Hello hello all! It’s time for another installment of our A-Z of the Irish Music Scene. In this installment we are going to look at G-I! As always, we posted on our socials to get some artists’ names we may have forgotten and made a master list. From this list, we then wrote out each artist/band name on pieces of paper and picked five pieces of paper per letter (where we could). We will be answering a few questions per artist/act. During our isolation period and social distancing, remember music gets us through these tough times! So, if you feel like checking out any of these artists, the streams would help them out massively and you might fall in love with some new music. Now sit back and enjoy reading our round up of some incredibly talented G-I Artists of the Irish Music Scene!
Gavin James
Exploding onto the Irish Music Scene in 2015, even though he had been on the scene before then, is our first artist is Gavin James. Anyone not familiar with his work might recognize his music from the TV advertisement for FBD’s Irish Olympic team advertisement or you will definitely have heard one of his many hits on the radio. His debut album ‘Bitter Pill’ came out in 2016 giving Gavin a #5 spot on the Irish charts. Countless top singles later, with songs that get stuck in your head and numerous tours around the world with huge acts, such as Ed Sheeran, and by himself. This is one Irish Artist who was born to entertain millions of people. His music can be found here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have indeed. I listen to Gavin quite a bit but it’s mostly my favourite songs that I listen to.
N: Yes. His songs are hard to miss as they are incredibly catchy, are all over the radio and my playlists.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: Gavin has an incredibly unique voice and it is always a stand out aspect of his music. Regardless of whether you listen to Gavin live or to his album, his voice is the most identifiable feature of his music. He might regret those high notes in the future but they work for him now, that falsetto!
N: His voice. Gavin has the most incredible voice that you can listen to for hours.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Love Gavin’s version of ‘The Book of Love’ but my favourite of his own songs would be either ‘Nervous’ or ‘Only Ticket Home’
N: I match up with Emma on my favourite. Mine is ‘Nervous’.
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Glow – To be completely honest, I associated Gavin with slower, more emotionally vulnerable music at the beginning and then he dropped Glow.
N: His cover of ‘Fairytale of New York’. I just remember feeling awestruck when listening to it for the first time.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I have seen Gavin live a few times and I will say that he’s fond of the ol’ confetti.
N: I’ve seen Gavin live a number of times and have always had a great time! You cannot be anything but happy after seeing Gavin live.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: Finding out that Gavin could have been in Kodaline was a bit of a stunning moment… like how different things could have been.
N: Ringing in the New Year with him in 2019 was pretty special while at the New Years Gig on the Quays.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I am definitely recommending that people give Gavin a listen. ‘Bitter Pill’ was the first song of his that I heard so I recommend people start there and work forward to the present. Gavin has some fantastic songs in his repertoire but, if you really want to see his ability, watch the official video for ‘Nervous’.
N: Yes! The first one I would recommend is ‘Always’ swiftly followed by ‘Glow’ because they are EVERYWHERE!
Greyface
Greyface is a relatively new band with their debut single ‘Yin’ dropping in May 2019. They have an amazing stage presence with many theatrical aspects being brought into their music and their performance. They describe themselves as an alternative band and trust us when we say they were Niamh’s biggest surprise act find of 2019. We look forward to hearing a lot more from Greyface in the future but until then check out their debut single here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have never heard of Greyface before so this will be something fun and new.
N: Yes, Greyface is pretty spectacular! I listen to their single a lot.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: They are just so inherently different in their choice of genre – I don’t even know what genre to place them in – than pretty much any Irish act I’ve ever heard before but I really enjoyed it!
N: Hearing them live! They were so much better than I could ever imagine live. I know you can say this about many acts but Greyface really made me take a step back and say “Wow!” when I saw them live for the first time.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Yin – please release a song called Yang for the laugh.
N: Has to be their debut single ‘Yin’
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: This is a case of being unable to say that I’ve been surprised because I’ve only heard one of their songs but I’m betting they’ll have no problem surprising me in the future.
N: Hearing them live! They were so much better than I could ever imagine live. I know you can say this about many acts but Greyface really made me take a step back and say “Wow!” when I saw them live for the first time.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I haven’t seen them live yet but I’m always willing to give a new band a chance. I always feel like seeing a band live is a more accurate representation of their music than what’s created in a studio
N: Yes, I have seen them live once and hopefully I can add to this tally as soon as possible
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I can’t say that I do but I’m sure there will be memories made over time.
N: Seeing them in the Academy Green Room supporting As It Is. I remember being floored by how amazing they sounded. One extremely amazing stand out performance and being by myself for their set didn’t even shake me because I got lost in their music.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: Definitely listen to ‘Yin,’ it’s a great song and I’m looking forward to hearing more from them.
N: Of course! Their single ‘Yin’ give it a listen and decide for yourself what you think of them!
Greywind
Greywind are a sibling alternative rock group hailing from Killarney, who say success happened literally over a number of days. Since the whirlwind that happened with the uploading of their single ‘Afterthoughts’, this dynamic duo are going from strength to strength from playing top festivals, insane support slots and their own shows too! Their debut album ‘Afterthoughts’ came out in 2017 and they have released a range of singles since. You can check out their music here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have heard of Greywind but I have never heard their music.
N: Yes, their music is my kinda jam! I listen to them regularly.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: For me the beautiful and unique lead vocals are what that really makes them stand out.
N: Their sound! I am a sucker for good sounding alternative rock music and Greywind have that in volumes.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Circle – there’s a fantastic contrast between the verse and chorus every time.
N: The Lake. The reason for this one is the different aspects that come together to tell the story of this song.
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Car Spin
N: ‘Stitch on My Wings’ – the emotions I felt listening to that the first time and every time since then; still takes me by surprise.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: Not yet but I’m definitely looking forward to getting the chance to see them
N: No, not yet. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to make it to one of their gigs.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: Not yet but knowing me that will change.
N: Not yet but, hopefully, we change that soon.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
N: I know their genre of music isn’t for everyone but, I would recommend them to everyone to give their music a try. Starting with their album ‘Afterthoughts’ the title track is the first song too, so it is easier to remember.
E: I would have to agree with Niamh on this one; the title track of their album is an ideal way to get a taste of their music so I’m recommending ‘Afterthoughts.’
HappyAlone
Happyalone this group hails from Cork and even though their sound has electro aspects they describe their music as ‘genre fluid’. One of the up and coming acts that Niamh will rant and rave about for ages if; you ask her about them. Happyalone appeared onto the Irish scene in 2018 with their single ‘Colours’ in 2017, they won 2FM’s competition ‘Play the Picnic’ and have been making festival appearances since. Their 2020 tour got postponed to September so, if you like what you hear, consider heading to see them live! Their music can be found here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have heard of Happyalone; their music sneaks into my playlist when I’m in the mood.
N: Yes, my boys! A lot these guys take over a lot of my music listening time.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: Honestly, I feel like Happyalone have created music from organising the chaos in their brains to a beat and turning it into something that people can consume, if that makes any sense, and I don’t mean that in a bad way.
N: Their overall sound! I honestly adore the sound and production of their songs.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Go Slow
N: ‘Go Slow’. I adore this song, it came out in 2018 but, it is still my absolute favourite by the lads.
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Colours – It gave me Radiohead vibes
N: ‘Bodybags’. This song, the meaning and story behind it really shock me. Not many artists decide to cover such tough topics and do them justice.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I’ve seen them live twice if I’m remembering correctly.
N: Several times. Hopefully more come, their rescheduled tour in September.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I think the most memorable thing about Happyalone is just how unusual but enjoyable their performances are.
N: The Hole in Wall, Kilkenny…. Enough said… Gosh such a fun night.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I’m recommending Bodybags; I find it so mellow and chill but that might just be me. It’s very at odds with the message of the song though.
N: ‘Lucifer’ why? Because the lyrics and the production behind it is amazing!
HamsandwicH
This five piece band hails from Kells, Co. Meath and have been a constant in the Irish music scene since their formation in 2003. Three albums, eighteen singles and numerous sold out tours across Ireland; HamsandwicH truly are a force to be reckoned with. They are also performing on The Ruby Stay At Home Sessions tomorrow night on the Ruby Sessions Youtube. This band is one of a handful that Niamh has seen the most over the years live! Don’t just take our word on how fantastic they are as their music can be found here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have heard of Hamsandwich but I don’t listen to their music really.
N: Yes!
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: They have spectacular harmonies in their songs and a brightness to their music.
N: The ‘fun’ aspect of their music. No matter what song of theirs you listen to you are immediately put in a better, happier mood!
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Illuminate
N: ‘Ants’ has been my favourite since the day I first heard it and has yet to be topped!
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Bodies because I’d heard the song a few times and I honestly didn’t know that it was them that sang that song.
N: ‘Reactions’ I remember hearing it for the first time and thinking oh damn… this is just O.O – try to put words to that one. It really blew me out of the water when it comes to Hamsandwich’s sound.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I have seen them live. Thank you Indiependence.
N: I have seen them a number of times but, not as much as I would like. November and December are our busiest months in work and the months the gang decide to go on tour. I always end up buying a ticket for the shows but, for the past 2 years I have been unsuccessful in using them for these shows. One day I won’t have to give them away for free and I’ll be able to use them myself!
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: The most memorable thing for me is the moment a bottle of Buckfast (well I think it was Buckfast) was brought onstage and Niamh proceeded to drink straight from the bottle until the bottle made the appropriate sound when tapped and was then played like an instrument. That was pretty cool.
N: My all time favourite memory with Hamsandwich was seeing them in Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre with my mam. It was such an amazing night and I even got to say hi to Niamh after the gig. One of my favourite pictures with an Irish music artist too!
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: People should listen to ‘Ants,’ a fantastic introduction to HamsandwicH
N: Yes, I really would. Many people seem to enjoy dancing around to ‘Illuminate’ and it is a really fun song, so I would suggest starting there!
Hermitage Green
Hermitage Green: the band with all of the musical talents. Honestly, try mention Hermitage Green in front of us without us mentioning the didgeridoo. Hermitage Green are a Limerick based Irish acoustic folk rock band. They have spent the past number of years touring. With one album, a live CD, two EPs and numerous singles, Hermitage Green is one act you need to hear today if you aren’t already a listener. Give their music a listen to here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: Yes, I have heard of Hermitage Green and their music pops up in my playlists every now and then.
N: Yep! Hermitage Green is a firm favourite with a number of my friends. At the end of the day at work, we always blast their tunes as we are cleaning and locking up.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: If you can include a didgeridoo in your music, you immediately get my respect. If you can include a didgeridoo on a cover of ‘bad guy’ by Billie Eilish, just all of the applause!
N: When listening to their music you can just tell that Hermitage Green love what they create and have fun with the music.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Lions Share
N: ‘Quicksand’
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: I can’t say that I’ve ever been surprised by a song but I have never been disappointed. They are a consistent band that know what their sound is.
N: None that comes to mind. Each song Hermitage Green has out sounds exactly like it is them. I look forward to the day they surprise me with something.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I have. I first saw them supporting The Coronas in the INEC in Killarney and they were brilliant. I really want to see them at their own headline gig though.
N: I have thanks to the INEC Gig and a few festival appearances. Hope to make it to a headline show soon.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I think just my reaction to the didgeridoo on stage at the INEC was a memorable moment for me because I’d never actually seen one actually being played let alone being used as part of a band
N: Oh gosh okay are we ready for this. I video called two of my friends during their set during their performance in the INEC supporting The Coronas. That was all good until I got told to bop along too. After their set someone who was sitting behind us said “Well at least someone was having the time of their life!”
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: 100% recommending Hermitage Green
N: Definitely! Take a listen to ‘Afterglow’ it came out in March of this year and the vocals in this one set a nice introduction to Hermitage Green.
Hozier
The gentle giant of the Irish Music Scene, Andrew Hozier-Byrne is the artist to listen to no matter what mood you are in. Andrew hails from Wicklow and when performing goes by his stage name Hozier. He rose to fame in 2013 when his single ‘Take Me To Church’ took the world by storm. Two incredible albums under his belts, top ten Irish hit singles and tours galore; this artist is one of the acts Ireland is most proud of but don’t take just our word for it. You can check out his music here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: Yes, I have heard of Hozier (who I am pretty convinced is the human incarnation of Hades; he doesn’t know what a pomegranate is… I’m watching you Andrew) before and I do listen to his music quite a bit.
N: Yes, of course I have! He is slowly taking over the world. A lot actually, if I’m not by myself, with my sister in recent weeks while we get all the jobs done.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: His lyrics. How he writes is just so uniquely Hozier, that’s the only way I can describe it. The messages in his music as well always stands out and the man can sing live just as well as he sings in a studio and I have nothing but respect for artists who can do that night after night.
N: His lyrics. Honestly, I could get lost in his lyrics for days.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: I adore his rendition of ‘The Parting Glass’ but I love ‘It Will Come Back’ and ‘Almost (Sweet Music)’.
N: ‘Someone New’
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Someone New – I think I heard ‘Take Me to Church’ and expected more of the same and I was very wrong. Honestly, I think Hozier is an artist that is always capable of surprising his audience.
N: What completely floored me with surprise from Hozier was his performance of ‘The Parting Glass’ on the Late Late Show a few weeks back.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I have never seen him perform live in person but, man, I would love to if only tickets weren’t so hard to get.
N: Between clashing gigs and finding it hard to get tickets when dates suited; I haven’t been able to see him live yet.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I think the most memorable moment for me was seeing the videos of Hozier performing in a Subway in the US, it has to be my favourite thing ever. I sat there completely spellbound for the entirety of the videos just thinking to myself ‘damn man can sing anywhere and sound amazing.’
N: Getting a random photo while at work from my sister showing her and her best friend meeting Hozier! It was a happy moment.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I would suggest listening to ‘Someone New’ and then fall down the rabbit hole that is Hozier.
N: I could go with one of the obvious ones but where is the fun in that? My suggestion would be ‘Nobody’ from his album Wasteland, Baby!
Hudson Taylor
Hudson Taylor the dynamic brother duo from Dublin, who have stolen both our hearts here at Our Muchness Guide. Alfie and Harry have been captivating audiences since 2015 with their debut album ‘Singing For Strangers’, spellbinding harmonies, memorable lyrics and incredible songs encased with stories. Their second album ‘Loving Everywhere I Go’ came out in February of this year. With numerous singles to date including ‘Chasing Rubies’ and ‘Back to You’. There really is no stopping this band of brothers. You can check out their music here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have, of course, heard of Hudson Taylor. I listen to them a lot. I have quite a bit of their music on my phone.
N: Of course! Anyone who has seen my socials will know I adore Hudson Taylor. I listen to them a lot. The past month I have been blasting ‘Bear Creek to Dame Street’ more so than any other of their albums.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: What makes Hudson Taylor’s music stand out for me is the way in which they happily do what they want and create music that they love which you fall in love with because you can feel the joy and pride that those brothers have in their music.
N: I always answer this question about Hudson Taylor in the same way… It’s Hudson Taylor. They have the most unique and amazing way of delivering song after song that; in my opinion they are in a league of their own and cannot be compared to any other music act.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Easy Baby
N: ‘Feel It Again’ – No matter how many years pass and no matter how many songs they bring out; it will always be this one.
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: Wildfires
N: ‘I Will Be There for You’ this one is magical all you need to hear it. Having their sister as an additional voice and the song’s story is magical.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I have and there’s nothing quite like seeing them live. It’s a homecoming everytime you see them.
N: Countless times and recently a lot by myself which I wouldn’t change for the world. There is nothing quite like a Hudson Taylor gig, the atmosphere is one of a feeling of coming home.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I just know I will forever and always remember Battles at Indiependence 2018.
N: ‘Ever’ … ‘Dance’… every single time ‘Feel It Again’ is sung and one of my friends is around me that is sung in my face!
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I would 100% recommend them. Chasing Rubies is what drew me to Hudson Taylor so I’m suggesting people start there.
N: Obviously! If you haven’t already listened to Hudson Taylor get onto it. I’m going to recommend listening to ‘Care’ first. It is usually one of the first songs on their set list and it sets up the introduction to their music perfectly.
Issac Butler
Issac Butler, one of our ones to watch in our A-Z series. Issac is a relatively new artist with his debut single ‘Moon Song’ appearing on the scene in 2018 . Issac prides himself on his story-telling aspect of his song writing. This singer-songwriter brings a feel good factor to his songs and creates lyrics that will get stuck in your head for hours. He has a new single ‘Paranoid’ dropping this Friday but, until then, you can check out his music here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have never heard of Issac so I have some new music to enjoy.
N: Yes and as often as he pops up on the playlist.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: His lyrics have the ability to get stuck in your head so he has some solid earworms in his repertoire.
