Lost in the dark with October Fires

“Witchy" four-piece group October Fires launched their first single in a room filled with incense smoke and tealights. They take up their instruments as dusk softly falls over the city and purple lights flash on; a sense of enchantment enveloping the crowd who are gathered to watch.

Composed of Carol Somers, Lisa Baker, Eoghan O' Neill and Eric Somers, the group are here to play a soft and sweet show to announce the launch of latest single 'Pray'. The muggy, foggy weather outside sets us back to darkening, crisp autumn evenings where you’d wish nothing more than to huddle down in warmth and comfort, the ends of the summer leaking away as you glance outside to see the chilling wind rustling through trees. Are we under some sort of spell cast by the band?

As they play, we may well be. Husky vocals and soft snare drums take over, mixing slurred bass with a light smattering of guitar. The two female vocalists swap between jarring notes and uncomfortable harmonies in a way that feels well suited to their lyrics. Singing of love lost and love found, personal stories and tales are re-told through soothing tones one second and jazz influences the next. They display a masterful range of emotion and musicianship, occasionally breaking out into big drumbeats and slick guitar riffs that lift you up and down. Technical issues are taken in stride, soft introductions given to each song.

They also give us a hauntingly gorgeous cover of Radiohead’s 'Nude', a song perfectly suited to their atmospheric aura - before breaking into original song 'Digging Holes' that boasts a jamming baseline and bold, strong vocals.

Closing the intimate, shadowy set with 'Pray', a song that reflects what October Fire encompass. Not too spooky, not too comforting. Keeping you slightly on edge but losing you in the interwoven harmonies and melodies. There be sorcery at work here and one listen will have you under their spell.

Single ‘Pray’ is available on Spotify now. Visit their Facebook page for further information.