Dan McCabe’s latest single, “Pieces (Love or War),” released today November 29th, is a raw and emotional reflection on the struggles of love and heartbreak. Its beautiful chorus, “Is this love or is this war, the pieces don’t fit anymore,” captures the painful realization of a relationship falling apart, making it deeply relatable for anyone who has experienced the push and pull of love.
The song begins with a soft, understated instrumental that sets the stage for McCabe’s gravelly, attention-grabbing voice. His vocal tone, filled with texture and emotion, carries the weight of the lyrics effortlessly. As the track progresses, the instrumental builds in intensity—layering heavier guitar lines and driving drumbeats—while McCabe’s vocals grow more powerful and raspy, echoing the rising tension in the story.
One part of the track that stood out for me is the use of moments of silence, where the instruments cut out entirely to highlight deep meaningful lines such as “the pieces don’t fit anymore.” These pauses create a striking effect, amplifying the meaning of the words and leaving a lasting impression.
McCabe is no stranger to the limelight, having performed on RTÉ’s Late Late Show and at the President’s residence for a New Year’s Eve broadcast. His 2021 tour sold out 60 venues across Ireland, including iconic stages like Dublin’s 3Olympia and The Ulster Hall. His growing presence in Irish music was further solidified when he performed at the Aviva Stadium during Ireland’s World Cup qualifier against Portugal in 2022.
You can find Dan McCabe here:
Official Website: https://www.danmccabe-music.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialdmc96
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmcmusic96/…
With “Pieces (Love or War),” McCabe continues to establish himself as a major force in the Irish music scene. The song’s heartfelt lyrics, combined with its gradual instrumental build and McCabe’s dynamic vocal performance, make it a great addition to his already impressive list of tracks. It’s a song that captures the intensity of love and heartbreak with authenticity and power.
“Pieces (Love or War),” comes in at a cracking 8 out of 10
Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography