Dublin’s rising indie-folk outfit Still Blue returns with their latest single, Brushstrokes, marking another significant chapter in the band’s rapid ascent. Known for their distinctive indie sound, Still Blue leans into a more organic and emotive style on this track, displaying a new level of maturity and musical depth.
Brushstrokes is a beautifully crafted, melancholic ballad, built around warm acoustic guitar tones and enriched by understated drums, atmospheric electric guitar layers, and swelling strings. The track creates a spacious, dreamy soundscape that allows the lead vocals and harmonies to soar, delivering a sense of intimacy and reflection. Nicole Lyons, the band’s frontwoman and primary songwriter, pens lyrics that delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring the tension between idealized love and harsh reality. “Brushstrokes is about seeing a relationship for what it is, not what you want it to be,” Lyons explains, a sentiment that resonates throughout the song’s gentle yet poignant delivery.
Lyons’ lyrics, combined with the band’s soft, folk-inspired instrumentation, create a reflective and introspective piece that feels as vulnerable as it is beautiful. The track captures the essence of Still Blue’s evolution, moving from indie-pop tendencies to a more nuanced, indie-folk style that allows their storytelling to shine.
With its emotive, organic sound and introspective lyricism, Brushstrokes cements Still Blue’s place as a band to watch, as they continue to carve out a unique space in the indie-folk scene. This single, the first of many releases expected throughout 2024, suggests that Still Blue is only just beginning to explore the depths of their artistry.