Paul O’Reilly has just launched his own label, aptly called Songs. The first release since his debut album on Volta Sounds is an untitled EP by Paul compromising of four new recordings and a cover of The Redneck Manifesto song ‘He Threw Down His Rifle and Ran’. The EP was recorded by Steve Fanagan, who has also been keeping himself busy with his Old Man Polka project that is now a full band.

Gemma Hayes is off on the road yet again, this time with Suede for a string of UK dates. Without pausing for breath, Gemma and company go straight to Europe with Nada Surf.

Melaton will release an Internet only EP called The Still Water to coincide with their tour with JJ72.

Ultimate Blood in the Guinness Storehouse recently featured Luc and the Platelets (who featured members of The Jimmy Cake in full costume) pitching battle against The Warlords of Pez in a real boxing ring. The referee was Donnacha Costelloe of D1 fame, no doubt building up the stamina for the imminent Dublin Electronic Arts Festival.

Support to The Jimmy Cake this weekend at their album launch bash in Whelan’s will be The Chalets.

Andrew Weatherall played a surprise set last week at Neuromantek upstairs in Thomas House after his DJ engagement with Death in Vegas. An interesting little piece caught Homework’s eye in last week’s edition of Music Week. “Nowhere in the world is the musical ‘DIY’ ethic more apparent than in Dublin.” it read. “Furthermore, the new players in this scene are men and women who operate outside the confines of the major label structure and are known for their dedication and enthusiasm for the local music scene. Among them are Leagues O’Toole and Robert Stephenson.” Incidentally, Stephenson’s charges Mixtwitch are now signed to Moon Ska Europe and have just finished recording their second album Smile For The Money Shot.

Phonograph return to Ireland for an acoustic tour of Ireland this fortnight. London based but boasting members from Cork, Scotland, Canada and the US, the multinational supergroup play Cork, Waterford and Dublin.