New Irish alt-pop artist Liadh has released her new single, Control. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
The track is the third single from the Athlone native's forthcoming debut EP, Illusions.
"Control is an alt-pop track about my struggle to control my own mind and search for oblivion," Liadh says. "At this time of my life, I was repressing a lot of my emotions and coping in unhealthy ways.
"In this way, my search for control ended up controlling me. But Control is also a mantra - a way to ground myself. I’d love for this song to help others escape their minds and feel present in their bodies, even if for a moment."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I love languages - I tutor Irish and French and have a small bit of Russian and Dutch. I have a degree in Psychology, something that informs my lyrics. I am passionate about animal welfare and have three cats.
How would you describe your music?
My music is alt-pop infused with disco and synth, with introspective lyrics for people who feel too much. I write about neurodiversity, sobriety and mental health. I want my music to offer catharsis - like crying on a dancefloor because you feel so free.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I’m very much inspired by 80s music, especially synth pop. It’s what my parents played growing up - A-ha, Tears For Fears, The Human League, Eurythmics, Spandau Ballet. I’m also really inspired by modern female alt-pop icons like Lana Del Rey, MARINA, Florence and the Machine, Björk, Lorde and Aurora.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Westlife in Croke Park.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I loved Busted as a kid, and the first CD I can remember getting was Busted - Live: A Ticket For Everyone.
What’s your favourite song right now?
The Sun Always Shines on TV’ by A-ha. The sound is so euphoric but the lyrics are quite sad, and that’s something I really hope to achieve with my music. The synths are also lush.
Favourite lyric of all time?
'No more dreaming like a girl so in love with the wrong world’ - Blinding by Florence + the Machine. It really captures that sense of not feeling like you belong in the world, of wanting to escape through fantasy.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Venice Bitch - Lana Del Rey. It’s a shapeshifting masterpiece.
Where can people find your music/more information?
I’m on Instagram and TikTok @liadhmusic. My music is available on all streaming services including Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, YouTube, SoundCloud and Bandcamp.
Alan Corr
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