Dublin based musician and poet Christian Wethered has released a feel-good new music video for the new summery version of his track 'Way Back'.

Fresh from the main stage of Beyond the Pale, the release of this track and music video mark Wethered's firsts since his debut album Mon Petit Jardin dropped in October of 2021.

The visual tells the story of two women falling in love amid lingering sun, wildflowers and a daydream like summer backdrop. Hinting at a Dublin location with a seagull cutting through the sky, we see a woman dressed in gold spreading her arms across the screen, reminiscent of Midsommar. Throughout this scene, the song’s refrain repeats like a mantra: "And there was something in the air, that time we had. We’ll trade our sorrows for the sky."

Discussing the new visual, the Irish artist said: "I was hoping to capture the ecstasy of falling in love. We’ve all been having a tough time of late, and now summer’s here there’s a lovely collective spirit in the air. With all that’s going on in the world we need to remind ourselves of who we are."

In a previous Hot Press article, Alexandra Anderson describes the song, saying: "Combining simple guitar plucking with a syncopated backing and layered vocals, the lyrics skim effortlessly over rhythmic instrumentals; evoking warm summer nights, the blue before twilight. Bending the lines between spoken word and music, Wethered's voice slants into each note, dipping in and out of minor to create a folky summer anthem with the barest hint of an edge."

This track differs hugely to the album's version. 'Way Back (In the Summer)' boasts a holiday feel, featuring drums from the get-go and more instruments throughout, compared to the album version which featured guitar, keys and vocals. The album version of this track is a more intense, haunting melody, whereas this summer version could easily slot into a mellow vacation playlist.

Speaking about this difference, Christian says: "With the band it sounds almost jazzy; on the album it's more pared-down and serious, a lonely indie folk tune. I like both: It’s great having these options playing live as it helps define my sound more clearly."

The new release features Dylan Lynch on drums, Cil Byrne on bass and electric guitar, and was recorded by Darragh Nolan at his recording studio, Asta Kalapa.

'Way Back (In the Summer)' is a timely release for this folky songwriter, who is rumoured to play further support slots with Selective Memory in the coming months. More songs, gigs, and even the publishing of his Melita Hume Prize winning poetry book are to come from this emerging artist.

Watch the video for 'Way Back (In the Summer)' below.