PLAYLIST: St. Patrick’s Day 2021

We know the option to publicly celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Ireland and here in the UK is currently not an option, but the Get In Her Ears team would like to help keep the virtual party going by spotlighting tunes from some of our favourite Irish artists on this epic playlist!

From slick rap verses, to dream-pop choruses, to post-punk bangers; our track choices provide a snapshot of just some of the talented Irish women and non-binary artists creating eclectic and exciting music right now. Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all of our Irish friends!

Take some time to scroll through the tracks below and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

 

HAVVK – ‘Home’
The first single to be taken from the new album (produced by Rocky O’Reilly) from GIHE faves, Dublin-based HAVVK, ‘Home’ is a stirring reflection on appreciating those closest to you. Propelled by a shimmering ethereal fuzz, the track showcases the soaring celestial majesty of front woman Julie’s vocals, as they float with an impassioned splendour over scuzzy hooks and a gritty, driving energy. Oozing the band’s own unique poignant grace, it’s a truly captivating soundscape. (Mari Lane)

Bitch Falcon – ‘Gaslight’
Is it even a GIHE playlist if I don’t include a Bitch Falcon track? The Dublin trio shared their immense debut album Staring At Clocks via Small Pond Records last year, and ‘Gaslight’ is my favourite track on the record. (Kate Crudgington)

New Pagans – ‘Yellow Room’
Inspired by the short-story The Yellow Wallpaper, by American feminist author Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Belfast’s New Pagans penned this track to highlight the need for a specialised parent-and-baby mental health unit in Northern Ireland. Through the medium of Gilmans’ text, the band channel their frustrations via clear, cathartic vocals, crashing percussion and charged, powerful riffs. I’m so excited to hear New Pagans’ debut album, The Seed, The Vessel, The Roots and All, when it’s released on 19th March. (KC)

M(h)aol – ‘Laundries’
A brooding reflection on the grim realities that “fallen women” faced in Ireland’s infamous Magdalene Laundries, this track from inter-sectional feminist post-punk band M(h)aol is a poignant reminder to Ireland and to the rest of the world that challenging oppression and misogyny is a collective responsibility. (KC)

Grave Goods – ‘Juice’
Sarah, Lois and Phil aka Grave Goods were kind enough to speak to me on our GIHE radio show last year about this track ‘Juice’, which features on an incredible compilation album of Irish artists called A Litany Of Failures: Vol. III. Definitely check it out. (KC)

Percolator – ‘Freshin’
Some serious noisy, shoegazey, alternative goodness from Dublin trio Percolator here. ‘Freshin’ is also featured on A Litany Of Failures: Vol. III. I should’ve just added the whole album tbh. (KC)

Pretty Happy – ‘Salami’
A raucous, wise-cracking anthem about the complexities of processed meat, ‘Salami’ is the latest single from Cork art-punk trio Pretty Happy. Full of sardonic lyrics, gutsy vocals and crashing percussion, it’s a ridiculously good off-kilter banger that rambles through the band’s many absurd thoughts and feelings about the pork-based snack. (KC)

Sprints – ‘Swimming’
Big thanks to The Irish Jam team for introducing me to Sprints! This is the latest single from the Dublin four-piece and I love its thumping beats, no nonsense vocals and raucous riffs. (KC)

Problem Patterns – ‘TERFs Out’
Mari & I absolutely love Belfast’s Problem Patterns, who happen to be some of the cutest and most ferocious punks we know. They’re dedicated to raging against inequality for all women and gender non-conforming people, and ‘TERFs Out’ is one many anthemic tracks showcasing their passion for this. When it’s safe to do so, we’re definitely going to book them for a GIHE gig! (KC)

Gender Chores – ‘Fuck The Patriarchy’
With a swirling, grunge-infused twang, this track from Belfast’s Gender Chores reminds me of DIY Riot Grrrl cassettes of the ‘90s, which is no bad thing. Taken from 2019’s immense, and fantastically entitled EP Womansplain, it’s short and sweet, but explicitly clear in its snarling, unashamed message to ‘Fuck The Patriarchy’. This track features on The Fight Is Not Over, a collaborative record addressing the need to continue pushing for more inclusive and diverse spaces in Northern Ireland. (ML)

