Across the line Feed This is the home of news, reviews and features on the Northern Irish music scene, courtesy of Team ATL.  2023-10-09T13:27:30+00:00 Zend_Feed_Writer /blogs/acrosstheline <![CDATA[modernlove. take on the world]]> 2023-10-09T13:27:30+00:00 2023-10-09T13:27:30+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/278c22e1-9661-4dc8-808b-d3a35705fe53 Across The Line <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0gkdztv.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0gkdztv.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <div class="component prose"> <p><strong>This tour is massive, the excitement must be wild, what does it mean to you to be able to do this?</strong></p> <p>It’s what we’re always waiting to get back to on our time off to be honest. It’s the most amazing rollercoaster, there are so many highs and lows, so many amazing moments and then some days when it’s really hard. So much life is concentrated into those couple months you’re on tour and we can’t wait to get back to it. Starting the band off, that felt like a pipe dream and so for it to be possible now because of other people around the world who hear what we’re saying and feel the same way, it feels really, really good.</p> <p><strong>When you first started playing pubs in Drogheda, what was the goal?</strong></p> <p>Even as teenagers we always took the band seriously. We wanted to be a band that lasted and meant something to people and had something to say. It was prioritised over work and study and there was never really a time where it felt like a hobby. So that was in our heads when we started playing gigs around Drogheda. We were also really bored and probably wanted people to think we were cool.</p> <p><strong>What hobbies/coping mechanisms do you all have outside music that will keep you going during the tour?</strong></p> <p>Are sleeping and napping hobbies? It’s definitely most of what we do between shows. Giving it everything we can on stage night after night and all the travelling (and pints) in between really take their toll after a while so it’s important that we take it easy whenever we can. Having a book, video games or a good podcast on the go really helps you to chill out and relax and catch your breath out on the road.</p> <p><strong>Have you made any sacrifices to get to this point?</strong></p> <p>I think to be in a band you give up a lot of things that people take for granted. None of us have ever really been able to hold down jobs, we don’t get to see or hang out with our friends a lot, some of us didn’t get a chance to finish college. There’s a lot of sacrifice that people don’t really take into account when thinking about starting a band, none of us have super rich parents or links to the music industry either so there’s definitely been some low moments where we’ve asked ourselves what’s the point in doing this. But if you love music and do everything with passion and conviction things will hopefully fall into place.</p> <p><strong>What was the inspiration behind new single ‘plans’?</strong></p> <p>We’ve always liked romanticising our teen years and big nights out and love. All these things are great and we love doing that, but recently we’ve started trying to find the art and the beauty in really mundane day to day activities, things like making plans to go for dinner with a partner or a friend, how you decide what clothes to wear, who had how many drinks and who paid for the meal. Silly things like that have kind of taken over our lyric’s recently.</p> <p><strong>Favourite Irish artists right now?</strong><br />Ev Carm<br />Henry Earnest<br />Girlfriend<br />Passersby</p> </div> <![CDATA[ Introducing Live makes its NI debut in association with Belfast International Arts Festival]]> 2023-09-01T12:21:52+00:00 2023-09-01T12:21:52+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/84b3614e-3722-406d-927b-d4437d080d30 Across The Line <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0gb4558.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0gb4558.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0gb4558.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0gb4558.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0gb4558.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0gb4558.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0gb4558.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0gb4558.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0gb4558.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <div class="component prose"> <p> Introducing, in association with Belfast International Arts Festival, has announced its flagship music discovery event, Introducing Live, will makes its Northern Ireland debut this October.