Armagh musician Conchúr White has returned with a sensuous new single 'Atonia', alongside the news that he's signed to UK indie Bella Union - run by Cocteau Twins' Simon Raymonde.

"My life's a riddle that I solved already in the moonlight by my room light / And I'm tongue-tied baby / I can't breathe, can you hear me? I'm stuck like a bad idea / Save me, lost in this Atonia...," White begins on the tantalising new song 'Atonia', a track that is filled with rich textures and ethereal harmonies.

The song is a "moonlit lament inspired by the experience of sleep paralysis", according to the singer-songwriter. Those who know the sensation, he says, “may feel there is a spirit / demon / ghost above them.” That haunted intensity is sumptuously evoked on the track, where submerged psychedelic verses and a blossoming chorus combine in a cathartic plea for release.

White’s ability to curate dreamy, sumptuously melodic work that contains multitudes is presumably one reason why Bella Union noticed him. Listen to 'Atonia' below.

“I like surreal settings, but with tangible messages,” explains Conchúr.

After serving his time in more traditional rock bands, including Northern Ireland’s Silences, Conchúr developed his slanted solo voice at his own pace. “In a band, ideas are only as good as others perceive them to be,” he says. “But not having a sounding board can be better because there’s maybe more of an authenticity there. You’re not necessarily seeking approval in the first instance.”

On the Bikini Crops and Dreamers EPs, Conchúr turned influences from Arctic Monkeys (recent vintage) and Father John Misty into diaristic solo offerings. He recently also notched up touring slots with Villagers, Billie Marten and the mighty John Grant, who complimented White’s work warmly. “It felt genuine,” marvels White. “I mean, he didn’t need to say it…”

With his debut album almost finished, White channels these formative experiences into what is a genuinely sumptuous number. 'Atonia' sets a high bar. We can't wait to hear more....