You’ll know Ewen from defenders of the Irish post hard-core scene ‘Axis Of…’ Just getting that out of the way, because although solo project Catalan! has not stuck to the template left by his previous project, you’ll recognise the beautifully off kilter crowd pleasing bursts of energy under cleaver vocals and shouts. There’s a refreshingly different path with Catalan! too.
The tempo is steadier and groovier than you might expect from Ewen, paced with a controlled restraint that comes with maturity and the focus going it alone can bring. There’s still the reference to post hard-core and Celtic Punk upbringing, with Sparta and Dropkick Murphys never too far from thought as staccato chords crash over swimming leads, and the energy is undeniable. Live this will work well, and if it’s a sign of how an album might sound, then Viva Catalan!
'Cornelius' is available to stream now.
Dates:
10/11/18 - Derry - Sandinos
11/11/18 - Belfast – Limelight
