this century!
Why?
With Kyle Falconer at the helm as lead vocalist/ rhythm guitar, Pete Reilly – Lead guitarist extraordinaire, Kieran Webster – Bass/guitars/ backing vocals and Steven Morrison – Drums/Percussion, this band are exceptionally creative, with a knack for delightful riffs and catchy melodies. They posess wit which they use to the limit and also an accent that is hard to understand, but adds charm to their music. Young, energetic and loveable, they get under your skin and once there, will have you whistling or humming those sweet and cheerful melodies and Tayside shanties non-stop!
Beginning as a bunch of friends who played at school concerts and talent competitions, The View developed their sound and became a huge success in a short time. Having toured extensively, appeared in numerous Festivals, claimed quite a few awards and released their eponymous E.P., they went on to do an album Hats off to the Buskers in 2007.
This band has matured and honed their style, without losing the originality which gave them that edge. This year has seen the release of ‘Which Bitch’, a new collection of music that is even more entertaining and slightly more serious instrumentally than the previous album.
They may be a bunch of Clowns, but beneath that 'couldn’t care less’ surface, lies a remarkable raw genius that remains unscathed by commercialism. Their ability to come up with fun, enjoyable material is uncanny and continues to go from strength to strength.

Discovering on My Space that ‘The View’ were coming to Dublin, I decided that wild horses couldn’t keep me away. So I headed into Abbey Street to see Kyle & Co., have a pint or three and a good night out. My only complaint was that it was too short. I could have listened to this band all night and considered going back for the second gig the next night!

A good few people were already there when we arrived and I was pleasantly surprised at the age group of the audience. There were plenty in my own age group (not teenagers) and enough young guys and gals up the front, to add to the party atmosphere!

Opening up the show were an Irish Rock/Indie band; The Brothers Movement, previously Mainline.
Members are Neill Plaxton-Guitar vocals, Danda-Guitar/vox/ Harmonica, Scott Glennon- Electric Guitar, Conor Plaxton-Bass and Andy Parks-Drums.

They have a soothing sound and are currently promoting their album Blind. Neill has a pleasant voice which is well suited to the type of anthemic rock numbers they do. They did March of the Brothers, Is God Dead, Open Arms, Sister, War &Peace, Blind and Stand Still. Harmony is really subtle in the slower songs such as ‘Blind’, which is an anthem with a U2 quality in it. Guitar riffs are great in the faster numbers and lots of distortion is used too. Danda does nice harmonica in spates here and there!
This set made a good appetiser for the night ahead, but for me it was hard to concentrate on anything else but the fact that I was finally going to see the fab four from Dundee next!

The View

Glass Smash with its haunting intro almost sung in a choral ‘oh’ then bursting into a galloping beat opened up the main show.
A bashing beat, exciting melody and a fabulous seductive ‘Hey’ sung by Kyle in the chorus makes this a lovely number. Pete Reilly is a class act with his characteristic riffs and sliding smartass lead throughout and of course the throbbing bass bits and backing vocals provided by Kieran and Pete give this song a great sense of movement and anticipation!

5 Rebeccas followed and received a warm welcome from the crowd! F..ing amazing chord combinations, a delightful key change in the middle eight and although there is a poignant message in the verse ‘Solvent abuse can kill’ it also has a punch line that’s really funny in the chorus;5 Rebeccas all of them are close to me/ One of them’s a cook, the other one does history/ One of them’s my niece and one lives close to me/ The one I love the most has turned into a Junky!
The wonderful unique View-esque riffs from beginning to end of this number, along with gorgeous close harmony injected in just the right places, made it an unforgettable experience. They do these fab harmonic ‘Ohs’ as it’s coming to the last chorus that are just the biz!
Steven Morrison(The Drummer) stripped to the waist which didn’t upset me at all! I admired the way that they just jammed away, enjoying the gig themselves without any airs and graces. It was as if they were making themselves at home right there with the crowd at the Academy and it was a joy to encounter!

Wasted li’l Djs which was first released as a single, also included in Hats off to the Buskers was third. With a fast rock beat, bashing intro and a delightful guitar riff it’s one of the nicest View numbers. It has a lovely melody and a distinctive key change midway through plus a sweet lead solo. Backing vocals add to the sound as in all songs and the arrangement is such that there seems to be loads going on throughout.

Kyle switched places with bassist Kieran Webster for one or two songs. Webster has a thick accent but a really nice voice!

Realisation was one of these with gorgeous riffs, a choppy beat and delightful harmony. In certain numbers keyboards were played by Owen Morris. This guy is kinda like a fifth member of the band and has been producer and co-ordinater for all of The View’s recordings. When Kyle returned to the lead mike he played his beautiful blonde semi-solid guitar held in what I term ‘McCartney’ fashion. He does it justice too and despite his characteristic cool attitude, he seemed to enjoy this gig!

They did Wasteland, which the crowd went mad for and then the new version of Typical Time; ‘Typical time 2’ a sweet ditty with a cute piano riff intro and nice harmonica too. Short and candy sweet, this melody is really lovely no matter what the words are!

In my excitement I got the set list all confused, plus it was supposed to be a fun night out and I’d had a couple of drinks. Quite a few of the newer songs were played including Double Yellow lines which is a fabulous sing-along number. Also the quirky Temptation Dice which is a really memorable song was performed. The One off Pretender which is a rap with amazing lead riffs brought British band ‘Oasis’ to mind for me. This one has a great line in the chorus; ‘Shout it from the rooftops!’ Shock Horror which has great punch was done too!

I think Distant Doubloon was in there too, one of my personal favourites from ‘Which Bitch’ it’s a magical song with flourishing piano riffs, a concerto-style tempo and a melody a little like a song from a musical comedy!
Like all of the songs on the new c.d. it is surprisingly mature and involves some fabulous changes of tempo and key to delight the senses. However it has cryptic lyrics and that arrogant cheek that a band like this not only gets away with, but make into a kind of signature in their song writing!

Favourites such as Superstar Tradesman, The Don, Skag Trendy and Same Jeans were performed on the night. The audience seemed a tad tame in comparison to what I have seen at The View’s gigs in videos. This gal certainly wasn’t tame seeing these numbers performed live!

On hearing the intros and wonderful riffs a la Pete Reilly, magical beats drummed out by Steve (Mo) Morrison and distinctive baselines played on that gorgeous blue guitar by Kieran Webster, I found myself singing out the songs from the old album word for word and punching the air with delight. Manchester United were playing their first leg of the Champions league on the same night and although I’m quite partial to the Red Devils, I wouldn’t have swapped this fabulous gig for a front row at the match.

On the way out, I bought myself a huge souvenir T-Shirt and had no voice the next day; the sign of a very satisfied customer!

Bravado upstairs at Whelan's of wexford St.

Bravado

Upstairs at Whelan’s

16/03/09

Angela Macari – O’Looney

I’ve been to quite a few gigs at this popular venue in Wexford Street. However, this was my first gig upstairs in the smaller part. Bravado, who I’ve seen play support on two previous occasions were starring on this occasion Having had a taste of their interesting and lively music, I felt it was time I saw them at their own show.

This group of young men have a ‘couldn’t care less’ approach, or so it seems. But beneath the Joke-a-minute personality of each member lies a true musician. You only have to hear one or two of their particularly special numbers to recognise this!

On this occasion the two support bands The Groove and Harrows were quite a contrast in styles and in their own rite provided the perfect warm up. Some of the supporters of all three bands went a little over the top to express their appreciation and knocked a speaker down, gave any poor sod near the front a beer bath and did this pushing game that seems to be part and parcel of being at a gig where fresh young music is played. Despite all of this, I had a really enjoyable night.

The Groove

Hailing from Coolock Dublin, this Alt/ Indie/ Rock band have built up quite a fanbase and are making great strides, with an up coming four track demo in the pipeline. Members are David McGorman/Vocals, Gary Fitzsimons/ Guitar, Darren Fitzsimons/ Drums, Sean O’Connor/ Guitar and Wade Courtney/ Bass.

Beginning with a short number involving lots of bass packed with distortion, they proved to have a pleasant sound. A sweet rhythmic riff, occasional harmony and free flowing lead riffs here and there made this a nice start to the night. Dave has a quiet, but likeable vocal style. This new song hasn’t a name as yet!

Cracks will emerge involves all guitars playing in sync with the vocals. Dramatic and choppy rhythm! Darren on drums sings backing vocals and is a real showman. Lots of big smiles and as a drummer he is impressive too!

This scene is obscene – Galloping beat! Lots of minor chords, distortion and a catchy chorus where Dave sings and his words are echoed by Darren ‘Going nowhere!’ I like the way the beat alters later on in this song to become choppy!

They did seven more songs. But my personal favourites were Don’t get your hopes up; Cheerful with a memorable melody line and catchy lead riffs. Also ‘I smiled when I first met you; With a Rock’n’Roll beat and a distinctive guitar riff which I loved.
I can’t forgive You – This has a brilliant bass intro, with wonderful riffs and a sweet melody. Dave’s vocals excellent here and the beat is fast and exciting too!

