Singer-songwriter Ciaran Egan, who performs as Untold River, has been appearing on our blog since 2022. His music has featured as part of Jane’s Monthly Favourites, and she’s even interviewed him.

By Graeme Smith

For my part, I’ve shared his singles Sleeping City Cowboy, November Coat and Don’t, previously describing his music as “timeless,” “vibrant” and “soulful.”

Now, you can add his latest, Only Son Of a Navvy, to that list. It’s a beautifully folksy number, telling a rich historical story against a backdrop of gentle soft rock and country. Ciaran’s vocals shine, taking hold of each nuanced emotion of its tale which rails against the idea of bowing to society’s pressures to find a “proper job.” While there’s a melancholy to it, the ultimate message is hopeful and uplifting.

Ciaran’s had an adventurous life, basing himself in Ireland, Manchester, and the West Coast of America in his time. Among his influences are Kevin Morby, Jeff Tweedy, Christy Moore, and The Pogues. Fans of any of those acts are going to find a lot to love about his latest single. I, for one, love hearing how his sound has developed over the past few years.

Only Son Of a Navvy is out now and you can give it a listen below.