From an inspired songwriter with a delicious sense of space and dynamic, Rebecca Ireland’s new offering, ‘WILD BEAR’, is ripe with winter sunshine and longing. Ireland and band will launch the September release with a string of East Coast shows.
“Rebecca’s original, poetic and lyrical slant on life is inspirational and poignant.” Marika Bryant, ABC Arts Hub
As with Rebecca’s 2011 release, ‘Love & Sticky Tape’ (Vitamin), this work possesses an infectious lyrical grit and charm. A velvet force of melodic grooves stoke the warmth and colour of this naturally evocative voice and authentic sound.
The title track bristles with Ireland’s vocal and guitar captured in stunning sparsity and holds a thrumming sense of a soul searching the darkest bounds, only taking solace in “the beauty of the winter light” (WILD BEAR). In contrast, the full band sound of the third track, ‘Precarious’, drives like heavy rain, storming bare with declaration that everyday there is nothing but “leaving you”. The signature alt/rock guitar sounds of producer Christian Pyle (Acre, Ghost Mountain) are a distinct feature. Rebecca is a poet in motion and Pyle has skillfully captured the fragility and scenic depth of this emerging artist. Awarded ABC (North Coast) album of the week, ‘Love and Sticky Tape’ saw Ireland celebrated as a singer/songwriter and an independent artist, packing houses for shows in Melbourne, Brisbane, Byron Bay and the Mullum Music Festival.
A strong solo performer, Ireland continues to enjoy the company of a growing selection of acclaimed musicians including Thierry Fossemalle (Whitlams, Grace Knight) and Pete Wilkins (Blue King Brown) who form the core of her ‘Old Soul Band’. Staying true to her love of vocal harmonies, melodic intensity and intimate storytelling, Rebecca promises some seriously sweet somethings for the upcoming launch tour. “The dichotomy of sadness and sunshine in this record is testament to the human being’s journey of breaking open to let the light in”, says Rebecca,“May we all shine through the madness.”