With really noticeable guitar solos and riffs throughout, all of their songs are catchy. They did a slow song; Yet we all soon will change which I thought was perhaps the nicest of the whole set. The highlight of this was definitely the interesting guitar riffs and chords.

People sang along with the last song The Boys Revenge which is energetic with lots of ‘Whoa’ in the chorus. From a nice bunch of lads this was a well performed first set!


Harrows

A five piece band with some seriously good guitarists and a charming vocalist in Ben Waddell arrived on stage to play the second set of the evening. ‘Harrows’ got tumultuous cheers from the crowd as they began to play. With two demos under their belt they are an Alt/Post Punk/ new wave act with a tuneful but heavy sound. With a wall of thundering drums, whining lead solos and a confident front man, they did their first number Kev’s Lama.

It wasn’t easy to hear with the noise and mayhem about, but generally they sounded polished and very talented. They did Winning Grin with a trickling intro to build up to a manic beat. They did a slightly slower song; Can’t be alright third. Guitars brilliant and this has a catchy melody too.

A Jungle drumbeat bashed out for Advertise really got the party going and although I’m sure it’s a great song, you could hear nothing!
Things began to get a little out of hand, with a shower of beer and an amp toppling over. But Ben handled the moment well and stopped until people settled down.

They exuded tonnes of N.R.G. and their music is really lively and memorable, when you can hear it. But the nicest song by far was Told. Beginning with a riff that reminds me of That’s Entertainment by ‘The JAM’ it has gorgeous chords, a catchy melody line and wonderful lead performed by Kevin Towey.

Ben’s vocals also would remind me of the singer from Irish band ‘The Flaws’. This band has something special but in such a confined venue, they were cramped.
They did At a Height which has a nice beat, gorgeous chord combinations, lots of distortion and a distinctive baseline throughout. Kev is one extremely good guitarist, but the extra guitar played by Alan Duggan made a huge difference to the big bashing sound that defines this act.
They did Don’t say a word with a snaking style guitar riff intro, and then it becomes choppy. In this song there is a lovely chorus.
To complete the riveting set, Harrows did Leave Again which has a bashing drumbeat, fantastic chorus and yet another exciting lead riff. Dan Fox on bass, Alan Duggan and Kevin Towey guitars, Ben Waddell vocals and Dara Kiely drums, this band and the music they conjure up won’t be too easy to forget!


BRAVADO

Starting out as a bunch of kids jamming together in Gaz’s shed to The Who, Arctic Monkeys and The Libertines; Bravado took the giant step of becoming an originals only band within a short time. They made the finals of Murphy’s Live ’08 and have played support to Cathy Davey, Future Kings of Spain and The Minutes. Brian/ Vocals, Kev and Milky/ Guitars/backing vocals, Corcy/ Bass and Gaz/ Drums have featured in two of my previous reviews.

They get around a lot and because of their total devotion to what they do, they have a huge following!

As they started with a new song without a name as yet, the place was hopping. A seductive melody line and a sweet baseline throughout, this choppy number was a treat!

One Day – I like the way the words are repeated after each line in the verse of this number. Great chord combinations, a strut style beat and a cheerful melody, it got the crowd even more mental than before!

Before the next song, Brian got a scarf thrown up at him. He duly wiped his brow and f…d it back to screams of delight. A real showman!

He’s big and bold, but has a great voice and defines the Bravado sound.

Sticks and Stones – This has lovely harmony done by Milky who has a good voice too!

Take your pick – With a trickling riff done by two guitars in sync, this has a memorable melody. It’s an easy going Rock’n’Roll song, with a delicious lead solo and fabulous percussion by Gaz!

The crowd, who had now packed the place like a sardine tin, were totally alive and the lads were enjoying it too. Somehow Brian always manages to keep the head and has a knack for focusing on the show. They did a really upbeat song next called Love fast die young.

This has cheeky riffs and a great lead solo and changes pace before the final chorus.

Artificial Angels – This is a classic and shows Brian’s vocal range off well. It’s a slow song with sweet harmony and a memorable melody.

Bag of Messages – This I feel must be one of their favourite numbers, the way they all get so involved!
It has a great intro with a fast beat and a sweet riff. Kev does backing vocals and Corcy plays gorgeous bass here too. I like the echo of Go Away in it.

Revenge is not enough – Brian plays tambourine in this slinky number and Kev sings the verse. Milky and Corcy create a lovely backdrop of bass and lead. And not forgetting Gaz; the man of many smiles, who supplies fab beats to all of Bravado’s songs. A right joker, but a nice guy and a good drummer!

Runnin’ – My absolute favourite Bravado song was next. That thumping intro, distortion packed magical chords just bursting out and energy infused riffs galore always make me want to stomp and clap!

They did The Break during which Milky donned a big leprechaun hat, ready for Paddy’s Day!
Any other Way – This is a nice number with a fast beat, a baseline that’s magic and a lovely lead intro. It’s young, exciting and has lots going on in it. This song always reminds me of wonderful Irish legends of rock Thin Lizzy, with percussion par excellence and moving into a choppy strut towards the end.

They finished with Too Tired to Sleep – A complex number, with flanger and lots of distortion used. Fire charged rhythm, energetic bass and a catchy melody; it was a perfect choice to close the set.
I had a great evening but found the smaller venue way too confined for a large crowd of young punters!
I started out being a skeptic about this band who don’t take themselves too seriously! But since giving them a proper listen I realize that you certainly shouldn’t judge a book by its cover!

gig in The Greysones Theatre

More Tiny Giants

At

The Greystones Theatre

6/ 03/ ‘09

I’ve been quite curious about this new gig venue. So on hearing that my good friends ‘More Tiny Giants’ were coming out of hibernation, with a new sound and a bigger line-up, I ventured down the M50 to Wicklow.

This band, an explosive combination of raps, beats and melody has become my all time favourite unsigned act. I was looking forward to the unveiling of some new material, extra instruments and even more oomph added to an already unique Alt/ Punk sound!

On arrival I had a drink in the small but cosy bar. From three or four people, the number increased within a short space and before long there was a nice crowd waiting to go inside. The Theatre is very modern and although small, is excellently designed to be compact and comfortable. It’s simple, with the auditorium surrounding a large floor space, where cubic wooden benches were placed for further seating. I picked a good vantage point for both listening to the music and taking one or two photos.

The first set was performed by a funky blues band; Almost Funk Band. Slapping baselines, husky male vocals and jazzy discords expertly played on guitars, created an appealing sound.
They did a song; Blues by the man where the singer uses falsetto notes for a high pitched ‘Why’. I liked the jazz riffs which were blurted out intermittently by the fabulous lead guitar. The small crowd lapped this act up and with this band’s cool charisma, I wasn’t too surprised.

They did a choppy number; Who’s the bomb. Jazzy at the beginning, it included this amazing Jimi Hendrix screaming lead solo in the middle that blew me away and somehow diverted the whole mood away from jazz to rock. Very interesting!

What the f..ck was a fun number which put a smile on people’s faces. It had a catchy chorus which was easy to sing to. There’s a line that I love; Would you give a dog a number, would you give a dog a bone.
Swishing cymbals, distortion packed guitars and rhythmic bass continued throughout the song.
They did quite a few more songs, but I particularly enjoyed one called Everybody’s good. This has jazz chords, bending guitar riffs and each instrument including the jazzy voice of the lead singer, was well and truly put through its paces!


Next up were Zealots, with a female vocalist Ruth who plays keyboards too. From the minute they got up onstage, I was intrigued. This lady is so young, in neat black attire and along with her band, made a big impression on all present.
Scully – Drums, Colum – Bass and Dan – Guitar are in the line-up, which has been tweaked a little since this act started off. Now happy with their sound, they seem to blend very well and definitely could not be termed boring.

Depeche Mode/Interpol/Muse- inspired creations kept me mesmerised. Rhythmic notes combined with Ruth’s Toyah Wilcox-style of singing were a treat to the senses.

They did nine songs beginning with ‘Go to drive’, which has a sweet riff with an echo effect in it. Ruth’s voice is light here as she sings the chorus; I can see your head’s on fire!

Contrition – I find that Ruth brings to mind all of my heroines from yesteryear. In this song she reminds me of Debbie Harry from Blondie, with that ability to perform the chorus seductively, yet maintaining certain indifference in her attitude. Dan’s baselines are very audible as are his backing vocals which I find a bit iffy. Riffs on keyboards are catchy too!

And So They Shivered – This number is fast, with lovely chords and a delicious distortion packed riff. Keyboards amazing!
The beat is fast and then becomes choppy after the first chorus, which involves Ruth’s vocals sliding up to falsetto notes giving a creepy effect. This style is really unique I have to say!

Eva was fourth with a tick tock style of beat in it. Dramatic chords and a baseline that’s almost like the throbbing of a heartbeat, lends to the atmosphere!
They followed this with Chalklines, Kontract, Exitbag, Fastone and The Glitch. Of these my favourites were Exitbag and The Glitch.

Exitbag – A fan of Fight like Apes, I found this number remarkably similar to that type of sound but perhaps a tad tamer. Emotionally sung lyrics and a haunting melody plus delicious riffs played on guitars made this number, with electronic beeps and blips on boards constantly hypnotising the audience!

The Glitch – With ten times more punch than all of the set, this song was outstanding!
It starts with a simple keyboard riff that is so catchy. Then there’s an explosion of sound to take you into the verse. The riff continues throughout this number and Ruth sings the line ‘They put a big star beside your name’ with such expression!
Thumping drumbeats and weird guitar riffs add drama, then the chorus; ‘This is my survival’ starts out being sung in a normal way, gradually increasing in emphasis until Ruth actually screams it out. If this didn’t wake us all up for the headliners, I don’t know what could!
From such a cool calm looking young woman, she transforms herself to a manic banshee when she sings. I’d like whatever she’s having barman!


More Tiny Giants

With new bassist Ben onboard, Stevie and Rian on guitars, Oisin on drums and Paul Finan on vocals and piano/organ and rhythm guitar, the stage was filled up for the main attraction of the night.
They have come a long way since the ‘Wolves at the Door’ debut E.P. two years ago. Having explored new sounds and genres, they have injected hip-hop and jazz into the Punk/ Folk rock music that has been their signature to date.

They started off with a new song; King Heshame which has an intro performed on trombone by Paul himself. This is followed by a big burst of sound from all instruments. The verse is quiet, but the chorus is really catchy. I was impressed with it and thought it a great opener.

War on my Back – This song has a Fairground style intro, with a strange tempo in it. Haunting discords and a mysterious feel to the melody made it memorable, but a little weird.

Hocus Pocus – I felt this was more like what I have come to like about the M.T.G. sound. Rian went on keyboards for this one and Paul took his guitar up. It’s fascinating how effortlessly these guys can switch from one instrument to another and play both excellently!

Mr. Universe – This I really loved! Close harmony in the chorus, a creepy part in the middle and great backing vocals created great drama and interest. The lyrics mentioned something about ‘Dancing in circles’ and it changed tempo for that bit, to a three four fast waltz. There was a catchy guitar riff and with the simple melody and the full band sound, this was really enjoyable.

A church Organ type of intro took us into Burn us all, which commanded the audiences attention. Thumping drums, close harmony and brilliant riffs again stole the show. A delightful mandolin solo was performed here by Rian. Paul’s vocals passionate!

Paul did the count in for Buxton Blues next, to the delight of all in the theatre, especially yours truly!
We all sang (shouted) the chorus along with the band. That baseline is magic and the lyrics are ‘Crazy’!
Stevie used a slider on the lead guitar which was really sweet and added a Cowboy twang to the equation!
They of course did a few more old favourites such as Heroes and Buildings with its dramatic chorus and complex discords. This number always reminds me of Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust days.

Wolves at the Door – With its slinky intro, the creepy song as my son refers to it began. Paul’s vocals slide up and down in a wolf like way, bass is absolutely amazing and those words of warning in the chorus; I’ll make you so cold you’ll scare the blossoms away are the components of this band’s most popular song.

I don’t like Formulas was the last oldie and was as enjoyable as ever. They finished with a new song called Aqua. Huge shouts of ‘One more song’ went up as they left the stage.
I’ve clocked up quite a few M.T.G.gigs and never yet saw them perform an encore!
But as I was about to go to the bar for a 7up, lo and behold out they came!

They played the choppy intro to You wanna sell and with its threatening lyrics, the fab build up sung by the backing vocals and then the fun ‘Bah bah’ in the middle eight, it sounded better than ever!

The new material will probably become as popular as the older songs in time. There is definitely a huge improvement with the extra musicians and the way they have expanded their sound. Anything this fun bunch of geniuses produced would draw my attention. I like to hear something that absolutely nobody can copy. Plus it is done well and with conviction!
Greystones from Rathcoole was a bit of a journey for me. But I’d hop a shuttle to outer space to see them, because they definitely hit a nerve for me every time I hear them on my mp3, or see them live!

A lovely venue, three quirky but brilliant bands!

Angela Macari O’Looney

Scuba Dice/Life by misadventure and Kevin on a bike

Scuba Dice

Life by Misadventure/ Kevin on a Bike

20/02/’09

Eamonn Doran’s

Scuba Dice, a band I’ve come to admire were launching their E.P. Let Go in Radio City last month. I met up with them a few weeks before at another gig, when they had invited me to come and see them headlining. Unfortunately the launch gig was on at lunchtime that day, when I was caught up with work commitments.
However, while listening to them on My Space, I noticed that they were also gigging in Doran’s on the same night. So, I headed down to temple bar where I had a brilliant evening, hosted by Kevin on a bike, who were launching their new E.P. Cyclepath. Also playing that night was a sweet bunch of guys who make up Punk/Rock band Life by misadventure!

Life by Misadventure

Formed from the ashes of two previous bands, this refreshing Punk band has recorded their first three song demo E.P. entitled Not Long Now!
Their sound has been compared to Blink 182 and they clinched second place in the 2nd round of the Emergenza Festival this year. Band members include Eoin Griffin – Guitar/Vocals, Jamie – Lead Guitar/backing vocals, Jubby – Bass and D’Arcy – Drums.

There’s nothing left to say was their first song. A fast beat and catchy melody in this! Although I found Eoin’s vocals a tad quiet, he has good stage presence and once the harmony comes into the equation, the nice blend of voices gives the band a unique sound. Guitars were excellent in the whole set, especially Jubby’s riffs on bass.

Next was a song Form me to You which starts with a delicious trickling guitar riff. Then it just BURSTS into life!
Loads of amazing bass, crunching chords and a distinctive melody line with a smashing chorus, got every punter’s adrenaline pumping!

Eoin introduced the band, and then they performed Cold, a song which leans more towards a heavier rock sound. The beat alternates after the first verse, lending a nice touch. The chorus as in all of this act’s songs is lively with sweet chord combos and wonderful bass, rhythm and beats throughout.

Jubby did backing vocals in Going Home. With lots of stops to add drama and lively drum rolls in the last chorus, this was a favourite for me.

The next number was Jealousy and spite, where all the stops were pulled out big time. I think it may be the band’s own favourite judging by how well they performed it. I enjoyed the way it started slowly and built up momentum, to become a fun song, with a refrain of ‘whoa whoa’ behind the chorus.

Then there was Ghosts which has memorable distortion-packed riffs, a hammering rhythm and gorgeous melody, followed by Paranoia, their final number which has dramatic bashed out beats, crunching chords, and a powerful melody which is kind of creepy, closing with the last line building up to a screaming finish!
That was only the beginning of the night’s entertainment, which continued with the next band, who were the reason I was there!


Scuba Dice

Explosive from the get go this band captured my imagination, when I was at The Shower Scene’s E.P. launch back in January. There are several bands doing similar music around the circuit at the moment, but Scuba Dice have real quality, fantastic melody lines in all of their songs and a top class lead vocalist, who puts them across with youthful, energy-charged flair!
A four piece Pop/ Punk band half of whom were in the original line-up which dates back to 2004, Scuba Dice made their first T.V. debut on R.T.E’s You’re a Star from which they used the experience to hone the sharp, eclectic sound that comes from each member bringing his own style and influences, resulting in a catchy mix. Their song Made was included in a compilation CD; The mob Rules in ’08 and they took part in L.A. or Busk, winning 3rd prize.
Scuba Dice are Joe – Vocals, Scanner – Guitar, Liam – Bass, Daire – Drums. Their influences include Fallout Boy, Blink 182, Greenday, Motion City Soundtrack and Newfound Glory.

When they took to the stage, clashing Cymbals, a manic riff and the strains of Nothing’s free were bashed out and you could feel the throb of adrenaline and excitement that they generated around Doran’s. I jumped up from my seat and had to go right up front, to where I could see and hear everything. Distortion packed chords, little riffs and hooks splashed here and there and loads of busy bass and kick ass beats got the crowd going big time!

Just Dance

Choppy intro! Daire doing big drum rolls and bashing rhythm here with guitars doing in synch notation which is just so effective!
Joe’s own guitar playing is brilliant, his phrasing really emphasised in the chorus I wanna see you all dance dance dance!
This one I just felt right down to my boots, which were tapping away with the wonderful beat. The melody in this song is also gorgeous, with fantastic riffs framing Joe’s vocals. I love it!

16! Mandatory
This was number three and began with the first line unaccompanied. Then an explosive burst of guitars, drums and a distortion lined riff take you into the verse. I love the harmony here, the catchy melody, a riff that has a rock quality in it and lovely backing vocals performed seamlessly with hammered out chord combinations, that are alive and kicking!

Bittersweet

This involves really dramatic stop- start beats, a fantastic lead solo and a magic ‘Whoa’ sung in the chorus. Slides up and down the frets of the guitars creating this machine –gun style sound gives each song, but especially this one such fire!
Liam does backing vocals in the chorus here with a never ending stream of choppy, energetic chords behind a great melody; this is yet another manic number!

Hear me out

Joe’s diction was very distinctive, particularly in this song. With lots of harmony, a fab lead solo and the gorgeous melodic chorus that everyone in the place knew, it was just amazing!

