Papa Boyle – Wave To Me (Like It’s The First Time) (2025)
Setting the stage with his debut single, ‘Between Two Fools’, Papa Boyle took 2024 and shook it up with critically acclaimed singles ‘Last Chance Saloon’ and ‘Tranquillo’. Entering 2025, the Irish singer-songwriter is shaking things up even more, turning more heads across the globe from music publications, international radio stations, not to mention the millions of listeners quickly forming a loyal following. Keeping vintage rock and roll alive, then fusing it with contemporary rock ala Kings of Leon, Papa Boyle transcends musical eras and generations. The latest addition to his discography is the single, ‘Wave To Me (Like It’s The First Time)’.
Following the well-received tracks ‘Falling For A Daydream’ and ‘Chasing The Smile’, ‘Wave To Me (Like It’s The First Time)’ saunters through the realm of indie-pop with a refreshing flutter of folk entwined in the melody. Waving his magical production wand across the tune, Still Searching (also known as Sam Stevenson) entwines a pulsating drum, bold synths, and lingering guitars in a harmonic symphony. Yet, while the arrangement is one of unity, each instrument (including the vocals) has prominence, making itself known in the kaleidoscopic wave of music without being overwhelming.
A collaborative single, ‘Wave To Me (Like It’s The First Time)’ draws together the musical stylings of Still Searching, Papa Boyle, and emerging singer-songwriter Miranda Faul. Penned and recorded in a single day, one might imagine the song to be hurried or rushed; however, its languid serenity is soothing, sophisticated and elegant.
An already intriguing song from the melody alone, the interplay between the different vocals inserts a whimsical intrigue in itself. Innocence and youth come in Miranda Faul’s voice, while a calming comfort carries in Papa Boyle’s voice, and tenderness oozes across with Still Searching. A feeling of light-heartedness and sweetness ensues, and you find yourself smiling and singing along even though you don’t know the words. Sincere, sentimental and heartfelt, ‘Wave To Me (Like It’s The First Time)’ has a refreshing quality, making dreary days brighter.
Find out more about Papa Boyle on his X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
Listen to indie-folk music on The Other Side Reviews Indie Folk playlist: