Irish leftfield rock instrumentalists And So I Watch You From Afar have released their latest single, "Years Ago," from their forthcoming album Megafauna, set to be released on 9 August via Berlin's Pelagic Records.
"Years Ago" pays tribute to the two places the band calls home: their beloved Portrush on the Irish North Coast and the vibrant heart of Belfast. Megafauna is an exploration of these locales, infused with the intuition, intimacy, and humor of four friends nearing their 20th year as a band. The album reflects their Irish roots, grounding and propelling them forward.
The single "Years Ago" is a contemplative yet playful piece, showcasing ASIWYFA's mastery of creative composition and call-and-response dynamics. Shuffling, laid-back drums underpin wandering melodies, gradually building into a cascade of dueling guitars and spiraling cymbals. This track captures ASIWYFA's unique blend of cultural influences and diverse inspirations.
During the pandemic, ASIWYFA, like many artists, found their plans on indefinite hold. Instead of faltering, they leaned into their communal bond, writing a record that became a love letter to their home communities. Megafauna was recorded in a week, bursting with the energy of collaboration and togetherness after a period of isolation.
Megafauna follows their 2022 critically acclaimed album Jettison, an ambitious multi-media ensemble piece full of experimentation. While Jettison was their "mature record," Megafauna is rooted in the band's mantra of "DO THE SCARY THING," constantly pushing towards newness and the unknown. This record is a celebration of togetherness over separation, a resounding statement from the band's core.
Reflecting on "Years Ago," the band notes:
"Where 'Years Ago' retains some of the urgency that is across 'Megafauna,' it also presents another color of the record - a kind of sensitivity. Underpinned by a nod to the old hip hop loops that we all grew up on."
Save the date for Megafauna, and watch the video for “Years Ago”:
Upcoming tour
14 & 17 August | ArcTanGent Festival, Bristol
13 December | New Century Hall, Manchester
14 December | Marble Factory, Bristol
15 December | Electric Brixton, London
16 December | O2 Institute, Birmingham
17 December | Saint Luke's, Glasgow
18 December | Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
