Singer songwriter based in Kent, Daniel McGuiness overcomes his self-doubt through the release of his debut EP, The Hourglass.

By Graeme Smith

Daniel has been releasing music since 2022 and, if you frequent Caffé Nero, you might have already heard one of his songs without realising it. His track Make Today Your Home has been included in their in-store playlist. This is the first time we’re sharing some of his music.

His story is a relatable one. For years, he held back on releasing music through a fear of not being good enough. Fortunately for us, he overcame that fear and this debut EP gives us five uniquely wonderful tracks.

The Hourglass kicks off in a lively, dynamic fashion with Reciprocity. Classic folk-pop instrumentals create the atmosphere while Daniel’s passionate vocals tell a rich, romantic story. A soaring chorus provides an early, stirring highlight and we know we’re in for a treat with this EP.

Gone opens with a bittersweet acoustic guitar-led arrangement and showcases Daniel’s vocals at their most soulful. Hourglass is the EP’s philosophical centrepiece. There’s a cinematic lushness to its instrumental and a hopeful quality to its lyrics. It’s another highlight.

The record is rounded off by the uplifting Never Let It Go and Warm – Acoustic. The latter closes things with a delicate, bright stripped-back vignette.

Daniel McGuiness’s new EP is a lesson for any aspiring musicians who feel trepidation around allowing their work to see the light of day. The only person holding you back is yourself. The world is always in need of more, diverse voices and we’re blessed that we get to hear Daniel’s with this EP.

The Hourglass was produced and engineering remotely with the help of Uxbridge-based Eliott Glinn. It’s out now, available to buy digitally via Daniel’s Bandcamp page. You can check it out below.