Bloodless Coup

One of Ireland's top-selling recording artists for over half a decade and a favorite of music supervisors for tastemaker shows like Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill and The O.C., Bell X1 are a mainstream phenomenon with cult cred. The Irish rockers are bona fide arena-rocking superstars in their home country and sport an ever-growing rabid contingent of U.S. fans being multiplied by the day by serious commercial radio love, including Top 10 hit "The Great Defector." Bloodless Coup marks the band's fifth album and as many marriages of the proven Bell X1 formula with fresh musical textures. This time, the band blends electronic musings with the hook-laden song craft of songwriter and vocalist Paul Noonan. The result is touching songs with propulsive, addictive sonics. Noonan's subject matter ranges from the Irish financial meltdown, to ideal love and the euphoria that can be brought on getting your hands dirty. With Bloodless Coup, Bell X1 yet again walks the tightrope between radio-ready hits and the sophisticated imagery that has become its signature.