Stewart Kenny
I’ve Fallen So Far
Angela Macari O’Looney
This enjoyable collection of songs, all original compositions are well written with simple but memorable melody lines.
Stewart Kenny is a young singer/songwriter who hails from Dublin. He began composing songs with his father at the tender age of fourteen. He later formed a band called The Noonday Guns, gigging in Whelan’s and The Sugar Club.
Deciding to go solo, he released this debut album in April ’09. It has had airplay on Country Mix 106 FM, where it received high praise. I recently saw a few of his songs performed live, when he played support to Grades of Shade at Crawdaddy, Harcourt St. His tongue-in-cheek lyrics and catchy melodies attracted me and I particularly noticed that although sweet and cheerful, his music involves serious guitar chords and expert lead throughout.
Influences include a variety of styles such as Prince, Michael Jackson, KT Tunstall, Bob Dylan and Ray Lamontagne to name but a few.
In certain numbers I hear a hint of a resemblance to Garth Brookes and Don MacLean. However, this guy has a real knack for unique, imaginative pieces, where his vocal range is demonstrated to great effect. His ability to sing falsetto is exceptional and adds interest, yet he can perform the moodier songs from his set in a lower key.
There are thirteen tracks in all, each telling a story or laden with colourful descriptive lyrics. I have a few favourites among them and the first song on the album Midnight Sun is top of the list.
This reminds me of line dancing with its country feel and choppy beat. It has a catchy chorus, with close harmony that augments its charm. The lyrics are cheerful as is the lovely melody. The lead solo is sweet with sliding notes and my favourite line in it is Well their gonna have to shoot me, or tie me to a tree cause I’m never ever gonna act my age. I like this sentiment!
The second song Seize the moment begins with a pretty acoustic intro. A vibrant baseline framing it, this number has a beautiful chorus where Stewart’s vocals are excellent, trickling guitar riffs adding to the magic.
The Prom Queen is a bouncy number and has a tricky tempo. It’s a real fun sing-along piece, with a lively melody and includes splashes of harmony here and there plus a key change for the last chorus, which gives it an extra bit of oomph. I like the sarcastic tone of the lyrics; Can you finally understand why no one’s gathered round to share your sorrow? You’re just like Scarlet in the wind, hoping there will be a bright tomorrow.
The theme song I’ve fallen so far has a three four tempo and is a slow country song with a mournful feel to it. Violin and piano add to the mood and backing vocals are lovely here too. The change from minors in the verse, to majors for the chorus gives things a sense of hopefulness and the guitar solo, joined by a trickling mandolin create a perfect arrangement.
Under the Moon
In this number Stewart sings the verse in falsetto. Intricate electric guitar riffs are noticeable, as is the melody of this love song. Backing singers do angelic ‘oohs’ for this slow ballad.
Of the remaining tracks there is only one I find a little monotonous. This would be Your Lonely room.
Lovers has dramatic piano and although it has a sense of gloom in it, is an enjoyable song.
Strange
Catchy with a choppy beat and appealing chord combinations. I adore the melody and how Stewart performs it. It’s one of those songs that haunt you so that you find you are humming it everywhere you go!
Over the Edge is a soft ballad with delicious piano accompaniment and was recorded live in the studio. Stewarts excellent delivery of this number makes me think perhaps it’s one of his own favourites. You can feel his love for every note and lyric.
Only Still Fool
This number involves a plucky rhythm and is yet another philosophical piece. Harmony in the chorus gives it lots of dynamic.
All Boats will Rise
I loved this song when I saw it performed in Crawdaddy. It involves harmonic oohs for the intro and in the chorus. Guitar throughout is sweet, especially the rhythmic break. Lyrics reflect the current economic downturn and are cynical; Will they even bother searching for a drowning soul or are they too far up their own sweet ass, they won’t save a soul. I feel that the mood in the lyrics expresses what a lot of people think but don’t say about how the big wigs handle the threat of financial devastation.
Tremble has a jazzy feel to it, even though Stewart’s style is described as Acoustic/Country/Pop. I adore this moody number where chord combos are a treat, the melody line seductive, bass is divine, the lead solo to die for. There’s a sudden stop!
It resumes with rhythmic chords taking things to a close. I commend the clever use of a backing vocal singing the chorus in a high octave, while Stewart sings in the lower.
Jenny
This is a sad ballad about the loss of a lover to death. That’s what I gather from the lyrics anyway. The melody is pretty, but guitar is the high point in it for me, with a perfect solo that takes it to completion.
An unexpected surprise at the end of the album is a magical song called Just add ‘em to the rain. Maybe he’s superstitious, but whatever his reason for not mentioning it and just throwing it in as an afterthought makes it a nicer treat. It’s about a guy with a broken heart who is given advice from his cruel hearted ex. Lovely distortion laden guitar chords give this slow piece fullness and I like the last line ‘Baby blue is laughing in the rain.’
Stewart and his father Tommy seem to have put a lot into this project and the result is thirteen beautiful tracks and one bonus, each with rich guitar and piano input and the superb voice of Stewart leading each. How he could top this compilation with a better one I don’t know. I have only seen him once live and it was an acoustic set. But having heard his music at its best I would definitely be watching out for a chance to see him headlining some day soon.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
A great night's entertainment
On Sunday evening November 15th, I and my Mum went to see a concert starring The C.I.E. Male voice Choir. My friend Joe is a member of this longstanding and interesting act.It involves a lot of rehearsing and enormous commitment, since they get quite a lot of work.
I'm not surprised they are so popular, having heard the beautiful blend of harmonies and clever arrangements that create their sound.
Each year a concert is put on in Liberty Hall, Dublin with lots of guests joining the show. This year the show included Noel V Ginnity, a hilarious comedian who dresses a bit like a leprochaun and is the right size for his choice of costume. This guy can somehow manage to be really funny and entertaining, without being in any way offensive. I'd call him a classy comedy act.
Compare that night was Brian Hoey, a veteran of music and theatre and a really excellent MC. He performed a show stopping version of O Sole Mio. He did a fun number where people joined in; Are you right there Michael. This man has one of the nicest male voices I've ever heard.My mother mentioned that she saw him star in the opera Aida once.
Also on that night were a Soul band called Mr. Average. I enjoyed some but not all of their set. They would be a great band to see in a different type of setting. Eimear Carbone a gorgeous soprano singer participated in a lot of the numbers which the choir performed, but also sang a lovely song alone. It was an old Irish song about 'A dear little girl with a bit of a brogue'. It got some of the oder members of the audience singing along.
Accompanists for the show were Linda Costelloe and Geraldine McGann. Also on that night was another member of the McGann clann,Judy. This pretty blonde singer did a delightful set, which finished with a favourite song of mine Hallelujia which was in the charts last year. She later joined the choir for the finale.
A great act too was Folk/Ballad band Abhainn Dubh, which I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed. This act is made up of two really nice lads, one playing mandolin and the other on guitar who knew exactly the right songs to sing to liven the place up. Everyone sang with them and they got the second half of the show off to a brilliant start.
UK Instrummentalist Peadar Long performed a set on his saxophone and was joined later by Eimear for The fields of Athenry. This was a lovely rendition of the sorrowful ballad.
Boy soprano Dylan Caffrey performed the Christmas song Oh Holy Night. He did the verse and was joined for the chorus by Eimear and the choir.
I have heard the choir on occasion, but have never seen them do a full concert before. This was my first attendance to one of their gigs, but I promise it won't be my last!
With the wonderful musical director Ernie Long at the helm, they performed some absolute dynamite songs such as Rhythm of Life, Softly, Stout hearted Men and one or two lovely Christms pieces. They did a number which was composed by the MD about the baby Jesus, where the audience had to sing a refrain after each verse. This was a really appealing song. Looking accross the rows of ex-busmen and inspectors, it was nice seeing one or two familiar faces, most now retired.
Being a driver in Donnybrook garage, I of course knew almost all of these guys to see. I felt quite emotional when they took to the stage for the finale, to sing my all time favourite Abba song, Thank you for the music. The rest of the performers were all present for this. The final song of the evening was Somewhere over the rainbow, from the Wizard of Oz.
Describing this choir isn't easy. With close and precise harmonies, they are almost like a human orchestra. I also get the feeling while observing them, that they are a little like a family too. The overall impact is full and is a delight, but you can also appreciate as you watch them, that each link in the chain is vital, each voice trained to memorise it's own unique contribution.
As I and my Mum left, I met a few of the lads in the foyer of Liberty Hall. All were in great form and the atmosphere about was cheerful.
Always busy, the choir have built up a widespread reputation and long may their uplifting contribution to the Irish music world continue.
Angela Macari O'Looney
I'm not surprised they are so popular, having heard the beautiful blend of harmonies and clever arrangements that create their sound.
Each year a concert is put on in Liberty Hall, Dublin with lots of guests joining the show. This year the show included Noel V Ginnity, a hilarious comedian who dresses a bit like a leprochaun and is the right size for his choice of costume. This guy can somehow manage to be really funny and entertaining, without being in any way offensive. I'd call him a classy comedy act.
Compare that night was Brian Hoey, a veteran of music and theatre and a really excellent MC. He performed a show stopping version of O Sole Mio. He did a fun number where people joined in; Are you right there Michael. This man has one of the nicest male voices I've ever heard.My mother mentioned that she saw him star in the opera Aida once.
Also on that night were a Soul band called Mr. Average. I enjoyed some but not all of their set. They would be a great band to see in a different type of setting. Eimear Carbone a gorgeous soprano singer participated in a lot of the numbers which the choir performed, but also sang a lovely song alone. It was an old Irish song about 'A dear little girl with a bit of a brogue'. It got some of the oder members of the audience singing along.
Accompanists for the show were Linda Costelloe and Geraldine McGann. Also on that night was another member of the McGann clann,Judy. This pretty blonde singer did a delightful set, which finished with a favourite song of mine Hallelujia which was in the charts last year. She later joined the choir for the finale.
A great act too was Folk/Ballad band Abhainn Dubh, which I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed. This act is made up of two really nice lads, one playing mandolin and the other on guitar who knew exactly the right songs to sing to liven the place up. Everyone sang with them and they got the second half of the show off to a brilliant start.
UK Instrummentalist Peadar Long performed a set on his saxophone and was joined later by Eimear for The fields of Athenry. This was a lovely rendition of the sorrowful ballad.
Boy soprano Dylan Caffrey performed the Christmas song Oh Holy Night. He did the verse and was joined for the chorus by Eimear and the choir.
I have heard the choir on occasion, but have never seen them do a full concert before. This was my first attendance to one of their gigs, but I promise it won't be my last!
With the wonderful musical director Ernie Long at the helm, they performed some absolute dynamite songs such as Rhythm of Life, Softly, Stout hearted Men and one or two lovely Christms pieces. They did a number which was composed by the MD about the baby Jesus, where the audience had to sing a refrain after each verse. This was a really appealing song. Looking accross the rows of ex-busmen and inspectors, it was nice seeing one or two familiar faces, most now retired.
Being a driver in Donnybrook garage, I of course knew almost all of these guys to see. I felt quite emotional when they took to the stage for the finale, to sing my all time favourite Abba song, Thank you for the music. The rest of the performers were all present for this. The final song of the evening was Somewhere over the rainbow, from the Wizard of Oz.
Describing this choir isn't easy. With close and precise harmonies, they are almost like a human orchestra. I also get the feeling while observing them, that they are a little like a family too. The overall impact is full and is a delight, but you can also appreciate as you watch them, that each link in the chain is vital, each voice trained to memorise it's own unique contribution.
As I and my Mum left, I met a few of the lads in the foyer of Liberty Hall. All were in great form and the atmosphere about was cheerful.
Always busy, the choir have built up a widespread reputation and long may their uplifting contribution to the Irish music world continue.
Angela Macari O'Looney
Gin
When I was only days away from the birth of my son Oisin, a ginger kitten strayed into my back garden. I was out putting clothes on the line and I heard a squeak coming from underneath our barna shed.
I told my husband, who followed me outside. The squeaking had stopped. He said maybe I was imagining it and needed a rest.
Later on that evening I went out to take the clothes back in from the clothesline and heard it again. I ventured over to the shed, which is perched on concrete blocks and beneath it just enough space for a small animal to hide. Looking underneath I spotted the source of the squeaking and there, crouched shyly was a tiny giner tabby kitten. I always fancied a cat this colour but could never find one. I had two black males already and wondered would they be hostile to this baby.
I took a saucer of milk out and left it for him. He scampered up to it and lapped happily, but as soon as I tried to approach him, he ran back to his hiding place. I felt wary of taking on a cat when I was so close to the birth of a baby. I called the vet and asked him for guidance.He said if I could catch ginger he'd take him off my hands and try to find a home for him.
Lots of drama followed. The kitten went into a neighbour's garden and although she like him, they had a dog who didn't.
My time came sooner than I expected and my baby was born three weeks prematurely, by emergency caesarian. This meant I was whisked into the world of motherhood and was also not allowed home from hospital for five days. I was quite weak from morphine and had a hard time adapting to the sooner than expected surprise. What I didn't know was that another surprise awaited me at home.
My husband had been a little lonely when I was away and left the double doors of the kitchen open on fine evenings while he had dinner. And when he wasn't looking, the kitten joined the two bigger cats one evening at their dinner bowls. Stephen was shocked that both large moggies not only accepted the tiny mite, but allowed him to share their basket too where he slept between them.
It was only after my first day home from hospital, that I got the strength to come downstairs to organise my bottle steriliser etc.
Stephen warned me there was a surprise for me. There all three cats sat, gazing up adoringly as I entered the kitchen and little ginger came over for a welcome.
Little ginger(Gin) is now big ginger and sadly the oldest cat Fluffy died of old age in 2008.The name Gin was my idea. My mother already had a white and ginger cat named Ginger and I thought it would be nice to think of another name. Stephen's favourite tipple is Gin and Tonic, after Heineken. We couldn't call him Heineken, but 'Gin' seemed to stick.
He's a force to be reckoned with where rodents and vermin are concerned. I regularly recieve presents on the doorstep or even sometimes on my kitchen floor. He even managed to kidnap a magpie one evening, but we set it free.
Life is never dull, with my husband and my now five year old son Oisin, Sparkie the remaining black cat and last but not least Gin. He's playful, affectionate and seems to have an endless apetite. He has a few favourite places. One is under my husband's recliner (he's banned from the sitting room). The other places would be up in our spare room on the sofa bed and just at the side of our bed when the duvet is spilling over onto the floor(he's banned from the bedroom too). But he still fits under that shed and now and then if he's missing I head out to where I first heard his sweet little squeak!
Angela Macari O'Looney
Sixteen Layers at the Think Tank
Sixteen Layers
The Think Tank
6/11/09
Angela Macari O’Looney
Take a pinch of Queens of the Stoneage, a soupcon of U2 meets Radiohead and add a slice of Zeppelin. Simmer for an hour. Once you taste, you’ll be back for more!
This is how I felt on hearing this vibrant quartet, who are home from a successful tour in Toronto, Canada.
Sixteen Layers, fronted by Niall Donnelly-Vocals and rhythm guitar are a band full to the brim with energy and confidence. Don Muldoon on lead guitar and John Colbert Bass/Vox/Lead ooze genius with well blended chords and riffs. Last but not least is the rhythm behind the sound and is performed by Drummer percussionist Tim McGrath.
Having heard their music on CD I couldn’t resist a chance to see their live show. So off I headed to the Think Tank, where they were doing a late gig.
When I arrived in the cosy basement venue a fair sized crowd was building up. Without too much delay, Niall and the lads began with Torch, a dramatic number with a memorable melody line.
From the get go they were alive and kicking. Impressed by the wonderful explosive guitar riffs, powerful baseline plus fluent lead vocals I pushed my way up to the front, despite knowing that my ears would suffer later on from my proximity to the speakers.
Into the Sun with its bassy intro was next. This has a delightful riff throughout and harmonic oohs for the chorus. The songs were even better live than on CD. I could feel adrenaline pumping through me as I listened to this number, which is on their single ‘Exile/Into the Sun’.
For the third number Hurt Me Niall had some help from the audience for the chorus. Trickling guitar takes you to a sweet moody verse for this soulful piece.
I adore the way the instruments pull back, leaving him to sing the last verse with only a baseline behind him. Then the whole band come back, bursting into a loud crescendo for the last chorus.
Eight Miles Down, one of my favourite songs was next. This is a dramatic number that builds up in dynamics. Superb harmony, trickling riffs going on throughout and Don performing a short but sweet solo, it’s a feel good song.
No Strings involves a catchy chorus which everyone sang with Niall. The atmosphere was electric as he and Don shared a guitar solo, facing each other down.
The theme song from their album I am no one was next. A delectable choppy intro was tapped out by Tim McGrath. Then distortion packed guitars took over. A key change for the chorus in this song lifts the mood and adds interest. Screaming lead is exciting as Don gives it loads.
Don changed guitars for the next song Exile. When I saw his Fender I knew we were in for a treat. Niall sang this lovely slower song, with bass notes accompanying him. His vocal ability is well demonstrated here as he goes from a low to a higher octave.
He has a way of performing slow, mournful songs very similar to singer/songwriter Mick Flannery, using such emotion he draws you in. I wasn’t wrong about the fender as Don laid into an elaborate, show stopping solo and harmony in the chorus created a full and magical sound.
For Over and Out I noticed how the lighting flashed in sync with the beat. I liked this. And I particularly enjoyed Don’s lead solo in Trouble Spot, which is my favourite of all of their songs. Here he really played to the Gallery with a riveting solo.
Setting Fires has a choppy rock beat. They did yet another song I like called Former You.
Sit awhile is a slow love song in which Niall sings like he’s serenading each female in the place. It has a gorgeous melody and sweet lead guitar in it.
Encores were called and the lads obliged. They performed two songs; Set Alight and Another Story. Both of these songs were excellent and all the stops were pulled out.
My ears were throbbing a little when I got home, but I was still grinning from ear to ear. Those songs are addictive and the guys are loaded with talent. I felt a sense of elation and I will definitely be watching their star rise, which it will!
The Think Tank
6/11/09
Angela Macari O’Looney
Take a pinch of Queens of the Stoneage, a soupcon of U2 meets Radiohead and add a slice of Zeppelin. Simmer for an hour. Once you taste, you’ll be back for more!
This is how I felt on hearing this vibrant quartet, who are home from a successful tour in Toronto, Canada.
Sixteen Layers, fronted by Niall Donnelly-Vocals and rhythm guitar are a band full to the brim with energy and confidence. Don Muldoon on lead guitar and John Colbert Bass/Vox/Lead ooze genius with well blended chords and riffs. Last but not least is the rhythm behind the sound and is performed by Drummer percussionist Tim McGrath.
Having heard their music on CD I couldn’t resist a chance to see their live show. So off I headed to the Think Tank, where they were doing a late gig.
When I arrived in the cosy basement venue a fair sized crowd was building up. Without too much delay, Niall and the lads began with Torch, a dramatic number with a memorable melody line.
From the get go they were alive and kicking. Impressed by the wonderful explosive guitar riffs, powerful baseline plus fluent lead vocals I pushed my way up to the front, despite knowing that my ears would suffer later on from my proximity to the speakers.
Into the Sun with its bassy intro was next. This has a delightful riff throughout and harmonic oohs for the chorus. The songs were even better live than on CD. I could feel adrenaline pumping through me as I listened to this number, which is on their single ‘Exile/Into the Sun’.
For the third number Hurt Me Niall had some help from the audience for the chorus. Trickling guitar takes you to a sweet moody verse for this soulful piece.
I adore the way the instruments pull back, leaving him to sing the last verse with only a baseline behind him. Then the whole band come back, bursting into a loud crescendo for the last chorus.
Eight Miles Down, one of my favourite songs was next. This is a dramatic number that builds up in dynamics. Superb harmony, trickling riffs going on throughout and Don performing a short but sweet solo, it’s a feel good song.
No Strings involves a catchy chorus which everyone sang with Niall. The atmosphere was electric as he and Don shared a guitar solo, facing each other down.
The theme song from their album I am no one was next. A delectable choppy intro was tapped out by Tim McGrath. Then distortion packed guitars took over. A key change for the chorus in this song lifts the mood and adds interest. Screaming lead is exciting as Don gives it loads.
Don changed guitars for the next song Exile. When I saw his Fender I knew we were in for a treat. Niall sang this lovely slower song, with bass notes accompanying him. His vocal ability is well demonstrated here as he goes from a low to a higher octave.
He has a way of performing slow, mournful songs very similar to singer/songwriter Mick Flannery, using such emotion he draws you in. I wasn’t wrong about the fender as Don laid into an elaborate, show stopping solo and harmony in the chorus created a full and magical sound.
For Over and Out I noticed how the lighting flashed in sync with the beat. I liked this. And I particularly enjoyed Don’s lead solo in Trouble Spot, which is my favourite of all of their songs. Here he really played to the Gallery with a riveting solo.
Setting Fires has a choppy rock beat. They did yet another song I like called Former You.
Sit awhile is a slow love song in which Niall sings like he’s serenading each female in the place. It has a gorgeous melody and sweet lead guitar in it.
Encores were called and the lads obliged. They performed two songs; Set Alight and Another Story. Both of these songs were excellent and all the stops were pulled out.
My ears were throbbing a little when I got home, but I was still grinning from ear to ear. Those songs are addictive and the guys are loaded with talent. I felt a sense of elation and I will definitely be watching their star rise, which it will!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Blue Syndrome album launch
Blue Syndrome
‘Over and Out’ album launch gig
The Village
28/10/09
Angela Macari O’Looney
Earlier this year I was at the launch of Blue Syndrome’s debut single Kiss the girl. They have come a long way in a short time and invited me to the launch of their debut album Over and Out. Certain of a good night’s entertainment, I and a guest headed to Wexford St.
This young bunch of lads have put a lot into forming their own dynamic sound and have definitely earned the large fan base they now have, which includes both young and old.
The first act on this night was Indie/Pop band BriBry is Sky High, who hail from Malahide, Dublin.
Garry White – Guitars and Brian O’Reilly – Drums/Percussion/Vox took to the stage in make shift fancy dress costumes, Brian dressed as Noddy!
The first song Black Magic had a laid back beat and a sweet melody line.
Harmony in the second number This is the way we’ll be forever was close and Brian sang some falsetto in certain parts of this song, which he performed really well. I feel that apart from the fact that they are a little rough around the edges, they have real entertainment value.
After this they did a great version of Boy Better (Dandy Warhols cover).
Brian came up to the front of the stage for the fourth song A poem I’ll sing out loud from their debut E.P. ‘Swings’. Garry played trickling acoustic notes and they performed this relaxed piece beautifully.
Finishing up with something a little more cheerful where Garry sang backing vocals, the two guys did a lovely song called Mira and got a great applause from the small audience.
We are Contenders
Jason Branagan is the lead singer of this acoustic/Rock/Pop act. His band are Jen, Kev H, Kev B. His vocals are not my cuppa, but his original songs involve sweet guitar, catchy melodies and although the style of his songs are a tad repetitive at times, they are well written!
He performed songs from his EP ‘Melodies’ which included This could be home, This old room, Emma Jane, Not for the World, No Hero and Three years.
My favourites were This could be home which has delicious guitar chords and Emma Jane, both slow songs.
This Old Room was a little faster and lifted the mood.
All of the songs were enjoyable, but definitely need a strong backing vocalist and perhaps better projection on Jason’s own part!
Vic
With an explosive start, this band won me over big time!
Beginning with Losing my Senses, impressive vocalist Dan Fox and the fabulous musicians behind him perform a tight set and really know how to get the crowd going. They are a Rock/Pop/Alternative outfit and have already won high acclaim from critics. Band members are Dan Fox-Vocals, Billy Campbell-Keyboards, Rich Margetson- Lead guitar, Bassist- Peter Wallace, Rob Meredith- Drums.
Echo was their second number, with a fun line ‘Is you in, is you out’ and has a bashing beat, choppy guitar riffs and a great melody.
The rest of their set were Black-eyed Peas cover I got a feeling which had everyone up on the floor and dancing about. Also a number with a thundering anthemic feel to it called Atlantis. I really enjoyed the piano in this song.
Chasing nothing
The vocals in this one are lovely, with Dan going up into falsetto. Sweet lead guitar and a big dramatic drumbeat give this song dynamic, piano framing everything perfectly!
Hangers on and Downfall completed the set by Vic, who were the last of the three delightful support acts before Blue Syndrome.
Blue Syndrome
The first thing that caught my eye as the stage was being set for the stars of the show was a beautiful red semi solid guitar being tuned up. It of course belonged to the fun and extremely talented vocalist/guitarist Colm O’Laughlin.
As each instrument was lined up, there was a sense of anticipation. Other members of the band are Thomas Lamude-Drums/Percussion, Stephen O’Loughlin-Guitar/Vocals and Daniel Cummins-Bass/Vocals.
Out they came and I admired the way that the slow piano intro for To Be God created such drama while the guys faced the back of the stage before the song began, then each chord was struck dramatically, strobe lighting and spots flashing to the beat as they faced the now huge audience, yours truly right up front!
Chorus is absolutely brilliant in this with a memorable melody line, loads of ahs and close harmony behind Colm, plus distortion laden guitars and clashing cymbals for the dramatic bits. What an entrance!
Everything Eventually
I was delighted when I heard the catchy guitar intro to this, my own personal favourite Blue Syndrome number.
Fast moving with a really melodic chorus and fab harmony, exciting riffs and a refrain throughout Keep living before you die, keep living before you die, this song is just bursting with NRG!
A rhythmic intro started Come Alive, song number three. This has a dynamic chorus and Colm seemed unstoppable and in top form.
When this number ended, he thanked the audience and expressed his pleasure at the enormous turnout. He said it must be the biggest audience he’d ever seen at The Village.
The party mood continued for the remainder of the night, as the guys played familiar songs with one or two surprises thrown in. They effuse happy vibes and as a unit, are loaded with charisma!
Just another Day
You showed me the rest of the world tonight was the intro sung by Colm, in yet another great song. Delicious riffs and a fast tempo alternating to choppy, this was one everyone was singing it’s so catchy!
Lead solo by Stephen is show-stopping as his fingers fly at lightening speed across the frets of the guitar Zeppelin-style. I Kissed a girl and I liked it is infused into the last chorus which spices things up.
For Tomorrow I’ll be gone Colm had his acoustic guitar. It involves an interesting tempo change in the chorus and a sung middle eight that I adore. Harmony is in splashes but is sweet.
A rhythmic riff between verses is so appealing and Stephen does magical lead. People sung the last chorus with Colm and the instruments pulled back. This was a special moment!
They did Sign in which Colm sings the first line alone, to be joined by revving guitars and a thumping beat. It involves a sliding note that he sings in the line This is my life which is very effective. He plays a plucky bit on his own guitar which I like.
After this they performed Concerned which is a tribute to Bob Marley, with a line I’m going to Africa on the fourth of July. The lads went crazy for this one as did the crowd.
Machines is a fusion of noisy guitars with a heavy rock feel to it. It’s a powerful song, with well placed harmony, a fast pace and lots of interesting chops and changes.
A U2 cover Sunday Bloody Sunday was outstanding. It was just vocals and one guitar and here, Colm’s vocal range was shown off as he put his all into every note.
Just a dream, a slow and soulful ballad where Colm got the audience to sing with him and Over and out with its bashing anthemic chorus and a fab melody, took the show to a close.
They wouldn’t have gotten out of The Village alive had they not did an encore and what better choice of song than the first single they released Kiss the Girl!
As Colm and the lads began with the ‘Wo oh’ intro, the crowd went wild. Screaming lead riffs and the wonderful way they build things up from a verse to the chorus and then suddenly there’s an alter melody going on behind both. This is absolutely tremendous arrangement wise!
I could listen to this band forever. How such young people can start off busking in Grafton Street and manage to grow and develop to this level astounds me. But they have done it and I congratulate Blue Syndrome and the people who have invested their faith and time into them because their music is Irish Rock/Indie at its best!
‘Over and Out’ album launch gig
The Village
28/10/09
Angela Macari O’Looney
Earlier this year I was at the launch of Blue Syndrome’s debut single Kiss the girl. They have come a long way in a short time and invited me to the launch of their debut album Over and Out. Certain of a good night’s entertainment, I and a guest headed to Wexford St.
This young bunch of lads have put a lot into forming their own dynamic sound and have definitely earned the large fan base they now have, which includes both young and old.
The first act on this night was Indie/Pop band BriBry is Sky High, who hail from Malahide, Dublin.
Garry White – Guitars and Brian O’Reilly – Drums/Percussion/Vox took to the stage in make shift fancy dress costumes, Brian dressed as Noddy!
The first song Black Magic had a laid back beat and a sweet melody line.
Harmony in the second number This is the way we’ll be forever was close and Brian sang some falsetto in certain parts of this song, which he performed really well. I feel that apart from the fact that they are a little rough around the edges, they have real entertainment value.
After this they did a great version of Boy Better (Dandy Warhols cover).
Brian came up to the front of the stage for the fourth song A poem I’ll sing out loud from their debut E.P. ‘Swings’. Garry played trickling acoustic notes and they performed this relaxed piece beautifully.
Finishing up with something a little more cheerful where Garry sang backing vocals, the two guys did a lovely song called Mira and got a great applause from the small audience.
We are Contenders
Jason Branagan is the lead singer of this acoustic/Rock/Pop act. His band are Jen, Kev H, Kev B. His vocals are not my cuppa, but his original songs involve sweet guitar, catchy melodies and although the style of his songs are a tad repetitive at times, they are well written!
He performed songs from his EP ‘Melodies’ which included This could be home, This old room, Emma Jane, Not for the World, No Hero and Three years.
My favourites were This could be home which has delicious guitar chords and Emma Jane, both slow songs.
This Old Room was a little faster and lifted the mood.
All of the songs were enjoyable, but definitely need a strong backing vocalist and perhaps better projection on Jason’s own part!
Vic
With an explosive start, this band won me over big time!
Beginning with Losing my Senses, impressive vocalist Dan Fox and the fabulous musicians behind him perform a tight set and really know how to get the crowd going. They are a Rock/Pop/Alternative outfit and have already won high acclaim from critics. Band members are Dan Fox-Vocals, Billy Campbell-Keyboards, Rich Margetson- Lead guitar, Bassist- Peter Wallace, Rob Meredith- Drums.
Echo was their second number, with a fun line ‘Is you in, is you out’ and has a bashing beat, choppy guitar riffs and a great melody.
The rest of their set were Black-eyed Peas cover I got a feeling which had everyone up on the floor and dancing about. Also a number with a thundering anthemic feel to it called Atlantis. I really enjoyed the piano in this song.
Chasing nothing
The vocals in this one are lovely, with Dan going up into falsetto. Sweet lead guitar and a big dramatic drumbeat give this song dynamic, piano framing everything perfectly!
Hangers on and Downfall completed the set by Vic, who were the last of the three delightful support acts before Blue Syndrome.
Blue Syndrome
The first thing that caught my eye as the stage was being set for the stars of the show was a beautiful red semi solid guitar being tuned up. It of course belonged to the fun and extremely talented vocalist/guitarist Colm O’Laughlin.
As each instrument was lined up, there was a sense of anticipation. Other members of the band are Thomas Lamude-Drums/Percussion, Stephen O’Loughlin-Guitar/Vocals and Daniel Cummins-Bass/Vocals.
Out they came and I admired the way that the slow piano intro for To Be God created such drama while the guys faced the back of the stage before the song began, then each chord was struck dramatically, strobe lighting and spots flashing to the beat as they faced the now huge audience, yours truly right up front!
Chorus is absolutely brilliant in this with a memorable melody line, loads of ahs and close harmony behind Colm, plus distortion laden guitars and clashing cymbals for the dramatic bits. What an entrance!
Everything Eventually
I was delighted when I heard the catchy guitar intro to this, my own personal favourite Blue Syndrome number.
Fast moving with a really melodic chorus and fab harmony, exciting riffs and a refrain throughout Keep living before you die, keep living before you die, this song is just bursting with NRG!
A rhythmic intro started Come Alive, song number three. This has a dynamic chorus and Colm seemed unstoppable and in top form.
When this number ended, he thanked the audience and expressed his pleasure at the enormous turnout. He said it must be the biggest audience he’d ever seen at The Village.
The party mood continued for the remainder of the night, as the guys played familiar songs with one or two surprises thrown in. They effuse happy vibes and as a unit, are loaded with charisma!
Just another Day
You showed me the rest of the world tonight was the intro sung by Colm, in yet another great song. Delicious riffs and a fast tempo alternating to choppy, this was one everyone was singing it’s so catchy!
Lead solo by Stephen is show-stopping as his fingers fly at lightening speed across the frets of the guitar Zeppelin-style. I Kissed a girl and I liked it is infused into the last chorus which spices things up.
For Tomorrow I’ll be gone Colm had his acoustic guitar. It involves an interesting tempo change in the chorus and a sung middle eight that I adore. Harmony is in splashes but is sweet.
A rhythmic riff between verses is so appealing and Stephen does magical lead. People sung the last chorus with Colm and the instruments pulled back. This was a special moment!
They did Sign in which Colm sings the first line alone, to be joined by revving guitars and a thumping beat. It involves a sliding note that he sings in the line This is my life which is very effective. He plays a plucky bit on his own guitar which I like.
After this they performed Concerned which is a tribute to Bob Marley, with a line I’m going to Africa on the fourth of July. The lads went crazy for this one as did the crowd.
Machines is a fusion of noisy guitars with a heavy rock feel to it. It’s a powerful song, with well placed harmony, a fast pace and lots of interesting chops and changes.
A U2 cover Sunday Bloody Sunday was outstanding. It was just vocals and one guitar and here, Colm’s vocal range was shown off as he put his all into every note.
Just a dream, a slow and soulful ballad where Colm got the audience to sing with him and Over and out with its bashing anthemic chorus and a fab melody, took the show to a close.
They wouldn’t have gotten out of The Village alive had they not did an encore and what better choice of song than the first single they released Kiss the Girl!
As Colm and the lads began with the ‘Wo oh’ intro, the crowd went wild. Screaming lead riffs and the wonderful way they build things up from a verse to the chorus and then suddenly there’s an alter melody going on behind both. This is absolutely tremendous arrangement wise!
I could listen to this band forever. How such young people can start off busking in Grafton Street and manage to grow and develop to this level astounds me. But they have done it and I congratulate Blue Syndrome and the people who have invested their faith and time into them because their music is Irish Rock/Indie at its best!
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