Brand new album from Danny Groenland

Danny Groenland is an artist who makes musical blueprints for resistance, joy and connection. Based in Dublin, the singer-songwriter and flautist has spent over a decade forging his voice as one of Ireland’s most thoughtful and groove-obsessed independent artists. Inspired by artists like Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, The Beatles and D’Angelo, his music is both emotionally meaningful and physically infectious.

Making his official artistic entrance over a decade ago, his 2014 debut record, Love Joints, first put him on the musical map. Since then, he’s released multiple well-received works across singles, remixes, live and instrumental versions of songs as well as EPs and his 2021 album, The Lookout.

Now he brings us his latest release with his brand new full-length record titled burning rome, a concept record that dives headfirst into the fires of our contemporary crises. Climate change, inequality, war, homelessness and police brutality are the central themes, but Danny filters these heavy subjects through a lens of soulful optimism, leaning on the power of music to both challenge and uplift. It’s a rare balancing act; fiercely political without preaching, emotionally vulnerable yet rhythmically engaging.

Warm vocal harmonies, lush horn sections and moments of flute improvisation build a listening experience that’s as musically enjoyable as it is thematically important. While much of today’s music refuses to take a stand, across his thirteen-track LP, Danny seeks to inspire activism among listeners.

Kicking off the record with “chip in,” the bright brass tones and warm organic textures form a smooth groove as shuffling drums inject a steady beat. Danny’s alluring voice enters to spin bouncy melodic leads above, crafting a dazzling soul pop jam that’s brimming with infectious rhythm and instantly catchy songwriting, instilled with a hopeful message of togetherness and collaboration.

On “runway,” Danny links with Senita to deliver a downtempo alternative pop outing propelled by intricately tapping percussion, pulsing bass elements and stripped back arrangement. Gliding through the atmospheric soundscape, Danny’s expressive vocals flutter above the dreamy backdrop as Senita takes the mic to thread her stunning vocal flow through the constantly shifting instrumentation.

Previously released single “mr loaded” enters with the lively roll of snapping beats and shimmering instrumental tones before slipping into a punchy groove of popping bass lines and commanding vocal performance. Peppered with slick guitar flickers and memorable melodic hooks, it’s an epic funk-infused pop track that’s fiercely rhythmic and catchy from start to finish.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “we can” featuring Lottie & Kitty which sees angelic vocal work hovering above a mellow groove of rustling, brushed drums and airy keys. “somewhere” sees Danny put his musicianship flair on full display with a delightful soul song of gentle piano, crisp drums and elegant flute flourishes which blossoms into a graceful soundscape of lush vocal layers and captivating leads.

Closing the release with “world outside,” Danny collaborates with Holly Pereira to cast an enchanting musical moment of soft piano arrangement, hushed percussion and the incredible interplay between his and Holly’s vocal performance. Progressing with exquisite strings and blissful melodies, it’s a beautiful slice of spellbinding music to provide the perfect finale to Danny Groenland’s sensational new album.

Listen to burning rome below