Clare duo The Awning have released their debut single, July. We asked them the BIG questions . . .
Formerly known as Scoth, multi-instrumentalists and singer-songwriters Darragh Purcell and Evan Flaherty wrote the song after losing a dear friend.
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Speaking about the song, they say, "This song was written in the aftermath of losing a dear friend who passed away far too soon. It explores the vulnerable emotions of grief and serves as a poignant reminder of life's fragility.
"The lyrics narrate the events from his passing to the funeral, with each day passing swiftly and insignificantly. Such moments make you question life and confront the reality that you cannot control the broader course of events.
"The carefree and joyful essence of summer is upended, forever altering what the month of July signifies for all of us. This song is for him."
The County Clare cousins play their first headline show as The Awning in The Workmans Cellar, Dublin on 10 September and have been chosen as a showcasing act for Irish Music Week, which takes place from 1 to 4 October.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
Darragh: We're first cousins and we grew up together. We were always in each other’s company so we’re like brothers! Music was something that we were surrounded as our family is quite musical. We never really planned on doing music together, it just sort of happened one evening when we got bored of playing video games. Evan said that he had written a song and asked if I would like to work on it with him. So that’s what we did!
How would you describe your music?
Evan: I think the best way to describe it would be ethereal indie folk. We incorporate soundscape into our music quite a lot and blend that with acoustic instrumentation.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Darragh: We’re massive fans of Sufjan Stevens. He was an artist that we both immediately fell in love with as soon as we heard him. His discography spans across so many different genres which we find so refreshing. He’s truly a master. The Gloaming are another huge source of inspiration. Each of them individually are all so incredible but when they were together they created a truly unique sound. In the last year in particular we’ve both found the all-round musicianship and lyricism of Adrianne Lenker to be super grounding and deeply resonant. Somehow she continues to get better with each passing album.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Evan: My first gig was Tenacious D back in 2011. My dad and I were huge fans so it was amazing to get to go with him. I had just turned 11 that year so I’m not sure why they let me in but it was amazing!
What was the first record you ever bought?
Darragh: So, this is an interesting one! The first album I ever bought was actually a Hannah Montana album. I still relate deeply to those lyrics.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Evan: I’m going for a Sam Amidon song! I’ve been on a lot of flights recently and as a terrible flyer, Sam’s song Relief has calmed me immensely for each take-off and landing.
Favourite lyric of all time?
Evan: From the bed near your death and all the machines they made a mess, far away the falcon flew, now I want to be near you" - Eugene by Sufjan Stevens. I adore the entirety of this song, but this line breaks my heart every time.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Darragh: Impossible Soul by Sufjan Stevens. It’s quite long and it has a lot going on. I always find something new in it.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can find all information on upcoming shows and releases on our Instagram @Theawningband and can find our music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and all streaming services.
Alan Corr
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