The Irish-based label, Claddagh Records, well-known for its traditional and folk music, is paving the way for a resurgence since its establishment in 1959 by Garech de Brún and Ivor Browne. This revival was propelled by a global agreement with Universal Music in 2020. As a consequence, this accord saw the label scout and sign up a variety of upcoming Irish artists including Øxn and Niamh Bury.
Recently, the label’s roster has also witnessed the addition of indie-folk pair Lemoncello, consisting of Claire Kinsella and Laura Quirke. There is no threat of duplicating artistry, as each band boasts a unique style. Lemoncello’s musical offerings, for instance, draw from the twisted, complex indie-pop genre.
Their journey, from their inception to the present, is a story of musical growth. The debut EP in 2018, Stuck Upon the Staircase, by the duo rooted in Co Kildare, reflects identifiable influences from the likes of Sam Amidon and Seamus Fogarty. These artists’ experimental ideas have encouraged Kinsella and Quirke to push the traditional boundaries of their own musical creations. Thus, while their long-awaited debut album may bear a strong resemblance to their inspirations, it retains an impressively powerful unique character.
Having performed with renowned Irish musicians such as David Keenan, Glen Hansard, and Gareth Quinn Redmond throughout the years has additionally benefitted them. These artists are known for their non-conformist approach towards creating transformative music. Therefore, there is an audibly dynamic push and pull in their sound that sets it apart. To illustrate, their themes ranging from love, loss, life struggles, to social media may seem conventional, but their perspectives are often refreshingly incisive.
This duo’s music featuring in the nine-song collection benefits greatly from the individual strength of the artists and the sheer joy derived from their harmonious collaboration.
A common view might suggest that the ballads fail to deliver the required impact to distinguish themselves from others in the folk/trad genre, but there’s more to it than sheer force. Tracks like Dopamine, Old Friend, Hard Truths, and Always Neighbours are smoothly explosive gems. Seek shelter.