The Labourers – One Long Goodbye (2026)
Should you take a fancy to The Pogues – the band that sing the iconic Christmas song ‘Fairytale of New York’ – then the chances are The Labourers will strike a chord. Four lads from Limerick who like singing songs, the group drag Irish folk roots into punk-infused melodies with a sweep of alternative rock, and that merry old Irish mischief twinkling along. Technically, The Labourers formed a couple of years ago as a duo in London, but after gaining popularity with the EP, The Curse Of Saint Munchin, the two Labourers decided to return to Ireland, recruit a band, and start turning heads in their native land. Successful on all counts, The Labourers reach our ears today with their latest single, ‘One Long Goodbye’.
Following the 2025 singles ‘Last Time’ and ‘Thinking About It’, ‘One Long Goodbye’ is The Labourers first step into 2026. Produced at Wanderland Recording Studios by Aidan Cunningham, ‘One Long Goodbye’ is pure Irish folk from the beginning to the end. Weaving together crashing drums, soaring guitars, and an intriguing banjo (courtesy of Conor Bogue), the single is that song made for the pubs and open mic nights; the song where you find yourself swaying, singing, and just enjoying the moment regardless of the time, the company, and the bill of fare.
While the track opens with a steadier, gentle rub of Irish folk, this lull into a comfortable space is quickly turned over in that banjo. It has to be the stand-out feature as the instrument picks the pace entirely, leading the drums and guitars with its twangy intonation. Quick, sprightly, and prompting a jig, Bogue makes ‘One Long Goodbye’ memorable; however, this doesn’t mean it’s all about the banjo. The vocals slide across the tune with a gritty drawl, and the lingering Irish accent makes it ever so inviting.
So, what’s my overall opinion of The Labourers and ‘One Long Goodbye’? I hate to be cheesy, but this labour of love is something I’ll have on repeat, and I’m definitely not going to say goodbye to The Labourers – long or short. Not in the league of The Pogues, but not far behind.
Find out more about The Labourers on their Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Jawdropper Music.
