AOIFE is the performing name of Aoife-Louise Doyle, an Irish-born, Hamilton, Canada-based singer songwriter who has just hit my radar thanks to her debut EP, when all is said and done.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Steph Montani

Across its six tracks, when all is said and done explores themes of heartbreak and growing pains, as well as growth and new love. It starts with Heavy, a delicate piano-led ballad with a powerful mix of melancholy and intimacy. It draws the listener in, slowly building with atmospheric layers and Aoife’s vocals are instantly sympathetic.

SID is a dreamy soul rock number with electronic overtones. i won’t be the one is lowdown and sultry, with lyrics that suggest contraband nocturnal encounters while also exploring the emotional complexity that comes from the end of a relationship. It’s a highlight.

SAD is slow and reflective with blues rock licks and pleading vocals. White Noise is a rousing moment with walls of feedback and a steady build to a cathartic climax. Day dreamin closes the EP with a funky experimental indie pop flourish. It’s another highlight.

Now that AOIFE is in my life I’m wondering why it took me so long to find her. Her sound is fresh yet familiar, with lyrical content that feels relatable and a soundscape that is so diverse and interesting. She can really belt out a number, and her songs are so rich with genuine emotion. I might have just found my new favourite artist in her.

When all is said and done was written and composed by Aoife. Arrangements are from Aoife, Dervish Kucukovic, Devon Savas & Levi Kertesz. It was engineered and recorded by Cohen Wylie at Threshold Recording Studio, with some additional recording and engineering by Dervish Kucukovic at Tonehouse Studios. It was produced and mixed by Dervish, with additional co-production and mixing from Levi Kertesz and Devon Savas. Mastering is by Jon Tornblom at Transparent Mastering.

You can listen to the EP below.