Scene Snapshot: October's Must-Listen Irish Releases

October is here, and with it comes a fresh wave of music from Ireland's ever-evolving music scene. From emerging indie acts to celebrated songwriters, this month's releases bring a little something for everyone. Here's our roundup of standout singles from across the genres that should be on your playlist right now.

Modern Love- Can't Stop Dancing

Irish indie-pop rockers Modern Love dive into the highs and lows of nightlife with their latest single, Can't Stop Dancing. On the surface, the track pulses with infectious upbeat dance-pop energy, capturing the allure of late-night escapism. But beneath the lively tempo lies a darker narrative- one of dependency on substances to socialise and keep the party going. The song explores the toll of endless nights out, where the thrill fades and the cost becomes clear only in the harsh light of day, leaving exhaustion and emptiness. Can’t stop Dancing perfectly juxtaposes its buoyant sound with introspective lyrics, delivering a compelling look at the highs and lows of modern partying.

Big Sleep- Pianoland

Dublin’s rising stars, Big Sleep, unveil their new EP Stay Put Sunshine, packed with garage rock gems and alternative flair. Leading the charge is the explosive single Pianoland, a rock anthem brimming with shout-along hooks, sun-soaked riffs, and a loose, driving rhythm that hits hard. The Irish-Italian group weaves influences from rock, pop, and indie-soul, drawing inspiration from The Cure, Pixies, and J.J. Cale. Yet, Big Sleep’s sound is uniquely theirs—a vibrant, shimmering tribute to their evolution as an emerging band blazing its own trail.

Amble- The Commons

Irish folk trio Amble’s new song The Commons is a moving exploration of heartbreak, grief, and suicide, inspired by a letter found on a train journey from Dublin to Longford. The letter, titled No Date, No Name, revealed a mother’s sorrow over losing her 14-year-old son to suicide. Written and recorded during the ride, the song captures raw emotions and a desire for connection, with lyrics like “I’ll leave a letter on a train... No date, no name... For a stranger to turn and read... And for a moment, I’ll be free.” The Commons serves as a poignant tribute to the unseen grief within communities affected by suicide.

Maria Kelly- Something Better

Dublin indie singer-songwriter Maria Kelly unveiled her beautifully mellow single, Something Better, in early October. The song reflects the longing for a life beyond the confines of current reality and the gradual journey toward finding it. With gentle guitar strums and airy keys, the track delves into the pressures we place on ourselves to meet our own expectations, often leading to cycles of self-inflicted disappointment.

Chalk- Tell Me

Irish three-piece Chalk, composed of Academy Award-winning filmmakers Ross Cullen, Benedict Goddard, and Luke Niblock, formed in 2019 after meeting through film studies and discovering a shared musical vision. Hailing from Belfast and quickly earning acclaim, Chalk announces their upcoming Conditions III EP, led by the intense, Berghain-inspired single Tell Me. Blending techno, post-punk, heavy guitar, electronica, and breakbeat, Tell Me is a bold exploration of darkness and reinvention. Frontman Ross Cullen describes it as a dive into the unknown, following a character fleeing from a troubled past and encountering unexpected connections, evoking the thrill of escaping and a desire to never look back.

Kingfishr- The Saviour

One of my favourite bands right now, Kingfishr, have released a striking new single, The Saviour. This track offers a taste of their evolved sound, crafted to resonate in the larger venues they’ll be performing in next year. Known for blending powerful indie-folk choruses with the richness of their Irish roots, Kingfishr captures both energy and tradition in this release. Frontman Eddie Keogh’s commanding vocals bring an intensity to The Saviour that feels deeply personal, with every lyric delivered with heartfelt conviction, setting the tone for their tour ahead.

The Fae- Like Your Man

Dublin trio The Fae have just unveiled their latest single, Like Your Man, a captivating track that enchants from start to finish. With a powerful bassline grounding the song, the delicate, ethereal vocals—reminiscent of Aurora or Grimes—lend a dreamy, high-pitched quality. Meanwhile, the drums, bass, and guitar inject a pop-punk edge, creating a unique blend of sounds that’s both soothing and magnetic.

Under Starling- The Hunger

Irish indie rockers, Under Starling have released one of their impactful singles, The Hunger. This track delves into the story of the Irish famine and the suffering endured under colonial rule. With a newfound heaviness in their sound, Under Starling intensifies their signature alternative rock edge, amplifying the song’s weight and significance. The result is a searing, unforgettable experience that drives home the impact of the story they’re telling.

Cardinals- Get it

Cork indie-rockers Cardinals have just released their latest single, Get It, showcasing their signature sound infused with fresh energy. The track features catchy melodies and driving rhythms that perfectly complement their engaging lyrics, reflecting themes of ambition and self-discovery. With vibrant guitar riffs and a dynamic rhythm section, Get It captures the essence of youthful determination, making it an anthemic addition to their growing discography.

Annika Kilkenny- Out in the Garden

Annika Kilkenny has unveiled her enchanting new single, Out in the Garden, which beautifully blends folk and pop elements to create a serene listening experience. The track showcases her delicate vocals, which effortlessly weave through lush melodies and evocative lyrics, painting a vivid picture of nature's tranquility. With gentle instrumentation and heartfelt storytelling, Out in the Garden invites listeners to reflect on themes of growth, connection, and the simple joys found in the natural world.