Biffy Clyro - The O2 Dublin, 28th March 2013

The impossible became possible when Scottish band Biffy Clyro took to the mainstream, and whether or not that was down to the success of previous X Factor winner Matt Cardle (who?) releasing their song 'Many Of Horror' doesn't matter, but let's hope it's not. Playing arenas such as the O2 came naturally to them, while most of their songs seem to be made solely to be played in such huge arenas. People may have thought that their link to the X Factor would lose them some credibility - in fact it was much the opposite. Their two hour set, with half of it coming from their latest offering 'Opposites', shows they have come back bigger and even better. After 18 years of being together, it's as if the three-piece - Simon Neil and brothers James and Ben Johnston - knew they would get to the bigtime eventually. 

Photo: Music Review Unsigned

The thousands of fans pack in to the venue chanting 'mon the Biff', but before this, City and Colour, Canadian frontman Dallas Green and his band take to the stage. In any other setting, he can be brilliant. But providing support for these rockers, it is less than that. There's no doubt that the songs and the band are good, very good in fact, and Green continues to thank the audience for seeing them on their trip to Ireland, but it seems more like background noise for most as they wait for the main attraction.

After what feels like a lifetime, the band arrive onstage in their usual attire - trousers and their instrument - with an impressive backdrop of the nervous system, and launch straight into 'Different People', the first song from their new album 'Opposites'. It only takes a few seconds for the song and the audience to come to life. Their excitement at finally seeing the band is shown. Playing old songs, including 'Justboy' from their debut album, as well as newer ones and some anthems from their most popular albums Puzzle and Only Revolutions, with their infectious grunge and often old-school rock songs, the band show they're not ready to go completely into the mainstream yet.

'Bubbles', 'Who's Got A Match?' and 'Living Is a Problem Because Everything Dies' are the songs to provide entertainment and much excitement from the band and the crowd alike. They move quickly from these 'heavier' songs, into softer ballads such as the aforementioned 'Many Of Horror' and 'Mountains'. It's things like this that set Biffy Clyro apart from other bands and one can easily tell why they have earned their right to headline arenas. 'God and Satan' is one of the most anticipated songs of the night, and we see Neil alone with a guitar in the spotlight with a tricolor flag draped around him. They continue with their set, barely stopping to take a breath, and eventually come to an end with 'The Captain'.

The audience certainly don't let themselves down, as straight away the classic 'olé, olé, olé' begins, and even more of 'mon the Biff', when the band come back with an encore of three more songs, 'Skylight', 'Stingin' Belle', and finally finishing the stunning 26 song set with 'Mountains'. With a brilliant atmosphere, one of the best that this onlooker has ever seen, and incredibly energetic show, by the end the crowd were sweating as much or possibly even more than the band were. The men thanked the audience for coming out to see them, said how great of a crowd they were, and hoped to be back soon, but they mostly let their songs do all the talking. If the audience's reaction is anything to go by, Biffy are only going to get bigger and better. And well deserved.

My Chemical Romance split up

New Jersey band My Chemical Romance have split up.
The band posted this short message on their website:

Being in this band for the past 12 years has been a true blessing. We've gotten to go places we never knew we would. We've been able to see and experience things we never imagined possible. We've shared the stage with people we admire, people we look up to, and best of all, our friends. And now, like all great things, it has come time for it to end. Thanks for all of your support, and for being part of the adventure.
My Chemical Romance

Front man Gerard Way later took to his Twitter account to write down his feelings, in the way an excellent show man would. The full post can be read here: http://www.twitlonger.com/show/n_1rjdh4f

My Chemical Romance is done. But it can never die. 
It is alive in me, in the guys, and it is alive inside all of you. 
I always knew that, and I think you did too.

Because it is not a band- 
it is an idea.

Now for the personal posting. However clichéd it may sound, they are the band that shaped my music taste, and overall my life. And thousands of other people's lives. I'm not sure it has quite sunk in yet that they've split up. It'll definitely be strange that they're not there anymore, but their music will be. I would love the chance to say 'thank you' to mcr. xo

Two Door Cinema Club @ the 02, 19th Jan 2013

Less than four years ago, few had heard the name Two Door Cinema Club. Back then the band hailing from Bangor played small venues but were tipped for big things, and before even releasing their hugely successful debut album, Tourist History, which won them the Choice Music Award for best album, had topped the BBC Sounds of 2010 poll.

Now, the Northern Irish trio are selling out arenas all over the world, and played their first ever headline show in Dublin's O2 on then 19th of January, four months after the release of Beacon, their highly anticipated second album which went straight to number one in the Irish charts.

The band recruited two of Ireland's finest acts to support them on their largest headliner to date, Jape and rapidly up-and-coming The Cast of Cheers. First up were Dublin quartet The Cast of Cheers who began their energetic set with 'Human Elevator', 'Animals' which gathered the best response, and playing it live for the first time, 'Trucks At Night'. They finish off their fast paced seven song set with 'Family', the title track of latest album which was nominated for best album in the Choice Music Awards this year. Front man Conor Adams leaves overwhelmed at the size of the venue and the crowd, and says this was their first time playing the O2. Judging by the rising stars' energy and charisma, it shouldn't be long before they're playing other big venues and headline shows like this.

Next up were Jape who give a good performance, but perhaps it is the wrong idea to place the  on directly before the headliners, when it was only two members on stage, in a huge venue in almost darkness. The better penultimate act instead may have been The Cast of Cheers. Nevertheless they kept their set upbeat with their tracks, including 'Floating', (best known from that Bulmers advert), while the audience waited for the main band.

Finally Two Door Cinema Club take to the stage to the screams and delight of fans, and launch right into action with debut single 'Sleep Alone'. Their new material from Beacon leaves an impact on the audience, but it is the songs from Tourist History that receive the most attention and applause, and the ones that will be best known for. 'Undercover Martyn', 'I Can Talk' and 'Costume Party' are flawless and energetic, while the reaction to them is something else. Lead singer and guitarist Alex Trimble plays the piano for second single 'Sun', and it is obvious to everyone how much more confident he is in himself and the band, unlike the front man who kept away from any sort of attention the band had little over a year ago. There seems to be quite a sentimental mood with 'Next Year' and 'The World Is Watching', but 'Something Good Can Work' quickly brings the band back to their full potential. Guitarist Sam Halliday and bassist Kevin Baird also thank the audience for coming, which shows they are truly grateful for any support. (Aw, shucks.)

The indie-pop group begin 'Eat That Up, It's Good For You' as large white balls drop from the ceiling, and this drags away attention to the band for many people. It is a distraction again when they come back for their mandatory encore, 'Someday' and 'Come Back Home'. Thankfully, most of the balls are gone by the time the opening chords to 'What You Know' are played, and the audience can enjoy watching the band again. Trimble closes the show and leaves the stage with the words "I will remember this night for the rest of my life." And, upon hearing this, all of the fans will too.

All It's Worth - 'These Things Take Time' review

Those familiar with the Irish pop-punk scene may recognise this band - but under a different name and a slight line-up change.

StoryBoard, as they were called, changed their name to All It's Worth late last year, and if their new EP is anything to go by, it seems to have been for the better. Members Kiefer, Oscar, David and Ross take influence and the best bits from bands such as New Found Glory, The Story So Far and Four Year Strong to create their own unique sound.

The 6 track EP, on sale now for whatever you wish to pay for it (yes, that means free, too!), is already receiving rave reviews from fans, both old and new, and this reviewer was pleasantly surprised with their new songs. It begins with 'Pieces', a perfect and opener for the band, one to show everyone just what they're made of. For me, personally, the stand out track is 'Two Months Too Short Of Two Years' (try and say it fast ten times in a row - go on!) It is heavy in all the right places, and simply infectious. 'Backbone' is another excellent song, with the right mixture of riffs and drum beats to compliment one another.
Overall, the fantastic and polished E.P could easily take the boys to great heights in the music scene.

Take a listen and download for FREE from the band's Bandcamp now!

Two Door Cinema Club - Beacon

You won't need an introduction to this next band - you've most certainly heard at least one of their songs played all across television adverts - but let me introduce them anyway.

Forming in 2007, Northern Irish trio Two Door Cinema Club, singer Alex Trimble, bassist Kevin Baird and Sam Halliday on lead guitar, have gone from strength to strength over these few years with their numerous catchy singles from amazing debut album 'Tourist History', released in 2010. There's no wonder it won countless awards, including the Choice Music award in 2011 for Best Album in Ireland. Their popularity has quickly increased because to it, and they have engaged in what seems like a never-ending tour on all corners of the world. Now their time has come, after a long wait, and they have finally released a new album.

Thanks to the huge success of 'Tourist History', can people expect a step-down from this on their new release 'Beacon'? Certainly not.
Their debut was all about experimentation, and the indie group setting out to find their sound without ever really capturing it. Beacon is the band finding themselves, and becoming more mature in their own sound, while still keeping with the same catchiness that made their first album so popular. It was 'Tourist History' that cemented Two Door's place as 'the ones to watch' in the charts and the music scene, but it will be 'Beacon' that makes people stand up, sing along and remember their name.

Singer Alex Trimble has said that he "opened up" in this album and it is "more honest", and it definitely shows. The first lines to open the album (from 'Next Year') are "I don't know where I am going to rest my head tonight", perhaps showing Trimble's worry from their non-stop touring. On this record we hear songs with an added depth in the lyrics, something that was noticeably missing from Tourist History.

The best tracks from it are 'Handshake', 'Next Year', 'Sun' and stand out track and first single 'Sleep Alone', the one that could lead the band to worldwide success. Watch their (sometimes strange and trippy!) video for it now:



'Beacon' is out now on Kitsúne records. A must-buy for all fans and music lovers.

What do you think of the album?

All It's Worth

Dublin pop punk band All It's Worth have finally released one of the songs from their upcoming EP.



The heavy and infectious 'Backbone' is from their EP "These Things Take Time", which is up for FREE DOWNLOAD from tomorrow, 2nd of September on their website www.allitsworth.ie

Solar Taxi - Gung Ho

Now here's a band that will certainly grab your attention.

Waterford's very own electro-pop band, Solar Taxi are ready to take the scene by storm with their sensational new single Gung Ho. And wow, is it good.
Released on 14th September, it is the second of a long line of singles to be taken from upcoming debut album 'Broken Brother's Secret Bells', out 21st September.

Having recently aired on MTV's teen comedy 'Awkward' and currently getting well deserved radio play on Irish stations, it is a song that simply cannot be listened to just once. Insanely catchy and energetic, this band, fronted by flame-haired Aisling Browne and her amazing vocals, seem to have it all.

Quick, start listening to them now so you can say you liked them before they were huge.

Two Door Cinema Club announce date at The Academy

Indie favourites Two Door Cinema Club have announced they will play an intimate show at The Academy, Dublin next month.

The band will perform in the up close and personal venue on Friday 7th of September, with support from The Cast Of Cheers
Following the recent leak of the bands upcoming album 'Beacon', single Alex Trimble has urged fans to keep the music scene alive and wait for August 31st to purchase the album that they have worked so hard for, instead of downloading it before its release.

Here's the video for their latest single in all it's glory:



EDIT: this show is now sold out!

Two Door Cinema Club unveil first single

Northern Irish band Two Door Cinema Club have announced their brand new single will be 'Sleep Alone'. The song is from upcoming album 'Beacon' which is set to be released on 3rd September, and is available for free download exclusively from their website http://twodoorcinemaclub.com for 24 hours only.

It may come as a disappointment to some people that the trio haven't changed their tactics, and instead stick to what they know. As a huge fan of the band, I was delighted at the first listening to hear the single would have fitted perfectly onto debut album 'Tourist History'.

Download Sleep Alone for free now

Check out the trailer for upcoming album below:

Fox Avenue split up

Dublin three piece Fox Avenue are no more, it was announced in a statement on the band's official website today.

The statement from members Dara Quilty, Sean Maxx and Patrick Rhatigan says

For three years Fox Avenue have played together around the country, recorded together & have had an exceptional fan base. For personal reasons the band have decided to part ways.

"We are blessed to have stood on stage next to some of the biggest artists in the world & can not thank you enough for your support & thanks to everyone who's worked with us along the way. We are sorry that it has come to this."

Personally I would like to thank the boys for having the best time over their years, making all the fans feel so welcome, and making friends with each and every one of us. I wish them the best of luck in the future.

Kickstart The Season single BestDamnThing

Considering they only formed in the summer of 2011, pop-punkers Kickstart The Season have made an impact on the Irish music scene lately, and soon will be heading out on their first mini headline tour this month with In Elegance and Boy Versus Romeo, in Cork, Belfast and their hometown Dublin.

Their debut single Take Me Out from EP "It's A Thing! It Happened!" is what first caught people's attentions, but now the 5 piece have gone one better and, after many teasers and much waiting from fans, have finally released BestDamnThing! for free download.

Without a doubt, it is one of the catchiest, toe-tappingly brilliant songs I've heard from a band in quite a while. It begins on a high, and continues to get bigger throughout, topping it off with a tremendous chorus. It is simply impossible to listen to just once.
With a girl-fronted rock band these days, it could be very easy for the band to be labelled Paramore-esque, but give it time and these guys could be giving Hayley Willians and co. a run for their money. Definitely recommend it to anyone, as this band deserve to get bigger and bigger.

StayOkay!

I can easily say that this was the most excited I had been about a release in a very long time, and judging by the comments of anticipation in the weeks leading up to it on Facebook and Twitter, I was not alone. I am, of course, talking about the release of StayOkay!'s second EP, Disperse.

First song and EP title Disperse is an immense, bold beginning to the highly powerful three tracks. It is such an all round impressive and infectious single that just one listen isn't enough. Possibly the best song the group has released to date.

What is on a high must come down however, as next track Little Voice shows. It may be slowing down the pace, but it does not lack any power, and is still as emotion filled as before, if not more.

This wonderful EP is completed by final song Homebird, a beautiful ending to a perfect but so different 3 tracks. The acoustic guitar compliments Tim Chadwick’s vocals so well.  It’s almost the bands signature to open with a big song, move onto a more emotion filled song, while finishing off with a tender acoustic – just look at their fantastic debut Time To Grow.

It is impossible not to get entertained or excited at these three songs, each of them so different from the last. They could have just released any old song at the time and get it over with, like other bands may do, but not this band. They cleverly took their time and wrote about things important to them, and it worked for them. With this simply outstanding offering, the boys have made their mark on Irish soil, and are a breath of fresh air.

StayOkay! are four of the most gracious young men I have had the pleasure of meeting, and seeing live. This band is one of, if not the most talented Irish band around at the moment.

The guys have grown so much in the last year between both EPs. The music, the lyrics. Everything about these songs scream big things for Tim, Kevin, Alan and Irtiza. And if they don’t get huge, well I really worry about the future of music.

Download their music now from http://stayokay.bandcamp.com/

Time Is A Thief announce album launch

Cork rockers Time Is A Thief have announced their album launch date!

On the 6th of May the four piece will play their first ever headline all-ages show in the Academy 2, Dublin.
Support comes from Taking Hayley and StayOkay!, and tickets are €10.
Their debut album "We're Not Strangers" will be out on the 27th of April.

I for one am very excited!

Evergreen

Evergreen are a 4 piece, young band having formed in early 2011. The boys, from Co. Offaly, play rock music with a lot of variety, and now releasing their new four track EP "This One Time". The band consists of Noel Brennan, Jason Maleney, Darren Molloy, and Oisin Clarke.

Starting us off is Way To Comedown. It is a lively and catchy song, and both the back up and main vocals work together extremely well together towards the finished product. This leads into a fabulous name for a song - Only A Hippo Quits, a heavier complete rock track from the get go. A personal favourite of mine, it mixes in slower verses and fast choruses with ease. 

Walks At Midnight begins much calmer, slower and from the impression I get of the title, is quite a tender song. The chorus even has a slight groove or blues feel to it showing the band aren't just another one trick pony. Last but not least, Imaginary You ends the mini album on a high, keeping up with the fast pace of their debut offering.

I really enjoyed listening to this band; they're energetic, infectious and best of all, all four tracks are completely different to each other. Hope for big things for the guys in 2012!

Download their music now from http://evergreenoffical.bandcamp.com/

New Age Extinction

New Age Extinction are a 5 piece band from Dublin - all ready to melt some faces with their metalcore music. They formed in 2011, and they're not here to mess around. This relatively new band haven't done too badly for themselves as this new release shows.

The first track Consumed By Vanity takes listeners into the action straight away. With strong screaming from the very beginning, it works extremely well against the backdrop of the guitars.

The next song is brilliant and even if they are a young band, Sweating The Tension doesn't show it. There is just no holding back with these lads. It's a whirlwind of noises together, but it all works perfectly.


Make Your Own Life is much calmer, catchy, and my personal favourite, with clean backing vocals up against screaming. The guitar solo in the middle is just fantastic, but it also could be said that sticking to screaming vocals would make the band even bigger and better than they are.
The Quest slows down for just the beginning, but then we are brought back with a bang, and even heavier than the last two songs, only to end on a softer note. This brings a whole new level to the song, and makes it different from previous tracks. Ditto the last track on the EP, and brings back the two different sets of vocals.  It is catchy and certainly leaves us wanting more

I really enjoyed listening to these guys, and that's coming from a person not massively into metal. The EP as a whole is as if the group has long time experience, and their music should be already getting played on metal /hardcore shows already. 

Download their music on their Facebook page NOW