Dublin-based collective telekura released their new single ‘hi-chew’ on 14 October, building on the momentum of their previous release, ‘big nothing’. Blending wonky electronics, hazy 90s-inspired vocals and a playful rhythmic pulse, the track finds the band exploring the emotional complexities of relationships and opportunities left behind.

Named after the cult Japanese candy brand that frontwoman Rachel Tan remembers from childhood, ‘hi-chew’ reflects on the possibilities of a relationship that was never pursued, alongside the nostalgia and regret that can accompany paths not taken.

“Superficially, hi-chew (the song) is a wistful reflection of an unpursued relationship and what might/mightn’t have happened. There’s a bit of nostalgia and regret mixed in there. It overtly points at a romantic relationship, but really it extends to any other opportunity that you might have given up in pursuit of the ‘right thing to do’,” Rachel explains. “There’s a link there with big nothing, around what’s considered the framework of a correct adult life, and what you give up in pursuit of it.”

Experimentation meets an instinctive songwriting partnership

Written by Rachel Tan and co-founder Stephen Purcell, ‘hi-chew’ arrived largely formed, with the pair focusing their attention on its arrangement and production. Recorded at home using vintage early-80s machines, the track was mixed by Adam Shanahan.

Stephen recalls how an unexpected production decision helped bring the song together.

“This was already a fun song when Rachel sent it over and didn’t really need much tweaking. During the demo process, though, it felt like the drums were missing something. After trying all kinds of parts and arrangements, we stumbled onto the idea of layering a simple drum loop over the original pattern, and it unexpectedly tied everything together. It gave the drums this kind of Pumpkins ‘1979’ vibe, which quickly became one of our favourite things about the track.”

The result pushes telekura further into their distinctive, eclectic sound, combining off-kilter synth-pop, psychedelic textures and left-field hooks. Drawing on influences as varied as XTC, The Beach Boys, St Vincent, Mitski, Nirvana, The Pixies and Faye Wong, the collective continue to carve out their own space within Dublin’s alternative music scene.

There is, however, one question on which the band are unequivocal: the best Hi-Chew flavour is grape.

A busy autumn on the road

‘hi-chew’ arrives as telekura continue a busy run of live dates across the UK and Europe. Their autumn schedule includes festival appearances at Pro Weekend Fest in Spain, Left Of The Dial in Rotterdam and Other Voices in Dingle, alongside headline shows at The Social in London and Upstairs at Whelan’s in Dublin this November.

Following the growing recognition of ‘big nothing’, the new single further develops a recurring theme in the band's songwriting: the tension between society's expectations of adulthood and the personal sacrifices involved in meeting them.

Watch the lyric video for ‘hi-chew’ below:

Watch the ‘hi-chew’ lyric video here

Millions of songs sit in our pockets, ready to soundtrack almost any moment. Algorithms decide what we hear next, playlists can be built around a mood rather than a musician, and increasingly sophisticated AI tools can produce entire songs in seconds.

But as access to music has become almost limitless, the person behind the music can become increasingly difficult to see.

For Irish folk musician Alan Daniel Tobin, that human connection is becoming more important, not less.

A musician for more than two decades, Tobin has played in various bands while developing his own original material. He is a member of folk group LOWmountain and has released three solo albums, the latest under his full name rather than his previous moniker, ADT.


‘Mountain Common’ Album Cover: ‘Light on the Mountain Common’ by Aidan O’Regan

His music is deeply rooted in personal experience. Field recordings capture cityscapes and seascapes, while sounds from his family and surroundings become part of his recordings. His solo work has become, he says, something of a musical diary for his children.

That is particularly evident on his latest album, Mountain Common, where the opening track, Good Morning, features children's voices singing “I will always love you”.

In an age when AI can be prompted to generate a song about almost anything, there is something refreshingly human about this approach.

From the artist to the algorithm

Tobin recently made the decision to remove his music from Spotify. The decision was primarily political, prompted by his concerns about Spotify CEO Daniel Ek's investments in war technology, such as German drone maker Helsing, to which Ek is also the Chairman (Source: CNBC). He has also stopped his Spotify subscription, while acknowledging the platform's reach and its usefulness to artists seeking new audiences.

For independent musicians, however, reach does not necessarily translate into sustainable income. Streaming can put an artist in front of millions of potential listeners while offering very little financial return.

Tobin advocates more direct forms of support, particularly Bandcamp, where listeners can buy music, merchandise and other products directly from artists. There is a distinction at the heart of this: listening to an artist via streaming services is not necessarily the same as supporting one.

Going to a gig, buying an album or piece of merchandise, visiting an artist's website or simply telling someone about their music all create a more direct connection between listener and musician.

For Tobin, individual action can become collective action. “You mightn't think, you know, a little old me, what am I going to affect the world?” he says. “But it's not you, just you. It's the mass movement really.”

That belief in community and collective action also extends beyond music. Tobin and his family regularly participate in demonstrations and marches relating to Israel’s genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza (source: United Nations), motivated by his belief that people should engage with injustice rather than simply observe it. As a parent, he also wants his children to understand that they can participate in the world around them.

That sense of responsibility is closely connected to his understanding of music itself.

The Creative Act

Tobin's creative process illustrates this perfectly. His songs begin with an emotion, memory or feeling, developed from guitar and melody before the words emerge. His recordings also incorporate the sounds of the people and places around him.

Through a songwriting project bringing together artists from the North of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, he has travelled north without a finished idea, instead sitting down over a cup of tea, talking about their lives and the news, and creating a song together. By the end of the day, they have something new.

“It’s just the joy of making, creating music,” says Tobin.

It is music created not from a prompt, but from people, place, conversation and shared experience.

Listen Differently

In a time when AI music is beginning to seep into the music we listen to everyday, the challenge for listeners is to dig a little deeper into the story.

When you discover music you love, find out who made it. Go beyond the playlist. Go to the gig, buy the album, support the artist directly and tell others about their music.

Listen to the full interview & sprinkling of tracks below. You can head over to alandanieltobin.com to support him directly.

Vancouver-based duo Ato-Mik have released their latest single, “Tap Runnin’ (One Time)”, bringing together brothers Atom and Mikey with veteran producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Clarence Au, better known as C-Infamous or CNFMUS. Released on August 17, 2026, the track captures the energy of three artists creating music together in the moment, without a predetermined concept or finished beat.

Recorded at CNFMUS’ studio in Vancouver, the song took shape organically as the artists built the instrumental from scratch. With CNFMUS playing the instruments, the brothers began freestyling melodies before developing their individual verses. The hook emerged naturally from the session, giving the track its defining phrase.

“There really wasn't a plan going into it, and that's what made the session special,” Ato-Mik explain. “We were all throwing ideas back and forth, then we hopped in the booth and started freestyling melodies. Once we caught the pocket, we wrote out our verses and the hook was just naturally there. It felt effortless.”

The result brings together CNFMUS’ extensive musical experience and Ato-Mik’s instinctive, genre-blending approach, creating a warm, nostalgic sound shaped by the spontaneity of a shared studio session.

CNFMUS brings an impressive international track record to the collaboration, having worked across production, composition, arranging, engineering, A&R and live performance. His credits include collaborations with Doja Cat, DMX, DJ Premier, Dionne Warwick, Raekwon, Mobb Deep and Eric Bellinger, while his work has also featured in CBC’s Fakes and Netflix’s Wu Assassins.

For Ato-Mik, the release arrives at a significant moment in their journey. Since beginning their musical partnership in Vancouver in 2016, the brothers have independently developed a catalogue spanning hip-hop, R&B, pop, dance, rock and alternative music. They have accumulated millions of streams and views, performed more than 100 shows across Canada and the United States, and built a reputation for energetic live performances and a willingness to experiment across genres.

