Jaded Sun
Whiskey Drinker E.P. Launch gig
The Workman’s Club
28/10/10
Angela Macari O’Looney
Jaded Sun were performing their only 2010 Dublin gig, to celebrate the launch of their newest E.P. Whiskey Drinker. Having had enormous success with their debut album Gypsy Trip, this band who are possibly the most popular classic rock act around, have built up a large fan base and seem to have a pied piper effect on a cross section of age groups. Jaded could be described as a mixture of Aerosmith, Creedence Clearwater revival, rolled in with AC/DC.
Along with the rest of the band’s devotees I arrived at one of Dublin’s new rock venues, to hear their latest songs and a few of my old favourites too.
Formed back in 2003, the lads have had an exciting journey to date, with their first E.P. Raw released in 04, Falling on the Fears in 05 and Gypsy Trip in 07. They have also played a plethora of gigs, including performing support to Bon Jovi and Nickelback in Croke Park.
Jaded Sun’s members include Ireland’s finest rock voice John Maher, Eorrann Stafford and Sean Gosker, both superior guitarists. Bass is played by Damien Kelly, who adds that special Je ne sais quoi to each number and relatively new to the band is a drummer who is young and oh so charming; Aaron Madden.
The Danger Is
Niamh from this band performed the first set on her own, with just her guitar for accompaniment. Opening up with Behind your walls, she created a big sound and her vocals reminded me of KT Tunstall, with a touch of Cathy Davy’s jazziness and Imelda May’s seductiveness.
Her guitar chords were sublime throughout this vibrant and interesting set. She performed another song called All for Gold, which has a catchy melody line. Niamh also performed a fast rolling number called We stand Parallel.
Thanking Jaded Sun, Niamh apologised for the absence of the rest of her band. Under difficult circumstances, she did a wonderful job.
El Hombre Jokes
The next band were unusual, with mainly instrumentals in their set. Their sound has funk/ Rock/ jazz leanings, with superb chord combinations and exciting lead guitar throughout each number.
Members are Paul-Vocals/Guitar/Bass, Ian-Bass/Guitar/Vocals and Paul-Drums/Percussion/Guitar.
Throughout 2010 they have been busy touring the country with their upbeat music, releasing singles and enjoying their success. 2011 looks set to be exciting for them, with their debut album due for release.
D Funk was their first number and an exciting instrumental. A vibrant bass solo features in this, with appealing chord combinations complimenting each riff.
Lita Believes was a foot stomping number, with elaborate guitar riffs and busy baseline. One twin riff in particular took my attention and made this song for me.
Paul thanked Jaded Sun, explaining that he and the lads were big fans and felt proud to be here sharing the stage with them.
In Just don’t get along there was some unbelievable virtuoso standard lead, but the bassist also totally shone with his performance. Paul on drums sang backing vocals and I really enjoyed the big sound that resulted.
Vitamin C involved two guitars sharing the limelight. Explosive and really entertaining, this piece was like a complex concerto, with both instruments doing differing notes and combining them.
Suicide Bomber has a catchy chorus and was refreshingly different to the previous heavier stuff. The harmony is excellent here, with a show stopping baseline throughout the whole song. Paul on drums performed a fab solo too, and some wonderful breaks here and there and guitar riffs were delicious.
For the next song Brothers and Sisters, Paul asked the audience to participate. This has a slap style bass intro, with a bluegrass feel to it. It has an interesting beat which alternates and a couple of jazzy discords that I loved. With an exquisite key change and an outstanding guitar solo, this went down very well with the audience, who sang out with the chorus as instructed.
Wake up which was released as a single and is on their forthcoming album, has amazing riffs throughout and is a more Pop/Rock song. Both guitarists sang here and the twin riff they did was magical.
Jaded Sun
Finally the suspense was over as John, Sean, Eorrann and Aaron took their places on stage. The audience moved closer and the atmosphere instantly changed, when the intro to Fire resounded across The Workman’s club!
This song from the new album is powerful, with lots of distortion on the guitars, sliders to add a touch of blues and harmony for the chorus delectable. Damien and Eorann did backing vocals here, with Sean performing a superb guitar solo to add to this incredibly dramatic number.
Higher from the album Gypsy trip was next, with it’s screaming riffs and hooks and elaborate lead. This new improved version was more powerful than ever, with Eorann doing a scorching lead solo. Sean followed with yet another solo, stealing the show with his expert fretwork that is the defining Jaded Sun stamp for me and of course Damien’s baseline framing the picture perfectly.
John Maher as always set the place on fire with his energy and charm, as he belted out this exhilarating song with full force!
Sweet Mary – This is slow and seductive, with a memorable chorus complete with key change. It involves a twin guitar intro and Gosker did a totally fab solo, with Stafford matching his efforts with flange packed riffs throughout to add definition. I love the melody of this number, which has splashes of harmony and finishes with distortion laden twin guitar notes.
I then heard the intro of my absolute favourite Jaded Sun song. Fab Rock chords heralded the slinky verse for Can’t stop and then things sped up for the wonderful chorus with it’s outstanding and memorable guitar riffs and hooks, that are played in synch by all three guitars making a big sound. The lead solo is so excellent. It slows down for the middle eight to pick up again for the last chorus. I sang out with John for this and so did everyone in the place.
I met a wonderful couple from Northern Ireland just before the gig began and enjoyed listening to stories about their devotion for Jaded Sun. They had travelled all the way from White Head in Belfast. Janet has been to every one of their gigs here and even saw them on several occasions abroad. She was beside me for the entire gig and it was brilliant knowing I wasn’t the only slightly older rocker that enjoyed this top class band.
They continued with Left in a hurry which is a soulful number, with a good old fashioned Rock’n’Roll beat. Then they did the new version of Crave.John gives it all in this, as he pours out each line with passion. Both Sean and Eorann injected sweet riffs throughout.
Sean performed the heart wrenching solo, while big bashing drama soaked chords and harmony gave this gorgeous song new life!
Breakdown Easy – This is from the new E.P. and involves beautiful ascending chords in the chorus as John sings the line I breakdown easy and a truly exceptional melody line. John can seem kind of vulnerable as he performs these slow numbers, where his vocals adapt to the thoughtful mood. This is definitely their nicest slow song for me. There’s a surprising key change for the sung middle eight and some divine harmony is performed by Damien and Eorann. Lead solo is astounding. Aaron fits in like a hand in a glove and Jaded Sun are better than ever tonight!
Running down a dream(cover) – Damien performs the chorus with John in this fast moving upbeat song. John oozes energy as he dances about barefoot and his adrenaline communicates itself to everyone in the place. Eorann does a scorching solo, letting loose and reminding the audience that Jaded Sun have three equally brilliant guitarists.
The dirty, sleazy intro to Hey You began, with its elaborate guitar riff. Bass is very noticeable in this number, as are the funky blues-charged chords. Sean’s guitar speaks volumes, John belting out the seductive vocals. Eorann performed harmonica and a big dramatic drum roll took things to a close.
When the Sun Shines from the album that’s due for release next year was next. An intro involving flanger takes you into this deliriously sweet song, with Sean’s slider creating delicious riffs as it slides across the frets. It has a simple rock beat and is definitely a classic in the making!
They did this fantastic number that’s a cross between Punk and Rock’n’Roll, with a really fast beat and upbeat lyrics such as Stay home if you can’t take the pace. This is the general message in 24 Hour party people sing.
With a thumping beat and Cajun style riff She’s got Class was the 'supposed' last song of the evening. Eorann plays the slinky intro, with both he and Sean sharing the rest of the sexy guitar bits. Aaron thumps out a foot stomping rhythm, Bass of course is brilliant, with Damo sharing some of the riffs with the other two and he also does a few fancy riffs himself. Those distortion packed guitars just seem to come alive!
This number has that seductive aura about it, as John sings out those gorgeous words that make the hairs stand up on my neck; Gimme some of that sweet wine, I promise you we’ll have a good time. A little loving and a new high!
After the lads left the stage, the crowd screamed out for an encore. I hoped they’d do Positive if they came back.
Positive
I was delighted when I heard the explosive chord intro for this brilliant number from Gypsy Trip. An air guitarists dream, this song has a fast rock beat with bass featuring big time, guitar riffs and hooks amazing and of course the hair raising solo. The two guitars do the middle eight, which involves sustained notes and then they seem to build up to a big distortion packed crescendo for the final chorus. Sean totally rocks it up with his lead guitar solo and you just feel the positive vibes come from the stage, only short of smoke coming out of each guitar!
Whiskey Drinker
The title track from the new E.P., this song is fun, with guitars playing in synch for the catchy chorus. The verse is done in a foot stomping tempo and lead is elaborate and trickling. It’s a perfect number to finish a gig with, as the guitars are cheeky and lead is great with Sean’s fingers flying across his guitar frets. John belts each line out as if his life depended on it and there’s a stop start finish that’s absolutely perfect.
I like the way that Jaded Sun seem to save all their energy to provide the Dublin punters with a full on, no holds barred rave up each year. You are always guaranteed to go home with a big smile on your face and an adrenaline rush that lasts a week. I said goodbye to Janet and James and hope to meet up with them again next year for the album launch. If this is only a taste of what’s to come, it should be one excellent gig!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Sharon Reid and The Attic Knights
Sharon Reid
The Odessa Club
22/10/10
Angela Macari O’Looney
I recently reviewed Sharon Reid’s album Make your own Runway and was blown away by her abundant talent and charm. A musician and inspiring song writer, she and her band The Attic Knights create a sound that’s a lovely escape from the current genres that struggle to sound original.
Instead, Sharon effortlessly composes truly beautiful arrangements, matching them with poignant lyrics.
On a cold October evening I headed down to this cosy venue in the heart of Dublin, to see Sharon bring her songs to life. I was the first person to arrive, so I had a chance to have a sneak preview while they were sound checking. I chose a delicious overstuffed couch and relaxed.
The place began to fill up and because it’s so small it wasn’t long before most of the comfortable sitting room style seats were occupied. The candlelit atmosphere was just perfect for beautiful music.
Sharon began her set with Wake up from her album. This is a laid back number with trickling piano notation and dramatic guitar. The sound builds up for the chorus, where Lena Clarke performs backing vocals. Sharon’s vocals are angelic here and she demonstrates her astounding range, going right up to a higher octave.
Saved, with a divine key change within the chorus was next, followed by Socrates, which has a message in it about how we overthink about life and its meaning. Each song from the album was brought to life and sounded even more magical!
Speeding things up a bit, Sharon did one of the faster songs from her album Meet you on the way back down. This involves some powerful bass and this evening Aderson Arruda from Brazil was standing in for their usual bassist Marian Isabella. Both guitars do some exciting stuff. Lead guitar is performed by Shane Reid and drums were performed by Carlo Mateo Porpatti Angel from brazil who was standing in for Liam Bradley.
Sunflowers is a new upbeat song and in this Lena performs answering vocals and harmony. This was yet another refreshing song, with lots of delightful riffs and changes throughout.
Next was my own favourite number from Sharon’s collection to date; All kinds of worry. This has a gorgeous keyboard riff at the beginning, a beautiful melody line and it has a really special message in the lyrics; We got all kinds of people, they’ve got all kinds of worry so just chill child. Some things ain’t meant to be.
If there was a day from which the title of Sharon’s album is taken, was next. This is a soft number, with splashes of harmony here and there. Piano and guitar are pretty special too.
Lionman (Mumford & Son cover) – They did a fab version of this fast moving number. Rhythm guitar is great in this really enjoyable song, Sharon’s piano also excellent.
Ralphie – This is a new number where Sharon plays tambourine, coming up to the front to perform it. She has a very flexible voice, where she can be sweet for slower songs or powerful and bold for the more upbeat ones like this. She was enjoying the evening, as were her audience and I for one felt privileged to be a part of it.
Bob Dylan’s You ain’t going nowhere was performed next by Shane. He also performed a catchy number which he composed called Speeding car. I particularly like the baseline here. Sharon and Lena performed backing vocals for this song.
Mary Ellen is a song from the album and Sharon told the audience the interesting story of how the lyrics came about. This song was so much more enjoyable live than on CD. It has a kind of three four tempo and a country feel to it. Harmony is sweet in this sad love song.
Electric is the night/Waiting for perfection/ Calling it in and Looking for clearance were all performed. Sharon’s energy seems boundless.
Calling it in is a fast number which expresses concern about how in these times art is mass produced and given away for free. It addresses how music and other art forms get churned out, threatening how future generations will see this and how the preciousness of creativity should always be preserved and cherished by all and treated like a legacy. Musically, it’s a catchy piece with a superb baseline, a great beat and the harmony is lovely.
Sharon was called up for an encore and we were treated to Friend, which is a memorable piece from her album. This she performed alone, with only piano for accompaniment. It has a candy sweet melody line and lyrics that express how she feels about a best friend. The chorus is delectable, with a cheerful beat, appealing chords and heart warming lyrics.
I especially like the line You don’t even know it, so know this. With the two of us, there are no tricks. And I think we can stick it to the bitter end. It’s a great description for that special pal some of us are lucky enough to have.
At the end of the gig, Sharon happily chatted to members of her audience who came up to express how they enjoyed it. I will definitely revisit this cosy venue again and I wish Sharon and the Attic Knights lots of luck with their album and future endeavours.
The Odessa Club
22/10/10
Angela Macari O’Looney
I recently reviewed Sharon Reid’s album Make your own Runway and was blown away by her abundant talent and charm. A musician and inspiring song writer, she and her band The Attic Knights create a sound that’s a lovely escape from the current genres that struggle to sound original.
Instead, Sharon effortlessly composes truly beautiful arrangements, matching them with poignant lyrics.
On a cold October evening I headed down to this cosy venue in the heart of Dublin, to see Sharon bring her songs to life. I was the first person to arrive, so I had a chance to have a sneak preview while they were sound checking. I chose a delicious overstuffed couch and relaxed.
The place began to fill up and because it’s so small it wasn’t long before most of the comfortable sitting room style seats were occupied. The candlelit atmosphere was just perfect for beautiful music.
