By Devyn Tammons

The long anticipated debut album from Irish rock band NewDad was worth the wait.

While new to many, NewDad has amassed a decent following since forming in 2018, garnering nearly 350k monthly listeners on Spotify before the release of their debut album. The band has been busy since forming though, releasing a handful of singles and a couple of EPs in the years leading up to their debut, building up a good bit of buzz with positive reviews from sites such as DIY, Dork, and GoldenPlec. Though anticipation and expectations can be a killer, NewDad seemed poised to rise to the occasion.

While many of their countrymates, such as the Dublin based Fontaines D.C., have opted in recent years for a more post-punk sound, NewDad has taken to the recent resurgence in shoegaze, with elements of 90s grunge weaved in. Comparisons have been drawn to bands such as The Cure, but what NewDad has done so well is use their inspirations as a springboard to update the genre and create their own lane. A core strength of the record is the band’s ability to compliment each other, with lead singer Julie Dawson’s melodic vocals front and center. From the booming drum work to the silky bass, the crew plays like a band that’s been together for 10+ years.

“Madra” being the word for “dog” in Irish is fitting with the ovverall feel of the album. It’s a record that doesn’t hold back in it’s mood and atmosphere, with themes of longing, regret, and grief: as Dawson croons on the opening lines of standout Let Go, “I see all the hurt in you, why don’t you give it to me. Anything to see you smile, I’ll take the penalty.” The crew proves they are already strong songwriters so early into their career, which comes from a clear deep trust and companionship in each other.

While “Madra” doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, and the band’s influences are very apparent, one can wonder if it does enough to set itself apart in an increasingly crowded musical landscape. However, “Madra” as a debut is an excellent jumping off point for the band. NewDad can certainly grow and improve from here, but on it’s own the record is damn good, with few weak spots in the 11 track, 41 minute runtime. One thing is for sure, the band certainly caught our attention, and it’ll be interesting to see when they go from here.

Rating: 8.2/10