Flywheel – CryBaby (2026)
In some cases, a band returning from a long hiatus can be a wonderful lost gem in the new industry; in other cases, the band should remain one of those artists who remind you of yesteryear. The Irish group Flywheel are the former. Formed in the early 1990s, Flywheel turned people’s heads with their celebrated 1996 debut album, She. From there, life got in the way, responsibilities changed, and Flywheel stepped away from the musical spotlight for, well, a couple of decades. In 2023, the group reunited to steadily release original music for new and old audiences. Join us as we delve into their latest single, ‘CryBaby’.
Building on the sounds of the 1990s, Flywheel retain the Irish indie-rock sound we heard from acts like The Cranberries; however, the fragility and vulnerability of She seem to have vanished. Still emotional and delicate, Ann Marie Ryan’s ethereal vocals continue to offer a haunting, skin-tingling attitude. Her wistful voice is like a fairy dancing across a tumultuous sonic river. Mick O’Donovan’s crashing drums entwine with Paul Kelleher’s bold bass, as the whirlpool of Kieran Curtin and Mark Tangney’s guitars keeps those waves kicking up all around the chaotic river.
Yet, as much as there is a likeness to Flywheel’s older work, ‘CryBaby’ showcases a stronger, confident, more mature sound. Elegant and refreshing, the group are quickly finding a signature sound in the 21st century. I wouldn’t say they are stand-out with distinction, but there is a lingering undertone that will see Flywheel earning a loyal following quite quickly.
So, what is my overall take on Flywheel? As I mentioned, Flywheel is one of those wonderful gems lost in the industry, and ‘CryBaby’ shines with eager, shiny, shiny brightness in that batch of charcoal. Looking back at the past three years, their music leaves a sense of comfort and soothing despite a strong, psychedelic eeriness. I cannot wait for more from this talented quintet.
Find out more about Flywheel on their Instagram, YouTube, Bandcamp and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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