Brand new single from Under Starling

Irish band Under Starling has been going from strength to strength in the alternative music scene, blending atmosphere and a contrast of darkness and brightness and pop-driven writing that flows between rock and folk stylings. Inspired by artists like Biffy Clyro, The 1975 and U2, the band has developed a sound that is at once euphoric and original, striking a deft balance between grandeur and grit.

Since emerging in 2017 with their debut EP Ethereal, they’ve earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting alternative music exports. With each release, Under Starling has expanded their reach, connecting with audiences through both their recorded work and their thrilling live shows. Their music fosters a sense of escapism, offering listeners a chance to lose themselves in gripping melodies and emotionally charged songwriting.

Over the years, they’ve impressed with their well-received studio releases, each one unveiling a new side to the band’s shared sonic vision. Last year they continued their prolific creative output with a string of singles and their critically acclaimed debut full-length record Murmurations. Hitting the ground running in 2025, they’ve recently dropped their latest EP, Birdwatching and now bring us their latest single lifted from the release with the opening song and title track, “Birdwatching,” featuring the vocals of Molly Robb.

Presenting a poignant love song that takes cues from the transient beauty of nature, the track distils fragile moments and the delicate dance between presence and parting. Echoing the beauty of Ireland’s southeast coast, “Birdwatching” wraps the listening in a delicate folk-tinged dream pop soundscape where intricate instrumentation, gently rustling drums and blissful melodic leads combine to cast a soothing and mesmeric sound.

Brought in by the swell of airy atmospheric textures, soft guitar notes flutter as lead singer Danny’s voice entwine’s with the elegant vocals of Molly Robb to stitch graceful melodic leads into the tender musical fabric. With poignant, picture painting lyricism delivered via hushed vocal harmonies, the subdued shuffle of pattering drums and warm bass notes add a lilting rhythmic sway, carrying the song into a hypnotic and truly enveloping arrangement.

Building the energy with lightly gritty guitar tones and sweeping sonic tones, the track gradually rises in the finale to offer an immersive and entirely arresting listening experience that’s dazzling and heartfelt throughout. It’s a spectacular showcase of Under Starling’s timeless songwriting flair and their knack for framing their music in engaging and unique ways. As they start the new year strong with an exceptional new release, we can’t wait to see what this exciting band has in store for the rest of 2025 and beyond.

Listen to Birdwatching below

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