Derry-duo Amberlight dazzled on the Hot Press Instagram last month, bringing their rich, warm indie-pop sound to the Y&E series.

The first impression was that the setting matched the feeling of Amberlight's music perfectly. In Paul Casey’s home studio, lead singer Lauren Doherty was surrounded by softly-lit string lights, guitars hanging on the walls and lush rugs underfoot, imbuing the set with a subtle comfort.

Kicking off the set with 'Burn So Bright,' one of the first songs the duo had ever written, it was immediately clear the passion and quality they infused into their live performances. Beginning with impressive, upbeat guitar picking and smooth vocals, the song calls to mind summer drives and gentle love, serving as an anthemic, beautiful exposition to the set.

"This genius in the background on guitar and doing the keys is Paul Casey," Doherty said between songs. "What a legend. He doesn't talk much," she laughed.

They then launched into 'Peace at Last,' which according to Doherty was written as the country emerged from lockdown. "It's just about finding the peace again, going back to normal," she explained.

They continued ahead with 'Strong Enough,' one of Doherty's favourite tracks. A beautiful guitar and piano ballad, the track showcased her deep, expressive voice — lyrics floating through the screen, seeming to dissolve the barrier between watcher and performer. "Can't you just let me go, I need to be on my own," she sang, deep vibrato echoing throughout the space.

Having released eight singles since 2020, the Derry musicians are just finding their feet in the post-pandemic scene. Infusing traditional sounds with modern production, they have just started to define their sound — Doherty's classically trained vocals floating overtop Casey's impassioned music.

Moving on to a performance of their ballad 'Only Love,' the duo once again demonstrated their musical prowess, Doherty's voice diving into rich low notes and rising in clear runs, ebbing and flowing along with the instrumentals.

Sweet, acoustic ballads may be Amberlight's forte — but it's not all they're limited to. They finished off the set with 'Nothing Lasts Forever,' a dark, bluesy track that showcases their musical range.

"This was one of the first pieces that we wrote," the singer explained. "Actually, when the James Bond movie was supposed to be released, we wanted to write a themed track with James Bond in mind."

Giving an incredible set from their beautiful home studio, Amberlight dazzled the Hot Press Instagram with their soaring vocals and impressive instrumentation. Thoughtful, piognant and passionate, the duo is definitely one to watch.

Check out Amberlight's performance on the Y&E Series, below:

 

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