Culture Kid, the fresh moniker for Irish artist Fionn Hennessy-Hayes, makes a powerful entrance with the haunting debut single, “New Found Evil.” Fionn will be known to many for his regular tours with indie artists as well as with mainstream artists like Cian Ducrot and Pa Sheehy. Culture Kid has crafted a raw, introspective track that captivates from the first line. Although this is his first release under the pseudonym Culture Kid, the song’s lyricism and raw emotion make it clear he’s no novice to the complexities of storytelling.
The lyrics of “New Found Evil” stand out immediately for their unflinching vulnerability, starting with a memorable line that combines Halloween imagery with the weight of ongoing personal struggles: “Yeah I know it’s Halloween, we’ve been wearing a mask since February.” It’s a potent metaphor that speaks to the exhaustion of keeping up appearances, resonating deeply with listeners. The line “I’m tired of being alone, I’ve been losing touch with people,” captures the isolation many feel during darker months, a sentiment that also really hits home this weekend with the clocks turning back and the darker evenings emerging.
The song’s narrative unfolds with an effortless progression from Halloween to New Year’s, framing the cyclical nature of unresolved struggles. Lyrics like “celebrating New Year’s, same old shit and same old you, and it’s the same me” bring a biting realism to the track, underscoring the frustration of unchanging dynamics and a time when many people look for new beginnings and the inevitable New Year resolutions. Through lines like “bite your tongue and keep your distance,” Culture Kid dives into themes of self-restraint and inner conflict, emotions so many of us wrestle with yet rarely articulate.
Sonically, “New Found Evil” melds a melancholic atmosphere with dreamy production, creating a soundscape that enhances the track’s overall feel. The haunting melody and rich textures show a polish and professionalism in the production, with each note carefully calibrated to serve the song’s mood. It’s catchy, yet lingers with a weight that speaks to deeper truths, making it not just a song, but an experience, which is a testament to how good the song is considered its 2 minute and 55 second length.
With “New Found Evil,” Culture Kid proves he’s ready to stake his claim on the Irish music scene, paving the way for his debut album in 2025. The single leaves a lasting impression—one that’s intimate, introspective, and impressively self-aware. It’s not only a strong debut but an authentic exploration of the struggles and contradictions we all carry beneath the surface.
One of my favourite tracks of the year. 9/10
Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography