Track of the Day: Lucy McWilliams — 'Old Ways'

Irish alt-pop singer and songwriter Lucy McWilliams has just shared a new single ahead of her upcoming EP, Third Second Chance, out Friday 22nd March. 'Old Ways' is a vibrant, shimmering tune that swells with emotion and catharsis.

Speaking about the track, McWilliams commented: "'Old Ways' is about letting go of a version of yourself that you’ve grown out of. In the past I have found it easy to get comfortable with my current situation due to my surroundings and fear of change.

This song is a message to break free, whether that be from your hometown, a relationship, or just the desire for more from life. It reminds me that change is important for growth and never to forget that."

'Old Ways' exhibits the sound of an artist striding confidently into a new era, still openly vulnerable and tender but with a sense of assured self-respect bleeding through it.

McWilliams' forthcoming EP boasts production from longtime collaborator Charlie Hugall and features credits from sonic polymath Zach Dawes — known for his work with Lana Del Rey and The Last Shadow Puppets. Travelling to Los Angeles to work with Dawes, their collaboration has allowed McWilliams to explore the sharper edges of her artistic style.

Despite new production and fresh sounds, the central philosophy of McWilliams' work remains the same, as with the anecdotal candour of 'Old Ways.' Rooted in a culture of storytelling and rich narratives, the singer’s unvarnished pop songs serve as reminders to not fear openness and vulnerability in love, but to also know and maintain your own self-worth. Drawing from a vast sonic range, the singer-songwriter’s new era highlights the bittersweet realisation of loving deeply enough to know when to step away.

To celebrate her new releases, Lucy McWilliams will perform a number of headline shows in the coming months, including a gig in The Grand Social on Thursday 28th March. Tickets for her Dublin show start from Є15, excluding booking fee, and are available here.

Check out the feisty, candid track, 'Old Ways,' from Lucy McWilliams below.