Roy Shiels - Big Kiss

Roy Shiels

Big Kiss
​self-released; 2020

3.8 out of 5

By My Nguyen
​

Roy Shiels is an independent musician and songwriter from the seaside town of Rush, north county Dublin, Ireland. He is proficient in playing the guitar, bass, drums, one-finger piano and singing. He creates, performs, produces and records alt rock & acoustic music. The artist released his debut studio album entitled Big Kiss. 

Shiels plays rock n’ roll. Each song on this album is brimming with catchy hooks and an upbeat fervor. With tight musicianship and on-point vocals, Big Kiss shines with a brightness that is certainly ear-catching. These rock tunes will stay in your head long after the record has stopped spinning.

Big Kiss opens with “The Lonely Eye” where the music is full-on and impactful. Following is “Farewell To Youth,” where the wave of guitars gushes forth creating a wall of sound. The vocals are urgent. This is a driven anthem. 

Catchy riffs and melodious sounds from the guitars add a striking cadence to “Tragic Romance.” This song is a definite highlight.

The closer “Samantha” is a soft number. The album ends on this apt note with a lulling sense that sounds a lot like a lullaby. Shiels’ vocals are executed in a near whisper. The vibe is relaxing and mellow and will ease listeners into a pensive and contemplative mood.

​Inspired by a range of artists like The Cure, Smashing Pumpkins, Oasis, Ryan Adams, Arcade Fire, Pearl Jam, Weezer, Slint and My Bloody Valentine, you can tell that Shiels wears his influences on his sleeve. With themes that include love, love-lost, struggle, growth and loss, these set of songs are registered with a positive spin as a feeling of hope permeates these tracks. Each instrument provides steady backing and the album wouldn’t sound the same without each instrument’s contributions. But it is Shiels’ vocals that really steals the show. His voice takes centerstage and the artist’s stellar showmanship and theatrics really vies for audiences’ attention. Oscillating from a coo to a croon in a matter of seconds, you can tell his onstage presence will translate well in a live setting. If you can’t wait for the concert experience which is currently on the backburner for now, be sure you give the record a spin. It will definitely make your day!

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