Spring represents the season of growth and regeneration, a time when new leaves appear and everyone looks forward to embracing change. This is also an appropriate way in which to describe the contemporary Folk band who perform as The New Leaves. Founded in 2022 and based in Warrenpoint, Co, Down these four school friends bring a large sprinkling of Spring in their music and much appreciation of all that nature offers.
Their debut album appeared earlier this year and the concert tonight at the impressive Chandler’s House in Rathfriland is essentially a full run through of the fourteen tracks on the record. The band is comprised of Declan McKay (Vocals, Guitar), Cian O’ Hare (Vocals, Guitar), Patrice Mc Kevitt (Vocals, Bass), and Paddy Goodfellow (Drums & Percussion). Their sound is very melodic with inviting song arrangements and three-way harmony vocals that are bright and airy.
The audience is very welcoming of the opportunity to see new local talent and they are enthusiastic in their response to the up-tempo tunes. There are some interesting moments over the set and the onstage banter from Declan McKay is always seeking a response and a smile from the crowd. Songs like A Giant Murphy Lament and Bluebell Woods are early highlights and the interplay between the musicians is controlled and precise. On the album there is use of cello which elevates the overall listening experience, adding new colours to the music. I found myself wishing for the inclusion of other instruments to add some nuance during the live song deliveries, and the addition of violin or cello would certainly lift the performance dynamic.
At times the harmonies seem a little bit off and the playing just too safe, where a more exploratory approach would benefit the essence of the songs. This is offered as constructive criticism as there is no doubting the talents of Declan McKay who writes all the lyrics and is a strong guitar player. The drumming of Paddy Goodfellow is also very consistent and adds quality to the song structures on a subtle level. The bass of Patrice McKevitt is somewhat constrained and it would be nice to see her stretch out more while the guitar lines of Cian O’Hare while gently supporting the playing of Declan McKay were perhaps a little lost in the mix on the night. These are all areas to work upon as the band make their way into new territories and add to their growing experience.
The production on the album is really excellent and points to a very polished sound and perhaps that is somewhat missing tonight in favour of the spontaneity of live performance. Other songs like Away With the Fairies, East Coast Daydream and In the Shadow Of the Mournes are all delivered with quiet confidence and an assurance that bodes well for the future. A word also for opening act Chris Coltrane who played a selection of his own songs with great energy and his guitar playing brought much appreciation from the audience. Overall, a very enjoyable evening, showcasing local talent and delivering plenty to admire in the energy on display.
Review by Paul Mcgee. Photograph by John Melrose