Track of the Day: Connor McCann, 'Cold Letters'

Connor McCann's latest single ‘Cold Letters’ is an emotional ballad reflecting on a past lover. The credits roll on a relationship, “wrapped in cold letters on the doorstep”, marking all that is left of his love.

McCann's gravely vocals take lead on this track, accompanied only by acoustic guitar and a faraway violin countermelody. The second verse brings in airy and emotive female harmonies by The Heroine Choir and drums, gaining momentum with an air of hope as the ballad closes. ‘Cold Letters’ combines folk influences and traditional Irish motifs, where McCann lays it all out on the table.

The tune strays from McCann's rock roots, displaying his seemingly natural abilities to write an indie folk ballad which will undeniably rouse a few tears from broken-hearted listeners. Referencing his influences, Hozier, Big Thief and Bon Iver.

McCann describes the personal track as “watching the credits roll on a relationship without fully understanding the plot or how it ended, knowing you missed something fundamental, and embracing that inherent sadness because it meant something.”

Produced by Northern Irish folk artist Joshua Burnside, ‘Cold Letters’, is a peek into what's to come for the Belfast man.

“It was a joy to produce this track with Connor. For years I’ve heard him sing countless versions of other people’s songs at the Sailortown Folk Club, often bringing a noisy bar to complete silence with his dynamic vocal, sometimes sweet and delicate, other times rousing and powerful. His original material showcases his  love for good song writing, with infectious melody and lyrical precision,” said Burnside of the collaboration.

‘Cold Letters’ marks the first release by McCann after of his debut album ‘Without Wax’ in June of 2024.

The former frontman of alt-rock trio Stonemasons will be performing in Belfast on December 14 opening for Americana four-piece No Oil Paintings.

Listen to 'Cold Letters' below.