indie alternative Archives | Right Chord Music Blog

In Athens Navigate Emotional Currents on ‘Tides’

rightchord — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:04:55 +0000

Exploring the complexities of relationships and their often unpredictable dynamics, Irish alt-gaze band In Athens have returned with their latest single, Tides.

In Athens – Tides

Hailing from the rugged junction of Galway, Connemara, and the Wild Atlantic, In Athens have become a standout presence in Ireland’s independent music scene. Their sound moves effortlessly between fuzzy post-gaze atmospheres and the raw, unfiltered energy of post-punk, creating evocative soundscapes that capture both the power and serene beauty of their surroundings.

Reflecting on their musical approach, In Athens explains:

“There’s nostalgia in what we do, for sure – 90s alternative tones, a bit of shoegaze sprinkled here and there – but it’s not about looking back. We’re interested in contrast. Warmth and detachment. Collapse and control. We like when things feel familiar yet slightly off, in the same way that a vivid, lucid dream can sometimes feel”

Aligned with their theme of contrast, In Athens delivers Tides, a track that captures the ebb and flow of emotional disconnect, vividly portraying relationships that are out of sync, one person reaching out while the other pulls back, a familiar back-and-forth that will strike a chord with anyone who has experienced it.

Guided by infectious, nearly danceable drums, Tides draws you in with a captivating guitar riff and a striking interplay of male and female vocals, all building to a commanding chorus that rises and falls like the very tides the song is named after.

“Like a sweeping wave of sonic intensity, Tides immerses you in the finest elements of post-punk and shoegaze.”

Tides is the second single from In Athens’ upcoming EP, Mirrorism, set for release on October 24th, followed by an Irish tour, showing that the band is set to close 2025 in style. Be sure to follow them on their socials to stay updated!

Discover more from In Athens:

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post In Athens Navigate Emotional Currents on ‘Tides’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Polly. Launches debut single ‘Ketch_up’

rightchord — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:26:33 +0000

Launching the first chapter of her career, singer-songwriter Polly. introduces Ketch_up, a debut track that showcases her eclectic sound and bold, unconventional approach to music.

Polly – Ketch_up

As a singer-songwriter with a strong musical background, Polly refuses to be confined by labels. Her work transcends traditional classification, seamlessly blending the weight of alternative rock with subtle elements of pop and electronica. This fluidity has become one of Polly’s trademarks, something she proudly carries into her career.

When asked about her music, Polly. describes it as an extension of herself: “dark and uncertain but also undeniable, heavy yet intimate, androgynous and deeply emotional.” For listeners seeking a reference point, her style draws faint echoes of artists such as Queens of the Stone Age, Sleep Token, Lana Del Rey, Muse, Adele, and Nothing But Thieves, yet still retains a distinctive edge that sets Polly apart.

On a personal level, Polly. views music as a way to transform emotion into structure:

“Music is how I give shape to the darker, more chaotic parts of being human. It helps me make sense of my emotions, turning my inner noise into something structured, something real. My songs are a way to process the unspoken, to pull something universal out of the personal. If someone else hears it and feels understood, that’s everything. That’s the point.”

Since its release just over a week ago, Ketch_up has already gained momentum. The track earned more than 600 streams within its first 48 hours and has now surpassed 1,000 streams, alongside more than 250 presaves. It’s a promising start that highlights the growing excitement surrounding Polly.

In true eclectic style, Ketch_up draws from a wide range of influences. Opening with Polly’s striking vocal performance, the track soon unleashes raw, strident guitar strumming and a dizzying solo. It shifts between the weight of its powerful chorus and the lighter, more carefree tone of the verses, further elevated by playful piano flourishes. If one were to compare, it feels like imagining Fiona Apple stepping into the realm of hard rock, a combination that sounds unreal, yet she makes it work splendidly.

Ketch_up is a mesmerising auditory experience, like an intoxicating drink for the ears, a melody that’s impossible to listen to just once.

With three more singles in the pipeline and live shows on the horizon, Polly. is only getting started. Her fearless approach and eclectic artistry position her as an emerging voice to watch closely in the months ahead.

Discover more from Polly.

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Polly. Launches debut single ‘Ketch_up’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

The Casbahs Are Having ‘Electric Daydreams’

rightchord — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:50:35 +0000

The Casbahs, from the Northeast, are a five-piece band who’ve been channelling classic indie rock energy since forming in 2019. Their new single is a bold step forward.

The Casbahs – Electric Daydreams

Their sound strikes that sweet spot between nostalgic and fresh—bringing the spirit of early 2000s alt-rock into a modern, emotional context.

They set the tone early with singles like “Wanderlust” and “So Happy,” followed by the release of their EP Sea or Sky. After some pandemic-related delays, their debut album Been Here Before finally landed in 2022. Since then, they’ve built a solid reputation for unforgettable live shows and earned support from BBC Introducing. Now, with new lead guitarist Steven Grainger on board, the band steps confidently into their most ambitious chapter yet marked by the release of their latest single, “Electric Daydreams.”

From the first few seconds, the track demands attention. A fun, distorted guitar riff kicks things off with raw, rebellious energy, setting the pace for everything that follows. The vocals come in with effortless cool—just a touch of reverb giving them a spacious, almost dreamlike feel. Underneath it all, the rhythm section hits with tight, punchy precision. The drums and bass don’t just support the track—they drive it.

Then comes the chorus: euphoric, catchy, and built to be shouted back by a crowd. It’s one of those choruses that instantly lodges itself in your brain. You’ll be humming it for hours. With its upbeat charm and undeniable hook, it feels tailor-made for live sets and late-night festival stages.

“At its core, authentic indie rock is a conversation—intimate, flawed, and utterly genuine.”

The track doesn’t let up. Midway through, we’re hit with an electrifying guitar solo—bursting through the mix like a shot of adrenaline. It’s powerful, infectious, and packed with raw emotion. And instead of fading away, the solo carries the song into a climactic, unforgettable outro that leaves you wanting more.

“Electric Daydreams” is a bold step forward for The Casbahs—polished but still gritty, confident without losing its soul. If this is a preview of what’s to come, their next chapter might just be their biggest yet.

Discover more from The Casbahs

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words by Sian Evans.

The post The Casbahs Are Having ‘Electric Daydreams’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

French Exit Return With Anthemic ‘I Don’t Mind!’

rightchord — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:07:57 +0000

French Exit’s new single I Don’t Mind captures the band’s explosive alt-rock energy with pulsing bass, swaggering guitar riffs, and soaring layered vocals that deliver pure feel-good anthem vibes.

French Exit – I Don’t Mind

French Exit are a four-piece alt-rock band that formed in 2023. The project started with brothers Will and Toby Langston and soon turned into a fully-fledged band once Lawrie and Jack joined on bass guitar and drums. The band have had the support of BBC Introducing and have been fortunate enough to secure a spot on the BBC Introducing stage at Sonic Boom Festival in 2025. They have also played venues such as the O2 Academy Islington and have gained a reputation for their live performances.

I Don’t Mind is the new single by the band, French Exit, and it’s explosive and fun. We’re thrown into the lyrics after a count of four given to us on the drums. The track rides on a subtle but unmistakable bassline, steady and pulsing just beneath the surface, giving the song a grounded, hypnotic rhythm. Layered over it is a cool, catchy guitar riff that cuts through with a laid-back swagger, adding a melodic edge without overpowering the mix. It’s got that signature indie/alt-rock feel, effortlessly cool, slightly raw, and perfectly balanced.

Our ears are hit with a wave of layered vocals, which begin to chant the title of the song, I Don’t Mind, giving a more immersive, fuller sound to the track. We then hear the chorus for the first time, which just screams feel-good anthem, with its upbeat melody and soaring vocals that are full of life.

“An anthem for the moments when the world feels a little lighter, and so do you.”

The bass really makes itself known in the second verse. It’s bold, deliberate, and impossible to ignore, and the drums power forward with a wild, contagious energy. We hear those layered vocals again before the second chorus, and its energetic structure and feel-good tempo are undercut by a sudden, unresolved ending, a bold move that leaves the listener suspended.

Discover more from French Exit

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Sian Evans

The post French Exit Return With Anthemic ‘I Don’t Mind!’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

PØRTERS Launch With Bold Debut ‘Motion Without Direction’

rightchord — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:06:43 +0000

Straight out of Newcastle, PØRTERS introduce themselves with their debut EP, Motion Without Direction, delivering a raw take on alt-rock.

PØRTERS – Motion Without Direction

Fronted by Maria Winter on vocals and rounded out by Kieran Taylor (guitar, vocals), James Hughes (bass, vocals), Nick Gladdish (keys, vocals), and Tom Furniss (drums), PØRTERS take pride in a sound that fuses alternative rock with rich four-part harmonies, a defining trait of the band’s identity.

Following the positive reception of their first two singles, PØRTERS push further with Motion Without Direction, a four-track EP that explores themes of identity, uncertainty, and impulse. Blending raw lyricism with a mix of heavy riffs and atmospheric textures, this release offers a sharp introduction to the band’s range.

Opening with Where Are We Going?, the EP starts on an unexpected note. The track begins with ambient seaside sounds before giving way to a slow-building, echo-laced arrangement. It’s introspective, layered, and experimental, showing early on that PØRTERS are willing to take creative risks.

Things shift dramatically with The Thrill, a punchy, riff-driven rock anthem that contrasts sharply with the opener. Fueled by infectious guitar lines, soaring vocals, and a high-octane solo, the track delivers pure energy and a glimpse of the band’s bolder edge.

The Devil I Know bridges both worlds, starting as a restrained, melodic slow-burn before unexpectedly surging into a faster, more chaotic midsection. It later settles back into its original groove, giving the song a dynamic, circular structure that keeps listeners engaged.

The closer, Recover, brings the EP to a powerful finish. Built around a classic rock framework, it allows each band member to shine, especially Maria Winter, whose vocals carry the track with conviction and flair.

Motion Without Direction is a solid debut that serves as a reminder of classic rock’s enduring appeal, offering one of the most satisfying throwbacks in recent memory.

Motion Without Direction is a strong start for a promising up-and-coming band. With standout production and sharp musicality, PØRTERS set a high standard from the outset. This debut is well worth a listen.

Discover more from PØRTERS:

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post PØRTERS Launch With Bold Debut ‘Motion Without Direction’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Grant Taylor Battles Fears On ‘Haunted House’

rightchord — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 09:06:23 +0000

Grant Taylor battles his fears on the new track, Haunted House.

Grant Taylor – Haunted House

This is a pulsating track by talented singer/songwriter Grant Taylor, who, in truth, is battling his own fears and woes in these dark and unsettling times. Haunted House shows perfect melodies and harmonies, too, while the lyrics take the listener through a brooding mixture of emotions. It also breaks the notion of replication, as it sounds original, and the compositions feel innovative.

The acoustic guitar doesn’t get suppressed under the instrumentals; it’s there as a component of grace, and the whole concept is thrilling. Throughout the track, there are moments of tenderness, though the darkness swirls, the drunken haze dissipates, and the whole world seems to weigh down.

The solo is brilliant here; a mix of guitar sounds and percussion interweaves, creating such intensity. The story goes on, too, and there is a girl who has become golden, who has enlightened the protagonist, but the darkness again interferes, masking the house, and killing the atmosphere.

‘’It’s a gallant track, bursting with flair and poignancy’’

Taylor’s voice is tuned well indeed, and he’s such an adept musician. His dreams are embedded, and there’s no doubt he will rise to the summit of his desires, as Haunted House, with its riveting chorus and well-versed lyrics, will rally him to the top. It’s a gallant track, bursting with flair and poignancy, providing a fable of interest.

Haunted House is a marker for what’s to come from Grant Taylor, and if this is anything to go by, it’s going to be monumental.

Discover more from Grant Taylor

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words By Mark McConville

The post Grant Taylor Battles Fears On ‘Haunted House’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

TWO TONNE MACHETE Take A Stance On ‘Home’

rightchord — Sat, 03 May 2025 08:26:00 +0000

Get ready for a bold, high-energy dose of punk rock as TWO TONNE MACHETE delivers their latest single, Home. This feminist punk band from North West England is shaking things up with their unapologetic sound and defiant stance.

TWO TONNE MACHETE – Home

Originating from North West England, TWO TONNE MACHETE is a feminist punk band featuring Emily (vocals), Ro (bass), Thibaut (drums), and Mark (lead guitar). Their sound is a fascinating blend, imagine the raw energy of Amyl and the Sniffers, the fierce intensity of Mannequin Pussy, and the boldness of IDLES.

In 2023, TWO TONNE MACHETE made waves on BBC Introducing and Radio X, with their first two singles earning strong praise. Lyrically, the band pulls no punches, addressing pressing issues that are more relevant than ever: misogyny, radical politics, control, toxic masculinity, sexuality, and the rights of marginalized communities.

A prime example of their sharp songwriting, TWO TONNE MACHETE presents their latest track, Home. This song captures both personal and political grief, exploring the deep ache of longing, loss, and the harsh reality of being unable to return home. Inspired by the suffering of displaced people, particularly in Palestine, it carries a powerful message.

Lead singer Emily further explains:

“The song is about grief and how it is to find a space away from that sadness. It is also about the current masses of persecuted people who have had grief inflicted on them, and had their home, land, and lives torn apart by lies and genocidal actions of those in power. And how they are never going to be able to go home again”.

An important message like this demands a sound to match, and Home delivers just that. With its powerful instrumentation, bold riffs, energetic drums, and commanding vocals, the track drives its message “home” in a truly compelling way.

“Home is a fierce anthem of rebellion, bold, unapologetic, and bursting with a raw “in your face” attitude.”

Catch TWO TONNE MACHETE live at the following dates:

May 2nd – Strident Night, Sheffield
May 8th – FOCUS Wales Festival, Wrexham
August 2nd – LOOSERPALOOZA Festival, Birkenhead
August 8th – REBELLION Festival, Blackpool
September 27th – NECK OF THE WOODS Festival, Manchester

Discover more from TWO TONNE MACHETE

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post TWO TONNE MACHETE Take A Stance On ‘Home’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Jules & The Howl Tackle Self Doubt ‘In The End’

rightchord — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:46:52 +0000

Jules & The Howl return with In The End, an emotionally charged track that captures the relentless pursuit of a dream when the odds seem stacked against you.

Jules & The Howl – In The End

Los Angeles-based Jules & The Howl has carved out a space in the independent scene by reimagining classic rock and blues through a contemporary lens. Their sound feels rooted yet current, striking a balance that sets them apart. Alongside their studio work, they’ve built a strong live reputation with performances at notable venues including Whisky a Go Go, Lucky Strike Live, Molly Malone’s, and the Bourbon Room, proof of a band with both vision and stage experience.

Over the past year, Jules & The Howl have solidified their reputation with standout tracks like I Just Wanna Feel Better, Bow Down, and Boys Club, each earning thousands of streams. Now, they continue that momentum with their latest release, In The End, a track that showcases the same conviction and quality that fans have come to expect.

How many times have you heard someone say, “You’ll never make it,” or “That’s impossible”? In The End speaks directly to those moments of doubt. Jules & The Howl delivers an anthem for anyone chasing a dream that feels out of reach, a reminder to keep going, because deep down, you know it’s what you’re meant to do.

High energy and bold performance are nothing new for Jules & The Howl, but In The End takes it to another level. It kicks off with an infectious “na na na” chant and bursts of explosive guitar, setting the tone for one euphoric auditive treat. It’s the kind of song that makes it hard to stay still, you’ll want to drop everything and jump right in.

“In The End is a striking and inspirational track, one that truly captures the essence of what defines Jules & The Howl as a band.”

Energetic, unforgettable, and authentic, these are just a few words that capture Jules & The Howl, a band that consistently delivers and keeps fans coming back for more.

Discover more from Jules & The Howl:

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Jules & The Howl Tackle Self Doubt ‘In The End’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Larlin Launch By Offering ‘Favours’

rightchord — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:30:31 +0000

Brighton’s rising alt-rock outfit Larlin share their debut single, Favours, a unique blend of melancholic songwriting and dynamic alt-rock energy.

Larlin – Favours

Formed in 2024, Larlin is a fresh addition to the alternative rock scene. The band is the brainchild of Sheffield-born Maryann Hoar, alongside producers Lewis Foord (Wet Leg, Lyra, Conor Maynard) and Cameron Nesbitt (Lovejoy, James Marriott, Luna Blue). Their combined expertise has helped shape a sound that’s distinctive and exciting. The band describes their music as “for overthinkers with volume knobs,” a fitting description for a sound that balances introspective lyrics with raw energy.

This talented team is making their official debut with Favours, a track that came to life in a simple yet meaningful way, starting with just a small electric keyboard. The song tackles the dark feelings of being a burden, letting negative thoughts take over. However, it transforms into something more uplifting and empowering, reminding listeners that those voices are not real, and at the end of the day, the support of your friends is what truly matters.

Setting the mood with atmospheric, melancholy-infused guitar passages, Maryann’s voice is soothing yet impactful when the song calls for it. As the track unfolds, the calmness shifts to bold, striking guitar chords, each one carrying equal emotional weight and immersing you in the powerful, distressing narrative of the song.

“Favours is a beautifully poignant alt-rock anthem, perfectly balancing delicate moments with exceptional production.”

Larlin’s journey is just beginning, and with more songs on the horizon, as well as upcoming live performances and festival appearances, 2025 is set to be a defining year for this exciting new band. If you haven’t already, be sure to keep an eye on Larlin, they’re one to watch!

Discover more from Larlin:

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Larlin Launch By Offering ‘Favours’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Phwoar ‘Flowers Through The Concrete’

rightchord — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:17:20 +0000

After months of build-up, the electrifying duo Phwoar have released their new EP Flowers Through The Concrete a striking collection that cuts through the noise with themes of defiance and hope.

Phwoar – Flowers Through The Concrete

Following a run of standout singles, Phwoar, the indie rock duo of Helena and Paul have unveiled Flowers Through The Concrete, a five-track EP that channels hope as a form of resistance. Written and produced by the pair, the project also features production, mixing, and mastering from Adrian Hall (Tori Amos, Nova Twins, Depeche Mode), adding weight to its bold, self-made spirit.

The EP kicks-off with Reckless, a previously released track that remains one of Phwoar’s most energised offerings. Fueled by addictive guitar riffs and crashing drums, it sets the tone with a bold, high-octane sound that’s hard to ignore.

That momentum carries into Surge, a fiery protest anthem that fits seamlessly into the EP’s defiant spirit. With its driving rhythm and shout-along chorus, it’s both immediate and anthemic—built for volume, movement, and collective release.

Waiting For The Sun shifts the tone with a more introspective approach, offering a pause for reflection amid the EP’s intensity. Originally released as a single, it captures the heart of Flowers Through The Concrete—a search for resilience in the face of adversity. Gloomy production and shadowed lyrics deepen its melancholic edge, reinforcing the EP’s core message.

The title track finds a striking balance between reflection and raw force. Flowers Through The Concrete lands hard with its anti-war topic, delivered through heavy riffs and a performance steeped in nostalgia. It’s a standout moment—thought-provoking, emotionally loaded, and unflinching in its delivery.

Closing the record with the same untamed energy it began with, Tryhard delivers a punchy performance and a sharp theme—this time with a tongue-in-cheek twist. It’s a playful yet pointed finale that wraps the EP on a high note, leaving things as satisfying as a five-course meal.

“Flowers Through The Concrete stands out as a compelling release. Its bold themes and memorable sound come together in a way that invites repeat listens. It’s the kind of EP that lingers and stays relevant well beyond its first play.”

Alongside the release of Flowers Through The Concrete, Phwoar are gearing up for their first-ever UK headline tour this autumn. Keep an eye on their socials for updates and tour details.

Discover more from Phwoar:

Discover more on Right Chord Music

Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Phwoar ‘Flowers Through The Concrete’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.