Ireland has long been a breeding ground for musical innovation, and the alternative rock band Under Starling is a testament to this legacy. With their evolving sound that weaves together influences from iconic acts like The Cranberries, Kings of Leon, and U2, this Irish group is setting the stage for a transformative year. Their distinct sonic landscape, characterized by reverb, delay, and chorus effects, transports listeners into a world of euphoria, balanced with a gritty edge that adds emotional depth to their music.
In 2024, Under Starling continues their upward trajectory with the release of their single “Changeling.” This track has garnered critical acclaim from major publications such as Hot Press, Clout, Mystic Sons, and Earmilk. With each new release, the band’s live performances offer a unique form of escapism, likened to the hypnotic flight of a murmuration of starlings, drawing audiences into their ethereal yet powerful musical world. Now, all eyes are on the band as they prepare to drop their debut album in October, a release set to push the boundaries of Irish alternative rock.
A Mythological Inspiration: The Selkie
As Under Starling prepares to release their debut album, they delve into deeper waters both musically and thematically. Central to the mythology surrounding the album is the figure of the selkie—a creature rooted in Irish and Scottish folklore. Selkies, also known as the seal people, are beings who live as seals in the sea but can shed their skin to take human form on land. Their myth, steeped in both romance and tragedy, tells of irresistible allure and inevitable loss, often involving human lovers who fall under the spell of these mystical beings.
The selkie legend feels like a fitting metaphor for Under Starling’s music, which offers an alluring escape into a world that feels both otherworldly and deeply emotional. Just as a selkie sheds its seal skin to reveal a human heart beneath, the band peels back layers of sound and atmosphere to reveal a core of raw, vulnerable emotion. The band’s music, much like the selkie, bridges two worlds: the expansive, fluid soundscapes of the sea and the grounded human experiences of love, loss, and identity.
“Changeling” and the Evolution of Under Starling
“Changeling,” the band’s latest single, not only encapsulates their growth but also hints at the thematic depths they’re willing to explore in their upcoming album. The title itself draws from folklore, referring to a creature switched at birth by the fae—another myth that speaks to transformation and identity. In much the same way, Under Starling’s music navigates the space between metamorphosis and rootedness, asking listeners to reflect on their own experiences of change, belonging, and personal evolution.
From the moment “Changeling” begins, the layers of reverb and delay create a soundscape that feels like an endless horizon. Yet, much like the selkie, there is something more underneath the surface. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and self-discovery, paired with driving percussion and anthemic guitars that crescendo into an immersive, emotional release. It’s no wonder the single has received such praise—its ability to captivate listeners with a blend of escapism and deep emotional resonance is the hallmark of Under Starling’s evolving sound.
A New Era of Irish Alternative Rock
With their debut album on the horizon, Under Starling is poised to lead a new wave of Irish alternative rock. Their sound, influenced by the rich musical traditions of Ireland but unafraid to push genre boundaries, has a distinct energy that feels both familiar and groundbreaking. Drawing inspiration from both mythological and personal themes, the band has created a sonic experience that resonates on multiple levels, from the heady rush of their expansive soundscapes to the grounded emotion in their lyrics.
Much like the selkie—caught between land and sea—Under Starling navigates the balance between grounded, human stories and larger-than-life, atmospheric soundscapes. The band’s ability to transport listeners while staying emotionally authentic is what sets them apart in today’s music landscape. With their debut album set to release in October, it’s clear that Under Starling is ready to take their place as one of Ireland’s most exciting new acts.
As the anticipation for Under Starling’s debut album grows, it’s clear that the band is more than just another alternative rock group. Their ability to weave mythological themes like the selkie into their music, while maintaining a contemporary sound, speaks to their depth as artists. With “Changeling” offering a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come, Under Starling is set to capture the hearts of listeners worldwide, much like the legendary selkies of old.
Prepare for a musical journey that, much like the myth of the selkie, lures you in with its allure and leaves you contemplating the deeper currents that lie beneath. Under Starling is not just making music—they are creating legends of their own.
