Ireland may be a small island, but when it comes to music, we’re a country that definitely knows how to pack a punch.

In fact, there’s a thriving music scene out there at the minute and there are a lot of bright young things who are just waiting for their big break.

If you’re getting tired of listening to the same boring old artists, then why not check out our pick of the best up-and-coming Irish bands?

 Morning Hush

Like catchy riffs, melodic hooks and pop (of the heavy variety)? Then make sure you check out Morning Hush. The band is made up of Jonathan, Ross, Sean and Rachel and each of them brings their own unique style to the music that they create. Think synth-based pop, heartfelt lyrics and some interesting vocals.

Musical influences: A bit of everything: The Beatles, The Smiths, Tool, Goldfrapp, Death Cab for Cutie…the list goes on…

Why you should listen: “People should listen to more music in general and if at all possible, try and scratch beneath the surface of chart radio. There’s nothing like discovering a new great band. Looking forward to seeing them the first time, anticipating a new release and all that. To me that’s the dream job – to be in a band that does that. That’s really what we’re going for I suppose. Trying to make the perfect record. Is that a good enough reason?” – Rachel, Morning Hush.

Check out Morning Hush here: http://morninghush.muxtape.com

Twitter: @MorningHush

 Broken Glass on Broadway

The boys from Broken Glass on Broadway have been likened to The Killers and describe themselves as radio friendly alternative/synth/pop music. A relatively young band (Broken Glass on Broadway was only formed a mere three years ago) they’ve already enjoyed a fair bit of radio air play. In five years’ time, they want to be touring with their debut album and enjoying themselves.

Musical Influences: Jeff Buckley, Muse, The Killers and The Beatles, to name a few…

Why you should listen: “I think because most people would be able to relate to our music and its quite radio friendly too. When writing songs I do write from my own experiences but I think they’re ones that most people can relate to as well.” – Kyle, Broken Glass on Broadway.

Check out Broken Glass on Broadway here: http://www.facebook.com/BrokenGlassOnBroadway1    

Twitter: @BrknGlassOnBdwy

 Cry Monster Cry

Cry Monster Cry are the perfect chill-out band. Featuring some excellent harmonies and amazing lyrics, it’s safe to say that there isn’t anyone like them out there at present. Made up of brothers Richie and Jamie, the band state writing music as their first love and are happy enough just to share it with people (although they would like the stages they play on to get bigger in the future).

Musical Influences: Tom Waits, Thin Lizzy and pretty much everything.

Why you should listen: “The EP is on sale on iTunes for the bargain price of €3. Less than a pint! It is also in Tower Records off Grafton street. We offer a free download of the title track, “The Fallen” for people to check us out too. That can be downloaded on our bandcamp site.” – Jamie, Cry Monster Cry.

Check out Cry Monster Cry here: http://crymonstercry.bandcamp.com

Twitter: @crymonstercry

 The Lindy Hops

The Lindy Hops are a musical force to be reckoned with. Why? Well they manage to combine swing, jazz, blues and popular music with some killer harmonies. The result is a unique sound that will have you on your feet and belting out the tunes right along with them. Think of them as a glee club with some major kick. Made up of Amanda, Catherine, Heather, Stephen, Keith and Ronan, it’s just a matter of time before the Lindy Hops make it big.

Musical influences: The Andrew Sisters and anything you can dance to and have fun with.

Why You Should Listen: “We work hard to make sure that our sound is unique and that our set list is diverse, so we like to think that there is something for everyone who comes to one of our gigs. If anything, you’re guaranteed a bit of a boogie, and maybe even hearing one of your all-time favourite classics in a completely different light,” – Catherine, The Lindy Hops.

Check them out The Lindy Hops here: http://www.thelindyhops.com

Twitter: @TheLindyHops