Track of the Day: Pauric O’ Meara - ‘Don’t Try Hard’

“What are people really looking for? How do we find the balance? Between trying 'too hard' and not at all? Why does it seem like the people who care less get more?''

These are some of the questions encircling ‘Don’t Try Hard,’ the freshly released single from indie singer-songwriter Pauric O’ Meara. The Dublin-based independent talent has had quite the year, most recently concluding the summer with a standout performance at Electric Picnic.

With ‘Don’t Try Hard,’ O’Meara cleverly wields a lighthearted spotlight onto those who both “try too hard” and are ridiculed as “trying too hard” in life. The singer-songwriter shares that the song explores, “The idea of people 'trying too hard' to get what they want, and people not trying hard enough and getting all they need, which let’s be honest, we have all experienced in our lives.”

The funky, indie pop track embodies the charming performer himself, with a witty lyricism and vibrant imagery, combined with upbeat, twisted instrumentals. Slapping snare drums and a rhythmic, syncopated bass line groove it to its end, where you’re left hitting repeat again and again.

A press release about the single details how it came about: when a friend of O’ Meara’s was rejected by a love interest and the singer suggested they might have been “trying too hard,” the comment sparked a universal debate worth exploring in the best way O’ Meara knows how – songwriting.

Since the 2020 release of O’ Meara’s debut EP Looking Forward to Hindsight, his rise in the Irish music spotlight has granted the Co. Tipperary native slots supporting major acts such as Red Rum Club, The Royston Club, Hermitage Green and Hudson Taylor. This speedy traction was rightfully met by his 2021 singles ‘Final Say’ and ‘All Alright,’ twins who garnered O’ Meara international acclaim and consistent radio play.

With electric live shows and a magnetic onstage presence, O’Meara spent this past spring selling out headline shows in major venues around the country, including Whelans, Dolans, Monroes and Grand Social, and his debut in Cyprus Avenue.

‘Don’t Look Back’ is released as the singer prepares to embark on his first German tour and some promising UK & Ireland shows, with dates to be announced. The track is written by O’Meara and Liam Smith, produced and mixed by his frequent collaborator Alex O’ Keefe, and mastered by Richard Dowling.

Listen to the newest single from Pauric O’ Meara, ‘Don’t Try Hard,’ below!