What’s undeniable is that Northern Ireland’s alt-rock scene is in excellent health, and the thing is… are living proof of that. Hailing from Downpatrick and now based in Belfast, the five-piece return with ‘I Would Rather’, produced by Darragh Tibbs (Pillow Queens, Eve Belle) and accompanied by a video directed by Eoin Bannon (Wynona Bleach). It’s arguably their most ambitious single to date.
Musically, ‘I Would Rather’ marks a clear shift from their earlier material. Where previous singles like ‘Weeping Willows’ or ‘Disconnected’ leaned towards the indie textures of Wolf Alice, this new release dives into a darker, more visceral strain of alt-rock, built on heavier riffs, increased distortion, and a driving drum performance that firmly anchors the track (Tom Clarke proves a brilliant addition!).
The song opens with a riff that nods to ’90s alt-rock, with faint echoes of Veruca Salt, before steadily building towards a finale that is unmistakably Black Sabbath. It’s a dynamic arc, but one the band handle with confidence. At the centre of it all is Eva Rowan, whose vocal performance balances restraint and intensity with remarkable control. There’s a raw, physical edge to her delivery that recalls PJ Harvey at her most direct. It is this blend that gives the track its unique character.
Lyrically, ‘I Would Rather’ is an exercise in autonomy. There’s no pleading, no over-explaining; she simply draws a line. The bridge introduces a surge of surreal imagery — cards, barricades, minefields — and the music rises to meet it, amplifying its sense of urgency. What begins as a break-up narrative ultimately unfolds into something broader: a statement of self-preservation and reclaimed identity.
With ‘I Would Rather’, the thing is… sound assured, driven and fully in control of their direction. They are a band with a clear vision, and one well worth paying attention to.
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