Continuing on in our rundown of the best tracks released in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland this year. Here we take a look at some newer acts to have broken through alongside our more established talent. Join the debate on Twitter @EncoreNI.

20. Adebisi Shank - Mazel Tov

Wexford's 'Adebisi Shank' have sadly passed through Northern Ireland largely unnoticed by the mainstream; a credit surely to their low maintenance approach and laid back personas. In a musical world not short of X-Factor fakery, it's refreshing that a band as humble as the power-trio can go through three quality albums, explosive live performances and remain true to the underground which raised them. This beauty, taken from their third album (The superbly titled, 'This Is The Third Album Of A Band Called Adebisi Shank') will live on past their sad recent decision to split.

For fans of: And So I Watch You From Afar
Expect In 2015: n/a



19. This Is Me Dead - Vega

'This Is Me Dead' have come out of nowhere to earn themselves a spot on this list and intrigue the minds of local music professionals in the process. Though the unexpected release of new EP 'Vega' generated the type of hype closer associated to young upstarts, the Belfast band have actually been around a while. Sneering, American indie falls over Editors influenced riffs, concluding in an angst-ridden concoction of something we're desperate to thrash around to.

For fans of: Interpol, Editors
Expect in 2015: A load of live appearances. 



18. Treehome - Keep Our Loving Discreet

Ahh Treehome. Discovered largely through their excellent performances in The Pavilion Bar's 'Battle Of The Bands' this year, the funk driven teenagers proved their recording worth through this stylish single. Not shy to a mass stage invasion, this young group have achieved more than they could have imagined in their first years together ~ from radio airplay, to gig requests across the country. Big things ahead.

For fans of: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nile Rodgers 
Expect in 2015: A debut EP & subsequent tour.




17. Hot Cops - Origami 

Blistering riffs, explosive drumming and that haunting vocal. Maudlin, yet invigorating. This is the sound of Belfast's Hot Cops, this track coming from their time with the Scratch My Progress talent development program. "She says that I'm her bible...I always wondered what she meant by that..."

For fans of: Pavement, Pixies
Expect in 2015: Explosions.



16. Autumns - Cold War

This patchwork noise-rock, courtesy of Autumns, has all the hall marks of an undergrad favorite. Interwoven grunge is played beneath a Sonic Youth drone, as Christian Donaghey's disjointed vocal somehow pulls everything together. A snapshot of bigger things to come.

For fans of: Sonic Youth, Slowdive
Expect in 2015: A gig in a warehouse. 



Who should be in our top 15? Join the debate now @EncoreNI and on Facebook here.

As another great year winds to a close, Encore NI again finds itself reflecting on a host of positives for the local music scene. From a record number of new bands receiving recognition across the pond, to a live scene revitalized by young bands demanding (and earning) stage time, we want to now celebrate some of the tracks that have made this year as good as it was. Not even the loss of our beloved Glasgowbury could dampen our local bands and artists spirit, as new genres blossomed amongst our indie-rock heritage. Unable to confine our list to 20 tracks (believe us, we tried!), over the coming weeks we will reveal what we believe to be the best tracks to come out of the country this year. Disagree with us? Get involved in the debate on twitter ~ send your suggestions to @EncoreNI.  


25. BLOOM ~ 'Tropical Edge Of The Storm'

Hazily fading into existence as easily as one may fade out, Belfast's first and only, avant garde Psyche-Blues outfit have came out of nowhere to become one of the countries best underground prospects. Raised on a diet of Beatles, Tame Impala and The Doors, BLOOM's 60's elements are never hidden away amongst their tidal waves of synth and tension building bass guitar. Never afraid to let their music wander, you can expect BLOOM songs to last anything up to half an hour or longer,  'Tropical Edge Of The Storm', being no different. An instrumental piece sonically detailing the passing of a storm, this track wouldn't look out of place on the new Pink Floyd album.

For fans of: Pink Floyd, Brian Jonestown Massacre
Expect in 2015: A cult following to develop.



24. Malibu Shark Attack ~ 'Better Off As Friends'

Probably the worlds only 'Trans-Atlantic' hip-hop duo, the story of Malibu Shark Attack is a beautiful tale of two men on opposite sides of the world, who love music. The brain-child of legendary Northern Irish producer Rocky O'Reilly, his collaboration with Atlanta's 'Tribe One' culminated in glorious sonic landscapes of 80's synth-pop, thrown alongside a rapper of effortless flow and charisma. This opening track from the bands debut album is the highlight of something we certainly hope we haven't seen the last of yet.

For fans of: Gorillaz, Los Campesinos
Expect in 2015: A major support slot somewhere down the road...which may just lead to something huge.



23. Oh Volcano ~ 'Oceans'

This catchy single from former General Fiasco frontman Owen Strathern's new band, is the culmination of months locked away with a synth and an array of 80's records. Drenched in sun filled melody, 'Oceans' groove and drone complexities make for a compelling mix. Somehow, it sounds even bigger in a live setting, as proved during their dates supporting the mammoth Twenty One Pilots on the Irish dates of their World Tour.

For Fans of: The Cure, Arcade Fire
Expect In 2015: A UK tour.



22. Paper Man ~ 'Like TV'

Moving away from the cleaner angst of debut EP 'After Effects', Paper Man's foray into an altogether heavier sound produced further reassuring results. Follow up 'Midfield Modern Argument' again showcased frontman Alistair Greyson's moving lyricism, combining with the altogether tighter sound of a band never scared of offending the mainstream. 'This conscious stream, making me scream..this is the first time, stop screaming in my mind'. Their recent split now heralds the emergence of new band 'The Sea, Close By', whilst drummer David Hunter considers his musical future.


For Fans of: Smashing Pumpkins, Million Dead
Expect in 2015: 'The Sea, Close By' to start things all over again ~ a brand new sound for drummer Dave.



21. Matthew Duly ~ 'Ghost In Your Memory'

Having performed at such venues as our own Ulster Hall, the Empire and Birmingham's monstrous 'LG Arena' (with band 'Lipstick Lizards), you'd think the name 'Matthew Duly would be written into local music consciousness by now. Sadly, this is not yet the case, though on the basis of this year the Whitehead native is not far off. Capping off a series of quality performances across the country by winning a place on the coveted 'Scratch My Progress'  talent program, the only solo singer-songwriter to do so, Duly is earning his space on the local music scene in his own right, having played in local bands for years. This maudlin ode to the passing of time is surly his most accomplished to date, with a beautiful chorus.

For fans of: The Shins, Matt Corby
Expect in 2015: A long awaited debut EP.




Who should be in our top 20? Join the debate now @EncoreNI and on Facebook here.

To review a man as influential on ones life as Steven Patrick Morrissey is a difficult task indeed. To act as an impartial judge upon a musician who's words have acted as a guide to life through a persons most formative years, who's very thoughts mean more than religion and who's spotlight shines brighter than any other, (celestial or otherwise) is near impossible. Regardless, we cannot resist to comment on one of musics all time greatest icons as he played Dublin's 3 Arena.

First off, A Morrissey concert is much more than a concert. We will stop short of calling it a spiritual experience (though it truly was), and will instead focus on the performance aspects. Morrissey can still sing. Beautifully. Each and every song was sung with their authors passion and intensity, just as they should be. Opening with the breathtaking 'The Queen Is Dead'  the Manchester born-legend was as assured and confident as always, stalking the stage with a fervour which only accentuated his class.

In past shows on this tour he has been criticised for focusing too heavily on new material ~ we must ask, why? Here each new composition radiated with an intoxicating glow; and while it also helps that 'World Peace Is None Of Your Business' is an album of real warmth and charm, the individual tracks stand alone brilliantly. 'The Bullfighter Dies', 'Kick The Bride Down The Aisle', 'Staircase At The University'...each one was sung back to him with as much love as his most treasured classics.

This tour has also reminded any in doubt of Morrissey's place in people's hearts that there is no fear of his influence dimming. Grown men and woman alike cried like children upon his stroll to centre stage and continued to throughout. People hurled themselves towards the barriers in the desperate hope of a single touch, at the expense of almost certainly being kicked out. Poetry in motion, Morrissey continues to make the stage his home, within which he can do as he damn well pleases. A horrifying video of animal slaughter accompanied 'Meat Is Murder', though this is a cause most noble and fully justified. 'Asleep's sweet lullaby marked a heartrending reflection on the inner anger at the universe which has not burned out over time. Even 'Everyday Is Like Sunday's magnificent crescendo cannot be marked out as a highlight, as there were simply too many in a night which never fell below awe and musical excellence. Not once did Morrissey's Baritone vocal whimper, not once did his desire waver. He's a man who is, and will always be changing lives.

Ripping off his shirt to bid Dublin a farewell (hopefully not his last), this charming man will, in perfect irony, live forever.

We all love runaway [GO]. For years the darlings of Belfast's indie-pop scene, the band built around those hair raising harmonies of Fiona O'Kane and Dave Jackson are looking increasingly likely to join Mojo Fury and 'And So I Watch You...' as our next indie success story.

Any worries that front-woman Fiona may pursue the poison chalice of the solo career seem to have been laid to rest (for now at least) as runaway return from their recent UK Coffee House-tour refreshed and with a debut album ready to, well, go. Taking on the baron wasteland of mainstream pop may seem like a noble quest on paper, but in order to actually achieve such a feat takes a back catalog of consistent brilliance; Thankfully anyone present at the bands last Limelight gig will be able to vouch that they have more than enough fire power in their setlists to blitz most festival regulars, usually doing the rounds with tired material (we're looking at you Courteeners).

The first single to be released from their upcoming debut record, 'Ashes' is the sound of Runaway [GO] coming out fighting. All the key characteristics with which they built their fan base upon remain; Fiona's glistening vocals, the slow build to another crashing crescendo of a chorus ~ but there's a new found wisdom to be enjoyed here. If early singles like 'Alligator' simmered with a youthful verve, 'Ashes' is altogether more grown up. It speaks of hope, while stressing quiet caution, opening a more mature chapter to the bands long history. The key here remains rooted in the groups dynamic vocalists, playing off each other as always, yet remaining fresh.

Though we would perhaps like to hear more of James Lappin's melodic guitar work (too subtle?), the songs piano led opening more than makes up for it. Lyrically, the song works around the empowering 'And I'm running, I'm running away, from the ashes of all my old flames', a beautiful line and one it's not hard to imagine being sung back to them by bigger and bigger crowds.


This is a very exciting time for Northern Ireland and a truly fantastic time for our music. Don't be surprised to see 'Alive' make waves across the nation. Though they may soon outgrow us, Belfast should always be grateful to Runaway [GO].

Due to an incredibly hectic schedule of gigs, meetings and various radio projects, it's been totally full on here at Encore NI over the last few weeks! As a result here's a concise round-up of everything that's been taking place in and around Belfast for you, complete with reviews!



1. The Sass release new EP 'Be Free'

A lot has been written about Belfast lads The Sass. Forced to change their line-up multiple times and forced into a sporadic gigging schedule that had halted their progression somewhat, the 60's inspired outfit are now reaping the benefits of consistency, as new EP 'Be Free' beautifully demonstrates. Marking a definite progression, both stylistically and lyrically, The Sass have graduated from the surf-pop melodies of singles gone by to a more mature sound, reverberated riffs now working in sync with their jangling guitar persona. Frontman Colm Donnelly has also never sounded better; be this down to his delight at the bands evolution from their humble beginnings, or simply a boost in confidence is hard to say, but whatever it is, it's working. 'Be Free' is a gently swaying, maudlin take on 21st century love and life, the Morrissey inspired 'Lucy' the gem in the crown. In fact, it may be worth mentioning that the French verses in Lucy are perhaps Donnelly's finest to date. Lyrically breaking new ground, only Damien Rice has attempted such a feat in recent years. Exciting times.



2. Loris release video for new single 'Yeah'

After a near sell out EP launch in The Bar With No Name, electro-pop trio Loris unveiled the video to title track 'Yeah' yesterday. Showing a clear progression from their early days, the band have proven their ability to maintain the sparse production of earlier singles, while adding new flavors to the mix. For one thing, it's darker, hinting at a hidden aggression previously buried under an avalanche of synths. Francis Mitchell's vocals are also sounding more assured, as Loris continue to grow into their own niche on the electronic spectrum.



3. His New Atlas completes English tour

The brainchild of singer-songwriter Eoghan O'Hagan has been threatening to blow up on the big stage for a while now, the Armagh native's recent English tour reinforcing this fact. Riding off the back of his massive sounding 'Torn Out Lungs' EP, (a record of great depth) O'Hagan took his band on the road for a three date tour of the countries capital and Liverpool, playing to great crowds and continuing to forge his hard earned reputation across the water. Now back in Belfast, don't be surprised to see His New Atlas play bigger and better venues as his stock price rises.

