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“Junior school alliances built to withstand the torments of puberty and teenage rites of passage – first kisses, first hangovers and trips good and bad.” Now years later in their twenties, Karen Cowley, Caoimhe Barry and Saoirse Duane a.k.a Wyvern Lingo are still fighting strong, professing that music is the glue that holds the band together and this is no clearer than in their self-titled debut album released in late February.
This debut from the Bray trio is an album that not only expresses intensely vulnerable and intimate emotions but also explores explore large socio-political issues using a new and exciting styles never before heard from the group. Since the release of their first EP in 2014, The Widow Knows, Wyvern Lingo have undertaken a personal and musical evolution. From their rustic folk roots, they have emerged with a new R&B infused pop, elements of which were heard in their 2016 EP, Letters to Willow. The time and effort that has gone into it is almost tangible on the album.
From the opening track, ‘Out of My Hands’, the intricate harmonies accompanied with a hint of synth instantly create a tapestry of warm sound that envelops the listener. Their precise harmonies across the album are to be marvelled at, reminiscent of nostalgic 90s soul. Although their shared talents smoothly merge together, each member has their own moment to showcase themselves. There is no true lead vocalist which is refreshing to see in a modern band.
The lyric subject matter largely concerns the exploration of dealing with collective and personal experiences resulting in a personable vulnerability, while remaining socially conscious. The aforementioned ‘Out of My Hands’ deals with the collective apathy towards the disadvantaged “junkies or scum”. While tracks such as ‘Crawl’ deal with the hurt of a past relationship. These lyrics are articulated with superb vocals along with spiky guitar riffs and keyboards that pack a punch throughout the album.
The extent of their musicianship with both instruments and voice is both staggering and hugely inspiring to behold, especially in a live setting. Overall, Wyvern Lingo have proved with this album that they are a prime example of what the Irish music scene has to offer and the future looks bright for these strong women musicians.
