Hailing from the West Coast of Ireland, Vickers Vimy have returned with their first single since before the pandemic, the beautiful ‘Where The Wildbirds Sleep’.

The Irish band’s name is taken from a heavy bomber made in Mayo, just like the band. Their new single focuses on the imprint of loss, and the search for the enduring beauty of the Wild Birds’ song as an expression of hope and resilience.

Opening with a light touch of guitar noodling and uplifting harmonies, Ed Drea's unique vocal tone possesses the uncanny ability to weave a story between delicate melodies. It's the perfect antidote to the mixed feelings of post-lockdown society, where we must reckon with grief and the breakdown of many parts of our lifestyles. At the same time, the world moves forward and finds hope in surprising places. The track emulates this mood, utilising soothing harmonies and hooks to grip the listener.

Working on their own tail winds, Vickers Vimy's Ed and Fintan Hanley (electric and acoustic guitarist, backing vocalist) lovingly crafted the song last summer. The band later arranged, engineered, recorded and produced the single themselves in drummer/percussionist/pianist Eamonn Mulderrig’s home studio in Mayo. Covid restrictions were gently eased in December 2021, paving the way for the song's recording.

The band first emerged on the Irish scene with their debut album That Vinyl Scratch back in 2013, followed by 2018's Atlas of Hearts. All songs were composed by Ed Drea and Fintan Hanley.

At the time, Hot Press' Jackie Hayden wrote of their sophomore album: "Piano, guitar and mandolin are front and centre, though this is not conventional, easy-listening fare. Vickers Vimy push the envelope creatively, incorporating elements of Americana and Hibernia, whilst successfully drawing on contemporary sounds. It all makes for a terrific listen."

Vickers Vimy craft songs that dwell on the borders of folk and Americana. Rich eclectic sounds anchor lyrical themes of scratched vinyl nights and hazy Sunday mornings.

The compelling three-piece have collaborated with Colm Mac Con Iomaire (The Frames, Swell Season) and had the pleasure of recording in the studio of Nick Seymour (Crowded House).

In their time as a touring band, the trio also supported the late John Martyn as well as the Hothouse Flowers, Maria Doyle Kennedy, and Mundy. Vickers Vimy have shared the RTE Music Train with Christy Moore, Kodaline, Lisa O’Neill and Jack L, no less. Their experience speaks volumes, adding a layer of sincerity to their new offering.

Listen to 'Where The Wildbirds Sleep' below: