PREMIERE: Northern Irish outfit smallmint share indie-rock gem 'Liv'

Hailing from various parts of Northern Ireland and shaped by their years of service to the Belfast and Glasgow music scenes, Hot Press are delighted to premiere the second single from new band smallmint.

The song acts as the follow-up to smallmint's 2020 debut single 'New Year', which saw glacial falsetto and stirring imagery unite. Formerly known as Brash Isaac, the band merges some of Northern Ireland's most prolific songwriters and musical talent.

Fronted by Andrew Cameron-Braithwaite, smallmint confidently wander the border between indie-rock and Americana — sounding like a long overdue meeting of the minds of Pinegrove, Frightened Rabbit and Julien Baker.

'Liv' blends Cameron-Braithwaite's introspective lyricism with a nostalgic, guitar-driven sound. Providing a warm, inviting sonic tone and hazy mood, the theme of living life in the moment is explored throughout.

"'Liv' is a song for those who struggle to see the good things that are happening right before their eyes. A reminder to not always be waiting for that certain moment - thinking that happiness will be achieved once a specific milestone is reached, or when a certain event takes place in your life," the band tell Hot Press of the catchy new track.

The layered production, melodic guitar hooks and enthralling dynamics come together to form a striking and powerful sound. A song of inspiring wordplay, strong musical interplay and bass-driven energy; smallmint have boldly carved their place with an instant indie gem.

The twang of Fender guitars, the pounding of a drum set and reflective vocal delivery act as a reminder that urgent and evocative guitar music is still as essential as ever to the Irish music scene.

Listen to 'Liv' below: