Dublin based alt-rock four piece Banríon have released their debut EP ‘Airport Dads’.Following the release of her solo single ‘bins’, songwriter and guitarist Róisín Ní Haicéid recruited drummer Michael Nagle, bassist John Harding and guitarist Ivan Rakhmanin to form Banríon and complete their immediately recognisable alt-rock sound. The jazz backgrounds of Nagle and Harding have allowed Banríon to explore a refreshingly eclectic mix of genres to create a powerful indie sound, already attracted a very loyal fanbase. Banríon has played in venues such as Whelan’s, the Workman’s Club, Bello Bar and the Sound House and their cult following is growing in numbers after every live show. Recorded in Nagle’s home in Connemara, the three-part EP was entirely self- produced.
‘Airport Dads’ provides a short glimpse into Banríon’s alternative indie rock as they create a mature, lush and well balanced EP. ‘Yesterday’s Paper’ kicks things in motion with jangly indie guitars piercing a thick punchy rhythmic wall of sound. It’s a light, sweet tune that floats delicately over an upbeat backdrop and tight musicianship while lyrics explore the fears of day to day life.
Through sweet and delicate tones and catchy refrains the band express pain, angst and vulnerability. Banríon take tender and raw themes of disability, feelings of uncertainty, emigration and heartbreak and place rich, delicate and compelling musicianship around them to heighten and highlight the emotion one feels during these experiences. A brave undertaking which the four-piece succeed in doing with skill and empathy.
The gliding and elegant flurries of ‘Bunk Beds’ pivot around a rooted guitar jingle and raw rhythmic bounce as the band create an illusive shoegaze soundscape with a more punchy rock foundation. The laid back lull of ‘Ouchie’ brings the EP to a close. The mood is glum as the twinkling on guitar glimmers through the tracks moody melodic flow. Róisín Ní Haicéid’s vocals have a pacifying and soothing tone throughout the EP while delivering coarse and painful lyrics. Her sweet lull and richer depths express emotion effortlessly as she draws you into each song’s enchanting sorrow and diverse emotions.
‘Airport Dads’ shows Banríon know their sound and what they want to achieve. The band have created a wonderful collection of time stopping and utterly moving tunes with sublime dreamy moments and raw emotive themes to provide an honest, real, and emotional EP.
Stream ‘Airport Dads’ below
Author : Danu