As they mark a decade of releasing music together, the duo remain driven by the creative process itself.

“Ten years in, this is still what we love most about making music,” they say. “You can walk into a studio with nothing, and a few hours later there's something there that didn't exist before. That feeling never gets old.”

“Tap Runnin’ (One Time)” signals the beginning of the next chapter for Ato-Mik as they prepare to release their first full-length album. With their collaborative spirit and genre-fluid identity at the forefront, the brothers continue to explore new creative directions while staying true to the independent approach that has defined their first decade.

Listen to “Tap Runnin’ (One Time)” now on all major streaming platforms.

Follow Ato-Mik on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube via @atomikmusic.

For Hurtsfall, music is about more than sound. It is a way to confront difficult emotions, find a sense of belonging and connect with a wider community. Sitting somewhere between the post-punk of New Order and Joy Division, with echoes of Depeche Mode and the Sisters of Mercy, the band have developed a sound that draws on goth and darkwave traditions while continuing to establish their own identity.

The project brings together singer Sam Harrison Emm, Mike on Bass IV and Jamie on keyboards. Its origins began with an online advert that caught Sam's attention years ago. Drawn immediately to the name Hurtsfall, he responded to an invitation to write and audition with the band. Mike and Jamie, formerly of The Death Notes, were looking for a vocalist for their new project. After a year of auditions and deliberation, Sam emerged as their chosen singer.

Since then, the trio have built a sound that reflects a broad range of influences. Mike's use of higher guitar parts alongside the Bass IV adds another dimension to the band's arrangements, helping distinguish them from their inspirations.

“Over the years I think we’ve developed our own style,” Sam explains, while acknowledging the influence of the artists who helped shape their musical direction.

Goth as expression and community

For Sam, goth music offers a meaningful way to process emotions that can otherwise be difficult to express. Its appeal lies in its honesty and rawness, allowing darkness to be confronted rather than ignored.

That emotional openness is inseparable from the culture surrounding the music. Goth has long provided a space for people to connect through shared tastes, aesthetics and experiences, creating a community that extends beyond the music itself.

This is one reason World Goth Day remains important to Sam. In an increasingly fast-moving digital world, he sees value in occasions that bring people together and help subcultures maintain their visibility.

World Goth Day provides an opportunity for the global community to celebrate its shared identity, connect across geographical boundaries and introduce the scene to new audiences. For Hurtsfall, it is a reminder that the culture surrounding the music remains just as important as the music itself.

An unexpected collaboration with Palindrones

That sense of community also extends to relationships between artists. Hurtsfall's collaboration with Palindrones grew out of a series of near misses at festivals, where the two acts repeatedly found themselves on different days or travelling before they had the chance to meet properly.

Despite never quite crossing paths in person, they stayed in touch online, developing a relationship based on mutual admiration. Eventually, Palindrones offered to remix one of Hurtsfall's tracks.

Rather than setting strict creative boundaries, Hurtsfall gave them complete freedom to reinterpret the song. The result took the original material in a very different direction, offering the band a fresh perspective on their own work.

For Sam, hearing the transformation was part of the appeal. Allowing another artist to take a track somewhere unexpected created an opportunity to experience the music from a new angle, demonstrating how collaboration can push a song beyond its original boundaries.

Keeping the music alive

When it comes to his own listening habits, Sam admits to returning frequently to the music he grew up with, alongside new releases from familiar artists. Recent albums from The March Violets and Corpus Delicti have caught his attention, reflecting his continued connection to the wider post-punk and goth scene.

That balance between established influences and new material also informs Hurtsfall's approach to their own future. The band's immediate priority is their debut album, a project that has taken considerable time to develop but which they believe will be worth the wait.

“We’re always writing,” Sam says, adding that audiences can expect to hear new material at live shows as the band continue to develop their sound.

With the below single, 'Momento Mori' will feature on their debut album planned for release this year, Hurtsfall are preparing to bring together the ideas and influences that have shaped the project so far. Their upcoming performances will provide further opportunities to connect with audiences across the UK, including appearances at Goth City Festival in Leeds and Aatma in Manchester.

For a band whose identity is rooted in both musical expression and community, the next chapter is about continuing to evolve without losing sight of what brought them together in the first place.

As Hurtsfall work towards their debut album, their commitment to honest expression, creative collaboration and the enduring goth community remains at the heart of the project.

Follow Hurtsfall for updates on their debut album and upcoming live dates: https://linktr.ee/hurtsfalluk

Longwave Music Radio has released a new episode of its Album Hour series featuring Cork-based folk musician Alan Daniel Tobin, offering listeners an in-depth look at his latest album, Mountain Common, and the stories behind his music.

Throughout the conversation, Tobin reflects on his musical journey, songwriting and collaborations, including his work with LOWmountain. Describing Mountain Common as a musical timestamp of his life and a diary for his children, he explores the personal experiences and relationships that have shaped the record, with tracks from the album woven throughout the discussion.

The conversation also looks beyond the music itself, examining the impact of streaming platforms such as Spotify and the growing presence of AI-generated music. As technology continues to reshape the industry, Tobin reflects on the importance of human stories and the connection between artists and their audiences.

With discussions spanning Irish music culture, activism and an all-Ireland songwriting initiative bringing musicians from North and South together, the episode offers a wide-ranging perspective on music's ability to connect people and communities.

The latest Album Hour is available to watch now on the Longwave Music Radio YouTube channel, celebrating the artists, ideas and stories at the heart of independent music.

Watch the full episode: https://isht.ink/ADT-Album-Hour-YT

Discover more about Alan Daniel Tobin at https://alandanieltobin.com.

James Tonic has released “Wherever You Are”, a new solo single out via Drummer Records on September 10, 2026. Built around piano, strings and synths, the track blends alternative pop and dream pop influences, drawing comparisons to Lana Del Rey, Cigarettes After Sex and Beach House.

Recorded with a live band rather than programmed instrumentation, the song explores the imagined future of a relationship that never came to be. At its emotional centre is the line, “I could have been your safety, just pretend you need me”, capturing the longing and uncertainty of what might have been.

“Wherever You Are” is the first of four singles set for weekly release through October 1, expanding on Tonic’s Safety saga, which encompasses the albums Safety and Safety II. With more than 25 million catalogue streams across 238 territories, alongside music videos that have amassed over 887 million views, Tonic continues to build an audience around his distinctive musical world.

The new releases also set the stage for the Safety Tour, a seated dream pop musical bringing the Safety albums to life on stage this winter.

Stream now: https://stream.james.com/wherever-you-are

Single release date: May 15th, 2026

Acclaimed Cork indie band Cypress, Mine! return with the release of their powerful new single 'Black and Blue', the latest track to be taken from their long-awaited album 'pulling all the clouds apart'.

Nearly four decades after their debut album, 'Exit Trashtown', Cypress Mine! reformed with renewed purpose in 2026, bringing their signature sound into a new era. Their sophomore album, 'pulling all the clouds apart', released in February, marked a significant creative evolution – blending maturity, reflection, and the unmistakable melodic sensibility that first defined the band.

The band's return has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response. Warm reviews have highlighted the emotional depth and authenticity of the new material, with praise for its forward-looking approach, while also acknowledging the band's enduring musical identity. Live performances accompanying the album's release have similarly drawn enthusiastic reactions, reaffirming the band's reputation as a compelling live act with a loyal audience.

At the heart of this second chapter for the band is 'Black and Blue', a standout track from 'pulling all the clouds apart', which captures the essence of Cypress, Mine!'s resurgence. With 'pulling all the clouds apart' already receiving widespread acclaim, 'Black and Blue' is set to further cement the band's place as one of Ireland's most enduring indie acts.

Originally formed in 1984, Cypress Mine! emerged as one of Cork's most distinctive bands of the 1980's indie scene, earning a devoted following through their jangly guitar sound, introspective lyrics, and celebrated debut album 'Exit Trashtown', before disbanding in 1989.

"Black and Blue" is available now on all major streaming platforms and the accompanying video is now available on YouTube. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klZooj8O3tc)

Since the release of her debut single, "Sere d’estate", in 2020, Anita has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to authenticity, creativity, and musical exploration. With her EP Intro-Versi (2022), she introduced listeners to her introspective writing and emotive voice, blending Italian and English lyrics with influences spanning soul, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. Now, with "Raise Your Vibe", Anita continues to push musical boundaries, crafting soundscapes which evoke deep emotional resonance through simple, powerful messaging.

The Vision Behind "Raise Your Vibe"

"Raise Your Vibe" is more than just a song—it’s a mantra, urging listeners to elevate their energy and mindset. The track opens with a hauntingly smooth blend of electronic rhythms and soulful melodies, creating an atmospheric, almost meditative soundscape. While the essence of neo-soul forms the song’s foundation, there is a palpable urgency in the groove. Punctuated by synthesised bass, ethereal backing vocals, and wobbly, pitch-shifting keys, the repeated mantra centred around the line “raise your vibe” serves as an antidote to the shadows cast by the song’s moody instrumental lines.

In an interview with Longwave Music, Anita Cane Violins explained that her music revolves around three essential elements: soul, groove, and a touch of melancholy or nostalgia. These pillars are intricately woven into "Raise Your Vibe". The soul radiates through her impassioned vocal delivery, the groove anchors the track with its hip-hop-inspired beats and funky undertones, and the melancholy is carried by the moody, atmospheric instrumentals. Together, these elements create a layered, emotive experience that invites listeners to reflect while simultaneously uplifting their spirits. For Anita, these ingredients are not mere stylistic choices—they are the emotional foundation of her artistry.

The Creative Process: Crafting a Collaborative Mosaic

The production of "Raise Your Vibe" was a deeply collaborative effort, with Anita composing and writing the core of the track. Partnering with Paolo De Santis (Desanudo), a seasoned producer renowned in the Italian indie and electronic scenes, she brought her vision to life. Desanudo’s expertise in electronic production adds a rich texture to the song, perfectly complementing Anita’s soulful voice to create a polished yet organic sound.

A standout feature of the track is the contribution of rapper Erre, whose verse, set against a trip-hop-style beat, adds depth and dimension. Erre’s sharp and articulate flow balances Anita’s smooth, velvety vocals, creating a dynamic interplay that reinforces the song’s central message: to open oneself to life’s full spectrum of experiences, both high and low, in order to truly elevate. This melding of vocal styles delivers a compelling and multifaceted listening experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Anita Cane Violins

"Raise Your Vibe" marks a significant step in Anita Cane Violins’ artistic journey, as she continues to refine and redefine her musical identity. The single’s album artwork reflects the song’s essence—simple yet profoundly multidimensional, much like a mandala. At first glance, it resembles a vibrant, abstract flower, but closer inspection reveals intricate, hand-written details that draw the viewer inward, encouraging reflection. This intentional design focuses the mind on Anita’s all-important mantra, “raise your vibe,” inviting listeners to connect with its meditative depth. The artwork becomes a visual extension of the song’s message, embodying both its simplicity and complexity.

For fans of music that challenges norms, blends genres effortlessly, and speaks to both the heart and mind, Anita Cane Violins is an artist to watch. "Raise Your Vibe" invites listeners to embrace the unknown, let go of negativity, and trust in the transformative power of music. It’s a poignant reminder that the journey of self-discovery is rarely linear, but through music, we can always find a way to transcend.

Catch Anita Cane Violins’ evolving sound on her upcoming releases here: anitacaneviolins.com. For now, "Raise Your Vibe" offers the perfect soundtrack to elevate your energy and spirit.