</p> <p>This year’s edition of Introducing Live is taking place across the UK from Wednesday 11th – Saturday 14th October and promises to be bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever before, as it spans across five vibrant cities: London, Manchester, Cardiff, Glasgow and Belfast.</p> <p>In a celebration of emerging talent, Introducing Live will host an array of activities, from educational panels featuring industry veterans to immersive workshops that delve into the intricacies of the music industry, plus a full schedule of live performances – attendees are in for an enriching journey of music discovery.</p> <p>In Belfast, audiences will be treated to an evening of special performances from rising stars Jordan Adetunji, Lucy Gaffney, Reevah, and Cbakl at the Limelight, on Friday 13th October, as part of the 61st Belfast International Arts Festival.</p> <p>Alongside Belfast International Arts Festival, Introducing is working with Beyond The Music festival in Manchester, the Roundhouse Rising Festival in London, and Wales Millennium Centre’s Llais festival in Cardiff to bring the event series to life.</p> <p>Kelly Betts, Editor, Music Introducing, said: “The return of Introducing Live marks a pivotal moment in the calendar for the music industry. Introducing are 100% committed to providing a nurturing environment where young artists and creatives can find their voices, learn from industry experts, and connect with peers who share their passion. This event is ongoing testament to the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and shape our culture.”</p> <p>Richard Wakely, Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Belfast International Arts Festival, said: “There is immense synergy between the values that guide our festival and those of Music Introducing, namely a commitment to supporting emerging, homegrown talent. The line-up reflects the vibrancy and rich musical heritage of this place and it truly embodies Belfast's recent designation as a UNESCO City of Music. It’s for these reasons we’re very excited to work with the team on the debut of Introducing Live in Northern Ireland, an extension of our annual collaboration with the on its Radio 3 Lunchtime Concert, recorded live in Belfast as part of our festival.”</p> <p> Introducing Live at Belfast International Arts Festival, Limelight 2, Friday 13th October</p> <p> Introducing Live at Belfast International Arts Festival presents special performances from rising stars Jordan Adetunji, Lucy Gaffney, Reevah, and Cbakl at the Limelight on Friday 13th October,</p> <p>Having recently signed to the Sony-owned RCA Records, Belfast artist Jordan Adetunji is breaking all the rules with his sound, merging rap and R&B with the post-punk movement. The alternative hip hop artist, who recently released his latest single ‘INVOLVED’, will drop his first EP later this year.</p> <p>Belfast-based singer-songwriter Lucy Gaffney’s solo music career began in 2020 and has already seen her touring with acts such as Wallows, Inhaler, DMA’s, The Coral, Lukas Nelson, Bill Ryder-Jones and Sorcha Richardson. Her new EP, ‘Daydream in Tokyo’, the hotly anticipated follow-up to her debut, ‘Easy Come Easy Go’, will arrive next month.</p> <p>Constantly evolving from her singer-songwriter roots, Derry-born Aoife Boyle, performing under the alias Reevah, has earned tastemaker acclaim, international airplay and streaming support in Ireland, the UK, the USA and beyond. Known for her melodic folk music, Reevah has stepped into a new chapter and a fresh sound of alt-pop melody, mesmerising vocals, and evocative ‘80s flavoured throwbacks. Her long-awaited debut album, ‘Daylight Savings’, releases this November.</p> <p>Cbakl is an alternative hip hop artist producing eclectic beats drawing influence from jazz, R&B, soul and house. Starting out uploading tracks to SoundCloud aged 15, Cbakl began gaining an organic following online and has progressed to become one of Ireland’s most in-demand beatmakers, amassing over 10 million plays across streaming platforms.</p> <p>For more information, <a href="visit%20belfastinternationalartsfestival.com/event/bbc-introducing-presents">visit belfastinternationalartsfestival.com/event/bbc-introducing-presents</a>.</p> </div> <![CDATA[IRELAND MUSIC WEEK ARIST SUBMISSION DATE JUST ANNOUNCED!]]> 2023-01-17T16:15:47+00:00 2023-01-17T16:15:47+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/0992ec70-75e4-488c-b3dc-99a1c51f26c5 Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>Breaking news! The Ireland Music week artist submission date just announced!</p> <p>This year Ireland music week will be taking place on the 3rd-6th of October.</p> <p>Calling all artists and bands! Ireland Music Week have just announced that artist submission’s are opening</p> <p>Each year 50 of the hottest new bands that are breaking waves in the Irish music scene perform and showcase at various venues across Dublin such as; The Grand Social, Lost Lane and the Workman’s Club. The perfect place to discover new talent, network and have a dance all at the same time!</p> <p>This year the festival will open its doors to artists and bands for submissions from the 13th of February and close on the 27th of March.</p> <p>Ireland Music week has a strong focus on artists that are ‘export ready’. Giving them the chance to meet and perform in front of international industry professionals, meaning they could get booked for massive gigs such as Primervera Pro in Spain, Eurosonic in the Netherlands or even find the next addition to their team, Booking Agent etc which can be monumental in the next stage of their career.</p> <p>The conference will also take place across the four days and the gigs will be kicking off on the Thursday and Friday nights.</p> <p>So if you’re a band or an artist and think you have what it takes. Make sure to get your application in!</p> </div> <![CDATA[Chalk stay on track with new single 'Velodrome']]> 2022-11-01T12:53:26+00:00 2022-11-01T12:53:26+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/9fabe988-521a-4a32-82ae-e77a2a723f2d Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>Halloween is just around the corner and I’m feeling extra spooky after hearing the new Chalk release. They’ve really bared their souls with this, bringing a haunting punk and gothic nature to the track; it's a bit of me. Like a pesky poltergeist that won’t leave I’ve had it on repeat since the first listen.</p> <p>It opens slowly with an immense sense of tension, giving the impression of impending dangerously delightful doom and danger. I love it. It has pulsating breakbeats, sirens, eerie guitars and raw vocals. I feel like Ross Cullen (vocalist) bore his soul on this track; and I’m here for it.</p> <p>About the track, they said ‘Velodrome elicits a dying man’s final outcry’ this really emanates from the track itself.</p> <p>This is Chalk’s 2nd release and it’s just as impressive as the debut, if not better. Having already earned praise from 6 music’s Steve Lamacq, announced a slot at Brighton’s showcase festival the Great escape and an EP on the way, it's looking very promising for Chalk. I can’t wait to hear more.</p> <p>This delightfully dangerous track from Chalk outlines just how deadly they can be, so I dare you to go take a listen</p> </div> <![CDATA[SONGBOOK BELFAST]]> 2022-08-09T13:15:43+00:00 2022-08-09T13:15:43+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/1e0b061a-4281-49ae-9c00-751e544e4a55 Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>A gig in the Ulster Sports Club on a Tuesday? Say no more, I’m there.</p> <p>It’s the first Tuesday of the month and I’m on a mission to find new music. The Ulster Sports Club has fashioned itself into quite the hotspot for new music. The venue still has the retro feel of the old Sports Club it once was only now it seems to be at the heart of the Belfast music scene. When you step inside the door you get hit with what can only be described as the USC’s own brand of unique perfume and a friendly hello from the bar staff.</p> <p>Making my way upstairs I’m greeted by familiar Songbook regulars, we’ve all become one big Songbook family over the last few gigs. The lights reflect off of the shimmering gold streamers that dress the stage, with the addition of the pride flag this month. The house band are on stage and eagerly awaiting for host Nathan O’Regan to get the party going. The crowd is cheerful and there seems to be an exciting buzz as the suspense builds to see Laytha and Rory Nellis perform.</p> <p>Nathan O’Regan’s wit and humour win the crowd over straight away, as he opens the show with a few songs with the house band; playing some well known O’Regan classics. You could even hear some of the Songbook veterans singing along in the crowd. Indie Folk duo Laytha leave the crowd speechless as they perform. This is my first time catching them with a live band, and I’m obsessed! Their voices blend so beautifully it gives you goosebumps. Their upcoming single ‘Strawberry Moon’ is really infectious and the crowd are taking it all in like kids on the first day of school. Laytha are performers that leave you wanting more - I can’t wait to hear the debut album they’ve been working on.</p> <p>Rory Nellis, guest number 2 hops onto stage. Straight away he has a stage presence that is undeniable. There’s something really warm and reassuring about him, gaining him a lot of fans in the audience. His performance is enjoyable and it’s evident he is a seasoned performer as he plays with ease. Playing tracks from his ‘Written & Underlined’ album it’s really interesting to hear them with a different arrangement, he comments on this himself, getting a chuckle from the crowd. I really love how his vocals are super strong and soar through the venue, you can really hear the grit and emotion in the words he’s singing.</p> <p>After a short interval, a few more songs from Laytha and Rory Nellis, Nathan O’Regan (the host with the most) hops back on stage to close the night. It’s warm, the crowd are merry and it’s time for one more song. The infamous ‘Crazy For You’. A song when recorded sits at 4minutes and 14 seconds but at Songbook we get the extended version. Each band member beams with their colourful introduction from Nathan as they take the spotlight in turns to showcase just why they’re masters of their instruments. It’s such an amazing moment to watch. And just like that, another Songbook is over. A Tuesday night well spent.</p> </div> <![CDATA[SCRATCH MY PROGRESS IS BACK!]]> 2022-07-07T13:39:13+00:00 2022-07-07T13:39:13+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/6c59ff76-c4c5-4b9f-b556-28d5d50bb6ff Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>STOP WHAT YOU’RE DOING AND CHECK THIS OUT!</p> <p>Scratch My Progress 2022 is back!</p> <p>The scratch my Progress project is an annual talent development scheme that was created to provide up and coming artists with mentoring, practical support and showcase opportunities. Since 2010 Scratch my Progress has been the home to a diverse range of talent mentoring acts such as NI Music Prize Winners Kitt Phillipa, sister Ghost and Sasha Samara. Over 45+ acts have benefited from the mentoring scheme over the 9 month programme and are still prominent in the music industry today. This year the Oh Yeah centre have teamed up with PRS Foundation and Youtube Music to help the chosen 5 artists level up, with support through a series of dedicated masterclasses and more.</p> <p>Applications are now open for budding Scratch my progress particpants - so if you think you have what it takes and want to learn more about the music industry this may be for you! Here’s what some of last year’s participants had to say:</p> <p>"This mentorship gave me so much valuable information about the music industry, and pushed me to have my first and only single release so far - and on the year anniversary of releasing it I was playing a show in Mexico City with Yungblud, so the Moon is the limit with Scratch My Progress!"</p> <p>@lemonade_shoe8 - Scratch My Progress 20/21 participant</p> <p>“Scratch is one of the most rewarding and exciting things we’ve ever been a part of! It covers all the basics of being a musician in a way that just makes sense, and the support we got from Charlene was unlike anything else - going above and beyond to help us excel.”</p> <p>@probpatterns - Scratch My Progress 21/22 participant(s)</p> <p>Applications will stay open until 6pm on the 25th July. To apply check out the Oh Yeah Centre’s website. GO GO GO!</p> </div> <![CDATA[GIG ANNOUNCEMENT]]> 2022-07-07T13:30:54+00:00 2022-07-07T13:30:54+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/23b7808f-e7a6-46e5-b0b6-171707ec9978 Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>GIG ANNOUNCEMENT</p> <p><em>'Legenderry'</em> Northern Irish rock band Fighting with Wire are back! And they’ve just announced a massive headline show.</p> <p>The Derry three piece are known for their fiercely melodic post-hardcore tunes, explosive live shows and incredible presence on stage. They’ve toured across the UK, Ireland and throughout Europe. Playing at huge festivals such as Reading and Leeds, Download, Radio 1’s Big Weekend and more. In 2008 the band secured a record deal with Atlantic Records which led to them working with Grammy award winning producer Nick Raskulinecz who has worked with the likes of Foo Fighters, Alice in Chains and Deftones.</p> <p>Team ATL are so glad to see Fighting with Wire back and better than ever. Throwing a hometown gig for the first time in 10 years; On the 29th of October in the Nerve Centre in Derry. Just before Halloween too! To make things even better, Derry’s very own Cherym and Parker will be on support. Bringing a punk edge to the night.</p> <p>So if you’re up for a night of great N.I. music, the Nerve centre is the place to be! For tickets hop over to their website.</p> </div> <![CDATA[AVA FESTIVAL - DAY SPLITS ANNOUNCED!]]> 2022-04-28T11:37:19+00:00 2022-04-28T11:37:19+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/7e23e814-2a8e-4150-b5ca-e4ca83c36d4f Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p> </p> <p>Ravers get ready! AVA has just announced their day split and it looks SO good!</p> <p>The countdown to AVA is on with just under 5 weeks to go before the festival calls the Titanic Slipways home once again. This iconic festival makes way for some of the ever-emerging homegrown talent in the electronic world, holding panels and stellar performances. This year will see acts like BICEP, Mura Masa, Jon Hopkins, Biig Piig, Sally C, Kessler and more take to the stage.