The band: Only Real is the project of South Londoner Niall Galvin, a 22 year old hip-popper who’s influences straddle both hip hop and rock. Describing his sound as “guitar music for people who don’t like guitars”, the rappers infectious melodies and keen witticisms have seen him inevitably compared to fellow natives such as Jamie T and King Krule.
The sound: Reminiscent of deceptively upbeat tracks such as ‘Hey Ya’ and ‘Girl’, behind the musical veneer of ‘Can’t Get Happy’ lurks a deep angst. Galvin offsets an existential lyrical lament with sanguine pop-punk guitar riffs and bright, mirthful synths – conveying the impression that although things are currently hard, there’s the smallest chance the glass just might be half full.
The lowdown: ‘Can’t Get Happy’ is the lead single from debut album Jerk At The End Of The Line and both are released on 30th March 2015 via Virgin EMI. Only Real embarks on UK tour throughout April and May and plays his sole Scottish date at Glasgow Broadcast on 26th May.
