Irish contemporary folk artist Molly Donnery is set to release latest EP, Times We Shared In Innocence.

By Graeme Smith

Feature artwork by Hani Onyx Chladilova

Molly’s talents have featured twice before on this blog. At the beginning of the year, her vocals appeared on The Haar’s poetic track, My Sweet Wild Rose. Then, over the summer, I shared her memorable single, Ramble.

We’re not the only ones captivated by her sound, which brings together traditional Irish music and contemporary folk. She’s appeared on national TV in Ireland, and has been creating quite a buzz on social media.

Her upcoming EP, Times We Shared In Innocence explores, according to Molly, “different relationships in their different iterations.” Unfolding over six tracks, we get closer to knowing her than we have ever before.

After an ethereal Intro, we move seamless into the gentle and dreamy Pull Me Under. A sense of heartache runs through its image-laden lyrics, beautifully delivered by Molly’s lilting vocals during a stripped back first verse. Things explode into life during a powerful chorus and we are hooked.

She Hates Me In The Morning is a duet takes things in a bluesy and soulful direction before the aforementioned Ramble proves a highlight. Its lyrics paint pictures in your head as a dramatic, cinematic instrumental stirs.

For Cathal is a light and folksy moment that’s full of heart and romance. Title track Times We Shared In Innocence closes the EP with perhaps its most traditional track. A capella vocals mean Molly’s storytelling takes centre stage during its two minute rumination.

With her new EP, Molly Donnery is showing why she’s been getting so much attention. Her ability to meld the traditional and modern is second to none. Her vocals are beautifully compelling, and give us thoughtful lyrics full of poetry. Her appeal is simply universal.

Times We Shared In Innocence is out Friday 18 October 2024. You can pre-save it here.