Photo's: You Me At Six supporting Paramore live @ The O2 Dec. 12th 2009

You Me At Six were the main support act for Paramore last night in The O2 and they certainly know how to bring it live. They played mostly tracks from their debut Take Off Your Colours including the super catchy Kiss And Tell, Finders Keepers and Save It For The Bedroom but also included one of their fantastic new tracks, The Consequence.

You Me At Six are set to release their second studio album Hold Me Down here on January 8th in Ireland and 11th in the UK.

Here are some pics from the show and you can view the rest HERE.

Josh Franceschi


Max Helyer


Matt Barnes


Chris Miller

U:MACK 15th Birthday Party Preview

U:Mack’s 15th birthday is set to be a banging affair in Tripod on December 10th with huge favourites Battles heading the line up.

Battles have played 4 or 5 gigs in Dublin over the past three years, each time to a bigger crowd, bigger venue and with more energy than the gig before. They quickly won over the minds of the Irish music lovers with the release of the debut EP's and anyone in attendance at the U:Mack birthday will be in for a treat when they launch into monster tracks Atlas and Ddiamond. In short, they are a prog force to be reckoned with. Most importantly though, this gig will see previews of their new material due out next year.

Also on the bill are, the masters of instrumental rock, 65 Days of Static. For those unfamiliar with the Sheffield group, imagine the most beautiful Mogwai-esque soundtrack mixed with a heavy dose of electronic instruments and stunning visuals.

One of Europe's respected outfits The Ex, shall be definitely one the birthday highlights with their unrivalled reputation as an electrifying live band that hypnotise their audience with plenty no-wave/post punk offerings. Their body of work includes around 20 studio albums and as many EP's to boot making them a fantastic addition to the bill.

Local heroes Adebisi Shank are also lined up and should satisfy the Battles fans in attendance. These guys have been garnering huge support in Ireland with their critically acclaimed punk rock album This Is The Album Of A Band Called Adebisi Shank released earlier this year and are an excellent choice for opening proceedings on Thursday next.

Dance/pop ensemble !!! or Chk Chk Chk DJ set pad out the evening. For those of you there purely to dance these guys will be just what the doctor ordered. Allan Wilson and Tyler Pope shall be on hand to spin some well placed tunes and speaking from experience these guys know how to ensure a party keeps going until the wee hours.

The Skinny Wolves DJ's are also onthe bill to balance out the right kinds of tunes on the night so expect to hear your favourite kinds of Krautrock, Dance, New Wave and Punk plus a whole lot more.

To be part of this momentous occasion just head over to tickets.ie and grab yourself one.
It is going to be one of the most talked about gigs of 2009 and with good reason too.

Preview by Liz Duffy & Danielle Graham

Messiah J & The Expert launch brand new single live @ The Twisted Pepper this Friday!

Ireland's finest hip hop outfit Messiah J & The Expert must never sleep, as they return with two brand new tunes, to be released exclusively through the Richter Collective Singles Club.
This hard working twosome are set to bring out a double A-side, 7" single this Friday November 27th and the only way to get your hands on it is to turn up to the launch gig in The Twisted Pepper where, limited copies shall be given to the first 200 punters through the door.

The first of the two tracks Acting The Maggot is described "as a banger in the classic Hip Hop mould on which MJEX celebrate the joys of being young, fighty and irresponsible in the modern day, over a concoction of swooping strings, snapping drums, sickly scratching and terrifically tasty guitars".
The second A-side is the psychedelic offering If You Don't Want To Know The Score, Look Away Now which features unique and wonderful vocals from Jennifer Evans.

Both tracks are a must have for Mjex and hip hop fans alike so don't miss what is sure to be a top notch night. See you up the front! Doors 9pm with support from Crayonsmith and tax is €10.

Simian Mobile Disco feat. Beth Ditto-Cruel Intentions video

The third track to be released as single from Simian Mobile Disco's latest release Temporary Pleasure is the fabulous Cruel Intentions featuring The Gossip's leading lady Beth Ditto.
Already a favourite on dance floors all around the world it's no wonder this is next choice of release for the SMD lads.
The video itself is weird and a little sinister but I like it. Happy weekend folks.

Talulah Does The Hula, Slurps & Guilty Optics live @ The Twisted Pepper

It's almost the weekend and tomorrow night it kicks off with superb action in the Twisted Pepper on Middle Abbey Street with three kick ass band all taking to the stage.

First up is Slurps. There are six of them in the band and they played their first show back in June for the first Noises In Our Heads gig. Since then they have been travelling on Camel back around the country playing shows to nice people and even supported the mighty Bats last month. They play indie rock and are damn good too so get down there early.

Guilty Optics are a rock trio who play "melodic rock that will melt your face", so if you like the idea of a face melt down then this is the band for you. Having recently played with Elk, Jogging, Alias Empire and Sweet Jane, you shall be hearing a lot more about these lads in the near future.

Headlining tomorrow night proceedings are the uber fantastic Talulah Does The Hula. They are four girls born from the ashes of The Chalets and Neosupervital, combined with drummer supreme Michael and viola, you have a 60's inspired pop group that write 'Wickedly clever and sexy pop tunes". Their current single Bad Boyfriend is as contagious as swine flu and the video to accompany is slick.

So there you have it, tomorrow night is going to be a party and it shall cost you only a €5.

Poster designed by Cian Walker.

Two new songs from The Indecent Cigar Emporium

Dublin newbies The Indecent Cigar Emporium play their first official gig as part of the second Noises In Our Heads gig in the Twisted Pepper next Wednesday November 18th. To celebrate this momentous occasion they have put two new tracks up on their MySpace for all to enjoy. The first is 70's inspired funk driven Hydromedusa while Love Simulator is a four minute funky electronic, psychedelic jam that will have you dancing your toes off. You heard all about it here first!

Also playing the Noises In Our Heads gig is Lumière and The Evening Watch who shall headline the evenings proceedings. For more info go HERE.

Photo action-Biffy Clyro live at The Olympia, Dublin.

Last night I got to witness the superb Biffy Clyro live @ The Olympia Theatre in Dublin.
Their live show was insane and the crowd were, it has to be said, a fantastic contribution to the whole proceedings. From grand opener Golden Rule to anthems such as Who's Got A Match?, 9/15ths, Mountains and current single The Captain, Biffy Clyro brought it all. Screaming guitars, pounding drums and huge sing-a-long choruses ensured a momentous performance and here are some pics I took at the start of the show.
Only Revolutions is their highly anticipated new album out here in Ireland on Friday November 6th and in the UK Monday November 9th. Thanks to Warner for organising my photo pass.

Simon Neil

Simon Neil

James Johnston

Ben Johnston

Simon Neil

You can view more HERE

The Noises In Our Heads Present The Evening Watch plus guests

A big thanks to Cian Walker for designing the poster for the second Noises In Our Heads gig in the Twisted Pepper on November 18th. You can read all about HERE.

Frightened Rabbit- Swim Until You Can't See Land video

This video has been doing the rounds over the past week and a bit but I love the track too much not to mention it here. Swim Until You Can't See Land is another cracking song from Frightened Rabbit filled with gorgeous melodies and swooning backing vocals all surrounding Scott Hutchison's distinct lead vocal. which as always, lends itself to a certain amount of vulnerability. This is the first taster taken from their new studio album due out on Fat Cat Records in early 2010 and it is titled The Winter Of Mixed Drinks .



Frightened Rabbit play the Academy supporting Modest Mouse on December 7th and 8th and Swim Until You Can't See Land is released on November 13th.

The Noises In Our Heads Present The Evening Watch plus very special guests...

This is the second gig of 2009 for The Noises In Our Heads. After a packed out gig back in June with Incommunicado, Jennifer Evans & The Ripe Intent and Slurps in the Lower Deck, I am set to do it all over again. This time the fun shall be staged in The Twisted Pepper on Abbey Street and the lineup is as follows:

Over the last three months The Evening Watch have been working tirelessly on lots of new songs since their days as Incommunicado. This indie electronic outfit based in Dublin have influences ranging across the board from Kings Of Convenience to Jim O'Rourke and like to use a large range of instruments on stage including live strings. A feast for the ears indeed.

Next up is The Indecent Cigar Emporium, who are a 6 piece outfit that started out playing psychedelic bluegrass until the funk got the better of them and they have since evolved into a quirky funk, beat driven band with a large sense of humour. It's Metronomy meets The Flight Of The Conchords.

With a name like Lumière you would expect lo fi, ambient or classical music but not with this band. This alternative rock outfit based in Dublin tear it up with loud, breakneck guitars and drums. Fans of Hot Club De Paris and Foals should enjoy them.

November 18th is the date and the door tax is €6...Bargain!

Photographs @ HWCH '09

Hats off to the organisers of the Hard Working Class Heroes Festival '09. It was a fantastic weekend of live music, photography and panel discussions. Most importantly though it showcased a lot of Irish musicians from all genres and it left me in doubt that there is a serious amount of talent in Irelend. I took some photo's of that very talent I speak of and for more you can click HERE.

Distractors live @ Academy 2 for HWCH '09


Distractors live @ Academy 2 for HWCH '09


O Emperor live @ ALT for HWCH '09


O Emperor live @ ALT for HWCH '09


Gran Casino live @ ALT for HWCH '09


Gran Casino live @ ALT for HWCH '09


Sweet Jane live @ ALT for HWCH '09


Sweet Jane live @ ALT for HWCH '09

Florence & The Machine-You've Got The Love video

The wonderful Florence Welch (of And The Machine) is set to release her excellent version of Candi Staton's, You've Got The Love on November 13th. A crowd favourite when performed live, Flo's version gives this soul classic a wonderfully modern twist. The video for this is shot with Florence perched on a glittery, silver quarter moon dressed in feathers and sequinns, whipping her red mane into shape with the music. It's pretty girly so I am not gonna complain.



Florence and The Machine | MySpace Music Videos

Twin Atlantic live @ The Academy photo's

Last night I hit the Academy 2 for the mighty Twin Atlantic who are currently on their Irish tour and while I was there I took a few snaps. The band took in Belfast, Galway and Dublin while their Cork show is tonight.
Check them out below.

Ross McNae


Craig Kneale


Barry McKenna


Sam McTrusty


You can see more on my Flickr.
www.twinatlantic.com

Twin Atlantic coming to a town near you this week.

After playing to a largely under age audience in The Academy supporting Taking Back Sunday in July, Twin Atlantic have released their debut album Vivarium and played a tonne of gigs all over the place including the hugely popular Sonisphere festival. Their own headline tour has seen them grace the stages of venues up and down the UK and they are about to return to Ireland for 4 gigs of their own.

Starting this Sunday the band are in to play the following dates:
Sunday October 4th- Auntie Annies, Belfast
Monday October 5th- The Roisin Dubh, Galway
Tuesday October 6th- The Academy 2, Dublin
Wednesday October 7th- Old Oak, Cork

Last month I wrote a wee piece about the band and their video for You're Turning Into John Wayne but check out the video to their first single released from Vivarium, Lightspeed.

Phenomenal Hand Clap Band-15 to 20 Video

New York collective The Phenomenal Hand Clap Band have just released the video to their enslaving 15 to 20 single. A funky disco driven track that is led by Lady Tigra's vocal is reminiscent of early CSS with a speckle of LCD Soundsystem. The video was directed by Michelle Price and comprises of 8 mini films steeped together to create one and a good one at that.
You can catch their striking live show in Academy 2 on September 25th.

Electric Picnic 2009- Photo's

After lots of mud wading, here are some of the shots I took at this years Electric Picnic Festival. Cheers to LHP and POD for the photo pass.

Florence And The Machine Live on The Electric Arena Stage

Florence And The Machine Live on The Electric Arena Stage

Florence And The Machine Live on The Electric Arena Stage

Fleet Foxes live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Fleet Foxes live2009 @ The Electric Picnic

Fleet Foxes Live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Micachu And The Shapes live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Micachu And The Shapes live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Micachu And The Shapes live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Simon Klaxon live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

James & Jamie Klaxon live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Jazzanova live @ The Electric Picnic 2008

Marina And The Diamonds live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

Marina And The Diamonds live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

2 Many DJ's live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

2 Many DJ's live @ The Electric Picnic 2009

For more pics go HERE

The Evening Watch @ the Bernard Shaw TONIGHT!

Dublin based band The Evening Watch are playing a free show tonight in The Bernard Shaw.
Formerly known as Incommunicado, The Evening Watch mix it up nicely with a fine use of electronics, guitar, bass, strings and even some well placed cowbell.
There are drink promotions a plenty and some excellent tunes!

Hockey-Song Away Video

It's only a couple of weeks away until Hockey's debut album Mind Chaos FINALLY hits the shelves here in Ireland and in the UK and I must say it's a corker. Preceding that however is the release of their addictive new single Song Away. In the video they are doing it for the misfits of this world and feel good theme reflects the song perfectly. Enjoy!



Mind Chaos is out on Friday September 18th and you can catch Hockey live @ The Academy on September 22nd.

Jamie T - Chaka Demus Video

The wonderful Jamie T is about to release his second single Chaka Demus, from his highly anticipated second album Kings & Queens out here on September 4th. It's a fantastic follow up to his 2007 Mercury Nominated debut Panic Prevention and we will be bringing you a track by track guide next week. In the meantime enjoy the upbeat summery feel to Chaka Demus, it's addictive!


Catch Jamie T live in The Village on October 24th, upgraded from Whelan's due to overwhelming demand.

Final Fantasy signs to Domino Records

Domino Records have just announced the signing of Final Fantasy and details of a new studio album Heartland due for release in early 2010. Pallett has been working on this album for 9 months and follows his two previous albums He Poos Clouds and Spectrum, 14th Century.

For those in attendance at Field Day in London recently, we were treated to some of his new material and non surprisingly it went down well with the excited crowd. Autumn and Winter sees Final Fantasy on tour in Canada and The United States with Timber Timbre and The Mountain Goats so we may have to wait a little longer before he returns to these shores.