We Speak Music

Irish Folk-Rock Act Roving Crows Share New Single ‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’

Published

1 year ago

October 27, 2023

Irish folk-rock act Roving Crows are a band that can play in a way that is both distinctively inspiring and engaging.

The quartet is a powerhouse with their engaging and exciting music. Their energetic and grungy new tune ‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’, is rich and full of driving Celtic influence.

‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’ has a rock feel to it. The melodies are lively, and the lyrics are clever. The folk-rock track includes guitar, fiddle, bass, drums, and vocals on the production showcasing Roving Crows’ effortless musical talents and abilities.

Originally composed for their 2012 debut album Bacchanalia, back then, there was a trumpet player in the band, and the atmosphere was less boisterous and aggressive. The song was a local radio favorite, so Roving Crows decided to give it a makeover and the “new crow” treatment after being joined by a new bass player and drummer in 2019. This version sounds considerably fuller and more edgy, with a more frenetic atmosphere that goes well with the new lineup.

Roving Crows comment on the track, “‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’ is about a night of wild abandon.. that feeling of getting out there, the ensuing chaos that unravels, and the feeling on Sunday of being ‘spent, broke, locked’. But then doing it all again! This song was actually inspired by a previous band member and his ‘leisure’ activities! Performing ‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’ allows us to let out our energy, to be raucous, and just release ourselves into the moment when we’re performing it.”

Barrett and O’Neill founded the band in 2009, and since then they have released four albums: Bacchanalia (2012), Deliberate Distractions (2013), Bury Me Naked (2017), and Awaken (2022). Nick Brine (Ash, Oasis, Bruce Springsteen, Seasick Steve) produced the first two albums at Rockfield Studios, while Loz Shaw produced Bury Me Naked.

A must-see live act, Roving Crows combines furious violin playing, thought-provoking lyrics, and powerful drum and bass sounds with real passion, energy, and soul. They have developed a distinctive and captivating sound that defies the conventions of the Celtic Folk genre, and their energetic live performances never fail to make an audience have a good time.

Members:

Caitlin Barrett – Fiddle/Vocals

Paul O’Neill – Acoustic Guitar/Vocals

Jim Smith – Bass/Vocals

Laurence Aldridge – Drums/Vocals

‘Dirty Habits 2.ø’ is available on all streaming platforms

We Speak Music

Etherdene’s “Forsaker” Captures the Power of Letting Go

Published

3 hours ago

April 1, 2025

Philomena Marie

Etherdene’s ‘Forsaker’ is a revelation in both sound and sentiment. The track marks a new chapter in her career, blending the vulnerability of heartbreak with the resilience of moving on, all wrapped in an electrifying package of synth-pop and indie-pop. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cathartic journey that encourages listeners to let go and rise above their challenges.

At the heart of ‘Forsaker’ is Etherdene’s exploration of emotional struggle and the painful yet liberating act of letting go. Drawing from her own experiences with the end of a professional partnership, Etherdene’s lyrics are a raw and powerful expression of inner conflict. The line, “Brand new member in the club of quitters, the uniform compliments my eyes,” encapsulates the complex emotions of giving up, flipping the narrative on its head to reveal the strength in choosing to walk away.

‘Forsaker’ is a triumph. Etherdene’s decision to incorporate synth bass arps brings an air of 80s nostalgia while keeping the track fresh and forward-thinking. The electric guitar work from Cory Clark adds a layer of dynamism to the song, complementing its mood perfectly. However, it’s the drums – played by Warren van Wyk – that truly elevate the track, infusing it with energy and warmth that feels almost magical.

What sets ‘Forsaker’ apart is its empowering message. Etherdene isn’t merely recounting a painful experience; she’s showing us the strength that comes from letting go of something that no longer serves you. It’s a message of courage and self-love, encouraging listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being over the fear of walking away from something that seems promising but ultimately isn’t right.

‘Forsaker’ is yet another example of Etherdene’s impressive versatility as an artist. From her early days in the Afrikaans band Kaktus to her current solo career, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what indie-pop can be. With ‘Forsaker’, she’s taken an emotional experience and turned it into a musical triumph that’s as empowering as it is catchy. This track is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to make the difficult decision to walk away – and Etherdene’s ability to capture that moment in song is nothing short of remarkable.