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

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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.

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Marsha Swanson Releases New Song “Like An Angel”

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Marsha Swanson

Now out, Marsha Swanson’s most recent track, “Like An Angel,” has already started to stir among listeners of progressive pop. Released on January 31, 2025, the song, which offers a very personal experience, honours the one-year anniversary of her album “Near Life Experience” which came out in 2024.

The track was originally an untitled ghost track from the album and it has been re-recorded with a live band and a string section, bringing a new level of emotional depth. It was produced at Echo Zoo Studios by Henry (King Thumb) Thomas, whose credits include Randy Crawford and Paul Weller, the track blends the ethereal beauty of the original with a fresh, dynamic arrangement. The lineup of talented musicians—Martyn Barker (drums), Tony Qunta (guitar), and Anders Olinder (keyboards)—adds to its lush, atmospheric sound.

Inspired by those who have departed but still lead us, in life “Like An Angel” pushes into themes of love, acceptance, and remembrance accompanied by a visually spectacular video filmed by award-winning filmmaker Sam Chegini. Comparisons to the work of Kate Bush and Tori Amos help one to really relate to the spiritual and cinematic sense of the song.

Having already reached the semi-finals of the UK Songwriting Contest, “Like An Angel” reinforces Swanson’s reputation for insightful lyricism and compelling compositions. With continued airplay and critical acclaim, the single stands as a powerful testament to her artistry—a gift to listeners and a celebration of the album’s lasting impact.

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