Kampala - Irish Artist Of The Week

Formed by Rob McDonnell (vocals/guitar) alongside Baz Daly (bass) and Justin Capocci (drums), with former Keeley guitarist Dan Kane later completing the lineup, Kampala have quietly built a reputation as one of Ireland’s most compelling underground guitar bands — balancing dark-edged atmosphere with driving, melodic immediacy. Drawing inspiration from several decades of iconic sounds, the band's music carries echoes of Depeche Mode, The Cure, Smashing Pumpkins, Suede, Seattle Grunge, Johnny Marr, Joy Division, Gang of Four, DIIV, Interpol, Foals, among others. In more recent times, the band have also been influenced by contemporary artists such as Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital, NewDad, The Twilight Sad, Osees, Lo Moon, The War On Drugs, Deep Sea Diver to name but a few. Since 2022, Kampala have built their following through relentless gigging across Ireland and Germany, earning a reputation for intense, immersive live shows. With Madernity, Kampala step fully into their identity — a band documenting the present moment with grit, melody and intent. The album’s fourth single and emotional centerpiece, “It’s Not Me, It’s You” explores the liberating moment of recognising toxicity in a relationship. It’s both personal and universal — a sharp contrast to the album’s broader social lens. Written late in the album process, the track earned its place instantly. “The chorus hook was irresistible. As soon as we heard it, we knew it had to be on the record.” Recorded in a single live take like the rest of the album, it captures Kampala at their most immediate and emotionally direct.