Long time followers of my writing will remember the music blog that preceded Whichicao, and will know I’m a big lover of music, travelling to Paris to see the War on Drugs, and Warsaw to see the National.
I’m going to do something different with this post, as recently I’ve focused on local tourism attractions, and with this post I’m going to focus on a shining light from the local music scene – which has been so painstakingly quiet since COVID got its grasp on us.
Modern Rome was formed in 2017 by childhood friends Danny Boyle and Thomas Lowry, alongside local musicians Joshua Booth and Matt Evans. They wasted little time getting music recorded with their first single ‘Work in Progress’ released before the end of 2017.
The band incorporates an avant-garde sound to their work which suits them as the tee the line between alternative and progressive rock. Their catalogue would not be out of place in a rock opera, and shows off the talent the band truly possesses.
Under Wraps contains a wonderful guitar solo, and At My Worst highlights Danny’s vocal range and songwriting talent – accompanied by a haunting piano, reminiscent of experimental pioneers Mr. Bungle. Both songs are great examples of the bands wide ranging sound.
The Guillotine features a guitar and an infectious chant intro before Tom’s vocals steal the show again – listen with caution as the chant will be stuck in your head for hours afterwards.
Their most recent release Cracks and Hidden Spaces has a more gentle aura to it, with a deliciously mellow acoustic intro prior to the drum beat being introduced, it feels like you’re taking a short journey with the band whilst listening.
The band have played at some of Belfast’s most iconic venues, including the Empire, Oh Yeah Music Centre and The Sunflower – whilst steadily increasing their discography, being featured by BBC Radio and Rock Era Magazine. Modern Rome also reached the finals of Sound of Belfast 2019, organised by Translink.
Drawing from a wide range of influences, including Radiohead, David Bowie, Kasabian, Elbow and Jeff Buckley, Modern Rome highlight a real diverse ability to seamlessly switch genres – they’ve not pigeonholed themselves within the one style, and have created a sphere for themselves where each members talents can shine through. I eagerly await music venues reopening to catch a Modern Rome show – and you should join me.
Modern Rome’s Discography can be viewed below
Modern Rome’s new single ‘Real’ is out on the 19th March and can be pre-saved through this link.
Interesting read Padraig, I am yet to hit the Sunflower must check that area out and have a listen to this band ! Hehe