Darren Kiely has gifted fans with not one but two releases today: “Mulcair Road” and “Old & Grey”. Both tracks showcase Darrens usual ability to absolutely tear your emotions apart whilst also giving you the urge to tap your feet and get moving.
“Mulcair Road” kicks off with a lively instrumental setting a toe-tapping rhythm that immediately gets your attention and draws you in. The track carries an American folk/country vibe, a nod to Darren’s time spent stateside. His raspy vocals shine, delivering beautifully penned lyrics like, “I curse time, ’cause time can move on,” (this lyric in particular is so simple but so hard hitting). The consistent beat keeps the energy up, making it a song that’s both reflective and infectious.
“Old & Grey”
In contrast, “Old & Grey” starts with a whistling tune, leading into stripped-back vocals that feel as if he’s serenading you on a quiet country lane. The acoustic guitar gently supports his voice. There’s a communal feel to the chorus, reminiscent of friends singing together at a cozy gathering. The country feel is there and also reminds me of the togehterness of the 2010 Kings of Leon hit “Back Down South”. The instrumentation takes a back seat, allowing Darren’s storytelling and lyrics to shine through.
Currently in the midst of his “Never Been Here Before” tour, Darren has just embarked on the Irish leg, with upcoming shows in:
Galway: Leisureland on March 7
Cork: City Hall on March 8
Wexford: National Opera House on March 9
Dublin: 3Olympia Theatre on March 13
Limerick: Live At The Big Top on March 15
Tickets are scarce, with many venues already at sell-out status. Fans lucky enough to have secured tickets are surely buzzing with anticipation to experience these new songs live.
As a combined release, they earn a solid 8/10, each complementing the other and showcasing Darren’s versatility without overshadowing one another.
Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography