Ireland’s Search Results give us a fresh taste of what’s currently bubbling in the Irish rock cauldron — a charming blend of tunes, harmonies, and a touch of spoken word, all wrapped up in rhythms that flirt between punk, pop, jazz, with a sprinkle of high life, for good measure.
The trio of Fionn Brennan on guitar, Jack Condon on drums, and bassist Adam Hoban found each other in Dublin, circa 2019. All with a shared passion for the raw spirit of punk and garage rock, taking a page or two from the likes of Parquet Courts and The Velvet Underground. And if you tilt your head just so, you might catch echoes of Neutral Milk Hotel, Beck, CAN, and the Silver Apples in their clever songsmithing.
Kicking off with the mesmerizing “Enter The Blip,” which reminds one of CAN, the vocals echo around playful guitars and grinding rhythms, culminating in a heady, expansive chorus. “No Murder” jolts us into a punkish spirit, complete with static-infused spoken word and jazz eccentricities that dance with starts and stops. “Ounic Nick” seems to send a message from space with a touch of Johnny Cash solemnity. ‘Three‘ revisits punk, nodding to the likes of the Clash and Half Man Half Biscuit, while “John In A Raincoat” has a rock vibe that’s both discordant and harmonious. “In The Dermat’s Dermal Layer,” oh, that’s an earworm – quirky synths and chants set to an edgy guitar groove.
“Visiting Years” goes all psychedelic jazz with its entrancing guitar and lyrical roundabout. “Sleeping” evokes a lazy afternoon, sleepy guitar paired with jazzy drum rhythms and indistinct words. “Flower Rock Rain” takes a detour into the 90s, reminiscent of Belle & Sebastian. Meanwhile, “Vat Jance” continues this 90s jaunt with a hint of The Eels.
“Shitfingers” — pardon the name — is an infectious post-punk ditty that begs for a dance floor. “Run Me Down” is an energetic whirlwind, pairing swift drums with reflective guitar strains, and it’s followed by the more sedate “Losings.” “Bottom” transports listeners to the 60s with its psychedelic undertones and a catchy guitar, and lastly, “Reggie 2″ wraps things up, meshing synth with rhythmic beats and distant vocals.
Listen to the album below:
Information Blip is the first full-length album from Search Results, following two extremely well-received EPs – Mirrors (2021) and No Punchline Arousal (2022). It was recorded and mastered by Darragh Hansard (Thee UFO) at his Orc’s Lair studio in Dublin.
The vinyl preorder is here via Blowtorch Records.
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