Album Review: Oisin Mod, Honeycomb

Following in the uneasy footsteps of the likes of Elliott Smith, Oisin Mod is one of a whole new crop of talented young singer-songwriters, who have emerged in recent years embracing a sound that's unapologetically stark, and entirely unafraid of the dark. Guided by his sensitive ear for melody, however, there’s a hopeful undercurrent to the 25-year-old Moycullen native’s approach that marks him as a unique new force.

Oisin joins forces with producer Bill Ryder-Jones on his debut LP, Honeycomb. The influence of the former guitarist with Mercury Prize nominees The Coral is notable, with the Irish artist particularly drawing inspiration from Bill’s solo work. It’s a convincing pairing – the production elevating Oisin’s stripped-back approach in a manner that never feels forced.

With his understated, hushed vocals upfront, Honeycomb is meditative in its minimalism, and there’s an undeniable warmth to its simplicity. Aside from playful moments on the likes of ‘Don’t Take The Trouble’, however, he rarely lets up on his thoughtful restraint – you'd love, on occasion, to hear his vocals soar.

That said, the intimate atmosphere Oisin has conjured up Honeycomb  is compelling – signalling the arrival of a promising new voice in Irish music.