Music
22 Feb 24

Track of the Day: Fears — '11249' feat. Jemima Coulter and Ailbhe Reddy

Fears. Credit: Niamh Berry

Featuring Jemima Coulter and Ailbhe Reddy, the tune was written last February and draws inspiration from the New York City skyline.

Fears, aka M(h)aol's Constance Keane, reflects on the downcast past and joyous present with their latest number '11249' feat. Jemima Coulter and Ailbhe Reddy. The romantic, astral offering is deftly composed, punctuating negative space with shimmering reverbs and whisper-soft vocals from the singer.

Inspired by the New York City skyline, the single recounts the conflicting emotions of contemplating one's trauma and the journey from the dark recesses of one's mind. Part David Lynch soundtrack, part Slowdive torch song, ‘11249’ is a yearning towards peace which concocts a much needed aural tonic for an extended emotional hangover.

The songstress enlisted Jemima Coulter (Hailaker) on brass with accompanying vocals from Irish folk artist Ailbhe Reddy. Together, they deliver a poignant, lilting song which embodies the triumph and pain of life, further cementing Fears as a formidable singer-songwriter blazing their own trail with dulcet, tender alt-folk stylings.

Commenting on the song, Fears says: "Sometimes you encounter things that hit you so hard you think 'wow so if I had actually died a few years ago when I tried to, I’d never have gotten to see and experience this.'"

'11249' will feature on the composer's forthcoming album, affinity, out 22 March via TULLE. affinity is available for pre-order now digitally as well as black vinyl and limited edition marbled pink vinyl here.

Out now, the video was shot at Fears' birthday party, a slow-motion meditation on the bliss of being alive to see another turn around the sun. Shot by close friend and M(h)aol bassist Zoe Greenway, you can watch the video below.