Strange New Places – ‘Mr Gumble’
Propelled by a quirky, playful energy, ‘Mr Gumble’ addresses issues of gender dysphoria and the misconceptions that often surround sexuality. A catchy slice of power-punk from the Belfast band, they explain: “Mr Gumble is a uniquely transgender-tinted track, riffing on gender dysphoria and how it stops the narrator from having the confidence to pursue romantic relationships. This track also features on The Fight Is Not Over, a collaborative record addressing the need to continue pushing for more inclusive and diverse spaces in Northern Ireland. (ML)

Vulpynes – ‘Sister’
Having shared a stage with the likes of Sleaford Mods, Dublin duo Molly and Kaz – aka Vulpynes – have been firm favourites for a few years now. Last year’s ‘Sister’ is driven by swirling, reverb-strewn hooks, pounding primal beats and a raging energy; a fantastically fierce, empowered slice of ferocious rock magnificence. (ML)

Sister Ghost – ‘Bruised Fruit’
Previous winners of ‘Best Live Act’ at Northern Ireland’s Music Prize, Sister Ghost excel in creating scuzzy riffs with an impassioned, seething energy. With an underlying gritty power and the soaring raw power of the vocals, ‘Bruised Fruit’ is a wonderfully raucous example of what this band do best. This track features on The Fight Is Not Over, a collaborative record addressing the need to continue pushing for more inclusive and diverse spaces in Northern Ireland. (ML)

REWS – ‘Today We’re Warriors’
REWS’ Shauna Tohill was one of the first people I met when I started working in London six years ago. I was blown away by her incredible voice when she performed live on the first GIHE radio show I co-hosted, and I’ve been an avid REWS follower and friend of hers since then. Shauna is one of the kindest, most passionate people I know and I feel very lucky to have her in my life. Go and listen to her second album, We Are Warriors, it’s a cathartic burst of energetic pop-rock. (KC)

Kynsy – ‘The Elephant In The Room’
This is one of the four superb tracks that make up Dublin-based multi-instrumentalist Kynsy’s debut EP. Her succinct lyricism and jagged riffs offer fresh perspectives on everything from heartbreak, to pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, to partying too hard. I had a lovely chat with her for GIHE earlier this year and I was so impressed by her humble and direct approach to making music. (KC)

NewDad – ‘Slowly’
Galway-based dream-poppers NewDad are gearing up to release their debut EP Waves on the 26th March and I’m excited to flood my ears with their lush vocals and lucid guitar riffs. (KC)

Smoothboi Ezra – ‘My Own Person’
Smoothboi Ezra is an 18 year old songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer from Greystones. This song is about “not being happy but not being able to do anything about it” which is the over-riding sentiment for most of 2020/21. (KC)

Dott – ‘Extra Introvert’
A tender, buoyant guitar tune designed to playfully shake off the “Lockdown Anxiety” many of us have been dealing with throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Galway-based dream-poppers Dott provide a breath of fresh air on ‘Extra Introvert’. (KC)

Big Daisy – ‘Bee Mine’
A fuzzy guitar ode to those who embrace emotional labour in a relationship without hesitation, this track by Belfast four-piece Big Daisy features on charity compilation album Bangers & Breakups. It’s is a lo-fi appreciation of the selfless acts of love and support we receive in a relationship, even if past trauma makes us feel like we don’t deserve them. (KC)

PowPig – ‘Pretty Woman’
PowPig are Irish DIY at its best, I was totally blown away when I found out that they were still at school. ‘Pretty Woman’ is jam packed with indie harmonies and grizzly guitars. Loving it. Here’s to hearing more from them in the future. (Tash Walker)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘Between Your Teeth’
A tentative rumination on the struggle to communicate your true feelings in a relationship, I love this track from Dublin alt-folk artist Ailbhe Reddy. Lifted from her beautiful debut album Personal History, she blends soft vocals with atmospheric guitars to overcome feelings of frustration and sadness on ‘Between Your Teeth’. (KC)

Aislinn Logan – ‘Never Stay Low’
An a lush little pop gem from Belfast-born, London-based artist Aislinn Logan here. ‘Never Stay Low’ is a breezy offering full of smooth vocals and shimmering synth sounds, designed to gently dismiss the weight of unfair expectations. (KC)

SPIDER – ‘Water Sign’
Dublin-born, London-based twenty-one year old SPIDER blends sultry electronics and brooding guitar riffs with her distinctive vocals to create her evocative sounds. Her focus is on how a track makes you feel – whether that’s a feeling of power, fluidity or chaos – and on ‘Water Sign’ she weaves these emotions into a cohesive, stirring electronic soundscape. Filled with atmospheric synth textures and heady beats, the track is inspired by the Goddess Olokun of the Nigerian bini tribe, who presides over the darkest depths of the ocean. (KC)

Elaine Malone – ‘You’ (1000 Beasts Remix)
A blissful lo-fi offering from two of Cork’s freshest talents, ‘You’ is a beaut collaboration between songwriter & multi-instrumentalist Elaine Malone and electronic artist & producer 1000 Beasts. Led by Malone’s original beguiling vocals and lullaby-esque lyrics, 1000 Beasts has tentatively transformed the track with his distinctive percussion, and the result is a magnetic soundscape that acts as an aural tonic. (KC)

Loah, Bantum – ‘NGLA’
A collaboration between Irish-Sierra Leonean songwriter Loah and Cork-based producer Bantum, ‘NGLA’ flows with sweeping rich vocals and a twinkling uplifting energy. Featuring on last year’s EP Sweet Sorrow, it fuses together elements of hip-hop, scuzzy electronica, and funk-fuelled neo-soul, creating an enlivening, smooth groove. (ML)

Cosha – ‘Do You Wanna Dance’
A previous favourite of mine Bonzai, now known as Cosha, teamed up with producer Rostam for this single ‘Do You Wanna Dance’. I’ve been keeping my ears and eyes peeled for their new music ever since. (TW)

Malibu Shark Attack – ‘Better Off As Friends’
An oldie but a goody, I just couldn’t not mention this completely infectious track from one of my favourite ever albums when thinking about the Irish music scene. A side project of Rocky O’Reilly’s, Malibu Shark Attack are a real ‘super group’ offering their own unique brand of transatlantic indie-rap. Consisting of Rocky, American rapper Tribe One, Belfast-based Bee Mick See and vocalist Yellowbridge, they’re responsible for one of the most joyous and memorable nights of live music I’ve ever had at The Windmill back in 2014.
Rocky O’Reilly has helped produce and elevate so many of our faves (including HAVVK, Problem Patterns, Queen Zee), offering a special space to record in his Belfast-based Start Together Studios, and is a real legend in the DIY Irish community. (ML)

Æ MAK – ‘Hey Driver (!)’
I love this single from Queen of lockdown kitsch-pop bangerz Æ MAK. ‘Hey Driver (!)’ is a vibrant, catchy tune made with “100% childsplay and solo belly laughs” with a dance routine that’s a joy to mimic. (KC)

CMAT – ‘Another Day (KFC)’
I think I fell in love with CMAT when she declared “I’d rather drink piss than drink Pepsi Max” during an Instagram Live challenge where she consumed 80 pieces of popcorn chicken. She’s released banger after banger over the last year, and I’m praying it’ll be safe to go and see her live at The Troubadour in November with Mel from The Irish Jam! (KC)

Denise Chaila – ‘Anseo’
Since falling in love with Denise Chaila’s unique style of hip-hop last year with the eclectic sounds of her debut album GO Bravely (which has since been nominated for Ireland’s Choice Music Prize), I have been pretty-much addicted. With flowing keys accompanied by her distinctive spoken-word vocal, ‘Anseo’ oozes a completely infectious groove and vibrant empowering energy, with an additional healthy serving of playful wit. The Zambian-born Limerick-based artist reflects on identity, borders and misogyny in her work, and – having recently been featured as ‘One To Watch’ by The Guardian – looks set for further success in 2021. (ML)

CAMI x LEEM – ‘Inside Out’
Working alongside producer LEEM, Dublin-based rapper CAMI has crafted this super trippy, laid back tune. Tash & I love this track and recommend that you check out CAMI’s latest single ‘Tipsy’ too. (KC)

Celaviedmai – ‘Reckless’
This BANGER from rapper Celaviedmai sets my ears on FIRE, it’s such an ANTHEM! I heard it for the first on The Irish Jam when Mel was interviewing Celaviedmai about her involvement with the Black Lives Matter movement in Galway last year. She’s an incredible artist and activist, and I can’t wait to hear more from her in the future. (KC)

YINYANG – ‘Bloodhound/Earthbound’
With her previous single ‘Black Mamba’ being awarded the title ‘Best Song In The World’ from Across The Line with BBC Radio Ulster last year, Irish hip-hop artist Lauren Hannan – aka YINYANG- has now blasted into our ears with immense new tune ‘Bloodhound/Earthbound’. With shades of GIHE fave Noga Erez, the track oozes a gritty energy as the angst-driven power of Hannan’s vocals seethe alongside attitude-fuelled glitchy beats, building with a soulful, soaring splendour. (ML)

Rachael Lavelle – ‘Perpetual Party’
Like many of the artists on this playlist, I discovered composer & Rachael Lavelle through listening to The Irish Jam radio show. ‘Perpetual Party’ sends shivers down my spine every time I listen to it. (KC)

Rising Damp – ‘Cannibal’
A creator of brutal yet captivating soundscapes, Dublin based artist Rising Damp contributed this track ‘Cannibal’ to A Litany Of Failures: Vol. III. Her dystopian visions are fleshed out with hypnotic electronics, dense drum beats and deadpan vocal delivery. (KC)

Hilary Woods – ‘Orange Tree’
I’m a big fan of everything Hilary Woods releases and was moved to distraction when I saw her perform live at St Pancras Old Church in London in 2018. This track ‘Orange Tree’ is taken from her incredible second album Birthmarks, which she released last year via Sacred Bones. (KC)

Fears – ‘vines’
Another poignant meditation on some of her darkest hours, Dublin-born London-based musician Fears aka Constance Keane penned her latest single ‘vines’ before she experienced a breakdown. Through her tentative beats and soft vocals, Fears taps into her pain and offers listeners a chance empathise and heal alongside her. I can’t wait to hear her debut album Oíche when it’s released on 7th May via her own label, TULLE. (KC)

Sive feat. Dowry – ‘Storybook Moon’
A collaboration between songwriter Sadhbh O’Sullivan – Sive – and string musician Éna Brennan – Dowry – ‘Storybook Moon’ is a twinkling slice of alt-folk. Written during a time when Sadhbh was suffering with insomnia, it’s a stirring offering that’ll captivate the ears with its delicate exquisite grace and deep, shimmering melancholy. (ML)

Maija Sofia – ‘Flowers’
Taken from a split 7” with Kerry Devine (The Baby Seals) that was released via Trapped Animal, ‘Flowers’ oozes an uplifting sparkling energy. With a nostalgic, lilting musicality it’s a truly enchanting listen propelled by beautiful folk-strewn melodies and Sofia’s rich, luscious vocals. (ML)

Tolü Makay – ‘Don’t Let Go’
This is an understated, beautifully soothing listen from Tolü Makay. The Nigerian-born, Ireland-based artist gently reassures her listeners to let go of their fears through her smooth vocals, tender lyricism and jazz inspired instrumentation. (KC)

Clara Byrne – ‘Conflict Bound’
A poignant reflection on the pressures and contradictions we encounter living under capitalism, ‘Conflict Bound’ is the debut single from Bray songwriter Clara Byrne. Lifted from her upcoming debut album Handstitched, Byrne finds refuge from these overwhelming thoughts via her atmospheric alt-folk guitar sounds and patient vocal delivery. (KC)

Party Fears – ‘Time In Space’
A gentle, hazy musing on trying to stay afloat in an unpredictable time, Northern Irish born, Berlin-based artist Party Fears aka Maggie Devlin is a firm favourite here at GIHE. Released via Babywoman Records, ‘Time in Space’ is an other-worldly offering that stretches the boundaries of self-perception, but in true Party Fears style it remains charmingly optimistic. (KC)

The Cranberries – ‘Dreams’
I couldn’t really not include The Cranberries on an Irish-themed playlist… In addition to being consistently moved by the heart-breaking, crystalline vocals of the late Dolores O’Riordan, throughout the past year’s many lockdowns, I have sought comfort in watching Derry Girls for the umpteenth time, which is perfectly soundtracked by the majority of The Cranberries’ back catalogue! (ML)

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#ThrowbackThursday: GIHE w/ Petty Phase (15.03.18)

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and new lockdown in London, we’re unable to make it into the Hoxton Radio studio to broadcast our weekly live new music show from 7-9pm. Instead, we’re sharing previous GIHE radio show recordings as #ThrowbackThursday sessions, so you can still enjoy 2 hours of new music tunes & chats with some of our favourite artists each week.

Today, we’ve picked our March 2018 show with Essex-based Riot Grrrls Jen & Alyx from Petty Phase. Kate and Mari spoke to them about playing live for GIHE at our first ever Finsbury Pub gig, the unique “subtle anger” experienced in the queue for Wetherspoons, and the pair played stripped back versions of tracks ‘The Jesus Touch’ and ‘Chinese Whispers’

Listen back to the show here:

Tracklist
Chromatics – Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (Cyndi Lauper cover)
The Blow – After Party
Faber – Nasty Woman
Bella Barton – Reflections
Henry Green – Another Light
Abie Wade – Reasonable Doubt
Suzie Stapleton – Negative Prophet
GOUX – Over You
MORGAN – Hells Paradise
JAAYNS – Monitors
Rebecca Lou – Under The Moon
Post Louis – Little Jack
Petty Phase – You’ll Be Dead
**Interview & Live Session with Petty Phase**
Honey – Rapunzel
Glam Skanks – Bad Bitch
Smerz – No Harm
Pillow Queens – Favourite
Frankie Knight – Day By Day
Steele – Know Her
Odina – Nothing Makes Sense
Brooke Law – Hidden
Cosy Slippers – Not Hard To Say Goodbye
Tracy Chapman – Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution

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GIHE: Personal Highlights Of 2020

2020 has been a year unlike any other and we’ll be glad to see the back of it, but before we wave goodbye, the GIHE team would like to share some of their personal highlights. Thanks to everyone who has been following, reading or listening to GIHE this year. It really does mean the world to us and we couldn’t do this without you.

Shared Highlights

Seeing the GIHE name appear in a PHYSICAL BOOK was a landmark moment for the team this year. Music journalist Lucy O’Brien mentioned us in her 25th anniversary edition of She Bop, a fantastic book that explores the role of female artists and how they’ve helped to shape the music industry. You can buy your copy here.

Fellow GIHE Co-Founder Tash Walker was super busy recording & producing series 2 of The Log Books throughout 2020, a podcast which explores the history of the LGBTQ community via the phone archives of LGBT+ charity Switchboard. Tash is a co-chair at Switchboard and she is dedicated to celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ community through her work with them, and through her work with GIHE. She is one of the most resilient, informed and hilarious people we know and it’s a privilege to work alongside her and call her a friend. The Log Books are a truly necessary listen for all.

Now for some personal highlights…

Kate Crudgington (Features Editor)

GIHE usually takes up a big part of my life, but it was a lifeline for me during March of this year when the government text me (lol) telling me to shield for 12 weeks. Thanks to the magic of the internet, I was able to talk to the people who were making the music that was distracting me from the panic-inducing headlines, reminding me what a huge privilege it is to have access to this amazing platform.

As our followers already know, Lockdown 1.0 instantly put a stop to our weekly GIHE new music shows on Hoxton Radio. We had 16 weeks off air, so when it was “safe” for me to go back in to the studio in July I was buzzing with excitement (which you can hear in my voice if you listen back to the show here.)

Like most platforms during the pandemic, we embraced technology and started interviewing artists over Zoom instead of inviting them in to the studio for the usual chat and live session. We managed to get time with Jessica Winter, BISHI, Lucy O’Brien, Tessa from Girlhood, Julia-Sophie, Lizzie from Bitch Falcon, Grave Goods, Problem Patterns, ZAND, Hannah from PELA, Seraphina-Simone & Penelope Trappes. It was so lovely to see Tash in person in the studio most weeks, and while we both missed seeing Mari a great deal, her weekly track contributions to the show still made it feel like a GIHE team effort.

At the beginning of the year, I was invited by Niall Jackson, one of the hosts of Riverside Radio’s The Irish Jam, to be a contributor to their New Music Sunday section. Co-hosted by Kealan, Mel and Rob, The Irish Jam is a London based radio show that celebrates and promotes music from Irish artists. The crossover of favourite bands between GIHE & the Jam is huge and something I’ve enjoyed chatting to the team about both on and off air. They’ve introduced me to the likes of CMAT, fears, Denise Chaila, Silverbacks and Celaviedmai, whilst I’ve shared tracks by Kynsy, Party Fears and CAMI with them. Listening to their show on a Sunday evening continues to be a wonderful distraction from life.

Who could’ve predicted that bandcamp would become the musical hero of 2020? When the streaming platform announced that on the first Friday of every month they’d be waiving their fees so that 100% of profits would be going directly to artists, my newsfeeds were awash with new music recommendations. Moving home to Essex from London in March meant I actually had some expendable income to buy new records, so I was furiously typing bespoke recommendation threads on Twitter every time the date rolled around. bandcamps’ generosity meant you were able to genuinely support your friends (and the artists you secretly wish you were friends with) during a truly depressing year for music.

Normally, we’d be picking our live music highlights too, but for obvious reasons, we’ve hardly been to any gigs this year. Mari had to cancel half of the gigs GIHE she had booked pre-pandemic and it’s fucking depressing to not know when it will be (properly) safe for her to book more. That’s why I feel incredibly fortunate to have wedged in one last GIHE gig before Lockdown 1.0. GIHE worked together with Sofar Sounds to put together a special International Women’s Day gig at their Hackney HQ in March, with Beckie Margaret, Amahla and Indian Queens on the bill. It was so exciting (and nerve-racking) to host the evening with fellow GIHE pal Tash too. Even if I’d had a year full of gigs, this one still would’ve made my highlights list.

One last gloat – I published some of my all-time favourite features on our website this year. My Zoom interviews with the wonderful A.A Williams, the hilarious CMAT and the ultra talented Lido Pimienta are well worth a read.

Mari Lane (Managing Editor)

It goes without saying, most of the highlights I’d normally mention at this time of year were not able to go ahead in the void of 2020. They would normally consist of the monthly gigs that I host at The Finsbury, whereas this year I was only able to put on two before Covid hit. And, in addition to having to cancel at least seven of our regular gigs, we were pretty heartbroken to cancel what would have been our very first festival, due to take place in July. However, I did manage to fit in a couple of memorable live experiences before being confined to being permanently pyjama clad; my only weekly highlight being our regular beer delivery from Croydon’s Art & Craft bar.

The first gig I hosted this year felt particularly special. Personal Best headlined a night filled with all the best vibes. Drawing the night to a memorable close, front person Katie Gatt dedicated their set closer to the queer community. As a sea of buoyant voices joined in with “I wanna kiss you in the street / where everyone can see / ’cause this is what we look like,” the poignancy of the lyrics was overwhelming and an empowering sense of unity took hold. The night also included the shimmering folk-strewn offerings of Athabaska, the quirky energy and sparkling charisma of Nun Habit and the sun-drenched swirling anthems of Hurtling. There is nothing quite like that joyous sense of togetherness that comes from hosting gigs filled with like-minded wonderful people.

I was also lucky enough to fit in seeing one of my all time favourite bands with a few of my all time favourite people. The last time that Tash, Kate, Paul and I were all together pre-Covid was for Sleater Kinney at Brixton Academy – a pretty special night. Not only did I get to see the legendary Carrie Brownstein deliver her distinctive gritty, scuzz-filled riffs alongside Corin Tucker’s unmistakable swooning vocals in the flesh, conjuring up massive feelings of awe and nostalgia, but they were supported by one of our favourite current bands. The second time we’d seen Big Joanie on the Brixton Academy stage (the first being opening for Bikini Kill last year!), they showcased just how deserving they are of their rising success; with their unique, raw, post-punk soundscapes and poignant lyricism, they delivered an absolutely incredible set. A truly memorable night.

My last ‘outing’ before lockdown was to the BBC 6Music festival for International Women’s Day at The Roundhouse. An epic line-up consisting of some incredible women and non-binary folk that I’m incredibly grateful I got to witness before everything fell apart. In addition to the immense poignant power of Jehnny Beth, the utterly beguiling splendour of Nadine Shah (who I fell in love with there and then), and the completely mind-blowing presence of hero Kim Gordon, Kae Tempest delivered a fiercely moving, truly breath-taking headline set.

And then gigs were gone. To be replaced by online streamed “events” which I think have had mixed reviews over the last few months – they’re of course no replacement for the “real thing” and it’s hard to feel motivated to “attend” things when you’ve been on the sofa in your pjs for weeks. However, I have managed to organise a few GIHE Instagram ‘Takeovers’, featuring some of our favourite bands and artists. From ARXX’s drum and guitar lessons, LibraLibra’s quirky tele-sales style feature and Tiger Mimic’s interviews with others on the scene, to inspiring chats with Amaroun, Eckoes, Foundlings and Husk, beaut “live” sessions from Gold Baby, Scrounge and KIN, and King Hannah’s EP run through, I feel grateful that so many creatives have wanted to be involved.

It’s a strange time, no doubt, but one which is made that much better by a sense of togetherness within the community. One positive from all this really has been the mutual support and genuine care that I’ve seen musicians and those within the industry show for each other.

John McGovern (Contributor)

On the one hand, there’s been almost no gigs, no festivals, much fewer physical releases and closed record shops. On the other, BBC 6Music’s response helped me stay indoors and make the most of my furlough life. Lauren Laverne‘s show was extended to cover the late morning, running to nearly double the length of most of the other shows on the station and basically saw her appointed as chief mood-lifter for the BBC’s flagship alternative music station. Amongst the days of uncertainty, where even leaving the house offered the risk of serious illness, with no guarantee of a job at the end of the summer, having Lauren there to soundtrack breakfast/brunch made a world of difference. It produced a kind of odd stasis: the background radiation of a pandemic, but an excellent range of music, usually featuring a smattering of classics, new music and obscure gems. The only disappointment was when the schedule reverted back to usual come the end of lockdown. Hopefully, that same semblance of normality will be back for us all, soon.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to read our highlights!

You can read about our GIHE Albums of 2020 here and our GIHE Tracks Of 2020 here.

Keep an eye out for our Ones To Watch in 2021 feature next week!

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PLAYLIST: St. Patrick’s Day 2020

We began drafting this St. Patrick’s Day Playlist before we were fully aware of the extent of the coronavirus pandemic in Ireland and before the Irish government called for the mass closure of pubs and clubs, thus removing any chance to publicly celebrate on the 17th. We debated whether it was appropriate to mention St. Patrick’s Day at all – especially after the numerous gig & parade cancellations both in Ireland and here in London – but seeing the resilience of our Irish friends and musicians on social media motivated us into completing it.

We all need a distraction during these uncertain times, so dive into our St. Patrick’s Day playlist – you’re going to find a new favourite artist among our choices! We’ve included links to each artist’s social media, Spotify and/or Bandcamp accounts and we urge you to stream or purchase their music if you have the funds to do so. Make sure you scroll all the way down for the playlist link…

Æ MAK – ‘Dancing Bug’ (Spotify)
A solid fan of Æ MAK otherwise known as Aoife McCann, I’ve followed her since the beginning of 2019, fresh off her recent support of both tUnE-yArDs and Warpaint. ‘Dancing Bug’ is her latest offering which speaks to her chaotic electronic beats and primitive vocal rhythms. (Tash Walker)

Cosha – ‘Do You Wanna Dance’ (Spotify)
A previous favourite of mine known as Bonzai, who released an old favourite of mine Where Are U Now, came back in 2018 under the name Cosha, teaming up with producer Rostam for this single. I’ve been keeping my ears and eyes peeled for their new music ever since. (TW)

New Pagans – ‘Admire’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
Filled with urgent, intensely catchy songs that challenge the norms surrounding relationships, history and gender, New Pagans’ debut EP Glacial Erratic is a powerful blend of alternative sounds. The Belfast band take the best elements of post-punk, grunge and indie rock and transform them in to abrasive, melodic noise. ‘Admire’ is my favourite track from the EP. (Kate Crudgington)

HAVVK – ’52’ (Spotify)
HAVVK have been long term favourites here at GIHE; a band who continually combine activism with their unique musical prowess, their exquisite, spine-tingling splendour resonates now more than ever. Although written about the extreme political dynamics in the run up to the Brexit vote in 2017, their track ‘52’ remains a poignant soundscape with all that’s happening in the world right now. Oozing a stark, stirring emotion, alongside the soaring, celestial splendour and gritty raw emotion of front woman Julie’s vocals, it’s filled with a glistening musicality juxtaposed with a frenzied, angst-driven climax. (Mari Lane)

The Cranberries – ‘Ode To My Family’
I couldn’t really not include The Cranberries on an Irish playlist. With the heartbreaking crystalline vocals of the late Dolores O’Riordan alongside a delicate twinkling musicality, each of their offerings sends shivers down my spine every time. I’ve chosen this particular track as, during these extremely troubling and anxiety-inducing times, I’d like to give an ode to MY family, and all loved ones – we need each other now more than ever, even if for some us it means not being able to physically see one another right now. Solidarity and good vibes to you all; we can get through this together. (ML)

REWS – ‘Monsters’ (Spotify)
I never fail to be impressed by the power of Shauna Tohill’s vocals and they’re out in full force again on this new REWS track. ‘Monsters’ is an aural challenge to self-doubt and a bit of fiery pop-rock encouragement to persevere in the face of anxiety. (KC)

Vulpynes – ‘2 Cents’ (Spotify)
Propelled by the gritty, impassioned vocals of guitarist Molly, ‘2 Cents’ rages with a seething energy and sublime raw power as scuzzy punk-fuelled riffs are blasted out alongside intense pummelling beats. Reminiscent of the riotous force of the likes of L7 or The Distillers, it’s a storming, empowering offering from my favourite Irish duo. We’re sad that we’re no longer able to host Vulpynes at The Finsbury on 3rd April, but we do hope to reschedule the gig for as soon as possible! (ML)

Bitch Falcon – ‘Prime Number’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
Mari booked Dubliners Bitch Falcon as the penultimate act for one of our GIHE gigs at The Finsbury a few years ago, and I was totally blown away by their live set. Such a raw, powerful sound. ‘Prime Number’ is a personal favourite, but I’d recommend listening to their latest single ‘Damp Breath’ too. (KC)

Party Fears – ‘Money’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
Party Fears are based in Berlin, but Maggie Devlin is originally from Northern Ireland. The band have been consistent favourites at GIHE since Mari first gave them a spin on our Hoxton Radio show and this track ‘Money’ is one of my favourites. Keep your eyes peeled for their new single ‘All Is Good’, set for release on 27th March. (KC)

PowPig – ‘Pretty Woman’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
PowPig are Irish DIY at its best, I was totally blown away when I found out that they were still at school. ‘Pretty Woman’ and ‘Mayday’ are their most recent releases jam packed with indie harmonies and grizzly guitars. Loving it. Here’s to hearing more from them in the future. (TW)

Hilary Woods – ‘Orange Tree’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
Dublin-based Hilary Woods creates abrasive, primal, charged soundscapes that blur industrial and orchestral elements. She uses sound and image to navigate emotional territories and I feel intensely comforted when I listen to her music (I also cry to it sometimes, but that’s okay too). “My body knows I can’t make it out” sings Woods on ‘Orange Tree’, tentatively trying to make peace with her physicality and her surroundings. This need to face her inner fears underscores her latest record, Birthmarks, which is an unsettling, but genuinely liberating listen. (KC)

Fears – ‘Blood’ (Spotify)
Fears is the moniker of London-based, Irish musician Constance Keane. I first heard her music while listening to The Irish Jam, and I’ve been keeping tabs on her ever since. I love her dark, minimal electronic sounds. Definitely a bit of me. (KC)

SOAK – ‘Bloodbuzz Ohio’ (Spotify)
I came across SOAK last year when she released her sophmore album Grim Town, which is most definitely worth a listen. This however is SOAK’s cover of The National’s ‘Bloodbuzz Ohio’, tender and gentle and a pleasingly fresh rendition. (TW)

Aoife Nessa Frances – ‘Here In The Dark’ (Spotify & bandcamp)
‘Here in the Dark’ is taken from the very enjoyable debut Land of No Junction by Aoife Nessa Frances. Her voice evokes so much emotion, you’ll soon find yourself falling into the songs reflective melodic musings. (TW)

Maria Kelly – ‘july’ (Spotify)
Alt-folk artist Maria Kelly’s ‘july’ looks inward, exploring the idea that we are ultimately in control of how we feel, and must take responsibility for what we choose to dwell on. Another truly beautiful offering from the Irish songwriter, it flows with her silky smooth, emotion strewn vocals and a stirring, bewitching musicality. Oozing a heartbreaking sense of vulnerability, it sparkles with a mystical grandeur, creating something truly mesmerising. (ML)

Rosie Carney – ‘Bud (Rose)’ (Spotify)
This is the last track to close Rosie Carney’s album Bare. ‘Bud (Rose)’ is a beautiful instrumental which mixes birdsong with piano. The piano is one of my favourite instruments to hear on record especially when it is played with such tenderness, as it is here. (TW)

B*witched – ‘C’est La Vie’
One of the first cassette singles I bought, when I was about twelve, I just wanted to include this one from the Irish girl group to put a smile on our faces – so, turn up it up, sing along and try to forget about everything for three sweet minutes! (ML)

 

We’d also like to give a shout out to GIHE allies and Irish born London-based musicians Niall Jackson and Matthew Sutton. Niall co-hosts The Irish Jam (along with Mel, Kealan & Rob) on Riverside Radio, which celebrates Irish music. Kate often contributes to their ‘New Music Sunday’ section.

Matthew fronts his own outfit called TAYNE, and is currently creating new music with his tattoo machine equipment. They both play together in Sweat Threats too. Both are trying to stay creative in a time of uncertainty, so if you can stream/purchase their music or merch, it would be greatly appreciated. (TAYNE bandcamp here. Niall ‘Swimmers’ Jackson bandcamp here).

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