M. Byrd explores new fatherhood in memorable new EP, In Breech.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Ilgen-Nur Borali & tobewhy

A German singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, M. Byrd has appeared once before on this blog when Jane ran the rule over his single, Over You/Over Me. Now he’s back with a new EP called In Breech.

In Breech is set in a season of his life in which he became a father and gives us plenty of personal storytelling. We are drawn in straight away by delicate EP opener Always which showcases M. Byrd’s compelling vocal and ability to pen a memorable melody. The emotion of the story is apparent from the off. I was hooked.

My Starlight brings with it a cantering tempo, ethereal overtones and poetic lyrics. Underwater sees M. Byrd join forces with Philine Sonny (another York Calling favourite) for a harmonious, life-affirming pop rock number. Halo (Blue Letter) is a dreamy waltz before One Way or the Other closes the EP powerfully. A simmering first verse slowly comes to the boil during a shimmering crescendo.

Many artists spend their whole career trying to create a track that truly stands out from the crowd. With his new EP, M. Byrd has created five of them. Though brief, the record takes us on an emotional journey, and marks M. Byrd out as one of the great modern pop songwriters.

In Breech was co-produced with John Joseph and is out now via Nettwerk. You can give it a listen below.