Album Review: Dea Matrona, Hate That I Care

The last few years have been a whirlwind for this titanic two-piece. Dea Matrona went from busking on the streets of Belfast to sharing stages with the likes of Sting, all while gathering a growing army of believers and staying true to their DIY roots.

Their much anticipated second album sees the classic rock-rooted duo reflect on where they’ve been and, more importantly, where they’re going. Recorded, written and produced entirely by the band, there’s much to love about Hate That I Care, which is crammed with potential chart-toppers.

Confidently side stepping difficult second album syndrome, the record dips a Doc Marten into the realms of goth, grunge and ‘90s power pop. A darker affair compared to their heavenly debut For Your Sins, and sounding all the better for it, the title track is a Banshees-meets-Nancy Wilson-minded joy, while the cinematic, Americana sprinkled, ‘A Rebel Song’ sees them flex their impressive musical muscles.

‘Aisling’ is another standout – driven by the group’s trademark lush harmonies and a rumbling, Simon Gallup-style bassline, it would fit perfectly on the soundtrack to cult ‘90s flick The Craft.

Fans of Juliana Hatfield and Veruca Salt will adore this.

7/10