Holly Munro
Holly Munro has been busy reshaping indie pop with her captivating vocal and distinct song craft. She released her new single 'Dead Ends, which explores not wanting to miss chances and face regrets, and emphasises how every decision we make shapes our future
Listen to ‘Dead Ends’ here. Watch the video for ‘Dead Ends’ here.
Holly also announced her headline show at The Workmans Cellar on June 8th.
Holly’s debut EP Up Against Your Nature (released in November 2023) garnered acclaim on UK radio, featuring on John Kennedy's Radio X show and BBC 6music’s NMFDaily. Her 3 singles were each featured on Spotify editorial playlists including New Music Friday UK, and culminated in a heavily attended showcase at Ireland Music Week.
Speaking of new single ‘Dead Ends’, she says, “I wrote this song after finishing a meditation that involved seeing my footprints in the sand from above. It got me thinking about my life as one big journey with all these powerful detours along the way - some paths you start on but never continue, just as some parts of yourself remain unexplored. It’s about questioning the choices you make and reflecting on how they shape your future in ways you can't always predict or control.”
Together with producer Luke Potashnick, she worked at Wool Hall Studios in Frome, Somerset, which was previously owned by Tears for Fears during the recording of their Songs from the Big Chair album. With her unique vocals and lyrical style drawing inspiration from electronic acts like Bjork and Kate Bush as well as earthier artists like Joni Mitchell and Big Thief, she has crafted a sound that blends electronic elements with folk-pop sensibilities.
Along with this single, she releases an accompanying music video. Speaking of the video she says, “The video is special to me because it was filmed where the meditation that inspired the song happened. I wanted to keep the concept simple and get back to that open and free place where the song came from. The tide was out, I spun around, we found a kite, and it felt like it was meant to be!”
Themes running throughout her debut EP included uncovering a new side of yourself (‘Open Ended’), looking after yourself (‘Give Yourself Love’) or just taking a walk in nature (‘The Water’). Focusing on how these little moments make all the difference in life, the EP was a celebration into the journey and the sense of relief that comes with choosing a path towards self compassion and love. A new body of work is to be announced from Holly imminently, which will present the maturity within her musical development as well as confirming her place as an outstanding talent within this scene.
Where Have All The Flowers Gone - Joan Baez
This is one of the first songs I learnt on guitar. I played it live at my first ever performance at Arthurs Pub when I was around 15/16. I remember seeing my body from above while singing the last verse and then fainting at the last chord haha. I still get stage fright but nowhere near as bad thankfully!
PJ Harvey - Is This Desire?
PJ Harvey is an artist that opened up my musical taste beyond folk music at around 16. This is one of her songs that really stuck with me.
All Gates Are Open – CAN
I danced so hard to this song when I lived in Amsterdam a few years ago. It’s like a portal to a very different time in my life.
All Mirrors - Angel Olsen
This whole album floored me. It’s one I was really obsessed with when it came out. Angel Olsen in general is a big inspo.
Satisfied Mind - Jeff Buckley
I remember listening to this song by the sea when I tried a cigarette for the first time. I was really vibing with the lyrics in my teenage angst.
Dido - White Flag
One of my earliest memories revolves around stealing my sister's Dido CD’s and listening to this song on repeat. I’d put the volume as low as it could go and sing along under my breath so that no one could hear me..
Paddy Hanna - Mud
This is the peak of romance songs for me. If I ever get married, I wanna dance to this song <3 I only started listening to Paddy Hanna in 2020 and he's been one of my favourite songwriters since then.
Ganavya – forgive me my
Ganavya is a new find for me, and I’m so glad I found her. I could listen to her voice alone forever. She makes me consider how much you can say with the tone of your voice rather than relying on lyrics.
Numb - Portishead
I feel like this album was a formative experience for everyone. Portishead's record 'Dummy’ was formative for me due to its distinctive production. This is my fav track from that album.
Beginning of a new adventure - Lou Reed
Just a bop. I’ve always loved the energy in this song and how conversational the lyrics are.
