New Music: circle round a sphere – cell

The lo-fi synths and percussion of cell, the latest single from Dublin’s circle round a sphere, soon give way to a song drenched in the haunting tones of some great 80s bands. Have a listen and prepare to be enchanted and engaged in equal measure.

The 80s influences on cell are not the obvious ones, unless you have a knowledge of Irish bands of the era. Vocally and lyrically the song does evoke comparisons with early R.E.M. for sure, though they are not obscured behind a jangly arrangement here.

But I also hear resonances of some wonderful Irish bands like Microdisney, A House, and Whipping Boy: observant and at times acerbic indie-pop delivered with flair. A track like cell may not trouble the top of the charts, but it will have a lasting impact on anyone who takes the time to listen to it.

You can stream and download cell and more music from circle round a sphere on Bandcamp. The track can also be heard on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music – check out the group on Instagram for further listening and download options.