Reillys – Brother (2026)
Should you take a shine to bands like The Cranberries, Fleetwood Mac or The Corrs, you might find yourself making way for Reillys on your playlist – an “Irish party band writing songs about what we see”. Despite only having a few singles online, beginning with 2024’s acoustic version of ‘Beautiful Things’, the foursome already has a strong following and reputation for high-powered, energetic and engaging live shows to leave you wanting more. In 2025, the band performed over 200 gigs, including a slot at Electric Picnic; however, it is not their vibrant, confident onstage appearance that draws us to them. Today, we take a look and listen to their most recent release, ‘Brother’.
Stepping out of a hectic gigging year, Reillys open 2026 with a solid indie-rock single. Recorded and produced by Mark Blair, ‘Brother’ offers sincerity, tenderness, and toe-tapping vibrance of the 90s indie scene; yet, and here’s the clincher, Reillys tint the melody with an Irish attitude and flourish. The drums and bass dance together with a soft, soothing sweep, while the lead guitar runs alongside in a rhythmic wave of music. The real winner in ‘Brother’ – at least for me – is Katie Mchugh’s violin. It brings the hint of yearning and The Corrs-esque whimsy while enhancing the weightiness with a full-bodied sound.
Melodically, ‘Brother’ is a confident, bold song, and this so eloquently ties in with the intimate lyricism. A song that is timeless and relatable, Reillys explain:
“’Brother’ is a song about the importance of friendship in your 30s. As everyone begins to marry and have families, it’s something we often take for granted. Inspired by Belfast’s love of the world “brother” as a way to describe a good male friend, and how endearing that is to someone who moved up from Dublin.”
Sincere, soulful, and soft, ‘Brother’ is a soothing song that can set your mind at ease. Refreshing and fun, I highly recommended Reillys to everyone!
Find out more about Reillys on their Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Jawdropper Music.
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