Bringing together tight, analogue synth sounds, and an infectious danceability along with a sense of emotional sincerity, the new single ‘Emotional Disco’ from Edinburgh’s Cathal Murphy is a slice of alt-pop bliss.
Despite it’s pop sensibilities, the track carries a vibrant sense of musicality with its blend of layered guitar, bass and synth to create a boxy, tight melodic chord progression through the first verse. Topped with Murphy’s delicate, fragilic lead vocals, the tracks melancholic, heartfelt tenderness shines through, reflecting against the catchy melodies to give a depth to the track.
As ‘Emotional Disco’ flourishes into its chorus, the backing plays up the funk side of the back as the bass moves through licks amongst the plucky guitar, buzzing synths and percussion heavy drums. Topped with an exuberantly catchy vocal line, the tracks Friendly Fires-esque soundscape shines bright. As the track continues to grow, it climaxes in a wonderfully layered final instrumental as the intertwining synth, guitar and bass melodies move round each other beautifully.
Cathal explains, ”It’s been two years in the making now and a favourite at live shows. It’s a sad song to groove out to/a happy song to cry to and I fell in love with that concept put in a classic disco setting. The crowd you hear in the track is actually a sample from a few headline shows so if you’ve seen me live in the last 2 years you’re probably in the track!”
Listen below:
