UK-based duo MothBreath is formed by the talents of singer and keyboardist Kirsty Dougall and multi-instrumentalist John Libert on guitar, bass, keys and programming. Taking influence from classic pop and rock artists as well as more experimental stylings, their shared sonic vision materialises through highly original music that flows across various genres, tinged with avant-garde vibes.
From the outset, MothBreath made an impression with their debut single “Drift Away,” a track that quickly won over listeners and tastemakers alike, earning high praise from the likes of BBC Introducing. Over the next couple of years, the pair continued to develop their sound, embracing an innovative approach to composition and production that resulted in their eponymous debut album mothbreath, which landed in May last year.
Built around Kirsty’s soulful, stacked vocal layers and John’s immersive, atmospheric guitar work, mothbreath was released to widespread acclaim, confirming their status as one of the most compelling new shoegaze and dream pop acts. Now they’re back with their first release of 2025, bringing us their new single titled “Brand New,” a single that distils the duo’s ethereal charm while framing themes of renewal and connection.
Reflecting on the restorative power of nature and the shifting seasons, the track serves as a meditative exploration of change and growth, wrapped up in a delicate dream pop sound cut with gentle trip hop aesthetic. Opened by the misty combination of bubbling synth textures, shimmering guitar tones, shuffling drums and soulful vocalisations, the track floats through an emotive scene as Kirsty’s gracious voice hovers above the mesmeric arrangement spinning alluring melodic flourishes.
Flowing with stunning layers of backing vocals and topped by memorable melodic hooks underpinned by the mellow groove, “Brand New” offers an exquisite dream pop experience that’s equally hypnotic and catchy. Peppered with slick lead guitar licks and wrapped in an atmospheric musical fabric, the track casts a spellbinding sound that’s impossible not to love.
Brought to life by superb musicianship, laid back rhythms and spectacular vocal performance, it’s a truly engaging jam that puts the unique and thoroughly enamouring sonic output of MothBreath on full display. Following up their well-received debut record with a stellar new single, MothBreath are set to continue going from strength to strength and we can’t wait to see what they’ve got in store for the rest of 2025 and beyond.
Listen to Brand New below
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