Irish indie band Good Strangers have released their EP, ‘Adult Teenage Novels’ out now. Leading the charge is the evocative lead single ‘War In My Head’ a soul-stirring composition born from the depths of personal struggle.

Best friends since 3, turned bandmates Niamh Kirby and Conor Quinn along with bandmates Kevin Farrell (guitar), Luke Butt (bass) and Des Brodie (drums) have channelled their creative synergy into a sonic journey that resonates with themes of love, loss, sexuality, and the tumultuous transition to adulthood. The name “Good Strangers” pays tribute to the profound impact of the diverse individuals they’ve encountered on their musical odyssey.

The EP, produced by the acclaimed Alex Borwick (Sam Fender, Lankum, Catfish & The Bottlemen), features six tracks which masterfully weave together shimmering guitars and ethereal vocals.

‘War In My Head’, the EP’s lead single, emerged as a powerful testament to the band’s commitment to authenticity and vulnerability. Penned amidst a personal battle with mental health, Quinn, the main songwriter, crafted a song that candidly delves into the struggle to balance the demands of everyday life. The track’s composition evolved from a contemplative Paul Simon-esque vibe to a resounding anthem infused with elements of 90’s rock and folk.

Quinn reflects on the songwriting process, stating the song emerged during a pivotal moment in the summer of 2023… “I wrote ‘War In My Head’ while finalizing mixes for the EP. It poured out quickly amidst the chaos of life and my struggle with mental health.” The recording process mirrored this spontaneity, with Niamh adding, “It was the quickest turnaround from writing to recording we’ve ever had, capturing the raw essence of the song’s meaning.” The track’s sonic evolution from Americana to a heavier sound pays homage to influential bands like The Cranberries and The Stone Roses.

The ‘Adult Teenage Novels’ EP stands as a testament to Good Strangers’ ability to harness personal turmoil and transform it into a cathartic sonic experience. With tracks like ‘Private Hell,’ ‘Egyptian Summer,’ ‘Reno,’ and ‘The Garden,’ listeners can expect a visceral journey through the complex tapestry of human emotion.

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