Made

This has a really easy- to-sing to chorus! It begins with a rocking riff intro followed by a lovely plucked bit. The verse is quiet with a choppy beat. Then the chorus I cannot believe my eyes is belted out with the audience all singing with them!
Plenty going on with Scanner’s lead and gorgeous harmony throughout, making this my absolute favourite song!
The way they have of taking things down to a quiet middle eight with just a guitar, a chopped out beat and lead vocals, to build up gradually to the lovely chorus where the lads do a cleverly arranged refrain behind Joe’s lead vocals.

The lads finished up with the new single Let Go!

A fuzzy intro, distortion packed and energetic takes you into a cheeky verse. Everyone in the place was totally alive as the boys really did let go!
The riff is just amazing and is the absolute highlight of this number. Scanner, Liam and Joe’ s guitars all doing fast, explosive guitar riffs and hooks throughout the whole song and of course all hands were up in the air clapping to the beat of a fantastic and memorable number, performed with endless fire and energy by this adorable bunch of guys!

Kevin on a bike

The headlining act was next. An alternative/ Indie/ Rock band hailing from Blessington, Kevin on a bike have smart ass grunge riffs, bashing beats and one really hypnotic sound.
There’s no denying each of the guitarists have talent in abundance. Singer Glenn is a great front man, with the looks, the voice and is a fine bassist to boot!

Colin is the lead guitarist and second guitar is played by Liam. They have a drummer who exudes energy in Darragh Kenny.

Taking influences from heavy rock bands such as Nirvana, Metallica, Alice in Chains and some lighter bands such as Arctic Monkeys, Thin Lizzy and even Homestar Runner, a band I am fairly familiar with myself, this band were quite different from the first two.

Glenn does a lot of the song writing and favourite lyricists include Dave McPherson (Inme), Chad Kroeger (Nickelback) and Chris Doughtry. Their setlist included all of the numbers from the new E.P. ‘Cyclepath’, plus a few covers.

Run Away – was first with a bass intro, lots of distortion in both guitars and I enjoyed the way all members of the band sung the chorus in unison. The riffs are catchy and as Glenn goes into the next verse, the rhythm on guitars becomes choppy. There’s a screaming lead solo and although the melody is a little monotonous in this song, I do like it!

What are you looking at – This is one fast number!

It begins with a drumbeat with lots of cymbals, followed by crunching chords and is extremely heavy. A bass riff that’s memorable, joined by the other guitars leading to a screaming solo a la Colin, drumbeats that go right through you, with Glenn’s fingers flying up and down that bass guitar!
Once again the melody is kind of dreary, but of course this is because the style of their music is based on anger, passion and disillusion at the hostility that exists towards the youth in the area where the guys live, as is described in the lyrics;What are you lookin’ at?

You can’t see me

Dark melody line/ fast beat with all the lads singing the chorus!
Choppy riffs nice and I like the line; Welcome to lonelyville, population me!
I like the beat! There’s a catchy riff with lots of distortion done by the two guitars.
An elaborate and quite special solo is really the highlight of this number, plus the really grunge part of the chorus where Glenn sings I just can’t move on, move on!
It’s all very Black Sabbathish and draws you in, particularly that amazing flanger packed solo!

Their set continued with Futility which involved action-packed bass, a fantastic cheeky Metallica-style riff, a screaming lead solo and the chorus performed by all members of the band, with the now familiar riff framing it and delicious guitars throughout from beginning to end!

Then there was Epiphany, with distortion all over the place, bashing cymbals, a manic rock beat and a cheerful chorus for a change involving a memorable refrain and as in all the songs, Liam and Colin’s guitar solos/ riffs etc. to die for, with screaming flanger-charged, hair raising bits before the last chorus!

Get Away - Just before this Glenn talked to the audience, thanking all for their devotion and also the other two bands. I loved the riff in this number and it would probably be my favourite from the new E.P. with a baseline hammered out, an elaborate solo and generally a truly heavy sound throughout with the memorable chorus; They should cast you away!

This set was extremely lengthy and I picked one or two that I actually recognised out of the remainder which were mainly covers.; Arctic Monkey’s Cherry Picker with a magic riff, an Indie beat and a lovely chorus. There was a short interval, but there followed lots more including one really cheerful Punk number ;Let’s go Punky.
This was mainly a rap with a fun refrain. The place was rocking and everyone was enjoying themselves immensely including me.

Jealousy – This was the only slow song that ‘Kevin on a bike’ did. It was a nice change with acoustic guitar and a really sweet melody in it and I found that although I was feeling tired, I couldn’t pull myself away from this band’s performance. The heavy stuff was very deep, but their musicianship and style kept me riveted to the spot!

My ears were throbbing for quite some time en route home from this exuberant evening. Despite this, I am so glad I had the opportunity to see three bands, all quite different from each other and equally entertaining in one night.

Angela Macari O’Looney

Choice Music Awards winner '09

JAPE

Ritual

Angela Macari O’Looney

Formerly a member of Black Belt Jones, also once bassist in The Redneck Manifesto, Richie Egar has travelled quite a long road to get to where he is now!
A seasoned performer, whose songs have been covered by prominent bands such as The Raconteurs in their live shows, Egar’s sound has finally reached an audience who have welcomed Ritual with open arms, with it’s collection of electronic and acoustic muses, exotica and pleasant sounds throughout!

Jape(Richie’s) first live appearances playing support to his old band The Red Neck Manifesto, gave him a chance to give a taster to audiences, for his debut album Cosmosphere on ‘Volt Sounds Label’.

A second successful album The Monkeys in the Zoo have more Fun than me was released in 2004 under a different label.
Four years on Ritual was released, featuring ten tracks and is a Japanese/Tropical/ electronic Rock trip well worth taking!

Christopher +Anthony

I could be wrong, but this title looks to me like a ‘Jape’ about two popular Saints, both of whom are called upon by people on a regular basis, for what could be deemed very superstitious reasons! Don’t sue me. It’s just a thought!

The intro is a word repeated using sound sampling, a catchy riff playing along with it on keyboards, a hint of guitars and a robotic beat.

The lyrics go on in a disjointed fashion, speaking of the strangeness of beliefs and taboos. At least that’s what I take from it ; Stick religion up your blasphemy, Mr. Richard Christopher Anthony!
Being a person who boogied to Duran Duran, Orchestral manoeuvres in the Dark and Howard Jones in the ‘80s and early ‘90s, this music is resurrected in my mind when I hear the simplistic, but cheerful melody of the chorus. It starts with a dramatic verse with lots of minor chords, a fab baseline and drums creating a staccato beat. This song is quite memorable, with a catchy pattern on keyboards framing the sweet chorus. I really love this song and feel I’ll be singing along whenever I hear it!

I was a man

Performed in the Choice music awards final, this number has a brilliant beat!
The balance is gorgeous with a thumping baseline, electronic drumbeats and a smartass riff going on throughout. It’s stompin’ and has a marvellous action packed synth - infused break. A big shhhhhhsh resounds in the midst of the lively instrumental.
The lyrics are enjoyable and as in all of Jape’s songs, are tongue in cheek and witty!
This easy going type music is pretty addictive!

Replays

With a jazzy and busy electro intro, this number has fun lyrics. It has this ‘I’m too sexy for my hat’ sentiment going on. But despite a bunch of amusing statements about the length of his you know what and his prowess on the dance floor etc., it has a lovely melody line with Richie using his own voice re-recorded for the backing vocals, doing a refrain.


Graveyard

I heard Richie describe the story behind this number when interviewed at the awards. It’s based on an experience, in a Jewish cemetery off the South Circular Rd. My heart lurched when I heard his anecdote, since I grew up less than a mile away from the self same place. I think lots of kids must have snuck in there, from around them parts. But the significance of it already got me listening a little harder to it nevertheless!
Now of course apart from the next track, it is my favourite number on Ritual. After hearing the tale behind the tale and after hearing the wonderful seductive melody, the spurts of sweet lead guitar with sliding riffs and the gorgeous guitar that plays the chorus; I kissed you in the graveyard alongside Richie’s simple choppy refrain, any scepticism I may have had about yet another guy on a synth trying to be different, has disappeared!

Phil Lynott

This is a story about friends who go outside at a gig, to watch the Lunar Eclipse. It’s a little bit monotonous melody wise, with a pretty boring beat!
However, the story is lovely and is a tribute to Thin Lizzy and the celebrated lead vocalist and bassist!
It’s a thing that gives people from the Crumlin/ Clogher Road and South Circular road areas some real pride. We had such historical figures such as Phil Lynott, Luke Kelly and Brendan Behan right on our doorsteps!
I know I once spotted the tall, dark, big haired gentleman (Lynott) when I was a kid hanging around the canal, as he walked along the pavement at Sally’s Bridge. Me and my mates just stood gob smacked!
Richie touches yet another nerve here for me with the beautiful lines; And now right in the sky, was his half opened eye. He’s still winking at girls in the front row.
The last lines are really poetic and touching; And I was thinking – I’ll raise a whiskey up/And I was thinking –one day I will be a dead man who plays the bass from Crumlin. A dead man who plays the bass from Dublin!
Streetwise

This number is space aged with close harmonies brilliantly achieved, using God knows what kind of pre programmed synthesised stuff, a totally fire packed beat and a great tune!
The funky beat and bassy quirks and twists make me smile. The lyrics are fantastic, with Richie describing that craziness that makes youths do inexplicable things. Then they laugh about it later on in life!
There’s a sad sentiment about how his old school (the one they set on fire) is now apartments. I knew that school well. Walking around the area or even driving past always brings a tear to my eye, with the way our old haunts and hangouts were just wiped out by progress!
The chorus has a stop start quality and actually changes to a boogie woogie beat at one stage. Then he creates big orchestral sounds to take it up to a huge crescendo. Wow!

At the heart of all of this strangeness

Plucked classical style guitar chords and a wonderful tempo make this slow number absolutely beautiful!
No complicated keyboards or sampling here but just pure music, performed by Richie singing the moving vocals and the wonderful acoustic guitar (Jon Green) throughout. Richie has a nice voice!
Words of wisdom and wonderful descriptions give this track seriousness after the funny and sometimes touching anecdotes thus far on the album!
My favourite sentence is You’re not a wave you’re part of an ocean and you’ll break without a fuss or any commotion!

Apple in an Orchard

Performed in his set at the Choice awards, this Post New Wave number is exciting and has a fabulous beat, with scintillating synth and energetic flanger-laden choppy chords in the intro.
The chorus is simple with lots of backing vocals, a catchy melody line and a sweet lead guitar solo; a welcome change that lends to a refreshingly different style from other tracks!

Strike me Down

Richie’s triumphal number at the Choice awards, this has a catchy chorus with extra synths programmed by David Kitt.
It starts off with a quiet riff, bursting into a fast beat a la Ross Turner and explosive synth chords. Fluently sung lines of lyric are sung, with powerful guitars infusing a touch of rock into things. I especially enjoy the delightful solo just before the last chorus!

Nothing lasts forever

I love the riff that’s played throughout this song! The sound sampling in the intro makes it seem like there’s a fault in the c.d. The whole piece is mainly synth and space age electro notes, but Richie’s vocals are sweet and the chorus is catchy!
It really takes me back to Howard Jones, O.M.D. and the sounds of yesteryear. The middle eight is gorgeous with interesting lyrics; And you’ll never get to heaven with a thought like that/ All the people at the funeral too embarrassed to laugh/Because the burial’s tomorrow but it’s still today/I’ll be drowning all my sorrows but they drowned yesterday.
For imagination and wit, I give this guy top marks. For musicianship and something just that little bit different from the rest, I think he deserves the prize that he was awarded and it’s a proud concept, that a geezer from my own old neighbourhood could stop the judges in their tracks, as he did me with this stimulating and brilliant collection of music.

Floyd Soul and The Wolf at the Cobblestone

Floyd Soul & the Wolf and

Bravado at the Cobblestone

13/02/’09
By Angela Macari O’Looney

After a Friday driving buses around the city, I took refuge with a bottle of booze at one of the most cheerful little venues in Dublin; The Cobblestone. One of my favourite bands at the moment Floyd Soul and the Wolf and popular band Bravado were playing. So I was getting to hear two brilliant bands in one night.

Last year’s N.S.M.A. winners, Floyd Soul have a sound that gets under your skin with Luke’s mesmerising stage presence and memorable voice, Deano Moran’s thrilling lead riffs and hooks, Si Merriman’s Classic Rock/ Country baselines and the calm but expert rolls, and bashing beats of Drummer Ciaran Delaney.


Bravado

Hailing from Raheny Dublin, Bravado consists of Brian – Lead Vocals, Kev – Guitar/Backing vocals, Milky – 2nd lead guitar, Corcy – Bass and Gaz – Drums.
They’re arrogant, have an exciting sound and have had a successful run to date, reaching the finals of Murphy’s Live ’08 and played support slots for The Enemy, Future Kings of Spain and Cathy Davy.
My last experience of them however, was at a gig in The Village last year and the drums were pretty much all I could here on the night. I felt I’d have to hear them again someday to judge more fairly.
In the intimate setting at The Cobblestone and with quite a small audience, they could be heard loud and clear. The one disadvantage was that dancing is something I feel you must do, to the faster Bravado songs and the audience remained seated for the set. Still and all it was a much more superior band I saw this time, with a vocalist that is unbelievably talented, a drummer that exudes showmanship and class and three fantastic guitar guys!

Too tired to sleep

Bustling beat, big distortion packed chord riffs and Brian’s youthful vocals confident as he sings the catchy chorus. Lovely lead solo and Kev doing backing vocals for the chorus too! Adrenaline charged and magical!

One Day

Bass riff intro here, with lots of distortion- packed guitar behind the verse!
Fast beat, two guitars doing choppy chords which are very effective and I like the way it picks up speed, for a punchy beat in the chorus. The chords are everything in this song. Bass player (Corcy) doing loads too and of course Gaz never fades into the background, with chops that make your heart beat fast and your feet stomp!

Revenge is Anne Frank

A strange name for a very interesting number! Kev takes a verse for this and both he and Brian sing the chorus together with close harmony. Kev keeps his flat Dub accent when he sings, which adds charm to the proceedings!
Bass and drums showed off big time. Two brilliant musicians with raw energy that is generated to their instruments! I particularly love the sliding lead riff and the way all the stops are pulled out in this one, which they enjoy performing and I enjoyed hearing!

Bag of messages

Sweet riff intro, guitarist does backing vocals again and both he and Brian are good together, with a crisp sound coming across. Distortion packed lead solo! In the last chorus there’s a big build up, with amazing chords bashed out to give it socks!

Artificial Angels

This number is sweet, slow and romantic with lovely chord combinations and although it is slow it is also explosive and drama-charged in places. The rhythm guitar chords are sweet, bass vibrant and drum rolls lively!

Any other way

Although they claim they take their influences from Arctic Monkeys, The Who and many Indie/Rock style bands, I am reminded of Thin Lizzy when I hear the verse and lead riff intro in this song!
It’s fast, it’s bashing and this song is just explosive and definitely crosses genres.

They did a new song which is as yet untitled. Both guitars perform a riff intro with bass involved too. Great choppy beat, with a magic melody line!
This one is seductive with a slinky beat and moody notes throughout!

They continued their set with Runnin’ which has a distortion laden intro. With a bouncing beat and post punk style, it’s a brilliant song. The fuzzy fire-packed chord riffs are delightful and with Brian’s vocals exuding attitude in the chorus, it’s a song I plan to dance to the next time I hear it, whatever the rest of the audience are doing!

Break the lamp was the final number for Bravado with a rolling style of beat. The audience were well warmed up for the main act of the evening!

Floyd Soul and the Wolf



A big resounding chord took us into the juicy, rhythmic strains of Take the Shot!
A little riff is played behind a slow verse then the beat becomes choppy for the chorus, with close harmony that takes my breath away!
Things get livelier as this loveable quartet belt out the last chorus and I feel that Floyd Soul tonight, seem to surpass previous performances and have tightened their act up another notch!

Something called Decay

Bouncy beat, Bassy intro, distortion soaked chords and then the harmonic chorus makes this song deliciously sexy. With stops and starts and a choppy beat going on throughout, breaks here and there that make it exciting and a baseline that you feel right down to your boots, this is yet another terrific number.

Without delay our action packed show went into the cheerful intro for Give it a chance. Lead singer Luke is in top form tonight!
Riff hammered out with crunching chord combinations in true Rock ‘n’ Roll style, harmonies are splashed just precisely where needed!
I absolutely love the melody of this song which I have decided is the absolute BEST song of Floyd Soul and The Wolf!
The way they quieten things down for the second last chorus, then blast out the last one and in the final lines a pullback of the guitars and just the beat behind the vocals, winds it down beautifully!

They continued with Somewhere in your head; a slow but pretty number. Luke sings the verse alone with a baseline and a trickling lead riff accompanying him. The chorus is sung with harmony, and then Luke performs a short solo on harmonica.
In the last chorus this number becomes more dynamic, with a bashing beat and full chords bringing it up to a big climax for the finish.

I’m in love with my girls Very Best Friend

This new song involves a rhythmic note played in sync on guitars, then a catchy verse. Witty and with slightly shocking lyrics, it has a delectable chorus with sweet harmony and there is something refreshingly different to their usual style!

How does it feel?

Fast beat, with a quiet riff intro as Luke sings the verse softly, building up to the refrain of ‘how does it feel when I’m gone’ which is blasted out.
A lovely break takes you back to the verse again and with splashes of harmony behind the gorgeous melody, it’s another new and very appealing number.

On your knees

This song has a Western Cowboy beat, picking up momentum. Chords are really catchy, there’s a lovely romantic narrative performed by Luke in the middle. The music stops!
Then they do the chorus of ‘Baby baby, get down on your knees!’ which is sung with passion and ends with a big long drum roll!

Luke interacts with his audience in a professional manner, thanking Bravado and he urges people to buy a t-shirt and help raise funds to get the band to Nashville, where they hope to record their debut album under the same producer who worked with big names like Nancy Griffith. How fabulous for the lads!
Nashville’s gain will be Ireland’s loss and I hope they’ll find their way back to the Emerald Isle even if they do make the big time!

The exciting and punchy lead riff and ‘Da da da’ intro to Bottle of Blues/Booze rings out across Smithfield!
This number is slinky, with changes to keep it interesting, a seductive melody and the most amazing harmonies throughout. It speeds up for the chorus which is bouncy. I always feel the trickling banjo and general mayhem in the instrumentals in this song almost make you imagine the song itself being a little tipsy!

This wonderful set continued with a new song; I Promise, with a slinky intro. Lovely harmony and delightful middle eight!
A romantic love song, with Luke doing a little solo on harmonica, it’s one of the rare slower ones by this band.

I don’t believe in your love was next in the long but exciting show. This has a real old fashioned Rock’n’Roll style and involves lush harmony, a memorable melody and fantastic riffs throughout!

They did Absinthe, the latest single, where Luke loses the guitar and gets into his vocals with a passion!
Lots of distortion, bashing chords and heavenly ‘Ah’s’ lift the sound and although the audience was small, the place was hopping.

Storm acomin’, Stonewalkin’ and Man Above followed. My favourite of these is Stonewalkin’ with a riff intro which I absolutely love!
It’s quirky and involves exhilarating instrumentals.

What can I say to emphasize the easy-going but seductiveness of Floyd Soul and the Wolf and their show? I got myself a t-shirt before leaving The Cobblestone, which I will treasure, because I’m certain that this really unique band won’t be waiting for fame for very long!
They are a little bit of Springsteen, Rolling Stones, Neill Young and every star studded Rock band you can think of rolled into a beautifully packaged quartet.
Here’s to two wonderful bands that made my Valentines weekend!

Angela Macari O’Looney

Choice music awards finalists'09

Fight Like Apes and

The Mystery of the Golden Medallion

Angela Macari O’Looney

Recorded with uber-producer John Goodmanson, this crazy but fantastic repertoire by the best Irish Punk band around, was laid down in spring ’08 in Seattle!

Fight like Apes are MayKay – Vocals/ Keyboards, Pockets – Vocals/ Keyboards, Tom – Bass/ Vocals and Adrian – Drums/ Vocals.
Previous recordings include debut E.P. How I am supposed to kill you if you have all the guns and four tracker David Carradine is A One Armed Bounty Hunter Whose Robotic Arm Hates your Crotch. Whew!

Exciting from start to finish and packed with quirky keyboards, digital distortion and quaking Alanis Morrisette meets Gwen Steffani lead vocals, this debut album is a perfect passport to Planet FlApe. Have a nice trip!

Something Global

After a slow intro of sustained chords dramatically played on keyboards with plenty of sound effects added, this number picks up speed to become an action packed piece of music. A manic beat takes you into the verse with a one noter riff framing the cheeky melody line!
The chorus is brilliant with a stream of lyrics poured out profusely by MayKay. Backing vocals are exciting and there’s general mayhem going on all around.

Jake Summers

Bassy intro, followed by a vibey keyboard riff then building up to a choppy beat! MayKay’s voice is tres sweet in the verse. But for the chorus she lets loose with alarming screeches, playfully rapped lyrics expressed passionately, with backing vocals coming back with a big ‘Hey’!
Witty and musically sensational, this number has so much going on in it, from slapped out baselines, rhythmic guitar chords and magical sampling and a never ending stream of effects that wake you up, it’s unforgettable!

Tie me up with Jackets

Beginning with a simple riff, this has a melodic verse which is sweetly sung. Then it becomes more bashing and dramatic, with things gradually building up and the chorus of ‘Lovely Noise’ belted out with male voices doing a refrain which is very catchy.
A lot of sound sampling, weird scratching sound effects and unidentifiable instruments in this number, create quite a ‘Lovely Noise’!

Digifucker

The title is a play of words and is explained in the chorus which has a pointed accusation in it ‘Did you fuck her?’
Now that the unpleasantness is out of the way, this number is very different to the first three, in that it involves distortion in the instrumentals that is absolutely magical, with a delicious electronic riff framing the chorus.
The intro has that same sweet quality as seems to be the general style of all Fight Like Apes songs. The space age sound effects are exciting, the vocals riveting and the number is explosive, seeming to quieten down at times only to take off into even louder, more vibrant directions!

Lend me your face

This is blasted out from the get go!
Memorable and totally magical with wonderful riffs throughout, it is one of my favourite Fight Like Apes numbers. I particularly love when MayKay goes into a falsetto ‘Do do do’ in the middle eight. However the beat is everything in this number, thundering and fast!
Big bashing chord breaks between the verses continue the dynamics. This is Punk that takes no prisoners!

Battlestations

This song is slower but still has a vibrant bassy beat throughout. It’s very powerful and involves some serious screaming in parts from MayKay. Chorus is pretty memorable with a catchy melody, but it’s not my favourite. Too much confusion going on in it!
Then again, I guess war IS bloody and messy!

Do you Karate

This begins with a bustling beat intro and a gorgeous electronic style keyboard riff. Definitely one amazing number, with fabulous instrumentals in it!
Shocking lyrics are spat out by MayKay. The chorus is easy to remember; ‘I like Karate and you like Karate’ repeated over and over! The riff from the beginning frames this.
They include a certain profound refrain that I heard in an earlier E.P. which is ‘Shit, shit, shit, bang, bang’!
It’s like a signature they’ve decided to inject into this song, just for kicks.

Megameanie

This isn’t a song. It’s an exclamation that will make you jump out of your skin!
Eight seconds long, with one word repeated a number of times; it has become my son’s favourite ‘Fight like Apes’ number since he loves Megameanies (pickled onion flavoured snacks). If it doesn’t make you jump it will certainly make you giggle!
And hungry! But keep the rennie handy for the next track!

I’m beginning to think you prefer Beverly Hills 90210 to me

This song has a three four tempo, a bass riff intro played rhythmically and a snippet of some American voice speaking about an ‘Experimental science’ programme. This all goes into creating a sense of drama!
A perfect anthem for Public Service workers and all the poor souls being made redundant in the recession, it has hilarious lyrics seductively sung in the cynical verses and develops into an explosive chorus!
The lads shout a militant rap of ‘Simplex backbreaker’ as MayKay does the chorus. The name of this song should be changed to YOUR FIRED!
A fabulous solo is done on boards, then the last verse with some superb riffs infused, builds up to the middle eight where Tom does fast bass notes behind MayKay, as she collectively fires Mary and her little lamb, the itsy bitsy spider and even Humpty Dumpty; Ah!
They should have marched down O’Connell Street like the rest of us!

Lumpy Dough

A song with wonderful instrumentals going on throughout, this begins slowly with a simple keyboard phrase. Drums are quite special, with chops and changes from slow to choppy, then to a bashing, thrashing chorus where there seems to be a profusion of sound and dynamics bursting out, while that little keyboard phrase trickles away happily all the while!

Recyclable Ass

A catchy riff intro, with a jungle style drumbeat takes you into this song. It involves a crazy ‘woo tah’ rap with the riff coming back which for me is the only good thing about it!

Snore Bore Whore

A nice oriental type of melody is played on boards here, with MayKay performing the slow verse. Drums come in and it takes on a sleepy Anthemic quality. Then suddenly it gets choppy and you hear an explosive ‘Wake up Sleepy head’!
You are then treated to yet another recording of some American T.V. presenter waffling on; A trend that this band uses quite a lot!
This actually reminds me of the Blondie number ‘Rip her to Shreds’ in that it’s basically a Punk rant done in slow motion!

Fight Like Apes have toured extensively appearing at Oxygen, Glastonbury, Castle Palooza and many big festivals. They include Grand Pocket Orchestra, My Bloody Valentine and Siouxsie and Banshees in their influences. They have an imaginative and forceful sound and for a band with such a sense of humour, are seriously talented. But if you listen to this album, you’ll know that yourself!

Choice music awars finalists '09

Mick Flannery

White Lies


Angela Macari O’Looney


Mick Flannery is a Folk/ Rock/ Alternative singer/ Songwriter from Blarney, Co. Cork. A former member of Rock Band Black Orange, he previously recorded an album in 2005 called Evening Train, which won very high praise throughout the music world.

White Lies is his debut under a major label and was released in September ’08, immediately reaching number six in the Irish Charts. He has performed all over Ireland and also in the U.S.A., Canada and Israel.

With his unique and easy – to – listen – to voice, a beautiful touch on piano and guitar and an exceptional knack for writing songs, it’s not surprising that he’s won several awards and was short listed for a stream of Song writing Competitions.

This interesting guy wrote and performed for the C.S.N. Dramask production of Brecht’s play The Caucasian chalk circle. His soundtrack was highly praised by The Irish Examiner!
Mick’s style has been compared to that of Tom Waits and Bob Dylan. I hear hints of Springsteen, Paul Brady and Van the man.
His instrumentalists and backing vocals include;
Karen O’Doherty – Violin/ Vocals
Yvonne Daly – Vocals
Eimear O’Grady - Cello
Brian Hassett – Bass
Christian Best – Drums
Hugh Dillon – Guitar
Grum Gallagher – Electric guitar
Additional guitar – Darren Mullins
Additional keyboards – Declan Quinn
Mick himself plays guitars both acoustic and electric, Hammond Organ and Piano.

Safety Rope

This begins with a bluesy, moody piano intro. His phrasing is so like Irish Singer/ Songwriter Paul Brady, who has a similar style in his song writing and melodies. With a hushed quality in the verse and bassy piano chords, this number becomes more vibrant for the chorus, with delicately sung harmony gradually coming in, plus strings which add to its sweetness.
Throughout, the female vocals create interest and jazzy piano chords softly played behind the whole song with a short solo midway though, are simply delicious!

California

Sexy and sensual lyrics, a slow but sweet melody line, close harmony and the plucked acoustic guitar accompaniment at the beginning make this a really pretty love song!
The two ladies sing a haunting chorus for the last part of this number with the violin/Cello/guitars accompanying them. This is such a simple song, emotionally performed and like all of Mick’s creations has a way of plucking on the strings of your heart, along with the lovely guitars and violins.

After the first two tracks, the refreshing upbeat Tomorrow’s Paper is a welcome change!
It has a catchy bending guitar intro, with wonderful key changes all over the place creating a fantastic sense of anticipation as you go from verses to the chorus.
The harmony is close and enriches the already lush melody line. A guitar solo is performed with a slider creating a seductive mood. This is one of my favourite songs on this album!

Jazzeee! This is how I’d describe Wish You Well which is a delightfully slinky number. It’s an easy going love song, with the bass giving it that little bit of extra sexiness!
The guitar solo is delectable and those plucky guitar notes, particularly towards the end of the song, add such charm to what is already a cheeky, charming number with bluesy solos and jazzy riffs crawling all over it!

Goodbye

This track takes things down with rippling piano notes and a gorgeous melancholic melody. It’s a sad lament about the end of a love affair. Sung with emotion, it has heartrending lyrics When I said goodnight tonight, when I said goodnight tonight. That meant goodbye.
The piano break is so beautiful, and then strings come in lending to the sorrowful but lovely notation.

Near or Far

I love the trickling acoustic guitar notes in this song which has this waltz type rhythm to it. The harmonious refrain performed by the ladies is absolutely wonderful. The profound lyrics are about a child who is torn by the tired marriage of his parents, which results in violence. As is the case in too many broken families, children are the true casualties!
The melody is pretty, with oohs sung at the end of each line of the verse. There are some sad lines in it such as; Born was a single heir to the ideal pair, to the careless two, who choked the child on the silver spoon!
Although sad, this number has the most memorable melody and would be yet another favourite of mine. He has a knack of making the saddest of songs sound irresistible!

Wait here

Tragic and really a tear jerking tale of war and its unfair politics, this number has lots of sliding minors played on Cello at the beginning. There are horrible home truths in the verses such as ‘Oil that chainsaw up again. Go on and fuck this earth up at both ends. It’s Mother Nature’s chesty cough. One o’ these days she’s gonna shake us off. I know you didn’t know. Nobody told you so’!
However I think the way it goes from the minors to the most appealing majors in the chorus once more somehow lifts the listener from the dregs and dreariness, right up to this beautiful positive and hopeful melody!
Instruments are so fabulous throughout this album, in that they set the scenes which are so expertly described in Mick’s amazing lyrics!

Of the remaining tracks on White Lies the prettiest and most appealing to me would be What do You See and Arise now.

Arise Now

This is a song for swaying to! It has that kind of three four tempo that is perfect for a sweet and beautiful love song.
It begins with a simple acoustic intro, followed by Mick’s gritty but gorgeous vocals with Yvonne and Eimear doing a mournful sliding refrain behind the romantic melody. The lyrics are filled with sensuality and that sense of some forbidden fruit being shared between lovers;
‘Love lord, so wrong but so right, at the same time’.
A violin comes in for the second chorus. In the last line Arise now and leave me, which is repeated in a kind of sweet chant, the arrangement is excellent whereby it builds up from just Mick singing it first, to be joined by one backing vocalist and the harmony is built up layer by layer each time the refrain is repeated until the end.

What do You See

This for me is probably the one gutsy number on this c.d. It’s a jazzy number with lots of sliding guitar riffs, a choppy beat and all the best components for the coolest Blues/Jazz kind of song!
Mick transforms from the laid back balladeer to become a Rock singer with a twist!
His gritty vocals come to life in a number with cheeky lyrics, a magical solo and lots of stop start style chords in the chorus. It’s a song that has a strut to it!
A thumping drumbeat and a slinky baseline belted out along with the sexy melody line, make this the wake up call on this album!

I find Smiling Girl a little too moaning and downbeat! It has a pretty piano in it and it involves some seriously tricky vocals, lovely guitar input and has a beat despite it’s slow pace!

Do me right is pretty much the same in that it is extremely slow and seems to drag out somehow. However it has a pretty melody and those melancholic lyrics that Mick is so good at composing. It reminds me a little of the song Heart of Gold by Neill Young. Ironically one of the lines of the chorus is Your heart of gold, your hair the same.

This collection of songs by an outstanding musician, composer and vocalist, must be one of the finest about. The few faster numbers are slinky and seductive, with the more sombre ones containing profound and emotionally sung stories of life, love and Goodbyes. And as Elton John said ‘Sad songs say so much’!

Choice Finalists '09

The Script

Debut album

Angela Macari O’Looney

One of the most recent Irish success stories is that of Alternative/Pop band, The Script who recently launched their eponymous debut album. Possessing a Midas touch when it comes to song writing, performing live and the ability to exploit that certain Irish boy charm to the max, Mark Sheehan-guitar, Daniel O’Donoghue-Lead Vocals and Glen Power-Drums, use their downright gorgeousness as they seduce audiences worldwide, introducing them to Celtic Soul with a dash of hip-hop, a slice of R’n’B and a hint of passion poured out along with the heavenly harmonies, heartrending lyrics and beautifully curved notes played and sung throughout all of their songs!
Looks charm and sexiness are all very well, but if you haven’t got an ability to come up with an infinite number of exciting songs, catchy arrangements and something to define you and prove yourself unique, the current competitive music making Industry will just eat you up and spit you out!
Their music has been described as state –of-the-art R’n’B with anthemic rock Dynamics. Having grown up in Dublin they developed an interest in Soul music, inspired by American legends such as Dallas Austin, The Neptunes and Teddy Riley. To their astonishment, Danny and Mark were invited at an early age, over to the States to collaborate with some of their idols at the recording studios. Later on Glen joined the outfit with his exciting drumming techniques. He is also a multi-musician and can play guitar and piano and has an outstanding voice. Danny the lead vocalist has such power in his voice, that he possesses this unique ability to emanate a musical instrument with his sweet vibrato-style. With Mark’s sensitively strummed guitar thrown into the mix, you find yourself coming alive and becoming infected by this music for the heart, feet and head!
It looks to me like this unpretentious band has a maturity in their creative skills that will reach out to a huge cross section of age groups and musical tastes. That in itself is a huge advantage and it’s what this act has achieved with this fine collection of songs.


Rusty Halo

A very Sting-esque type of song! It begins with a beat chopped out on stix, followed by a dramatic line ‘It’s been a long time comin’. Then there’s this delectable bass riff. Backing vocals from Glen and Mark are very effective too.
The lyrics are witty, the harmony is sweet and this is just so like the songs of eighties band The Policefronted by Sting with that baseline framing the choppy rhythm throughout. Danny does catchy chords on boards and generally makes this a very entertaining number.

Breakeven

Loads going on throughout this number!
It begins with a sweet riff, followed by a soulfully sung verse with a plucked guitar accompaniment. Then beat comes in and it builds up for the chorus with keyboards joining in the crescendo.
It’s one of my favourites for sure, with Danny’s vocal range demonstrated to great advantage in the chorus when he goes into falsetto for ‘I’m falling to pieces’!
Harmony is sung closely in the chorus and also refrains are splashed out here and there, keeping it busy and exciting!
In this song as in most of The Script’s stuff, there is a philosophy that love takes no prisoners, break-ups are never clean; ‘When a heart breaks no it don’t breakeven’!

We Cry

A mournful number with a delectable choral style intro, a bustling beat and a gorgeous riff!
This song is dramatic, rhythmic and builds up from a quietly sung verse about struggle and hardship to the memorable chorus, which has beautifully sung ‘oohs’ behind lead vocals.
The lyrics are very poignant in the current mood which is prevailing across the globe and in Ireland in particular. Powerful musically and extremely moving; this would rate as quite a masterpiece to me!

I’m Yours

Beginning with a plucked acoustic guitar, this sweet love song has a huge impact on me.
Heartbreakingly beautiful lyrics are sung in this slow number with a lovely melody line and some really memorable harmony closely sung in the chorus.
There’s a guitar break in the middle that would remind me of classical guitarist John Williams. This is so refreshing and puts this song into a whole separate genre to the rest of the pieces on this album!

Before the worst

Dramatic piano intro, with a fast moving beat building up behind!
A bending baseline adds to the sound. Verse is sung, harmony framing it and the chorus is catchy in this delicious love song. There’s lots going on in it. The melody is addictive with that change for the middle eight adding another dimension, followed by luscious piano chords lavished on the listener. Very precise with those harmonies synchronised behind the lead vocals throughout.
The message is about love ending once again filled with sentiments of regret; A symptom of relationship struggle!

Anybody there

Three four beat! Change of key as it goes into the second verse which is delightful and very memorable. Harmony lovely!
Big orchestral middle eight and the keyboards are exquisite, as are the guitars here with big drum rolls adding drama.
This song yet again, proves that The Script are capable of varying their style. The fact that they move away from hip hop/R’n’B on occasion, wins them the thumbs up from me!

If you see Kay

I’m not too sure if this title started out as a joke! F. U. C. K?
A very wittily written piece of music, with a trickling guitar riff going on behind the vocals!
Harmony blends in beautifully and the chorus is exciting. It has the most delectable notation!
The lyrics are expressively sung and tell the story of an unfinished love affair; that way that one feels when they’d like another chance to talk before calling it quits!
The twists and curves in Danny’s lead vocals with choppy drums throughout and that sweetly plucked acoustic guitar a constant! So gorgeous!
If I see Kay I’ll tell her!

Talk you down

Big piano chords and a bustling beat building up, this is another love song. The verse is sweet with nice chords behind and harmony. I find there’s a resemblance in the chord combination to a David Gray number. The wonderful glissandos and piano chords have that virtuoso quality that strikes me in the same way as all of the best musicians I’ve seen live.
I love the chorus with its simple ‘If you go I go’ bit which is addictive and has me singing it everywhere I go.
Danny does a lovely falsetto bit as he sings ‘This is relationship suicide’ and behind him the harmony is close. A busy piece of music, but very memorable!

Fall for anything

Beginning with a refrain of ‘Girl they’ll bring you down down down’, this is a lovely number. Lots of lush piano chords and harmony that’s delectable makes it really memorable.
Middle eight is done with big orchestral backing and starts off quiet, building up to a big crescendo for the final chorus.
It like all The Script’s songs has a message that touches anyone who hears it.

The End where I begin

Beginning with a lovely trickling riff and electric piano chords taking you into the verse, this number involves arpeggio-style piano notes lending a full sound to the scene and as things build up, there’s an exciting fast moving chorus.
It slows down again and the sweetly sung verse is accompanied by bashing drums. It goes back to the first line ‘Sometimes we don’t learn from our mistakes and sometimes we’ve no choice but to walk away’!

The Man who can’t be moved

I used to switch radio stations anytime I heard this number!
In my opinion it has been overplayed and that ruined its beauty and however popular The Script were, that brainwashing technique does nobody any favours, least of all a prospective audience. But since listening to it properly, without it being rammed down my throat, I feel that it has been redeemed and then some!
Like all their music, this is a song of a long lost love with emotionally sung lyrics. It has a softly played plucked acoustic guitar intro, followed by the verse.
The chorus is upbeat but sweet. Danny’s falsetto range is once again showed off here.
I love the little dramatic pull back of instruments, at the part where they sing ‘The day, the month, the year’!
Key change in the middle eight which has such moving words; ‘There are no holes in his shoes, but a big hole in his world’.
Backing vocals really effective as the last big chorus is done. Then it goes back to the romantic line that took you into the song, with the trickling riff behind. Bass and lead get full marks as both frame everything with sensitively plucked notes. Written by Andrew Frampton, it’s a tear jerking classic that is actually one of the nicest songs that has been in the Irish charts over that last few years. And Yes! I’ve definitely turned around!

Choice music awards finalists

R.S.A.G

Organic Sampler

Angela Macari O’Looney

Alternative/Soul/Acoustic act R.S.A.G. or Rarely Seen above Ground could be frowned upon by professional musicians for doing them out of a job. Why you may ask?
Jeremy Hickey who started out as a humble drummer in Kilkenny band Blue Ghost has created his own virtual band!
Using his on-screen bassist and any other necessary instrumentalists and the help from Paul Mahon who provides the live visuals, his show is done with twenty first Century Technology!

This strange collection of work by Hickey, involves the blending together of overdubs of percussion, eclectic melodies performed like the vocal ramblings of a madman, jazzy bass variations and bits of this and that. What you hear is a rattle and hum that will test your oral endurance to the limit, when you tune into this album!

For me personally this R.S.A.G. journey began like a wine tasting experience. You had to take time to taste it, swill it around and allow it to linger on your musical palate. With a fine wine, you are supposed to spit it out. With this music, I broke the rules and knocked it back and grabbed the bottle for another swig!
And now I am addicted, as will anyone be, who takes the time to try out Jeremy’s exotic and very beautiful Organic Sampler!

Between the two discs which are included in the sleeve, this album totals seventeen songs. The first track is called Countin’ Down.
With a continuous riff from start to finish, this number has only one or two lines of lyrics.
The music however, which is loaded with bassy monotones, haunting backing vocals, lots of cymbal and a bustling beat speaks volumes!

Stick to your line

The intro here is a simple one note rhythmic riff, with drums and cymbals breathing life into it .Throughout this piece a punchy baseline is supported by another guitar which plays intricate lead. The drums and percussion par excellence reach right into your soul!
Shuffling and urgent, this number has a catchy beat and that constant baseline is very appealing too.
Jeremy and his backing vocalist Jamie Walsh do a chant with disjointed sentences and some quite melodious scat, to add interest towards the end of this song.

Talk Back Crawl back

Oom cha Oom cha Oom cha Oom cha! This is the intro of this number that I absolutely adore!

It’s a nice jazzy piece, beginning with a simple beat, tapped out to be later joined by some really sexeee bass!
Jeremy’s vocals are seductive, with a hint of harmony just barely there in the chorus. Things become more complex, with weird goings on midway through that only a techno genius could put into words!
However as hard to define as it may be, the baseline throughout this and all the tracks is just so delightful that you feel the need to click your fingers to it.
Towards the last line of this number, a jive style riff comes in that takes things to a different level and although his voice is like some kind of jazz singing phantom, his style really grows on you in this one, which winds down with a terrific drum roll!

The Climb

Beginning with tragic sounding minors played on a Cello, this piece goes on to become a cool song, with distortion packed guitar chords, mace and a lot of exciting alternating drum beats. There’s a dynamic orchestral development, which then moves into a modern jazz type verse. The bass is divine as it ripples in a way that quickens your heartbeat!
Jeremy’s last lines here remind me of the retorts of a husband whose being nagged;
Stop your bitchin’ let’s just figure it out, stop your moaning, lets just figure it out!

Days go by

A slinking Pink Panther beat; a magical bass riff and quite a sweet melody make this a memorable number. There’s a drum break with percussion/drums doing chops, delectable loops, paradiddles and the sneaking ‘Shhh!’ of cymbals. Bass then does a solo that is sweet.
The chorus is fun with a refrain behind the vocals of ‘Wah wah wah’!

Good Times (Don’t be a Fake)

This is a really catchy song, with an exotic style tattoo tapped out for the intro. An acoustic guitar accompanies Jeremy and for a change his voice sounds quite light and appealing as opposed to the creepy style he adopts at times. A pretty riff echoes in the background on one of his wonderful virtual instruments. The lyrics are a little strange but carry a kind of philosophy ;be glad for tomorrow and not the too late, don’t make it fake by hate too tired too wake.
The chorus is also really pleasant, with that lovely dance beat going on throughout.

It Over

Choppy!
This number is quite a fast moving busy one. Stop start style beats and the use of the word Stop are effective with the constant onslaught of drums, imaginative percussion and bending baselines. Also a wonderful musical break just at the end of the piece lifts the mood and sweetens it up.

Bad Seed

With the funky vocals, the hammering drums and acoustic chords, snare and cymbal audible and a lot of trix with stix throughout, a sweet melodic Cello (Ruth O’Leary) and a never ending stream of alternating rolls, this number is an eclectic treat to the senses!

Moving Image

Beginning with a James Bond style mysterious intro, this number has delightful rock guitar riffs, bending bass and a single line of; We gotta move to set a scene on the stage of the new found pity!
This is done with Jeremy doing the lead vocals and a backing vocal singing in unison, but in a higher octave. This creates a sense of drama!
He finishes each line of the song with Cha cha cha> . I could certainly cha cha to this exciting music!

The bonus disc has equally divine pieces on it. But my choice of this tasty dessert after that exotic main course, would be
Tell it like it is
The guitar riff is simply beautiful in this piece, with bending notes here and there, a fast beat and the lovely build up to a full orchestral sound. This is an instrumental with only a heavenly ‘ah’ sung somewhere along the way!

I’ve been waiting
A bending bassy riff and a spurt of vocals in places are the basis of this track!
There’s a xylophone creating an ethereal quality to the proceedings. This is a soothing and pleasant experience!

Delayed Melody

This is the last track of the two discs and is done with jazzy vibes, a baseline doing a continuous riff and a hushed jazz beat.

A music arranger’s nightmare, this album goes from number to number, without a break. Mostly you are inundated with a baseline, percussion par excellence, the beats and rolls of the maestro himself and his chants, with the occasional hint of harmony spliced into them!
Produced arranged and performed by Jeremy Hickey, mastered by Fergal Davies, with Artwork and design by Ross Stewart, some drums performed by Alan Dawson, while on certain tracks vocals are shared by Jamie Walsh. Finally not forgetting the beautiful Cello which adds class to the album performed by Ruth O’Leary, these are the many extra facets that colour the already colourful and extraordinary work of genius here in this enticing treasury of music!