From the ongoing global pandemic to socio-political upheaval to the current atrocities in Ukraine, it’s an understatement to say that there has been plenty to lament throughout the world over the past few years. But through it all, glimmers of hope have still managed to emerge every now and then, restoring our faith in the goodness and grace of humanity.
Unequivocally, music continues to remind us of just how amazing and powerful the human spirit can be, serving as a source of sanity and solace during these troubled times. And the songs of one artist, in particular, have provided much-needed inspiration along the way for us here at Albumism: Sarah Murray.
Although the Cork, Ireland based singer-songwriter has been writing and recording songs for a handful of years now, it was her exquisitely crafted, early 2021 single “Once Upon a Time” that first captured our attention. A few months later, Murray blessed us with the propulsive pop of “If I Were You.” And today, she returns with her new single “This Fool,” a striking exploration of repression and regret made palpable by Murray’s expressive voice and evocative narrative.
“’This Fool’ was written from the point of view of a female character who feels lost after spending much of her adult life pleasing others,” Murray explains. “This was something she learned from very early on in life. Inevitably, she ends up the least happy among those in her life, as she feels everything she stands for is a lie. Ultimately, she feels she is a fool, conditioned by early learning and self-sabotage, afraid to take risks and bet on herself. Always abiding to and by others’ needs and wants first. ‘This Fool’ takes a look inside a very relatable story for many people, I think.”
Recorded live in Youghal, “This Fool” was produced/mixed by John Burke (who also provides supporting vocals) and mastered by Richard Dowling at WAV Mastering. The single offers a preview of more music to come from Murray, as she is currently crafting a full-length album, with the opening track due to arrive later this year.
We’re thrilled to present the exclusive world premiere of “This Fool” today, one day prior to its official worldwide release, and can’t wait to hear much more from this ascendant talent soon.
LISTEN: