Emerging Irish artist Rían’s new single We’re All Alone takes on the delicate task of covering a classic that’s been etched into music history by the likes of Frankie Valli and Rita Coolidge. It’s never easy to reimagine something that’s been so beloved for many years but here Rían leans into tenderness, letting the emotion carry the track instead of trying to overtake it. A very wise decision and the result is a version that feels personal and soft, a reminder that sometimes restraint is where the power lies.
Rían’s first notes are both gentle and weighty. This was my first time hearing Rían and I was pleasantly impressed. The instrumental on this track is warm and rich and really adds to the overall feel of beauty this rendition conveys. It gives the track its depth, cushioning Rían’s vocals and amplifying the sense of intimacy. A massive congratulations to Martin, Tony, Stuart and Peter for the wonderful work. It’s a polished production thanks to Stuart Gray, yet it doesn’t lose that raw edge of vulnerability that makes the song so special.
Vocally, Rían walks a careful line. His delivery is full and soulful. He has said two of his biggest influences are Dolly Parton and Cher and this can definitely be heard on the record. He doesn’t try to mimic, which is where this cover succeeds most. Instead, he brings his own weight to the lyrics. That truthfulness in delivery makes it feel authentic rather than just another rework of a classic.
It’s worth noting that Rían is still early in his career, hailing from a small town in Dublin but already catching the ears of media outlets and radio stations across Ireland. His debut single The Gift of Freedom and his Christmas release O Holy Night hinted at a voice worth watching, and We’re All Alone continues that trajectory. It’s undeniably a strong step forward for an artist carving out his own path in Ireland’s music scene. You can catch Rían live at The Outing Festival in February 2026.
We’re All Alone scores a 7 out of 10
Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography