Indie Folk from Under Starling

Over the last few years, Irish outfit Under Starling has been shifting the parameters of alternative music with their thrilling blend of reverb-soaked melodies, dark distorted riffs and pop-focused rock undertones. Influenced by acts like Biffy Clyro, The 1975 and U2, Under Starling has crafted a unique sound that invokes sonic bliss while still retaining a gritty edge.

Emerging in 2017 with their debut EP, Ethereal, the band has since shared a string of well-received singles and two additional EPs. Their music and live performances offer a sense of escapism, uniting fans in shared experiences and bringing them together through Under Starling’s reputation as architects of euphoria in the Irish music scene.

Building on the success of their single “Trick of the Light” and the critically acclaimed EP Portals, released in May last year, Under Starling has continued to develop their sonic output and ignite a new era in Irish music. Their newest single, “Selkie,” sees the band leaning into the alternative folk side of their sound, exploring the challenges of long-distance relationships through the ancient Selkie myth.

“Selkie” is a stunning indie rock song with folk rock stylings that deftly blends fiction and reality to metaphorically symbolise hope and connection. This is the second release from Under Starling’s upcoming debut album, Murmurations, set for release on October 25th. The song recounts an inspiring tale where the protagonist, upon receiving a seal skin from a Selkie, embarks on a watery journey to reunite with their beloved. This lyrical exploration captures the belief that love can transcend great distances, embodying themes of growth, resilience, determination and acceptance.

Against the majestic ocean backdrop, “Selkie” celebrates the profound bond between two souls weathering life’s storms. The tale of the Selkie, a mythological creature catching the eyes of sailors around the coasts of Ireland, is stitched into the very fabric of Irish folklore due to the beautiful abundance of native seals in Irish waters. These seals, a keystone species holding the marine ecosystem together, have long confused lovesick fishermen and inspired countless legends.

Setting the scene with delicate guitar flickers as emotive vocals spin picture painting lyricism, reality and fantasy blur as the folklore and link to real life become intertwined. With the arrangement rising with the shuffle or drums of intricate plucks of guitar layers, the song sways with subtly melancholy as the flutter of synth adds energy before the sorrowful swells of sonic texture ushers in the second half. Building up to an epic crescendo of crashing drums and driving guitars, the song concludes with an emphatic finale peppered with vocal shots to lead a lasting memory of the track.

Listen to Selkie below