ELM have been on our Hot Press radar for some time. They had performed a string of festivals performances back in 2016 including Electric Picnic, Body & Soul and KnockanStockan. Following their Hard Working Class Heroes show, we had chosen them as one of our Hot For 2016 acts because of their “understated, furrowed-brow brand of heartache which build to stormy crescendos.”

While an unfortunate year-long hiatus had put their music on pause, they know seem to be back stronger than ever.

The release of the band's debut single 'Fear' back in May generated a great response and it seems their latest song is also bound for success. Released via Sony Music, 'Paris' transfuses an infectuous energy and a liberating feeling, led by the enthralling voice of lead singer Dylan Walsh perfectly showcasing powerful lyrics:

"Happy ever after is what I'm trying to capture"/"Paris is on fire"/"I'm a product of my own sensation"

The song is a reference to 1990 documentary "Paris is burning" focusing on the life of Latinos, Black, gay and transgender communities in New-York where the drag culture bloomed in the Eighties. This was a very inspiring watch for Walsh, truly encapsulating the relatable message that ELM is trying to convey: be proud of who you are and do not fall for negative judgements and hostility.

“Knowing the importance of acceptance, whether it’s in person, on a silver screen or through a set of headphones, we wrote 'Paris' after watching the documentary 'Paris Is Burning' as an ode to the people who played a role in saving us and as a lifeline to those who need to be reminded that everything will be okay,” he explained. The result is a very colourful yet polished song which would seduce all amateurs of uplifiting dance-pop and could well become an anthem to the LGBTQ+ community.

Walsh's vocals are accompanied by Aidan Clancy at the piano and synths, Gary Molloy at the cello and Ca Ahearne at the drums. Dylan and Aidan are long-time friends who grew up together in Bray, Co. Wicklow. Their adoration of music led them to study in Dublin’s BIMM Institute, where they met Ca. They immediately knew that she would make a great fit for the band. Gary, the latest addition to it, met Dylan at a party where they instantly bonded over their shared passion.

All together, they form a very unique and promising combination and are ready to knock down walls with their fiery positivity. Watch this space!

Upcoming ELM performances 

Love Sensation Festival on August 17th, more info here.
Manchester Pride happening August 25th, tckerfs and info here.