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  • Peter Gabriel releases new single ‘A Hard Lesson’ to mark the Blue Moon
  • Julian Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, announces Belfast show
  • ALBUM REVIEW: Sparta – Cut A Silhouette
  • Inspiral Carpets announce ‘Burn Like The Sun’ – their first studio album in 12 years
  • Faithless Announce Special Guests For CHSq Belfast Show With Phil Hartnoll, Justin Robertson & Marion Hawkes
XS Noize | Independent Music News
  • News
        • Peter Gabriel
          News

          Peter Gabriel releases new single ‘A Hard Lesson’ to mark the Blue Moon

          May 31, 2026

          Sunday, 31 May, 2026 is the blue moon, the second full moon of the month. “A Hard Lesson” is the newest song to be released from the forthcoming Peter Gabriel album o\i. “A Hard Lesson” […]

          Julian Marley
          News

          Julian Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, announces Belfast show

          May 29, 2026

          Born in London, England on June 4, 1975, Julian Marley is the son of reggae legend Bob Marley and Barbados-born Lucy Pounder. Growing up as a youth in a musical atmosphere, the Grammy Award Nominated […]

          Inspiral Carpets
          News

          Inspiral Carpets announce ‘Burn Like The Sun’ – their first studio album in 12 years

          May 29, 2026

          Inspiral Carpets announce Burn Like The Sun – their first studio album in 12 years, out January 29th, 2027 via Scruff of the Neck Records. The band have unveiled a special announcement video, narrated by […]

  • Reviews
        • Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: Sparta - Cut A Silhouette
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: Sparta – Cut A Silhouette

          May 29, 2026

          Having spent two decades parsing the shifting sands of alternative rock, it takes something genuinely striking to cut through the noise. Enter Sparta’s latest offering, Cut A Silhouette. Spanning ten tracks across an urgent 33 […]

          Mull Historical Society
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: Mull Historical Society – In My Mind There’s a Photograph

          May 26, 2026

          For Mull Historical Society’s last album, Colin MacIntyre — who is, in essence, Mull Historical Society — invited acclaimed authors to write lyrics for his musical compositions. The result was 2023’s In My Mind There’s […]

        • Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Y/N - Esther Yi
          Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Y/N – Esther Yi

          October 30, 2023

          K-Pop has reached an international audience. This year, BLACKPINK made history as the first K-pop band to headline a major UK festival at Hyde Park. The media’s coverage of BTS member’s enlistment into compulsory military […]

          BOOK REVIEW: Sophomore Songs by Clarke Geddes
          Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Sophomore Songs by Clarke Geddes

          August 29, 2023

          How does one become qualified to write a fictional music novel? The author of Sophomore Songs offers some clues. Growing up reading NME, doing a stint at Clash, drumming for several bands on and off, and […]

        • Classic Albums

          ‘Pop’ at 25: Looking back at the orphan child in U2's discography 2
          Classic Albums

          ‘Pop’ at 26: Looking back at the orphan child in U2’s discography

          March 3, 2022

          In March of 1997, 26 years ago, U2 released their much anticipated ninth studio album POP; for fans and critics alike, it quickly became their most polarizing release. There is a prevailing feeling that POP […]

          CLASSIC ALBUM: Duran Duran – Duran Duran 2
          Album Reviews

          CLASSIC ALBUM: Duran Duran – Duran Duran

          June 17, 2021

          This week sees the 40th anniversary of Duran Duran’s self-titled debut album. XS Noize looks back on this momentous release from a band that would become the ‘Fab Five’ of the ‘80s. It was December […]

        • Live Reviews

          Lone Assembly
          Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: Lone Assembly bring dark synthpop and post-punk atmosphere to London’s MOTH Club

          May 27, 2026

          When a proposed property development threatened the future of the 300-capacity MOTH Club, the support to save it far exceeded the venue’s maximum attendance. Around 30,000 people signed a petition to protect the much-loved Hackney […]

          LIVE REVIEW: Kiefer Sutherland proves his country credentials with a heartfelt Union Chapel performance
          Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: Kiefer Sutherland proves his country credentials with a heartfelt Union Chapel performance

          May 14, 2026

          Kiefer Sutherland may be known across the world as an actor and producer, but on stage at Union Chapel, that part of his life felt almost beside the point. With his fourth album, Grey, due […]

        • Round Up

          XS Noize Best Albums of 2018
          Round Up

          XS Noize Best Albums of 2018

          December 22, 2018

          2018 has been an incredible year for albums. The year saw the strongest new acts in decades release their debuts, as well as a number of alternative legends returning to top form. The world of dance […]

          The Best Of October 2018 PLAYLIST + ROUND-UP
          Round Up

          The Best Of October 2018 PLAYLIST + ROUND-UP

          October 29, 2018

          Welcome to the October 2018 edition of our monthly new music playlist, which is available to listen to and watch via YouTube. If you enjoy any of the songs featured here, we encourage you to support […]

        • In Focus

          IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer) Credit: Marc Leach
          IN FOCUS

          IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer)

          April 5, 2026

          As Storm Dave closed in on Northern Ireland, another storm was already gathering. Inside Limelight 2, Belfast, local metal titans Survivalist unleashed thunder of their own — a fitting backdrop for the release of their […]

          IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show Credit: Denise Esposito
          IN FOCUS

          IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show

          February 6, 2026

          On 3 February, Ash returned to La Scala for a blistering, high-energy London show. Packed wall to wall, the venue buzzed as the trio tore through a career-spanning set, seamlessly weaving in new material from […]

  • Gigs
        • December 10
          Gigs

          December 10 announce Ulster Hall, Belfast show for July 20th 2026

          April 2, 2026

          Britain’s brand-new boyband December 10 today announce December 10: The Next Step– kicking off in Edinburgh on Friday 10 July and wrapping in Dublin on Tuesday 21 July. “We loved our Introducing! run of shows […]

          White Denim
          Gigs

          White Denim set for Belfast return with Limelight 2 headline show on August 27th 2026

          March 30, 2026

          Formed in 2006, for approaching 20 years White Denim has been celebrated for their fearless blend of garage rock, soul, jazz fusion, psychedelia, and experimental improvisation. Based for much of that time in Austin, though […]

          Tom Jones
          Gigs

          Tom Jones to Play Dublin & Belfast Headline Shows This August 2026

          March 30, 2026

          Legendary Welsh singer and performer Tom Jones has announced a return to Ireland with a headline show within the idyllic grounds of Palmerstown House Estate, just 20 minutes from Dublin City Centre on Sunday 09th […]

  • Interviews
        • Col Gerrard
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Col Gerrard on his self-titled debut, touring with Boyzlife and what comes next

          April 20, 2026

          London-born singer-songwriter Col Gerrard has loved music from an early age, and that passion shines throughout his self-titled debut album. Drawing on a range of influences, the record takes listeners on an emotional journey, with […]

          Ganser
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Alicia Gaines on the Architecture of Ganser and Discomfort by Design

          April 12, 2026

          Chicago’s underground has always thrived in the margins, and few bands embody that restless, art-driven spirit quite like Ganser. Formed in the city’s DIY circuit, the group have carved out a reputation for wiry, confrontational […]

          Elles Bailey
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Elles Bailey on the Story Behind ‘Can’t Take My Story Away’

          March 9, 2026

          Singer-songwriter Elles Bailey released her latest album, Can’t Take My Story Away, at the beginning of this year. Produced by Luke Potashnick, the album is deeply personal and quietly powerful—rooted in resilience, reflection, and self-ownership. […]

  • Podcast
        • robert arkins - the commitments
          Podcast

          Robert Arkins on The Commitments, Jimmy Rabbitte and Life After the Film | XS Noize Podcast #286

          May 25, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Robert Arkins, best known to millions as Jimmy Rabbitte in Alan Parker’s classic 1991 film The Commitments. Robert joins Mark for […]

          Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music, "Fire Escape Symphonies" and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
          Podcast

          Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285

          May 19, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by BRIT and Ivor Novello-nominated singer-songwriter Nerina Pallot. Nerina joins Mark for a warm, honest and reflective conversation about her new career-spanning […]

          Broken Social Scene on 'Remember The Humans,' grief and why music still saves people | XS Noize Podcast #284
          Podcast

