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  • From Indie Bands to Global Brands: How Artists Build Multi-Platform Identities
  • AVA Belfast reveals full 2026 festival programme including afterparties, talks, workshops and more
  • THE SCRIPT announce new album ‘The User’s Guide To Being Human’ and huge UK & European arena headline tour
  • ALBUM REVIEW: The Coral – 388
  • Dexys Midnight Runners announce new album ‘LOVE’ following Heavenly Recordings signing
XS Noize | Independent Music News
  • News
        • kneecap
          News

          AVA Belfast reveals full 2026 festival programme including afterparties, talks, workshops and more

          May 22, 2026

          AVA Belfast returns to Titanic Slipways on 29–30 May 2026, as the city prepares for what promises to be its biggest music weekend of the year. Hailed as “Techno Christmas,” or “Belfast Coachella” AVA is […]

          The Script
          News

          THE SCRIPT announce new album ‘The User’s Guide To Being Human’ and huge UK & European arena headline tour

          May 22, 2026

          The Script’s phenomenal and long-lasting success has seen them achieve six UK #1 albums and eight back home in Ireland, in the process exceeding 14 billion streams, 5 million album sales, and countless international Platinum […]

          Dexys Midnight Runners
          News

          Dexys Midnight Runners announce new album ‘LOVE’ following Heavenly Recordings signing

          May 21, 2026

          Having recently announced their signing to Heavenly Recordings, Dexys Midnight Runners have today announced details of their new album, LOVE, out on Friday 4th September 2026. LOVE is a deeply personal and emotionally rich album […]

  • Reviews
        • Album Reviews

          The Coral
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: The Coral – 388

          May 21, 2026

          The Coral have always thrived on instinct, but even by their standards, 388 feels like a beautifully unexpected detour. Arriving without teaser singles or algorithm-chasing fanfare, the Hoylake psych-pop veterans have delivered one of the […]

          ALBUM REVIEW: Ed O’Brien - Blue Morpho
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: Ed O’Brien – Blue Morpho

          May 20, 2026

          There has been a flurry of solo activity from the members of Radiohead in the ten years since A Moon Shaped Pool was released. In that same decade, the world has faced its share of […]

        • 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

          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 […]

          LIVE REVIEW: The Prodigy Bring Fire, Chaos and Emotion to Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena Credit: Alina Salihbekova
          Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: The Prodigy Bring Fire, Chaos and Emotion to Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena

          May 7, 2026

          After more than 30 years, The Prodigy remain one of the most powerful live electronic acts on the planet — and their sold-out show at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena proved exactly why. The night began with […]

        • 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
        • 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 […]

          da Googie
          Podcast

          Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie and bringing immersive sound to Belfast | XS Noize Podcast #283

          May 5, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Deb Googe and Cara Tivey for a thoughtful and exploratory conversation about their debut full-length album together, The Golden Thread. You […]

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Bangor

The Florentinas
News

Bangor four-piece The Florentinas release new single ‘For You’

March 6, 2025 XS Noize

Following from playing main support to Snow Patrol throughout Europe over two weeks in February, Bangor four-piece The Florentinas are pleased to release their new single ‘FOR YOU’. Paddy from The Florentinas said; “For you’ […]

Mark Hegan
Interviews

INTERVIEW: Mark Hegan discusses his debut EP – ‘Human Mind’

November 6, 2023 Niall Donnelly

It’s been a busy few years for Bangor native Mark Hegan. Since 2019, he has released no fewer than nine singles and relentlessly performed on every stage he can get his two feet on. Having […]

Foy Vance
News

FOY VANCE returns to his hometown of Bangor for two shows in December

July 17, 2023 XS Noize

Foy Vance returns to his hometown of Bangor for two shows on Friday 8th & Saturday 9th December. The last time Foy played the Open House Festival in Bangor was in 2014, and the shows […]

Thom Southern
News

Belfast songsmith THOM SOUTHERN releases Lo-Fi heartbreaker ‘Love Hz’

April 14, 2023 XS Noize

A one-off release, the enigmatic Belfast songsmith is back with a new single that finds him stripping back the sonics to craft something of an unadorned and unassuming beauty. Pared back of arrangement and unspoiled […]

The Florentinas
Gigs

THE FLORENTINAS announce Empire Music Hall show on Friday 5th May

February 28, 2023 XS Noize

One of Ireland’s most exciting bands, The Florentinas are back with their new single ‘Weatherman’ released on February 24th. The Bangor four-piece have had an incredible twelve months, releasing two radio singles, ‘Sandcastles’ and ‘It’s […]

The Florentinas
News

Bangor four-piece THE FLORENTINAS are back with new single ‘Weatherman’

February 24, 2023 XS Noize

One of Ireland’s most exciting bands, The Florentinas are back with their new single ‘Weatherman.’ The Bangor four-piece has had an incredible twelve months, releasing two radio singles, ‘Sandcastles’ and ‘It’s Not In Vain’, and […]

The Court House
Gigs

Northern Ireland’s newest live music venue, THE COURT HOUSE, opens its doors in Bangor City

October 18, 2022 XS Noize

Following seven years of fundraising, lobbying, planning and extensive refurbishment, The Court House on Bangor seafront will finally open its doors to the public on Thursday, 20th October. The first performances will be from up-and-coming […]

IN FOCUS// Snow Patrol Acoustic at McKee Clock Arena, Bangor
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Snow Patrol Acoustic at McKee Clock Arena, Bangor, Northern Ireland

September 1, 2022 Bernie McAllister

Gary Lightbody, lead singer of Snow Patrol and the City of Bangor’s most famous son, was awarded the Freedom of the Borough by Ards and North Down Borough Council at a special civic ceremony at […]

Snow Patrol's Gary Lightbody to receive ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music’ award in Belfast on November 15th
Gigs

SNOW PATROL To Play Acoustic Concert on Bangor Seafront To Celebrate the Award of Freedom of The Borough to Gary Lightbody

July 7, 2022 XS Noize

Gary Lightbody, lead singer of Snow Patrol and the City of Bangor’s most famous son, will be awarded the Freedom of the Borough by Ards and North Down Borough Council at a special civic ceremony […]

THE FLORENTINAS announce headline Belfast show at the Ulster Sports Club on Friday 4th March 2022
Gigs

THE FLORENTINAS announce headline Belfast show at the Ulster Sports Club on Friday 4th March 2022

February 7, 2022 XS Noize

Bangor four-piece The Florentinas have announced a headline Belfast show at the Ulster Sports Club on Friday 04th March 2022, the show announce follows the release of their new single ‘It’s not in Vain’. The […]

Bangor four-piece THE FLORENTINAS release new single ‘It’s Not In Vain’
New Music

Bangor four-piece THE FLORENTINAS release new single ‘It’s Not In Vain’

February 4, 2022 XS Noize

The Florentinas have released their new single ‘It’s Not In Vain’, today, February 4th 2022. The Bangor four-piece released their debut single ‘Sandcastles’ in October 2021 and earned key media support across Ireland, followed by […]

WARD THOMAS announce an Intimate Bangor Acoustic show on Tuesday 23rd November 2021
Gigs

WARD THOMAS announce an Intimate Bangor Acoustic show on Tuesday 23rd November 2021

August 23, 2021 XS Noize

British country-pop duo Ward Thomas are pleased to announce an Intimate Bangor Acoustic show on Tuesday 23rd November 2021 at First Bangor Church. Ward Thomas released their new album ’Invitation’ in October 2020 – the […]

SNOW PATROL and OPEN HOUSE FESTIVAL announce Ward Park FREE 1
Gigs

SNOW PATROL and OPEN HOUSE FESTIVAL announce Ward Park FREE

May 15, 2019 XS Noize

Open House Festival has joined forces with Snow Patrol to curate a line-up of exciting bands, musicians and electronic DJs to play in eight Bangor pubs on Friday 24th May – the night before the […]

