We Speak Music

The All Clear’s Debut Album ‘Harbour Songs’: A Powerful Blend of Life, Love, and Healing

Published

4 months ago

September 23, 2024

The All Clear emerges from Belfast with their debut album Harbour Songs, a poignant and powerful statement by frontman Joe O’Sullivan. As both a seasoned musician and a consultant oncologist, Joe brings a unique perspective to his songwriting, blending personal turmoil and professional experiences into a sound that is as reflective as it is emotive.

The band, which features Joe Craig on bass, Ali Donnelly on drums, and Oisín O’Sullivan on backing vocals, creates a sonic landscape that complements the introspective and deeply personal nature of Joe’s lyrics. Recorded at Start Together Studios and produced by Rocky O’Reilly, Harbour Songs is an album rooted in life’s most profound moments—both the personal, such as the end of a marriage and new beginnings, and the professional, symbolized by the life-altering news that patients long to hear: “The All Clear.”

From the opening track, the album takes listeners on an emotional journey. Songs like “I Won’t Be The Only One” are tinged with melancholy, while tracks like “In The Dark” offer glimmers of hope and renewal. Joe’s lyrical approach is raw and authentic, painting vivid pictures of love, loss, and healing, all within the context of his experiences as a doctor and musician. This depth is reflected in the soundscapes, which range from delicate, folk-inspired melodies to more intense, indie rock anthems.

The production, under O’Reilly’s skilled guidance, strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and grandeur. The use of atmospheric guitars, understated yet powerful drum patterns, and Oisín’s harmonies brings warmth and resonance to the album’s heavier themes. Joe’s voice, weathered by both experience and passion, carries the weight of the album’s narrative, from the quiet vulnerability of “Show Me Your Love” to the defiant strength in “I’m Not Sugarcoated”.

Harbour Songs, is not just an album; it’s a meditation on life’s complexities. Its themes of heartbreak, resilience, and renewal resonate universally, making it a standout in today’s indie music landscape. The All Clear has created an evocative debut that speaks to both the mind and the heart.

With live performances planned across Northern Ireland, The All Clear is sure to leave a lasting impact on listeners, much like the enduring message their name embodies—hope, survival, and clarity after the storm. Harbour Songs is a deeply human and highly relatable debut, available now on all streaming platforms.

SPOTIFY | INSTAGRAM

We Speak Music

The Melodic Magnetism of 424KP’s “2Safe2Say”

Published

3 hours ago

January 21, 2025

Philomena Marie

424KP’s latest single, “2Safe2Say”, is a testament to his undeniable growth as an artist and his ability to craft music that resonates across borders. The Shanghai-born, UK-raised rapper has carved out a niche for himself by blending cultural influences and a signature melodic rap style that sets him apart in the crowded hip-hop landscape. The track’s fusion of heavy trap beats and melancholic production makes for a compelling listen, reflecting both his personal journey and his ambitions on the global stage.

The production on “2Safe2Say” is hypnotic, seamlessly balancing the hard-hitting energy of trap with a chilled, introspective vibe. The beat is atmospheric, with layered synths and 808s that create a sense of urgency while leaving room for KP’s autotune-laced vocals to shine. His flows are fluid, with a melodic edge that carries the listener through the track’s emotional highs and lows. This duality—raw yet polished—has become a hallmark of KP’s artistry, and it’s on full display here.

KP’s lyrics reveal his vulnerability and depth as a storyteller. Lines reflecting on personal loss and his determination to succeed add layers of authenticity to the track. His bilingual background subtly weaves into his delivery, giving the song an international flair that feels both unique and relatable. It’s this ability to merge personal themes with universal appeal that makes 424KP such a compelling artist to watch.

The music video for “2Safe2Say” elevates the single even further. Set against a snowy, cinematic landscape, it’s a visual feast that complements the track’s moody, introspective tone. KP’s magnetic presence on screen adds to the song’s allure, showcasing his range not just as a musician but as a complete creative force. The visuals are meticulously crafted, reflecting his dedication to artistry beyond just music.

In “2Safe2Say,” 424KP delivers a track that is both a personal statement and a universal anthem. With nearly 250,000 monthly listeners and recognition from global icons, KP is poised for superstardom. This single is more than just music—it’s a declaration of intent from an artist destined to shape the future of hip-hop.