</p> <p>The festival kicks off in style on Thursday the 2nd of June with an opening party at Banana Block in Portview trade centre. This starter session features talks from RA Exchange Live and PRS for musicians followed by an instore from Sound Advice - one of Belfast’s newest record stores. The perfect warm up for a BIG AVA weekend.</p> <p><strong>FRIYAY</strong><br />Friday starts your weekend with a bang with a mix of DJ and live performances throughout the day and into the night. BICEP return for their largest ever homecoming performance to date. Not only do they have a BRIT award nomination under their belt but a chart-topping album too! Other exciting sets on Friday come via Ross From Friends, PROSPA and 999999999, bringing their impressive skills, blend of electronic and AV to bring their audiences on a journey.</p> <p>It’ll be difficult to fit it all in, but be sure to make your way over to see Dublin’s Gemma Dunleavy, who made her AVA debut last year; and people are still talking about how incredible her set was. So, she’s back for round 2! You’ll also get to catch performances from other homegrown talents such as Kessler, Plain Sailing, Carlton Doom, ELLLL and many more!</p> <p><strong>SATURYAY</strong><br />Jumping to the 2nd day of the festival the fun continues! Mura Masa takes to the stage, you’ll know him from his impressive Grammy awarded work with ASAP Rocky, Stromzy and Pink Pantheress. One of Ireland’s most talked-about acts, BIIG PIIG, joins the Saturday lineup bringing her unique blend of RnB and use of English and Spanish - we can’t wait to see her take to the stage! Other performances include techno powerhouse and left-leaning soundscapes from Overmono and Giant Swan. There’s something there for everyone!</p> <p>We also can’t forget about our own local legends! Saturday’s bill offers up Jordan Nocturne, Holly Lester and Reger, who are all past tastemakers for our Sounds mix ‘Beat Seekers’, dedicated to showcasing the finest homegrown talent. Other local favourites performing are Marion Hawkes, TWITCH, Inside Moves and many more. Each bring their own flavour to the festival through techno, house, trance, new wave and everything in between.</p> <p>But that’s not all! Did someone say after party?<br />Yes, that’s right, you heard me. There ain’t no party like an after-party! These parties will be split between Banana Block at Portview trade centre, Thompsons Garage and The Ulster Sports Club on Friday and Saturday night. And of course, the annual legendary closing party, held in Thompsons garage on Sunday the 5th of June. Meaning, there’s no excuse to miss out! The lineup is TBA at the moment, so make sure to keep an eye on our socials as we keep you up to date with all of the AVA news.</p> </div> <![CDATA[BEST SONG IN THE WORLD - CAOLAN IRVINE 'WISHING OU' (BoGriLZ Remix)]]> 2022-04-24T12:12:04+00:00 2022-04-24T12:12:04+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/084fb250-15f9-408f-abe5-ddbf965f1f1f Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>This week Caolan Irvine and BoGriLZ made us want more with ‘Missing You’. It’s full of hooks, and an infectious bassline we can’t stop dancing to!</p> <p>Electronic Dj and producer Caolan Irvine returns with a brand new single, ‘Missing You’. It’s the perfect dance floor moment! The track itself builds throughout with prominent keys, soaring vocals and intricate hooks. We love how BoGriLZ has put a different spin on the track through the remix, adding a lil extra flavour. ‘Missing You’ is the title track to Caolan’s brand new EP ‘Missing You’ - definitely worth a listen!</p> <p>Irvine has previously blessed our ears with tracks like ‘I’m Fine’ and ‘Deeper’ and continues to do so with ‘Missing You’. He’s just the gift that keeps on giving! So if you’re needing a house banger to bring you to the dance floor, then this is for you. Caolan Irvine ‘Missing You’ (BoGriLZ Remix), is our Best Song in the World.</p> </div> <![CDATA[Everything You Need To Know Ahead of Record Store Day in NI this weekend]]> 2022-04-21T09:43:45+00:00 2022-04-21T09:43:45+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/4835d92e-c704-41ef-b4a1-b211e185fee8 Gemma Bradley <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0c2f5ml.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <div class="component prose"> <p>Hey, music heads! In case you didn’t know this year’s record store day is taking place this Saturday the 23rd of April. Record Store day happens once a year. Where over 260 independent record shops across the UK join forces and celebrate (in style) their unique and exciting culture. Special releases are made exclusively for the big celebrations and some shops even host special performances from your favourite artists and events to mark the day. And on top of that, it’s become a worldwide phenomenon, as over 1000’s record stores across the world pitch in and celebrate this wonderful event! It’s definitely one for the calendar.</p> <p>If you’re thinking “this is for me”, then make sure to get involved and celebrate with your local record store! We’ve even made a list of local stores that you can visit today, to make it super simple.</p> <p>Visit Your Local Record Store:<br />• Starr Records - 22 Berry st, Belfast<br />• Could Discs Music - 6 Lesley House, Foyle Street, Derry, BT48 6AL<br />• Sound Advice - Banana Block, PortView Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 1HE<br />• Bending Sound - 2 Bank Lane, Bangor, County Down, BT20 5EG<br />• Choons - 18 Central Avenue, Bangor , BT20 3AF<br />• Fairhill Records - 5 Hill Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 6BH</p> </div> <![CDATA[BEST SONG IN THE WORLD - USNA 'THROW UP']]> 2022-04-14T09:53:34+00:00 2022-04-14T09:53:34+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/919e66a2-49d5-4081-b11d-cfb620a20a7f Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>This week USNA made us ‘sick’ with the new single ‘Throw Up’. It’s playful, exciting and has a chorus you can’t stop singing along to. We LOVE it!</p> <p>Fresh from a London headline show USNA returns with a brand new single, ‘Throw Up’. It’s the perfect summer bop and we’re only in April! Straight away it emanates the influence of Dominic Fike and Brockhampton, making it sound effortlessly cool. But what’s really impressive is USNA’s talent for making his sound authentic, exciting, and real. About the track USNA said “‘Throw Up’ is about a breakup with a summer fling where they act like nothing ever happened…like...the nerve?”.</p> <p>After support from ATL Introducing and Introducing on Radio 1, USNA landed himself Radio 1’s introducing track of the week, which helped secure him for the lineup for ‘Radio 1’s Big Weekend’ this year in Coventry. We are so proud! He has also promised to play the brand-new single ‘Throw Up’ there. We can’t wait to hear it live.</p> <p>So, if you’re needing a summer banger before summer, this is the one for you. USNA ‘Throw Up’, our Best Song in the World.</p> </div> <![CDATA[Roe returns with new single ‘I Dare You’]]> 2022-03-31T11:55:06+00:00 2022-03-31T11:55:06+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/beb46134-f73d-4147-a8d6-b94b78cd5165 Aine Cronin-McCartney <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bymqt1.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0bymqt1.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <div class="component prose"> <p>Existential Indie artist Roe returns with her blistering new single 'I Dare You'.</p> <p>Released via the Music Federation, the track was inspired by Roe’s own experiences of an overwhelming touring schedule and late-night traveling. With a knack for succinct and observational lyricism, Roe can be heard embracing the emotional relief that song-writing can bring.</p> <p>Expressing her thoughts on the track Roe explains “This song is about every unpredictable emotion that stems from adrenaline and exhaustion on the road and the parts of our lives as musicians that nobody ever gets to see..”</p> <p>The track follows the roaring success of 2021 release ‘Cruel’, and a fruitful collaboration with fellow Northern Irish songwriter, Ciaran Lavery on ‘Destroyer’</p> <p>The driving indie-pop anthem is elevated with a surging trumpet fanfare and soaring vocals, as are treated to an infectious and trademark Roe chorus.</p> <p>Implementing her own brand of existential indie 'I Dare You' continues to usher in the new era of Roe.</p> </div> <![CDATA[BEST SONG IN THE WORLD - Fya Fox 'Hit Me Where It Hurts']]> 2022-03-31T10:08:52+00:00 2022-03-31T10:08:52+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/83f924e6-113f-49f6-9d35-84da0c5c9e18 Gemma Bradley <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bym1q3.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0bym1q3.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <div class="component prose"> <p>This week Fya Fox turns up the heat with brand new single ‘Hit Me Where it Hurts’. It’s dark, indulgent and has a chorus you can’t ignore. Complete pop perfection!</p> <p>The track itself begins with atmospheric soundscapes, paired with Fya’s delicate vocal. The instrumentation gradually rises, building tension which releases in the chorus with a fantastic pulsating drum and bass section, making it our Best song in the world this week. This is Fya Fox’s first release of 2022, and we can confirm it’s ‘fya’ and can’t wait to hear more! This track is just one of her many releases planned for the year.</p> <p>So, if you’re into soaring vocals, catchy hooks, and emotive lyrics, then our Best Song in the World ‘Hit Me Where it Hurts’ by Fya Fox is for you.</p> </div> <![CDATA[Output Belfast is back!]]> 2022-03-28T15:45:10+00:00 2022-03-28T15:45:10+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/b6fc7ae1-e287-4139-96c3-7f9fc3bd91e3 Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>OUTPUT BELFAST IS BACK!</p> <p>This year, April 21st, sees the return of the Output Belfast showcase and conference in REAL LIFE. I know, we can’t wait either! This year’s conference will see top names from the global music industry taking to the stage to speak and offer advice across panel talks throughout the day. There will be workshops, music sessions, panels, advice sessions, networking events and keynote speeches from some big names across the industry. So, if you’re a musician, making music or someone who wants to get into the industry, this is a great event to head to and check out.<br />The conference itself will be held between The Mac and the Oh Yeah Centre. This year’s opening keynote speakers and topics are:</p> <p>• ‘Catch 22 - What the music industry needs to do, do better and stop doing in 2022’<br />Eamonn Forde, award-winning music journalist and author</p> <p>• ‘The Future of Independent Venues in the UK’<br />Sybil Bell, founder of Independent Venue Week</p> <p>• ‘Your music, your rights: the role of PPL in Northern Ireland’<br />Peter Leathem, Chief Executive Officer at PPL</p> <p>We’ll also be holding our very own panel this year with Introducing! On Thursday the 21st of April from 2.45pm you’ll get to meet the team and hear advice on how to pitch your songs to them. The panel will be hosted by Phil Taggart (Broadcaster, Author, Music Consultant, Founder of town Records) and the speakers include; Gemma Bradley (Presenter on Radio 1’s ‘ Introducing’ and Radio Ulster’s ‘ATL Introducing’), Millie Carter (Production Coordinator, Music Introducing) and Kelly Betts (Editor, Music Introducing). Definitely not one to miss!</p> <p>Output is a really popular event across the industry so we would advise singing up early as you don’t want to miss out - It’s been said that it will attract more than 600 local artists, businesses and students. Oh and did we mention it’s FREE?! On top of all of the great advice you gather, networking opportunities and workshopping there is also a fantastic showcase in the evening held across the Cathedral Quarter with some of the hottest bands and artists on the rise at the moment. So remember to save the date, April 21st 2022!</p> <p>For more info, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events and to sign up for priority updates go to www.outputbelfast.com</p> </div> <div class="component"> <img class="image" src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg" srcset="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/80xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 80w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/160xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 160w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 320w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/480xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 480w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 640w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/768xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 768w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/896xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 896w, https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1008xn/p0bx1rt1.jpg 1008w" sizes="(min-width: 63em) 613px, (min-width: 48.125em) 66.666666666667vw, 100vw" alt=""></div> <![CDATA[BEST SONG IN THE WORLD - Axis Of - Blackcomber]]> 2022-03-22T15:51:13+00:00 2022-03-22T15:51:13+00:00 /blogs/acrosstheline/entries/43831e74-fca0-402a-a993-2342d2df7ba9 Gemma Bradley <div class="component prose"> <p>BEST SONG IN THE WORLD - Axis Of - Blackcomber</p> <p>Axis Of - ‘Blackcomber’</p> <p>Axis Of offer a snapshot of what’s to come with ‘Blackcomber’ this week’s Best Song in the World.</p> <p>The track itself begins with a crispy guitar hook acting as a driving force, which is married to the iconic rhythmic section. This, paired with drop sections and lush layered electric guitars create that indie stomp that we love to hear. This track is just one of many off their new album ‘Bella Pacifica’ which is due for release on the 22nd of April. Niall from the band said the album itself, “ has sad songs...but it is hopeful that there can be good times again”. Axis Of have set the bar high for the album with this new record, sounding bigger and better than ever.</p> <p>So, if you’re into guitar laded hooks, drum fills, and big drops, then our Best Song in the World ‘Blackkcomber’ by Axis Of is for you.</p> </div>