N: His voice plus what he can do with a guitar equals something truly fun to listen to
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: Rescue Me
N: ‘Young Forever’. It was the first song of his that I heard and the one I fell in love with.
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: ‘Young Forever’
N: ‘Spin You Around’
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: No but I look forward to seeing him live
N: No not yet. I hope to someday.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: Not really but I remember Niamh showing me a card in Starbucks with an Irish artist on it. Turns out that was Issac.
N: A fun memory with Isaac’s music I have is how I found his music. Starbucks by Trinity College in Dublin had Artist of the Month cards. I picked it up and the rest is history.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: Definitely should have a listen to ‘Moon Song.’
N: Yes, I’m going to recommend the first song I heard of his ‘Young Forever’. I will say he has a new single dropping this month called ‘Paranoid’ that I look forward to checking out.
Imelda May
Imelda May, one of the legendary names on our lists. Imelda May stole all our hearts when she stepped out onto the scene back in 2003 with her debut album. With her quirky personality, catchy songs and her amazing look, it’s no wonder she became a household name. Since her debut single ‘Johnny Got a Boom Boom’ from 2009 until now; Imelda has released five albums, ten singles and travelled far and wide with her music. Her style of music is ever changing in our opinion and you should really check it out! Her music can be found here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have heard of Imelda May but I would only really have known her music from around 2008-2010 before now.
N: Yes I have heard of Imelda May. My mam is one of her biggest fans and her music can be heard blasting from our kitchen alot.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: She’s a fantastic vocalist and her voice suits so many different styles of music.
N: Her vocal range and her tone of voice.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: ‘Johnny Got A Boom Boom’ – I’m a sucker for them big bass notes
N: ‘Should’ve Been You’
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: ‘Call Me’
N: ‘The Girl I Used To Be’
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I haven’t seen Imelda live but I definitely would love to.
N: Twice, her energy on stage is amazing.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: I don’t think I have any memorable moments so far.
N: The most memorable memory was hearing my mam recounting her first time seeing Imelda May. It was inspiring to go see Imelda live.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I would definitely recommend her. I’d suggest Sneaky Freak.
N: I definitely recommend her. Start by listening to her most recent music and work backwards the album is ‘Life Love Fresh Blood’ so, ‘Call Me’ would be my first suggestion of what to listen to.
Inhaler
Four Dublin based friends who formed the band in school, Elijah Hewson, Robert Keating, Ryan McMahon and Josh Jenkinson bonded over a love of similar groups and have amassed a die hard following, with their tracks being streamed over 8 million times. Inhaler exemplifies up and coming music in Ireland with catchy lyrics and radio friendly rock. Check out their music here.
Have you heard of this act before today? If so, did you listen to their music regularly?
E: I have heard of Inhaler but I don’t listen to their music much.
N: I have heard of Inhaler numerous times from our friend group but, honestly, I’ve never sat down and listened to the studio versions of their songs. I’ve only ever listened to them live.
What aspect of their music jumps out at you the most?
E: I’m always reminded of the Strokes when I hear Inhaler and I don’t know why but I will say that Inhaler’s music is very memorable and does get stuck in your head very easily.
N: Their overall sound and when you see them live, their stage presence.
What is your favourite song of theirs?
E: We Have To Move On
N: There’s No Other Place
Have you a song of theirs that surprised you most?
E: I have to admit that I’m not overly familiar with their music so I can’t really say that I was surprised by any of the songs that I heard but that may change in the future.
N: Not yet but, someday I am sure it will happen.
Have you seen them live? If not, do you want to?
E: I saw them at the NYE gig on the Quays in 2018
N: Yes, three times now. NYE gig on the Quays in 2018 and at festivals.
Have you any fun, embarrassing or memorable memories or stories involving their music?
E: Giving out about Eli for climbing up on a drum kit at the NYE gig XD
N: Screaming at Eli to get down off Cal’s Drum Kit. The joys of it looking awkward the way he got up onto the Drum Kit.
Would you recommend them? If you would recommend what song do you recommend listening to first? And if not why?
E: I’d recommend listening to ‘My Honest Face’ and don’t compare them to U2 just because.
N: Sure, give ‘It Won’t Always Be Like This’ a listen to first.
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