          Broken Social Scene on ‘Remember The Humans,’ grief and why music still saves us

          May 12, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Kevin Drew and Charles Spearin of Broken Social Scene. Kevin and Charles join Mark for a warm, reflective and deeply human […]

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Month: December 2025

LIVE REVIEW: Craic, Community and Conviction: The Mary Wallopers storm Belfast Credit: Becca McCaffrey
Live Reviews

LIVE REVIEW: Craic, Community and Conviction: The Mary Wallopers storm Belfast

December 29, 2025 Becca McCaffrey

The Mary Wallopers returned to Belfast on 23 December fresh from five consecutive nights at Glasgow’s Barrowlands, and if there was any risk of fatigue, it never showed. From the opening song, pints were flying, […]

Consolers
News

Belfast alt-rock five-piece Consolers announce debut album “Deep Breaths” and new single “Play”

December 29, 2025 XS Noize

Belfast alt-rock five-piece Consolers will release their debut album, Deep Breaths, on 20 February 2026, marking the occasion with a headline show at the city’s legendary Empire Music Hall. Tickets for the show are on […]

How Music Makes Stories in Games More Exciting
Features 2

How Music Enhances The Gaming Experience

December 24, 2025 XS Noize

Music is the spice of life. It’s so important to our quality of enjoyment that, quite frankly, it is a make-or-break for whatever type of entertainment you’re focused on. A great movie with a terrible […]

LIVE REVIEW: Wool City Rockers: Paradise Lost, Terrorvision & New Model Army take over Bradford Live Credit: Alina Salihbekova
Live Reviews

LIVE REVIEW: Wool City Rockers: Paradise Lost, Terrorvision & New Model Army take over Bradford Live

December 23, 2025 Alina Salihbekova

On 13 December, Bradford proudly celebrated the strength and legacy of the Yorkshire heavy music scene with Wool City Rockers, staged at the city’s newly refurbished Bradford Live. The line-up brought together three iconic bands […]

How to Buy the Right Bass for Your Musical Needs
Features 2

Why Consistent Promotion Matters More Than Viral Hits

December 23, 2025 XS Noize

Every independent artist dreams of going viral. A sudden spike in streams, thousands of new followers overnight, and attention from industry insiders can feel like the ultimate breakthrough. While viral moments can be exciting, they […]

Coldplay
Features 2

The Icons of Now: Studying the Most Prominent Stars of Contemporary Pop Culture

December 23, 2025 XS Noize

Pop culture in the 21st century moves at an unprecedented speed, shaped by streaming platforms, social media, and global connectivity. Today’s biggest stars are not only entertainers but also brands, activists, and cultural symbols whose […]

LIVE REVIEW: Gurriers Ignite Belfast’s Limelight with a Ferocious, No-Holds-Barred Post-Punk Assault Credit: Becca McCaffrey
Live Reviews

LIVE REVIEW: Gurriers Ignite Belfast’s Limelight with a Ferocious, No-Holds-Barred Post-Punk Assault

December 22, 2025 Becca McCaffrey

Fast-rising Irish band Gurriers stormed the stage at Belfast’s Limelight last night, opening their set to Frankie Valli’s Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. As the unmistakable chorus rang out, the room erupted into a […]

LIVE REVIEW: Three Days Grace Unite Past and Present in a Powerful Manchester Homecoming Credit: Alina Salihbekova
Live Reviews

LIVE REVIEW: Three Days Grace Deliver a Unifying, Emotion-Charged Night in Manchester

December 18, 2025 Alina Salihbekova

On 12 December, American rock heavyweights Three Days Grace brought a surge of energy and emotion to Manchester’s O2 Apollo. With the announcement that original vocalist Adam Gontier had rejoined the band, curiosity surrounded how […]

Black Eyed Peas
Features 2

The Best Black Eyed Peas Album: Why The E.N.D. Reigns Supreme

December 17, 2025 XS Noize

When it comes to defining the Black Eyed Peas’ musical legacy, one album often stands out as their most iconic: The E.N.D. (The Energy Never Dies). Released in 2009, this album marked a turning point […]

Garbage
News

Garbage announce headline Belfast show at Waterfront Hall on 17 July 2026

December 16, 2025 XS Noize

Garbage announce a headline Belfast show at the Waterfront Hall on 17th July 2026. They are heading out on the road in support of their eighth and latest album, ‘Let All That We Imagine Be […]

Gates of Olympus
Features 2

How Gates of Olympus Uses Music to Enhance Gameplay

December 15, 2025 XS Noize

Orchestral soundtracks and thunderous audio have moved beyond simple window dressing in slots. Gates of Olympus brings this to life with a sweeping score and calculated sound effects, mixing grandiose symphonies, booming clouds, and crisp […]

Sound
Features 2

Best Slot Games by the Soundtrack

December 12, 2025 XS Noize

Slot games may dazzle players with bright visuals and bold themes, but their soundtracks are what truly shape the atmosphere. Music carries the emotional weight of a game, creating tension, excitement, or calm depending on […]

Starsailor
News

Starsailor’s James Walsh Announces New Solo Album ‘It’s All Happening’, Out January 30

December 12, 2025 XS Noize

Starsailor frontman James Walsh is set to take his ever-growing solo career to new heights with the release of his new album ‘It’s All Happening’ on January 30th. He has previewed the record with a […]

PAUL SIMON
News

Paul Simon Brings “A Quiet Celebration Tour” to Europe, UK & Ireland

December 11, 2025 XS Noize

Today, the legendary singer-songwriter PAUL SIMON announced he will continue  “A Quiet Celebration Tour,” following a highly successful and critically acclaimed US tour, and bring this special concert series to Europe, the UK and Ireland this […]

LIVE REVIEW: The Rasmus Bring Energy, Emotion and New Anthems to Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
Live Reviews

LIVE REVIEW: The Rasmus Bring Energy, Emotion and New Anthems to Nottingham

December 11, 2025 Alina Salihbekova

On 6th December, Finnish rock icons The Rasmus returned to Nottingham as part of their promotional Weirdo tour. Their latest album of the same name dropped earlier this year, and the band arrived eager to […]

Cast
News

Cast Unveil Anthemic New Single ‘Free Love’ Ahead of New Album ‘Yeah Yeah Yeah’

December 10, 2025 XS Noize

For Cast, 2025 has been a rare opportunity to simultaneously reflect on their storied past and look confidently towards the future. Between their sensational stadium shows with Oasis and filling venues with their current ‘All […]

Inessa Lee
Features 2

Inessa Lee’s Path to Social Media Activism through Music

December 9, 2025 XS Noize

Social media influencer Inessa Lee has been using her art to speak out against online aggression. Her song ‘Love Gun’ has grown into the anthem of a social-media flash mob called ‘Love Gun for Peace’. […]

Peter Cunnah and Al Mackenzie
News

D:Ream Announce Two Major May 2026 Headline Shows in London and Leeds

December 9, 2025 XS Noize

D:Ream’s ‘Things Can Only Get Better’ was one of the biggest hits of the ‘90s, the dance anthem becoming a cultural phenomenon after spending four weeks at #1 and then earning a BRIT Award nomination […]

Black Stone Cherry
News

Black Stone Cherry return to Belfast for special Limelight show celebrating their debut album – 29 October 2026

December 8, 2025 XS Noize

Black Stone Cherry return to Belfast this October for a very special headline show at Limelight 1, where the Kentucky hard-rock heavyweights will perform their explosive 2006 debut album in its entirety alongside highlights from […]

Sleaford Mods
Podcast

Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson on Planet X, cultural decay, and the evolution of the band | XS Noize Podcast #264

December 6, 2025 XS Noize

In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Jason Williamson, the fiercely articulate frontman of Sleaford Mods, to explore the band’s most ambitious and unflinching record yet: The Demise Of […]

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LATEST PODCASTS

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    Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
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  • Broken Social Scene on 'Remember The Humans,' grief and why music still saves people | XS Noize Podcast #284
    Broken Social Scene on ‘Remember The Humans,’ grief and why music still saves us
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    Glen Hansard on ‘Transmissions East’, Bob Dylan and a Record That Isn’t Looking Back | XS Noize Podcast #282
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