In Ireland’s vibrant tapestry of indie rock, Pillow Queens rise above mere sonic contributions, mirroring the nation’s own dynamic shift towards inclusivity and acceptance. Their latest offering, “Name Your Sorrow,” due April 19th, plunges deep into vulnerability, queerness, and identity, echoing a nation’s journey towards embracing its complexities.
Formed in Dublin in 2016, Pillow Queens quickly ascended the ranks, captivating UK and US media with their potent blend of raw lyrics and emotive melodies. Their trajectory, from the unfiltered energy of debut “In Waiting” to the introspective depth of “Leave The Light On,” reflects a band in constant evolution, unafraid to confront and embrace their own vulnerabilities.
“Name Your Sorrow” is a testament to this growth. Inspired by the poignant quest for expression in Eavan Boland’s poem “Atlantis,” it’s an unguarded exploration of loss, love, and the intricate dance between them. The album’s title, drawn directly from the poem, suggests a new openness, a departure from the metaphorical shadows of their earlier work.
Watch the visualizer for “Gone” below:
Recorded in the serenity of County Clare, the band’s process was deeply communal, relying on unspoken language and shared instinct to shape the album’s direction. This shift is further accentuated by their collaboration with Nashville-based producer Collin Pastore, whose influence steers them towards a sound that, while unexpected, resonates as a true representation of their collective vision.
Each track, a carefully crafted narrative of pain and resilience, defies radio-friendly standards. This departure signifies a newfound confidence, a willingness to experiment and redefine what a “Pillow Queens song” can be. Vintage equipment and the introduction of instruments like the grand piano and harmonica weave a tapestry of sonic possibilities, promising to elevate their live performances to new heights.
Musically, “Name Your Sorrow” refuses to be pigeonholed. From Vampire Weekend to Barbara Streisand and Lana Del Rey, a diverse set of influences creates an atmospherically charged and genre-bending soundscape.
Name Your Sorrow (LP) Tracklist
- February 8th
- Suffer
- Like A Lesson
- Blew Up The World
- Friend Of Mine
- The Bar’s Closed
- Gone
- So Kind
- Heavy Pour
- One Night
- Love II
- Notes On Worth
