Dublin singer Mary Stokes and her acclaimed band have today released a wide ranging blues track dealing with injustice not just here in Ireland but via the seemingly ever increasing warfare around the world.

'My Voodoo Doll' is an evocative and moody track that initially expressed a personal sense of loss and grief. However, it eventually evolved into a plaintive plea across the vastness of our world, throughout history and into our own times, about the tragic nature of worldwide warfare without end.

With 2024 promising not to be any more peaceful than 2023, it's easy to see why this 'My Voodoo Doll' took this stark direction. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is headed into it's third year; the Israel-Palestine conflict – with Israeli bombardment of Gaza leading to over 25,000 being massacred so far, most of them women and children – has escalated exponentially, while Ireland has seen an unpleasant rise in arson attacks and threats of violence against migrants in recents months.

However, for those looking for a soothing balm during these dark times, look no further than The Mary Stokes Band's new single.

The new track features backing vocals from the Queen Bees on what is a full and rich chorus – adding a soul quality to this southern gothic tune. The use of the Voodoo Doll motif evokes a sense New Orleans' dive bars and black magic. The Queen Bees' vocals act as the perfect foil to Mary Stokes' expressive voice and elevate 'My Voodoo Doll' superbly.

In a post on the group's Bandcamp the band says: "In light of the global conflicts currently igniting the earth, art-forms of any nature may seem insignificant and even redundant."

The post continues: "Despite this, our song began to develop a life of its own, asserting an honesty, integrity and compassion which demanded to be voiced."

The Mary Stokes Band have left an indelible mark on Irish and international music. Their 1997 debut Ten Years On The Road, a nod their legendary live profile, was a powerful statement of blues prowess – which lies at the front and centre of their new track 'My Voodoo Doll'.

In recent years, Mary's iconic sound has been revitalised by the addition of guitarist Sarah Michelle, who performs on their latest track. They're joined by Mary's long-time sideman, harmonica maestro Brian Palm, as well as bassist Zamo Riffman and drummer Jay Oglesby.

The full line-up on the new single is:

Mary Stokes: vocals
Sarah Michelle: guitar
Brian Palm: harmonica
Zamo Riffman: bass
Jay Oglesby: drums
Pete Holidai: guitar
The Queen Bees: chorus – Tracey, Lisa, Elaine and Edel.

The track is produced by Pete Holidai and Brian Palm (for The Mary Stokes Band).

The Mary Stokes Band's 2023 LP Let 'Er Roll, received a 8/10 from Hot Press and was described as a "raw and sometimes raucous LP." Mary's Comin' Hone (2021) was the winner of the Blues and Roots Radio Album of the Year Award.

Check out The Mary Stokes Band new track below: