Dublin based NY rocker, Brew, kick-starts 2023 in virile fashion with his fifth solo single release, WALK ALONE. Doused in jangling guitars and delivered with Brew's trademark punk swagger, this melodic pop gem belies the dark underlying theme of futile hopelessness often found in human relationships. The uplifting chorus sees a defiant Brew declare his intention that this toxic relationship will have “no more hold on me”, offering hope for others in hopeless situations.  

The single was produced by Minneapolis producer, August Ogren,  Ogren’s love for melody and the analogue recording production techniques he used to great success with Cork band Rowan, made Dublin resident Ogren, the perfect foil for Brew's pop/punk pedigree. The single also reunites Brew for the first time in 25 years with Kiwi guitarist Brett Lemmon, who brings some sparkling riffs to proceedings.

Recording took place at Dublin’s The Clinic Studios late last year with pre-production at The Bunker Studios and mixing at Camden Recording Studios Brew recalled how Ogren asked to hear an unfinished piece of work. Brew happened to have a chorus of WALK ALONE recorded acapella to voice memo while stumbling back home from a night out in Dublin’s city centre.

Originally the song poked fun at people refusing to go out post-Covid when restrictions had been lifted. The revised version is the one Ogren heard and saw the potential in. Brew thought his compatriot producer was having a laugh. However, the results are no laughing matter and with any luck, Brew will be laughing all the way to the top of the Charts.  Release day for WALK ALONE March 3rd , 2023!

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Within this sonic tapestry of nine new tracks lies the heart and soul of Four Way Mirror, a group whose journey through the musical landscape has been shaped by the rich tapestry of Dundalk, County Louth. Each note, each lyric, bears witness to their evolution as artists, a testament to their relentless pursuit of sonic innovation.

From the infectious rhythms of the lead single, "Changing Colours," to the ethereal melodies of "Polarity" and the thunderous allure of "Running Away," the album offers a kaleidoscope of sound that captivates and enthralls. With every chord struck and every word sung, Four Way Mirror invites listeners to traverse the vast expanse of their musical universe, where boundaries blur and possibilities abound.

Lead singer and bassist Saoirse Murray declares, "We're thrilled to share our new music with the world. This album is a reflection of who we are as a band and where we're heading. We can't wait for everyone to hear it." And as the anticipation mounts, so too does the excitement for what lies ahead.

Four Way Mirror Playlist

In tandem with the album's release, Four Way Mirror sets sail on a promotional odyssey, bringing their electrifying performances to fans far and wide. Known for their boundless energy and unwavering passion onstage, their live shows are an immersive experience not to be missed, a testament to the enduring power of alternative rock.

So, prepare to be swept away on a journey of sonic discovery, as Four Way Mirror beckons you to join them in the space "Somewhere In Between," where music transcends boundaries and dreams take flight.

Dive into the hauntingly beautiful melodies and soul-stirring lyrics of Jester’s Sadness, an enigmatic music project led by the talented Dublin-based musician and poet, Al Doyle.

Mark your calendars for May 3rd, 2024, when Jester’s Sadness unveils their highly anticipated debut album, "Fragile Delusion." The stage is set for an unforgettable journey through ethereal sounds and poignant narratives. But the excitement doesn't stop there—the album launch takes place on May 2nd at The Cobblestone Venue, promising an immersive experience you won't want to miss.

The journey began with the release of their mesmerising first single, "Little Heart (Single Mix/Alt Vocal)," back in August 2018—a mere glimpse into the depth of emotion and musical mastery that awaits on the upcoming album.

Al Doyle, the creative force behind Jester’s Sadness, is no stranger to the Dublin music scene. With two solo albums under his belt—2009’s "Places" and 2013’s "Blasphemy"—his artistry has graced iconic venues such as The Workman’s Club, The Grand Social, and The Sugar Club. A fixture at renowned showcases and open mics like Circle Sessions, Dublin’s Underground Beat, and The Monday Echo at the International Bar, Al's performances are nothing short of mesmerizing.

But Al’s impact reaches beyond his own music. He once curated the celebrated Indie Spirit Dublin showcase at The Workman’s Club, a platform that brought together a constellation of emerging artists and writers from Ireland and beyond. The lineup featured luminaries like Rob Doyle, Naoise Roo, Kevin Nolan, John Cummins, Marcus Doo, Sinead White, Anne Tannam, Fiona Bolger, Dan Ryan, and many more—a testament to Al's commitment to nurturing creativity and community.

Before making waves in Dublin, Al spent six vibrant years in Madrid, where his music echoed through the city’s diverse venues, bars, and open mics. Now, with Jester’s Sadness, he invites you to embark on a profound musical odyssey—one that transcends boundaries, touches the heart, and resonates with the soul.

Jester’s Sadness isn't just a music project; it's a poignant narrative, a sonic tapestry woven with emotion, experience, and the raw essence of life itself. Join the journey, and let the melodies of "Fragile Delusion" carry you to new realms of introspection and beauty.

Reviews: "Fragile Delusion"

"[Fragile Delusion is] a collection of songs that invites the listener into vividly painted worlds of emotion. Characters, real and invented, are brought to life and you’re beckoned into experiences of pain, hope, light and dark.” - Dan Ryan, Danryanwords

"The music is quiet, reflective, whispering, the drama existing in the portraiture of finely crafted lyrics." - Dan Ryan, Danryanwords

“Whatever the Jester does next, you know they won’t short-change you when it comes to emotional depth and authentic expression.” - Dan Ryan, Danryanwords

Full review by Dan Ryan: A Fool's Game: Fragile Delusion by Jester's Sadness - A Review


On Jester's Sadness' Previous Album "Blasphemy" (as Alan Doyle):

“Doyle’s music is populated by killers, poets, broken-hearted lovers, and disenchanted starlets, all tied together with the grace of a natural storyteller with a gift for vivid imagery. The world of the songs is one in which ‘the cards you draw are wild, as are the written words you pray’ (Time Passes By).” - Bernard O’Rourke, Golden Plec

“[The] confident acceptance of silence between beats is a powerful statement of intent.” - Bernard O’Rourke, Golden Plec

“It’s been a very long time since I’ve been gripped by an album so intense, delicate and sublime as ‘Blasphemy’ by Dubliner Alan Doyle.” - Peter Nagle, 2 U I Bestow

Full review by Bernard O'Rourke: Alan Doyle - Blasphemy Review

Album Launch " Fragile Delusion "

Embark on a mesmerizing sonic journey as Jester’s Sadness unveils their highly anticipated album, "Fragile Delusion," on the 2nd of May 2024 at 7:30 pm in the enchanting setting of The Cobblestone Venue.

This immersive evening promises to be a celebration of raw emotion and musical artistry. As the clock strikes 7:30 pm, the stage will come alive with haunting melodies and soul-stirring lyrics, marking the official launch of "Fragile Delusion."

Music lovers will have the chance to own a piece of this ethereal experience, as the album becomes available for purchase on the 3rd of May. Choose from the timeless allure of CD or Cassette, or opt for the convenience of a digital Download via Bandcamp. For those who prefer to drift into the soundscape seamlessly, "Fragile Delusion" will also be available for streaming on Spotify and various other streaming services.

Prepare to be transported as MC Dan Ryan, the master of ceremonies for the evening, guides you through this captivating musical odyssey. But that's not all—be prepared for special guest performances by the spellbinding NÍV and the evocative Man McCann, adding layers of depth and intrigue to an already unforgettable night.

Join us at The Cobblestone Venue on the 2nd of May for an evening that transcends mere music. Let the melancholic beauty of Jester’s Sadness wash over you, as "Fragile Delusion" paints a vivid tapestry of emotion and experience. It's more than an album launch; it's a doorway to a world where music intertwines with the soul.

Amy Rowbottom is a singer and songwriter hailing from West Yorkshire, United Kingdom. With a lifelong passion for music, Amy has been honing her songwriting craft since childhood. Her debut single, 'Mr Trickster,' was released to acclaim in September 2023, marking the beginning of an impressive musical journey.

Spanning various genres, Amy's music showcases her versatile talent as both a songwriter and vocalist. In 2023, she achieved the honor of becoming a semi-finalist in the prestigious UK Songwriting Contest. Since then, Amy has released an impressive catalog of 12 singles, with more eagerly anticipated music on the horizon.

Amy's work has garnered attention worldwide, with her songs being streamed and aired across numerous platforms and radio stations. She has been featured in multiple radio interviews throughout the UK, further solidifying her presence in the music scene.

Driven by a deep love for music from different eras, Amy aspires to create compositions that resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression on the soul. Her goal is to craft music that stands out amidst today's diverse musical landscape.

Singing and songwriting are not just pursuits for Amy—they are integral parts of her life. She extends her heartfelt appreciation to all those who have supported and continue to support her on this remarkable musical journey.

Drenched in the raw, post-pandemic grit of County Down's forgotten corners, The New Leaves emerged from the wreckage, wielding their own brand of sonic rebellion. These four rebels, childhood comrades turned musical insurgents, fuse haunting harmonies, lyrical landscapes of untamed nature, and a gritty folk ethos that spits in the face of convention.

McKay, the band's visionary, weaves tales of rugged beauty and forgotten folklore, breathing life into a songbook that pulses with the beating heart of the Mourne Mountains and the untamed spirit of Carlingford Lough's hidden realms. Brace yourself for a sonic riot, as The New Leaves carve their name into the very soul of the genre, daring you to follow them into the wild unknown.

Donaghaguy Reservoir - The New Leaves ( New Single Release )

Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting melodies of The New Leaves as they unveil their latest masterpiece, "Donaghaguy Reservoir". This mesmerizing folk saga is the inaugural offering from the band's partnership with the freshly-minted folk and acoustic powerhouse, Corn Crake Records.

Crafted under the deft hands of producer Steve Fearnley at Narrow Water Studios and polished to perfection by the acclaimed Peter Maher, this track is but a glimpse into the soul-stirring journey awaiting in their upcoming album, "A Sketch of Home", slated for release on the 7th of June.

Nestled on the fringes of Warrenpoint, the band's beloved hometown, Donaghaguy Reservoir beckons with its serene allure—a haven of tranquility cherished by both man and beast. Known affectionately as 'the duck pond' among locals, its unassuming beauty serves as the muse for McKay's poignant storytelling.

Through haunting verses and ethereal melodies, "Donaghaguy Reservoir" transports listeners to this sanctuary of solace, capturing the essence of its whispered secrets and timeless serenity. Join The New Leaves on this evocative journey into the heart of nature's embrace, where each note is a brushstroke painting a vivid portrait of peace amidst the chaos of the world.

Just a bit of advice for musicians and some points to determine whether having a music career is really for you on not.

Profile Pages 

I started out creating profile pages as many artists simply didn't have a website and were virtually unseen on the search engines. A profile page is a little different than lets say a review from a music website. Now reviews are great and especially from popular websites.Top websites that provide your own website URLs are what you would call backlinks and improve the overall authority of your own website. 

It's a bit like a writer after writing a book and getting raving reviews which makes her or her book credibility and receive more interest overall. The same applies to Musicians who have a decent enough website and there are links, linking back to it from other reputable music websites. 

As an SEO ( Search Engine Optimization ) specialist, I decided to create profiles for artists, with or without their own websites as either a web page press pack or a very nice backlink that linked back to their own website. This might seem irrelevant to some but this is a very powerful method of promoting the artist through the search engines and at the same time gain more credibility.

Another reason why I created these profiles was as a Venue manager I used to receive 1000s of Presspacks that were way too long, complicated and I simply didn't have time to go through them as I was just too busy. I would have prefered a much simpler one page, straight to the point presentation that got to the music right away. Also, the attention span of everyone over the past 10 years has become very short and long laborious Presspacks are no longer effective anymore, if ever in my own opinion. All that is really required is a short Bio, your best tracks on display and a few Social links so people can research further, that's it. 

I know this works as I have tested it for over a decade now and have the analysis to prove it.   

Is Having A Music Career Really For You?

Music Promotion 

This is a subject that is so convoluted these days that Musicians are left scratching their heads on what ways are best to promote their own act. As an online promoter, I have gone down the same rabbit holes and realised that keeping everything Simple was the best way forward for any meaningful results.  

Obviously the Music has to be good and also have the ability to attract a fan base. Musicians know full well that if they are getting good feedback about a track or a live performance then they are on the right track. What they decide to do with that feedback is a whole different matter. It can either be collected up and built upon or as many artists do today, ignore it and expect continuous support by spamming all the social networks.

The biggest mistake I see musicians & managers making today is not building a fan base, a community where musicians and their fans can engage personally. That can only be done after a before, during and after live Gig or through a personal email. Social media in my own opinion is useless for this and should only be used as a catchment area for new fans. Any and all fans should be placed in an email list for special personal email and a building of relationships with various offers, updates, fan only material shared.   

Is Having A Music Career Really For You?

Merchandise  

Streaming has obliterated physical sales but please be aware that CDS & Vinyl have become a niche marketing and should be part of your overall merchandise stock. Remember you are a business and need to cater for all of your fans and having music in all formats should be always available to them. The majority of Record stores have virtually no interest in your music so keep those physical copies for people that actually want them. If you have a good email list of fans, This is a very good way to sell those copies and share your music.

Is Having A Music Career Really For You?

Live Performance 

Musicians know full well the importance of playing live, sharing their music locally and outside or their area. I hear many complaining that they cannot find a whole lot of places that will give them the opportunity to play but please remember that you must offer the venue the opportunity of an event attended by many of your fans. If you are serious about your music and the future of it, you will have already done the groundwork before reaching out to bigger venues. 

The live performance is the Musician's opportunity to showcase what they are all about and attract fans to them. Again what you decide to do with those new fans is the difference between being a successful act or an act with no direction, aimlessly posting on facebook, instagram etc and hoping that fans will automatically follow each and every week. If that initial personal connection is not made and nourished then the chances of each fan remaining committed and loyal to you is virtually Zero. 

Final Words

As a previous Venue Manager and now Online promoter for many years, I have seen it done right but unfortunately too many times done totally wrong and seeing the musician frustrated. If you are serious, then start doing this correctly and simple build from there in an organic way first. One fan, two, three and keep going till you reach a few 100 or a few 1000 if you are doing things right. Then and only then do you attempt any social media campaign but always be conscious of your loyal fans who require a different personal approach.

If you are not prepared to do all this, then you are in the wrong career and you should only play or perform music as an interest, hobby, part time job or simply entertainment. I think many Musicians get caught up in the fantasy of having a music career without knowing what is actually required in reality and waste too many years in the limbo land of the music industry. It's just my opinion from what I have seen over the years. Music is certainly one of the most beautiful hobbies one could have as it is an expression on one self but launching a music career is a whole different story. Which one are you in all of this?   

At the youthful age of 23, Jaime Orr emerges as a noteworthy rock guitarist and songwriter on the rise. Introduced to the electrifying sounds of bands like AC/DC and Audioslave from the earliest years of his life, Jaime found solace and expression through the guitar, a medium that helped him transcend significant speech obstacles. This pivotal moment steered him towards a profound dedication to the world of music, shaping the very essence of his being. "The instrument is why I am able to articulate words the way I do now," he reflects.

His musical creations delve into weighty subjects woven with uplifting messages—a unique blend of tender, John Mayer-esque balladry entwined with the raw, gritty guitar-driven choruses reminiscent of grunge and hard rock luminaries such as Royal Blood and Nirvana.

Already making waves in the Irish music scene, Jaime has graced esteemed venues like Vicar Street, where he shared the spotlight with the iconic Thin Lizzy guitarist, Eric Bell. Notably, he recently lent his deft guitar skills and vocals to a track featured in the music documentary "Mr. Dreamer," currently streaming on GloboPlay. His original compositions have found a home in the revered pages of Hot Press magazine, further solidifying his growing presence. Additionally, Jaime made an early mark on the music world by appearing on the illustrious "Late Late Toy Show" stage at the age of 12—an early glimpse into the star he was destined to become.

Jaime Orr is set to unveil his latest single, "For You," a captivating blend of alternative pop rock. The track delves into the profound significance of a reliable support system in one's life journey.

Masterfully crafted by Fergal Davis, a seasoned professional known for his work with some of Ireland's most iconic musical acts, including The Coronas and Aslan, as well as acclaimed hard rock sensations like Muse, "For You" promises to deliver a melodic and lyrically poignant experience.

Dive into the enchanting story of Wise Up—a musical tapestry woven with threads of Canada, Ireland, and Venezuela. Picture this: it's 2022, and at the whimsical union of Courtney Doucette's magnetic bass-lines and velvet vocals alongside Garry Lynch's soulful serenades on guitar, the band takes its first breath. Where, you might ask? None other than at their own wedding, a serendipitous symphony that marked the birth of a legend.

Since that fateful day, Wise Up has been crafting a sonic landscape that knows no bounds, merging the raw energy of North American rock with the ethereal charm of Irish melodies. Their sound isn't just heard; it's felt deep within the marrow of your bones.

With a rhythm as tight as the bonds of friendship that tie them together, the band garnered the attention of industry tastemakers—think It’s All Indie, Indie Dock, Get In Her Ears, The Goo, and RTÉ Entertainment. But don't let the acclaim fool you; their journey from humble beginnings to the bright lights of recognition has been as authentic as the music they create.

Enter the heartbeat of the operation, Juan Livinalli, whose thunderous drumming lays the foundation for Wise Up's musical odyssey. And then, a recent addition to the ensemble, Andrew Kelly, brings his electrifying guitar riffs to the mix, completing the quartet.

Now, poised at the cusp of a new era, Wise Up stands ready, eager to dive headfirst into another whirlwind year of crafting, creating, and conquering stages. Join them on this musical expedition, where every note is a chapter, and every show a magical journey into the heart of indie rock.

“Infectious offering of alternative noise” - Get In Her Ears
“Rolling guitars backed up with ferocious drums and hazy vocals”

It’s All Indie



New Release - Out to Dance

Wise Up

Embark on a musical journey with Wise Up's latest track, "Out to Dance." This vibrant anthem invites listeners to step into the shoes of a girl on a quest for liberation and joy. The song paints a vivid picture of escaping into the pulse of the city, where the dance floor becomes a sanctuary from the mundane.

"Out to Dance" isn't just a song; it's a celebration of empowerment and self-discovery. Through infectious beats and irresistible melodies, Wise Up captures the essence of losing oneself in the moment, shedding the weight of everyday life for a night of unbridled freedom.

The narrative of the track unfolds like a love letter to individual expression, urging all to embrace the magic of letting go and surrendering to the rhythm. So crank up the volume, let your inhibitions fade, and join Wise Up on this electrifying journey of finding yourself through the power of dance.

Aboutmeemo

Meet Mimmo Ripa, the multitalented musician who transcends boundaries as a guitarist, bassist, songwriter, artistic producer, and vocalist. Hailing from Italy but now calling the captivating landscapes of Connemara, Ireland home, Mimmo's musical journey is an odyssey of self-expression and exploration.

From his early days as a self-taught bassist and guitarist, Mimmo's love for music propelled him forward, inspiring him to craft captivating melodies and poignant lyrics. With a deep-rooted connection to his original compositions, he pours his soul into every song, creating a profound and personal musical experience.

Throughout his career, Mimmo has lent his talents to various bands:

Even as a teenager, Mimmo embarked on his first solo project, Jeremy's Mere Touch, and later explored the realm of grunge with his Bleeding Scar persona. Fuelled by influences like Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Smashing Pumpkins, his music became a vehicle for catharsis and self-expression.

In addition to Aboutmeemo, Mimmo has lent his skills to various bands in Ireland, including Between the Lines, Sean Daly & The Shams, and the acoustic duo Grungehippies. His commitment to musical excellence extends to his parallel hard rock duo project, Bursting Wonderland, where he continues to write and arrange music.

Mimmo's talents have not gone unnoticed, as he finds himself affiliated with Merf's songwriter division in Nashville. His song "Far Out" caught the attention of legendary producer Stuart Epps, renowned for his work with icons such as Elton John, Led Zeppelin, and Oasis. Epps contributed to a new release, adding his backing vocals, and further enhancing the song's impact with his mixing and mastering skills. He even enlisted the talents of Johnny Marter to record additional tracks, elevating the project to new heights.

Aboutmeemo,  announces his 3rd album Zugzwang under SORRY MOM! label, set for release in late 2024. The first single, "Hooded man," dropped on January 26th, heralding a return to raw, unadulterated rock devoid of gimmicks and shiny hooks. Brace yourself for an electrifying musical experience.

Spoiler Album

"ZUGZWANG" is a profound musical journey that explores themes of introspection, self-discovery, and the struggle to find clarity in the complexities of life. Mimmo Ripa's unique blend of influences, ranging from Italian rock to the American grunge scene, creates a sonic experience that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

The album takes listeners on a captivating journey through Mimmo's thoughts and emotions. From the introspective musings of “They live in denial" to the emotional depth of "Passive aggressive scammers," each track reflects the artist's commitment to authenticity and storytelling. The recurring theme of "ZUGZWANG" revolves around the constant battle between inner thoughts and external distractions, offering a universal exploration of the human experience.

"ZUGZWANG" marks a significant chapter in Mimmo Ripa's musical career as he returns to AboutMeemo, his personal project that took a brief hiatus after his parallel creation “Bursting Wonderland”. The album encapsulates the pride, strength, and passion that drive him to create music with integrity and purpose, even in the face of adversity.

Zugzwang is ready to be known in the world

But what Zugzwang does it mean?  Here explained " zugzwang /ˈzuːɡzwaŋ,ˈzʌɡzwaŋ,ˈtsʊktsvɑːŋ/ nounCHESS a situation in which the obligation to make a move in one's turn is a serious, often decisive, disadvantage."

HOODED MAN is the first single of Zugzwang  

Thanks a mill @mp3hugger for this early review of HOODED MAN

"My oh my Hooded Man sure does not let up, a raging torrent of riffs and singing that has a hollering quality that is rare outside of live performance. It is clear that this act have swallowed the rulebook on hard rock procedural matters because there is no gaps in their delivery of this track.Those on the lookout for a genuine rocker you need not look much further than Aboutmeemo"

Hailing from the serene landscapes of Munster in Ireland, Lloyd John emerges as a dynamic force of boundless energy and unbridled emotion in his performances.

Born in Limerick and having lived in Cork for 4 years, he holds both cities close to his heart, considering them both as his cherished homes.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of evocative storytelling through music, Lloyd's artistry is a captivating blend of Alternative Pop, Soul, and infectious melodies that leave an indelible mark on his audience.

In 2023, Lloyd embarked on his debut tour, mesmerizing audiences and selling out headline shows across coveted venues in Cork, Limerick, and London. This achievement marked a milestone in his burgeoning career, solidifying his position as a compelling live performer.

However, Lloyd's journey began humbly at the age of 16, armed with little more than a laptop, a £30 microphone, and a fervent dream. It was during this formative time that he produced one of his earliest singles, "Alive," a poignant creation that has since amassed over 1,500,000 streams across various platforms.

Throughout his musical evolution, Lloyd has shared stages with acclaimed acts such as Baby Queen, KINGFISHR, and Cassia, honing his craft and absorbing inspiration from each collaborative encounter.

With a distinctive sound that defies convention and a stage presence that commands attention, Lloyd John is rapidly ascending as a beacon of talent in the music industry. As noted by HotPress, he is "quickly becoming a rising star," poised to leave an enduring imprint on the global music landscape.

Upcoming Ep " Sunkissed "

Lloyd John

Sunkissed is a bittersweet folk-pop narrative overlooking the joys of being present. Influenced by Lloyd John's
Irish Trad roots, the record marks celebration of his culture.

Being Irish and Queer, London based artist
Lloyd John defies prejudice musical limitations.


Phantom Dawn is the pseudonym of Dublin-born, Vancouver-based, songwriter/ multi-instrumentalist and producer, Matthew Smyth. Smyth’s work to this point has been with the Alternative Rock Band, Motion Picture Sound and solo Ambient releases, under his own name. Smyth recently moved to Vancouver to pursue his artistic journey away from his hometown. 

Inspired by a wide range of artists ranging from The Stone Roses to Tom Waits, Phoebe Bridgers to My Chemical Romance, and Pinegrove to Neutral Milk Hotel. Smyth takes inspiration not just from music but from poetry, film and painting as well as Irish mythology and Catholic iconography. 

Smyth was partially deaf until the age of three. After his Grandmother suggested an operation, he recovered and heard the world in its full for the first time. This was the beginning of his lifelong, intense love of music. Smyth makes sincere, introspective and poetic Indie/ Alternative Rock music from his bedroom by blending 80's UK Alternative music with 2000's Indie Rock and Emo with an undercurrent of Singer-Songwriter Folk. This unique, eclectic mix draws the listener into the melodic, catchy and beautifully dark world of Phantom Dawn. 

Poetry forms the basis of Phantom Dawn lyrics. Songs explore what Matthew refers to as his ‘’shadow-self’’. By interrogating the darkest aspects of oneself; mental illness, fear, regret, loss, grief and self doubt, Matthew believes you can overcome these issues to learn self-love and become something beautiful. Hence the name, Phantom Dawn

" I tend to write to explore the parts of myself that terrify me. I try to shine a light on a darkness that has always been there. If you can see and hold these aspects of yourself, you can learn to accept yourself as a fallible human being, deserving of love. This means, there’s always care and hope in the songs somewhere. Some lyrics are deeply personal and confessional as a result. At the same time, I love the abstraction you find in David Lynch’s work, or impressionists like Claude Monet. The ambiguity and the allusions make the work much more meaningful, so I try to take a little bit of that into my stuff. "

Memento is the first of many singles to be released in 2024, the next in March and April respectively. A trend which will continue throughout 2024, with each track leaning into its own aspect of the Phantom Dawn sound.

Phantom Dawn

Photography by Ruby McKinnon

Phantom Dawn - Memento - Press Release 

Release 16th February, 2024 

Memento is the debut single from Vancouver based, Irish artist Phantom Dawn. Phantom Dawn is the solo project of singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer, Matthew Smyth. Memento sees Phantom Dawn draw on 1980’s British Alternative/ Indie rock influences as well as Dream-Pop and Shoegaze to create a lush, shimmering, upbeat, yet melancholic sound, that wouldn’t sound out of place in the closing scene of an early 2000’s coming of age Indie film. Memento is a song about little moments and carrying them with you in your faded memory. A sentiment reflected by its sound.