‘Safe’ is precisely what fans would want from their band: their core shoegaze/dream-pop sound elevated with a new self-confidence, a tight, masterly control of hooks, and broader touch points such as Pavement and Sonic Youth. In short: their ethereal elements feel more alluring than ever; the visceral moments are more selective and dynamic but hit just as hard; and their songs are simply a leap in sophistication beyond ‘Madra’.
Its first single, ‘Entertainer’, encapsulates their growth. Julie’s vocal glides like a conversation with an imaginary friend, while every touch – her slacker rock cadence, distorted stabs of guitars, foreboding synth flourishes and drums which flow from spacious to savage – embeds itself in your mind and refuses to let go.
“The song is about entertaining other people’s idea of who you should be,” explains Julie. “I’m only learning now that I just need to shut out the noise and do what makes me feel comfortable.”
In fact, the entire EP rotates around similar introspective conflicts: being a people pleaser but standing up for yourself; realising that success brings a fresh wave of unexpected challenges, adapting to their new lives in an often overwhelming London. But musically it shows that NewDad should have no fears as whatever they can imagine they can thrillingly bring to life.
It’s a trait present as the title track erupts into a fierce denouement. It’s there as Fiachra’s personal favourite, ‘Puzzle’, lurches into a seasick grunge waltz with lyrics inspired by Norman Mailer’s ‘The Executioner’s Song’. And it’s especially there with the affecting string arrangement on ‘Be Kind’ – something that Sean affirms that they would’ve have previously recreated using synths. Julie: “It was a thrill. We’re some random kids from Galway with no music education, and the most incredible musicians came in and played what we asked them to, and we’re really grateful for that.”