Sharon began her set with Wake up from her album. This is a laid back number with trickling piano notation and dramatic guitar. The sound builds up for the chorus, where Lena Clarke performs backing vocals. Sharon’s vocals are angelic here and she demonstrates her astounding range, going right up to a higher octave.
Saved, with a divine key change within the chorus was next, followed by Socrates, which has a message in it about how we overthink about life and its meaning. Each song from the album was brought to life and sounded even more magical!
Speeding things up a bit, Sharon did one of the faster songs from her album Meet you on the way back down. This involves some powerful bass and this evening Aderson Arruda from Brazil was standing in for their usual bassist Marian Isabella. Both guitars do some exciting stuff. Lead guitar is performed by Shane Reid and drums were performed by Carlo Mateo Porpatti Angel from brazil who was standing in for Liam Bradley.
Sunflowers is a new upbeat song and in this Lena performs answering vocals and harmony. This was yet another refreshing song, with lots of delightful riffs and changes throughout.
Next was my own favourite number from Sharon’s collection to date; All kinds of worry. This has a gorgeous keyboard riff at the beginning, a beautiful melody line and it has a really special message in the lyrics; We got all kinds of people, they’ve got all kinds of worry so just chill child. Some things ain’t meant to be.
If there was a day from which the title of Sharon’s album is taken, was next. This is a soft number, with splashes of harmony here and there. Piano and guitar are pretty special too.
Lionman (Mumford & Son cover) – They did a fab version of this fast moving number. Rhythm guitar is great in this really enjoyable song, Sharon’s piano also excellent.
Ralphie – This is a new number where Sharon plays tambourine, coming up to the front to perform it. She has a very flexible voice, where she can be sweet for slower songs or powerful and bold for the more upbeat ones like this. She was enjoying the evening, as were her audience and I for one felt privileged to be a part of it.
Bob Dylan’s You ain’t going nowhere was performed next by Shane. He also performed a catchy number which he composed called Speeding car. I particularly like the baseline here. Sharon and Lena performed backing vocals for this song.
Mary Ellen is a song from the album and Sharon told the audience the interesting story of how the lyrics came about. This song was so much more enjoyable live than on CD. It has a kind of three four tempo and a country feel to it. Harmony is sweet in this sad love song.
Electric is the night/Waiting for perfection/ Calling it in and Looking for clearance were all performed. Sharon’s energy seems boundless.
Calling it in is a fast number which expresses concern about how in these times art is mass produced and given away for free. It addresses how music and other art forms get churned out, threatening how future generations will see this and how the preciousness of creativity should always be preserved and cherished by all and treated like a legacy. Musically, it’s a catchy piece with a superb baseline, a great beat and the harmony is lovely.
Sharon was called up for an encore and we were treated to Friend, which is a memorable piece from her album. This she performed alone, with only piano for accompaniment. It has a candy sweet melody line and lyrics that express how she feels about a best friend. The chorus is delectable, with a cheerful beat, appealing chords and heart warming lyrics.
I especially like the line You don’t even know it, so know this. With the two of us, there are no tricks. And I think we can stick it to the bitter end. It’s a great description for that special pal some of us are lucky enough to have.
At the end of the gig, Sharon happily chatted to members of her audience who came up to express how they enjoyed it. I will definitely revisit this cosy venue again and I wish Sharon and the Attic Knights lots of luck with their album and future endeavours.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Hard working class heroes festival
The Q/ The Dirty 9s/ Fox Jaw Bounty Hunters/Sleepthieves/ Halves/ Heathers
The Workman’s Club
07/10/10
Angela Macari O’Looney
The Hard working class heroes festival, which takes place in Dublin City Centre every autumn, has become a favourite for any lover of unsigned bands. Hosted by a group of young enthusiasts, in conjunction with The Arts Council, 2XM, Culture Ireland, Pump Audio, IMRO and many other major organizations, this fun weekend involves three hectic nights jam packed with the best acts in the country.
I went to the Thursday night gig at The Workman’s club, where The Q were already into their lively set. From Northern Ireland, this Punk/ Post Punk/ Rock band are fab and totally exude attitude. They are Pablo (Paul) Connolly-Vocals/Guitar, Barry Fahy-Bass, Tom Nichol-Guitar and Daniel Given-Drums.
Trap Door was their first song, with a thumping rock intro, riveting guitar riffs and a superb baseline featuring. This song is more Rock than Punk, but the guitars are unforgettable. Pablo has a great voice and is a confident frontman.
Magpie is a really upbeat punk number, with crazy lead, a fast beat and shouts of Hey to give it boldness. Smart ass lyrics and a fun melody line make this song my favourite of their set. I like the singability of the chorus and the refrain no such thing as a credit crunch, she says no such thing as a credit crunch.
Other songs in their set included The Alarm, Orson Welles, James and Bay of Pigs. They have a range of influences coming through in their style such as Jet, The Strokes, Queens of the Stoneage. They recently released their new E.P. Big Fubb. Oozing bad boy charm and raw energy, they were great fun and came across very polished and cheerful.
The Dirty 9s
I instantly recognised the lead singer of this band as they were setting up. I’ve been at quite a few of their gigs and was delighted they were in this line up. Beginning with Angel in the Shadows, they performed a lengthy, but truly entertaining set. Influences include Arcade Fire, Echo and the Bunnymen, U2, Interpol and many more. They have a big following and have come on in leaps and bounds as a band since forming in ’05.
Fergal Maloney-Vocals/Rhythm guitar, Cian McCarthy-Lead Guitar, Stephen Dunne- Bass Guitar, Paul Rice- Drums and Keith Brett-Keys/Backing Vocals/Glockenspiel/Violin create a powerful and memorable sound. They performed songs from their debut album Stop Screaming, start dreaming.
Car Crash features a superb baseline throughout.
Corridors has a delicious melody line and a defining riff that Keith does at the beginning. In this number Fergal always reminds me of REM frontman Michael Stipe. Having said this, The Dirty 9s have a certain magic all their own, with each of their songs being so catchy and performed with a consistent vitality that spreads to the audience.
Fergal mentioned while chatting with the punters, that this was the band’s third gig of the day, which proves how magnetic their music is. He changed guitar for Weeknight lovers, which was wonderful and involved a show stopping solo by Cian McCarthy, who came up to the front of the stage.
Trouble is one of their slower songs. For this Keith picked up a violin. This number has a military style beat for the verse, becoming subdued as Fergal sings the sad refrainThe trouble with me you see, it wasn’t meant to be all in my head. The trouble with me you see I should have let you go in the end. Keith’s violin added to the sweetness of this number and the audience were totally riveted at this point. Cian also did a spectacular solo.
They did Look to the left with a fast beat, a vibrant chorus and lots of exciting chops and changes in it.
Fergal got two girls from the audience to play tambourine for one song Wake Me Up. This began with a slow verse, bursting into a lively punk beat.
Their last song was Lucy Opus, one of my own favourites. It has poignant lyrics and some beautiful changes of pace, from the haunting verse to the explosive chorus. This set was a real treat for me. They’re a band I could listen to forever.
Fox Jaw Bounty Hunters
Arriving onstage next was a band whose intriguing debut six track E.P. I recently reviewed. Headed by Ronan Mitchell whose vocals are a cross between Pogues frontman Shane McGowan and a drunken cowboy, FJBH are original and are ten times more entertaining live than on CD.
They started their set with You Gotta love this town, which involves a big bashing sound and excellent harmony. Inspiring chord riffs are framed by a solid baseline by Morgan Nolan and matched with superb drums by Shane Serrano.
Their second song Milkanoid had distortion packed chord combinations, a bashing beat and Ronan performed a brilliant lead solo. It also features an interesting slowdown before it finishes and it’s these unexpected alternating rhythms that make this band’s music so outstanding.
In Thread the needle there are unusual discords and haunting minors. A choppy tempo combined with an interesting melody line feature here.
Strip the City is yet another song that is full of surprises. It begins with a laid back intro, building up to a rock beat. A delicious riff is repeated throughout and as in each number; Ronan performs the song with his deep, but fascinating bluesy vocal style.
Next wasThrowing Shapes with a trickling intro, fast beat and bass joining in with grungy fervour. Ronan’s vocals are powerful and soul searching, as he pours out each line, performing elaborate lead guitar and weird chords. The overall sound is certainly out on its own and extremely original.
Gloomy, but beautifully harmonic, That Old Chestnut was my favourite of this set. They are an acquired taste, but quite addictive in a blues/Punk/Grunge way. Their charm is in the cool way they belt out each distortion packed, discord laden, and haunting number.
Finally they did their debut single Homeward Bound and gagged, which also features on their CD Congress of Oddities. They create blood curdling harmonies, Ronan performing the unique lead solo. It’s a slinky number, with a trickling banjo and guitar going on throughout. It’s probably their most popular song to date and towards the end the beat alternates, stopping then starting almost like a broken record. Wonderfully weird!
FJBH have played with well known bands such as Ham Sandwich, Ojos Rojos, Givamanakick and Dave Gerraghty. They are a promising and captivating act that I know I’ll be following, along with many others who feel that strange music reach down into their souls!
Sleepthieves
From Dublin, this act are described as the Indie/Electro/Pop sound of the minute and have played support to names such as Dark Room Notes, Fight like Apes and Cranes. Also they have performed at the IMRO showcase and Fringe Festivals.
Members are Sorcha-Vocals/Synths/Keys/Glock/Guitar, Wayne Fahy- Bass/Synth/Vocals/Programming and Derek Murphy-Guitars/Keys/Synth/Programming.
Their set is exciting and for me was a combination of Fight Like Apes, Ham Sandwich and Grand Pocket Orchestra with less aggression.
I particularly enjoyed how they swap positions onstage to play each key instrument such as Korg, Moog, Roland. Watching these young geniuses take their craft to a whole new level is inspiring and the result? Wonderful music, framed by a sweet baseline or guitar! Sorcha has a soothing voice and each arrangement is masterfully produced.
It was only a Satellite is their debut E.P. which showcases the gentler and dancier end of their sonic spectrum and tracks from this album have been played on 2fm, 2xm, Phantom and many other radio stations.
Sleepthieves performed Please call back, Disappear Here, Hope is Dead, Magnetic Heart, Impersonator, 5a.m. and You me and Everyone.. All fantastic samples from their upcoming album, my favourite of these was 5 a.m. Very uplifting and catchy!
Sparkling notation throughout each number, Sorcha’s vocals light and feminine, with each chorus involving a captivating hook, the songs seemed to get more enjoyable as the set progressed. Wayne’s baselines are magical and along with the upbeat melody lines coming from the electronica, it’s feel good music at its best.
Halves
Dublin based band Halves describe their style as Ambient/Rock/Live Electronics and members are Brian Cash, Elis and Tim Czerniak, Frankie Pollard and Paul McGuire. Instruments range from Electric and Bass guitars/ Drums/ Piano/ Glockenspiel/Electric violin/Viola/Synth/Vocader/Reed Organ/Sleigh bells and pretty much anything they can get their hands on!
Watching them set up was interesting and made me curious as to how all of the parts would sound together. However, I was truly impressed as soon as they began their set.
Together since 2006, the lads released two E.Ps Halves and Haunt me when I’m drowsy and also a single Blood Branches.
Experimental style melody lines, soothing vocals, transcendental notation and beautifully blended arrangements pull you into the world of Halves as they each inject their part to a number. This is relaxation music and totally removed from anything else I’ve heard. However, when I hear them I find myself reflecting on Halfset, who are another wonderful electronic powered Irish band.
Blood Branches is complex, with a fast drumbeat coming into the equation halfway through the piece.
May your enemies never find happiness has wonderfully descriptive lyrics, a repeated guitar riff that’s delectable and trickling notation throughout that leads up to a sudden burst of sound involving all instruments. This dies down again. Vocals are subdued.
Harmonies are divine in Darling you’ll meet your maker, percussion really strange and a plethora of discords, with the dynamic addition of strings demand attention. Vocals are soft and very haunting.
Medals has a hypnotic phrase which is repeated throughout. Once again vocals are laid back, with Brian going right up into falsetto at points. Piano is particularly special and also violin. As in each piece, you are treated to a kind of concerto with many different facets to stimulate.
Other pieces included in this lengthy but mesmerising anthology of songs were Land/Sea/People, the little octoberist, Only safe landings, Haunt me when I’m drowsy, The Well wisher, Growing & Glow, I raise bears, Mountain Bell, Take exact revenge.
A dynamic crescendo of sound massages your ears in each and every song from this act, but they definitely would be an acquired taste. I like this kind of music to wind down, with lighted candles and a glass of my favourite wine.
Heathers
Acoustic/Alt/Pop act Heathers from Dublin were last to perform at this Thursday HWCH gig. Louise-Guitar/Vocals and Ellie-Vocals released their debut album Here, not there in 2008.
From there they have gone from strength to strength creating their own record label Aunthill records. I like their upbeat, bustling music and the fact that they thoroughly enjoy playing to a packed venue, as they bash out cynical but harmonic songs with charm.
My favourite of their songs is Fire Ants. It has a two part chorus that’s catchy and their sound reminds me of acts like Alanis Morrisette, Cranberries and Fight Like Apes singer May Kay. Vibrant and entertaining, they lyricise passionately, bitching about a given subject in each song!
This type of gig is difficult to encapsulate into a few words, but it is a great way to showcase the crème de la crème of Irish acts both signed and unsigned. Long may it continue!
The Workman’s Club
07/10/10
Angela Macari O’Looney
The Hard working class heroes festival, which takes place in Dublin City Centre every autumn, has become a favourite for any lover of unsigned bands. Hosted by a group of young enthusiasts, in conjunction with The Arts Council, 2XM, Culture Ireland, Pump Audio, IMRO and many other major organizations, this fun weekend involves three hectic nights jam packed with the best acts in the country.
I went to the Thursday night gig at The Workman’s club, where The Q were already into their lively set. From Northern Ireland, this Punk/ Post Punk/ Rock band are fab and totally exude attitude. They are Pablo (Paul) Connolly-Vocals/Guitar, Barry Fahy-Bass, Tom Nichol-Guitar and Daniel Given-Drums.
Trap Door was their first song, with a thumping rock intro, riveting guitar riffs and a superb baseline featuring. This song is more Rock than Punk, but the guitars are unforgettable. Pablo has a great voice and is a confident frontman.
Magpie is a really upbeat punk number, with crazy lead, a fast beat and shouts of Hey to give it boldness. Smart ass lyrics and a fun melody line make this song my favourite of their set. I like the singability of the chorus and the refrain no such thing as a credit crunch, she says no such thing as a credit crunch.
Other songs in their set included The Alarm, Orson Welles, James and Bay of Pigs. They have a range of influences coming through in their style such as Jet, The Strokes, Queens of the Stoneage. They recently released their new E.P. Big Fubb. Oozing bad boy charm and raw energy, they were great fun and came across very polished and cheerful.
The Dirty 9s
I instantly recognised the lead singer of this band as they were setting up. I’ve been at quite a few of their gigs and was delighted they were in this line up. Beginning with Angel in the Shadows, they performed a lengthy, but truly entertaining set. Influences include Arcade Fire, Echo and the Bunnymen, U2, Interpol and many more. They have a big following and have come on in leaps and bounds as a band since forming in ’05.
Fergal Maloney-Vocals/Rhythm guitar, Cian McCarthy-Lead Guitar, Stephen Dunne- Bass Guitar, Paul Rice- Drums and Keith Brett-Keys/Backing Vocals/Glockenspiel/Violin create a powerful and memorable sound. They performed songs from their debut album Stop Screaming, start dreaming.
Car Crash features a superb baseline throughout.
Corridors has a delicious melody line and a defining riff that Keith does at the beginning. In this number Fergal always reminds me of REM frontman Michael Stipe. Having said this, The Dirty 9s have a certain magic all their own, with each of their songs being so catchy and performed with a consistent vitality that spreads to the audience.
Fergal mentioned while chatting with the punters, that this was the band’s third gig of the day, which proves how magnetic their music is. He changed guitar for Weeknight lovers, which was wonderful and involved a show stopping solo by Cian McCarthy, who came up to the front of the stage.
Trouble is one of their slower songs. For this Keith picked up a violin. This number has a military style beat for the verse, becoming subdued as Fergal sings the sad refrainThe trouble with me you see, it wasn’t meant to be all in my head. The trouble with me you see I should have let you go in the end. Keith’s violin added to the sweetness of this number and the audience were totally riveted at this point. Cian also did a spectacular solo.
They did Look to the left with a fast beat, a vibrant chorus and lots of exciting chops and changes in it.
Fergal got two girls from the audience to play tambourine for one song Wake Me Up. This began with a slow verse, bursting into a lively punk beat.
Their last song was Lucy Opus, one of my own favourites. It has poignant lyrics and some beautiful changes of pace, from the haunting verse to the explosive chorus. This set was a real treat for me. They’re a band I could listen to forever.
Fox Jaw Bounty Hunters
Arriving onstage next was a band whose intriguing debut six track E.P. I recently reviewed. Headed by Ronan Mitchell whose vocals are a cross between Pogues frontman Shane McGowan and a drunken cowboy, FJBH are original and are ten times more entertaining live than on CD.
They started their set with You Gotta love this town, which involves a big bashing sound and excellent harmony. Inspiring chord riffs are framed by a solid baseline by Morgan Nolan and matched with superb drums by Shane Serrano.
Their second song Milkanoid had distortion packed chord combinations, a bashing beat and Ronan performed a brilliant lead solo. It also features an interesting slowdown before it finishes and it’s these unexpected alternating rhythms that make this band’s music so outstanding.
In Thread the needle there are unusual discords and haunting minors. A choppy tempo combined with an interesting melody line feature here.
Strip the City is yet another song that is full of surprises. It begins with a laid back intro, building up to a rock beat. A delicious riff is repeated throughout and as in each number; Ronan performs the song with his deep, but fascinating bluesy vocal style.
Next wasThrowing Shapes with a trickling intro, fast beat and bass joining in with grungy fervour. Ronan’s vocals are powerful and soul searching, as he pours out each line, performing elaborate lead guitar and weird chords. The overall sound is certainly out on its own and extremely original.
Gloomy, but beautifully harmonic, That Old Chestnut was my favourite of this set. They are an acquired taste, but quite addictive in a blues/Punk/Grunge way. Their charm is in the cool way they belt out each distortion packed, discord laden, and haunting number.
Finally they did their debut single Homeward Bound and gagged, which also features on their CD Congress of Oddities. They create blood curdling harmonies, Ronan performing the unique lead solo. It’s a slinky number, with a trickling banjo and guitar going on throughout. It’s probably their most popular song to date and towards the end the beat alternates, stopping then starting almost like a broken record. Wonderfully weird!
FJBH have played with well known bands such as Ham Sandwich, Ojos Rojos, Givamanakick and Dave Gerraghty. They are a promising and captivating act that I know I’ll be following, along with many others who feel that strange music reach down into their souls!
Sleepthieves
From Dublin, this act are described as the Indie/Electro/Pop sound of the minute and have played support to names such as Dark Room Notes, Fight like Apes and Cranes. Also they have performed at the IMRO showcase and Fringe Festivals.
Members are Sorcha-Vocals/Synths/Keys/Glock/Guitar, Wayne Fahy- Bass/Synth/Vocals/Programming and Derek Murphy-Guitars/Keys/Synth/Programming.
Their set is exciting and for me was a combination of Fight Like Apes, Ham Sandwich and Grand Pocket Orchestra with less aggression.
I particularly enjoyed how they swap positions onstage to play each key instrument such as Korg, Moog, Roland. Watching these young geniuses take their craft to a whole new level is inspiring and the result? Wonderful music, framed by a sweet baseline or guitar! Sorcha has a soothing voice and each arrangement is masterfully produced.
It was only a Satellite is their debut E.P. which showcases the gentler and dancier end of their sonic spectrum and tracks from this album have been played on 2fm, 2xm, Phantom and many other radio stations.
Sleepthieves performed Please call back, Disappear Here, Hope is Dead, Magnetic Heart, Impersonator, 5a.m. and You me and Everyone.. All fantastic samples from their upcoming album, my favourite of these was 5 a.m. Very uplifting and catchy!
Sparkling notation throughout each number, Sorcha’s vocals light and feminine, with each chorus involving a captivating hook, the songs seemed to get more enjoyable as the set progressed. Wayne’s baselines are magical and along with the upbeat melody lines coming from the electronica, it’s feel good music at its best.
Halves
Dublin based band Halves describe their style as Ambient/Rock/Live Electronics and members are Brian Cash, Elis and Tim Czerniak, Frankie Pollard and Paul McGuire. Instruments range from Electric and Bass guitars/ Drums/ Piano/ Glockenspiel/Electric violin/Viola/Synth/Vocader/Reed Organ/Sleigh bells and pretty much anything they can get their hands on!
Watching them set up was interesting and made me curious as to how all of the parts would sound together. However, I was truly impressed as soon as they began their set.
Together since 2006, the lads released two E.Ps Halves and Haunt me when I’m drowsy and also a single Blood Branches.
Experimental style melody lines, soothing vocals, transcendental notation and beautifully blended arrangements pull you into the world of Halves as they each inject their part to a number. This is relaxation music and totally removed from anything else I’ve heard. However, when I hear them I find myself reflecting on Halfset, who are another wonderful electronic powered Irish band.
Blood Branches is complex, with a fast drumbeat coming into the equation halfway through the piece.
May your enemies never find happiness has wonderfully descriptive lyrics, a repeated guitar riff that’s delectable and trickling notation throughout that leads up to a sudden burst of sound involving all instruments. This dies down again. Vocals are subdued.
Harmonies are divine in Darling you’ll meet your maker, percussion really strange and a plethora of discords, with the dynamic addition of strings demand attention. Vocals are soft and very haunting.
Medals has a hypnotic phrase which is repeated throughout. Once again vocals are laid back, with Brian going right up into falsetto at points. Piano is particularly special and also violin. As in each piece, you are treated to a kind of concerto with many different facets to stimulate.
Other pieces included in this lengthy but mesmerising anthology of songs were Land/Sea/People, the little octoberist, Only safe landings, Haunt me when I’m drowsy, The Well wisher, Growing & Glow, I raise bears, Mountain Bell, Take exact revenge.
A dynamic crescendo of sound massages your ears in each and every song from this act, but they definitely would be an acquired taste. I like this kind of music to wind down, with lighted candles and a glass of my favourite wine.
Heathers
Acoustic/Alt/Pop act Heathers from Dublin were last to perform at this Thursday HWCH gig. Louise-Guitar/Vocals and Ellie-Vocals released their debut album Here, not there in 2008.
From there they have gone from strength to strength creating their own record label Aunthill records. I like their upbeat, bustling music and the fact that they thoroughly enjoy playing to a packed venue, as they bash out cynical but harmonic songs with charm.
My favourite of their songs is Fire Ants. It has a two part chorus that’s catchy and their sound reminds me of acts like Alanis Morrisette, Cranberries and Fight Like Apes singer May Kay. Vibrant and entertaining, they lyricise passionately, bitching about a given subject in each song!
This type of gig is difficult to encapsulate into a few words, but it is a great way to showcase the crème de la crème of Irish acts both signed and unsigned. Long may it continue!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)