The Valmonts, a Galway-bred indie-rock band, emerges as a beacon of authenticity and anthem-worthy talent in the hazy realm of indie-rock, where nostalgia gracefully entwines with the avant-garde.
The Valmonts recently unveiled their latest single, ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk,’ a resonating testament to their musical prowess and lyrical storytelling. This single is only a taste of what’s to come, with their forthcoming EP, ‘Living In A Paranoid Trance,’ set to drop on October 20, 2023, under the banner of Watts Hill Records.
‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’ is an audacious blend of big drums, boisterous riffs, and a hook that cuts to the core. Described as “reminiscent of the noughties indie-rock era”, The Valmonts wastes no time in catapulting listeners into a whirlwind of sonic emotions. It’s a gritty sonic journey that explores the intoxicating thrill of infatuation, all painted with straight-to-the-point lyricism. This track marks a significant stride toward a grittier, fuller production, solidifying The Valmonts’ position as an up-and-coming musical powerhouse.
Galway Roots, Dublin Dreams
Hailing from the vibrant musical backdrop of Galway, The Valmonts now call Dublin their home. The quartet comprises Darragh Whyte (vocals, guitar), Keith Whyte (drums), Cathal Sweeney (guitar), and Tymek Kocurkiewicz (bass). These musicians, who share a deep-rooted passion for music, were introduced to the sounds of the ’80s courtesy of their parents, setting the stage for their artistic evolution. The ’90s and ’00s classics further moulded their sonic identity, and after-school jams in a parent’s garage, inspired by the soundtrack of ‘Grand Theft Auto Vice City’ on the PS2, solidified their desire to create music that resonates.
Influenced by acts like New Radicals and INXS, The Valmonts’ musical canvas is distinctly indie-rock, sprinkled with a dash of pop sensibility. Think of them as the sonic offspring of The Kooks and The Vaccines—a blend that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique.
The Magic Behind ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’
Produced by Stuart Gray, known for his work with luminaries like Glen Power and Hozier, ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’ is an unapologetically catchy creation. A tantalizing guitar lick and bass progression serve as the track’s bedrock, allowing the raw vocals to shine through. While the verses provide introspection and tranquillity, the chorus erupts with a tidal wave of emotion and vigour, propelled by powerful electric guitar chords.
However, it’s the lyrics that truly resonate, delving deep into themes of love lost, resilience, and the act of savouring fragmented memories with a glass of wine in hand. It’s an earworm that latches onto your consciousness, refusing to let go.
Speaking about the song, the band shared,
“This song came together in the most natural way possible. The four of us, one day at rehearsal, jamming. Darragh had some lyrics he had previously been working on, and by the end of the day, we had a full new song. Recording it was a whole other story. There are more guitar tracks on this song than we can count.”
The Valmonts are undoubtedly charting their path in the indie-rock landscape, building on their roots while embracing the future. ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’ is just the beginning, a taste of what their upcoming EP, ‘Living In A Paranoid Trance,’ promises to deliver.
A Bright Future Beckons
In a musical world that constantly evolves, The Valmonts is a refreshing reminder that some things—like raw talent, honest lyrics, and electrifying soundscapes—are timeless. With a track record that includes performances at Wild Roots Festival, RTE 2XM ‘Passport Approved Show,’ headlining Bloom Festival in Phoenix Park and sold-out shows at Whelans Upstairs in Dublin, they continue to solidify their presence as the architect of anthems, the purveyor of passion, and the future torchbearer of indie-rock.
As their EP ‘Living In A Paranoid Trance’ approaches, we eagerly await the intoxicating journey they’ll take us on next. The Valmonts are a testament to the enduring magic of indie-rock, and they’re here to remind us that sometimes, all you need to do is ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’ to truly feel alive.
Stream and listen to ‘Cry & Get A Little Drunk’ here:
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