THE STAVES join OPEN HOUSE BANGOR line-up
News

THE STAVES join OPEN HOUSE BANGOR line-up

April 29, 2019 XS Noize

English indie-folk trio The Staves are the latest band to be announced for this year’s Open House Festival, Bangor. The concert will take place on Thursday 22nd August in the beautiful setting of First Bangor […]

SNOW PATROL: CONFIRM Northern Ireland tour dates
Gigs

BBC Northern Ireland goes on the road with Snow Patrol, TONIGHT: BBC One at 10.35pm

April 24, 2019 XS Noize

For a quarter of a century, from small gigs to the biggest arenas in the world, Northern Irish rockers Snow Patrol have lived life on tour buses, aeroplanes and in hotels. In late 2018, after […]

INTERVIEW: Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody on Ward Park 3 - "We wanted to complete the hat trick." 1
Interviews

INTERVIEW: Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody on Ward Park 3 – “We wanted to complete the hat trick.”

April 11, 2019 XS Noize

Over the last 25 years, Snow Patrol have released 7 albums and racked up an impressive number of critical and commercial accolades, including 13 million global album sales, 1 billion global track streams, 5 UK […]

Irish Indie Folk Band VILLAGERS to Play at Bangor's Open House Festival 1
Gigs

Irish Indie Folk Band VILLAGERS to Play at Bangor’s Open House Festival

April 10, 2019 XS Noize

Irish indie folk band Villagers will play an intimate gig as part of this year’s Open House Festival Bangor. The concert will take place on Friday 23rd August in First Bangor church – a new venue for […]

THE SPECIALS to play at OPEN HOUSE BANGOR, this August
Gigs

THE SPECIALS to play at OPEN HOUSE BANGOR, this August

March 14, 2019 XS Noize

Legendary English band The Specials will visit Bangor, County Down, this August to play an outdoor concert as part of Open House Festival. The gig on Bangor seafront, overlooking the marina and Bangor Bay, will […]

TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB to join SNOW PATROL at Ward Park, Bangor on Saturday 25th May
Gigs

TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB to join SNOW PATROL at Ward Park, Bangor on Saturday 25th May

February 5, 2019 XS Noize

Following two years of worldwide touring, playing to ever-growing audiences, and culminating in headlining to a 40,000 sold-out audience at Community Festival, London, in June 2018, TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB is set to join SNOW […]

INTERVIEW: Snow Patrol's Nathan Connolly on new album Wildness + possible return to Ward Park, Bangor 1
Interviews

INTERVIEW: Snow Patrol’s Nathan Connolly on new album Wildness + possible return to Ward Park, Bangor

May 22, 2018 XS Noize

On May 25th, Snow Patrol will return with Wildness, which finds the band searching for clarity, connection, and meaning while staying true to the melodic songwriting prowess that brought them to prominence. Wildness taps into […]

LATEST PODCASTS

  • Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music, "Fire Escape Symphonies" and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
    Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
    May 19, 2026
  • 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
    May 12, 2026
  • da Googie
    Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie and bringing immersive sound to Belfast | XS Noize Podcast #283
    May 5, 2026
  • Glen Hansard on ‘Transmissions East’, Bob Dylan and a Record That Isn’t Looking Back | XS Noize Podcast #282
    Glen Hansard on ‘Transmissions East’, Bob Dylan and a Record That Isn’t Looking Back | XS Noize Podcast #282
    April 29, 2026
  • Miles Hunt on 40 years of The Wonder Stuff, burnout, Vent 414 and starting over | XS Noize Podcast #281
    Miles Hunt on 40 years of The Wonder Stuff, burnout, Vent 414 and starting over | XS Noize Podcast #281
    April 22, 2026
  • Carol Decker on success, heartbreak, and finding her way back with T’Pau | XS Noize Podcast #280
    Carol Decker on success, heartbreak, and finding her way back with T’Pau | XS Noize Podcast #280
    April 14, 2026

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