Ducksy’s Video Vault
By Cormac McCarthy
A new monthly feature in which the musician and songwriter Ducksy unearths some marvelous musical gems from the world of YouTube
Zella Day – “Mushroom Punch”
I feel very moved everytime I hear this song. It explores the age-old theme of a deteriorating relationship but it’s Zella’s aching, heartfelt vocal delivery (particularly in the chorus) that makes it, in my opinion, a modern classic. It provides the tune with a strong emotional hook and the listener is totally captivated. Her latest album Sunday In Heaven is currently streaming and well worth a listen.
Fonda –“Letting Go”
One of top tracks of the year! It’s excellent to know that Irish artists are still making great quality music. This song could be best described as a haunting and atmospheric ballad. It begins quite sparsely and grows in intensity. The lead vocal is fabulous too. It’s edgy, soul-searching and reminds me a lot of Scott Walker. A real stunner.
Weyes Blood – It’s Not Just Me, It’s Everybody
I have been a fan of Weyes Blood for many years. Her 2019 album Titanic Rising was, in my view, one of the best of the last decade. I love her sweeping, elaborate arrangements and her interesting and unusual chord progressions provide a modern counterpoint to the work of Joni Mitchell. Her voice also has a beautifully ‘Laurel Canyon’ type feel. A fantastic piece of work.
Aoife Nessa Frances – “Way To Say Goodbye”
Another excellent 70s styled ballad from the Irish born Aoife Nessa Frances. The vocals here are dreamy and ethereal and the melody has a hypnotic quality. Check out her album Protector which was released on 28th October.
Broken Bells
This track has a wonderful melody which has strong echoes of Beatles-era Paul MacCartney. I love the track’s use of psychedelia which has been making a comeback of late, particularly in the music of artists such as Melody’s Echo Chamber. This group has an interesting back catalogue – be sure to check it out!
Channel Z
This week’s classic cut – from a band who strongly influenced Kurt Cobain and REM. This is a wonderfully danceable number from 1989. I love the video as it captures the essence of a bygone era.
Kid Kapichi 5 Days On (2 Days Off)
“Are you workin’ hard or hardly working?” What a great line! I love songs like this which pull no punches and tell things as they truly are. A scathing (and refreshingly honest) depiction of the modern workplace. I’m sure many people will relate to its message. It has a catchy guitar riff to boot as well as a very memorable bridge. One of the top tunes of the year for me!
Young Guv and James Matthew VII – “Change Your Mind”
Power – pop par excellence! A gorgeously melodic tune with a wonderfully evocative harmonica solo (which reminds me of Neil Young’s classic era from the 70s). Young Guv has released a few albums this year, all of which are really terrific!
J4 – “Fast Lane”
A duo from Melbourne with a restless, driving track. This catchy tune has strong elements of both Bratpop and Britpop and its lyrics sparkle with dry wit and humour. I can’t wait to hear what they do next!
David “Ducksy” Moynihan is a singer – songwriter from Cork, Ireland. For more information about his work, go to: http://ducksymusic.com/
His latest record: “What Is Yet To Come” is currently streaming on Spotify.