4. Gary Lightbody & The Assembly ~ 'This Is All That I Ask Of You'

Who else but Gary Lightbody would assemble a band of some of the most promising musicians in Northern Ireland, to write and perform a one off acoustic ballad for charity? 'This Is All That I Ask Of You', see's the Snow Patrol front man duet with the likes of Ryan & Eimear of Wonder Villains fame, SOAK, Sillouette and David C Clements in a track much more in the mold of his side project Tired Pony than the indie anthems he's known for. A track based around the bands obvious vocal talents, each melody has been carefully crafted, resulting in a stunning live performance in the heart of Stormont. Now on sale for 99p, all money earned from the songs release will go towards The Northern Ireland Music Therapy Trust. For further information head to Snow Patrol's official website.

Supporting the mammoth Twenty One Pilots on the final date of their first world tour was always going to be a tall order, thankfully our own Oh Volcano made it look, quite literally easy. 

Armed with a series of big hitting electronic pop songs, the band, a fairly new entity it has to be remembered, sounded much more assured than expected. Debut single 'Oceans' had the crowd really moving, managing to capture the swaying likability of CHVRCHES, through a maturer finished product.

Entrancing synth lines and catchy choruses define the two-piece's sound, casting ambient shadows across their infectious melodies. Front man Owen Strathern has totally transformed his indie aesthetic, while maintaining the ferocity of his vocal. Tight guitar work interweaves between progressive house, all the while hinting at something deeper. For a two piece band with no drums to capture an audiences attention, (particularly that of Twenty One Pilots dedicated following) takes real persistence, a trait Oh Volcano possess to no end. 

Clearly enjoying their new venture, Oh Volcano looked fully captivated by each of their own songs, almost as much as the crowd themselves. Adding to the already exciting atmosphere that had made it's way into the building.

Brimming with 80's influences, Oh Volcano already sound like a future cult band. Having only scratched the surface of this new acts potential, expect their stock price to rise with each future release.

Taylor Johnson

For fans of: Broken Bells, CHVRCHES, New Order

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Scott Joseph Anderson is one of this country's good guys. A passionate musician and lover of local music, he has contributed more to the Belfast music scene than many may realise. Be it through his tireless efforts with hard rockers Aquatramp, or his one man pursuit to watch as many local gigs as humanly possibly, The Titanics new bass player very rarely sits still. This may go some way to explain why the release of his debut solo album 'Small Exxxplosions (Part 1)' really comes as no surprise. Here Encore NI takes a look at his latest single release...

'Is This The End?' is Scott Anderson's ode to uncertainty. While it's standard practice that the bass line which runs throughout it's 6 minutes is a weaving, trippy highlight (it's the least we'd expect from a man known for playing a six stringed bass) what does catch us out is the songs beautiful interludes. Sweeping outro's of piano and synth combine over Anderson's sparce and distant vocals, making for a waltzing echo chamber of Glasvegas proportions. This is the song at it's best and adds a new string to Andersons bow, who's more emotive side is understandably reigned in for his other bands.

The entrancing nature of Anderson's melody's unfortunately leaves the content of much of his lyrics unexplored, however a brief read over them and you'll be rewarded with a prose far deeper than anything the multi-instrumentalist has worked on before. Indeed, the entirety of Small Exxxplosions is every inch the solo record, honest, revealing and deeply personal. At times, it's home made aesthetic can make it a difficult listen,  but a rewarding one none the less.

"I remember thinking, I needed you with me, through happiness and tragedy...it's easy to write this all off, as being over, and under the cover of the merciless eyes of the sea"

If Anderson was to enter the studio for a polish of Small Exxxplosions, 'Is This The End?' would surely be dedicated the appropriate treatment as well. It's a track of genuine feeling and hopeless faith.

Praise must also go to Anderson for his dedication to the DIY ethics that has shaped his career so far. (Almost all of the recording for his album was done at home, each music video hand made). It must be mentioned, however, that in order for his work to earn the airplay it richly deserves, at least some part of the mastering process may have to occur professionally. It's simply unfair that a pop-act can enter the studio with a half written melody, and emerge with a certain top 10 single through careful production alone; though this is sadly the world we find ourselves in. Subtle undertones of guitar and a richer piano sound would benefit this track, though the basics have been done well. The thought of a maudlin string section bursting through it's crescendo (think Badly Drawn Boy's 'The Shining') may also elevate it to it's true potential.


For fans of: Badly Drawn Boy, Arcade Fire, Devotchka
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