The indie rock scene is in a promising position as of late with the meteoric rise of artists like Fontaines D.C, Wunderhorse and Sam Fender releasing refreshing music and playing massive headline shows. Somebody’s Child is one of those artists that could join them in the future striking gold with the release of his second LP, ‘When Youth Fades Away’.
Somebody’s Child also known as Cian Godfrey has always been a creative force of sorts, his 2023 self-titled debut album was a vital stepping stone for mastering his craft of modern rock. Furthermore, gathering experience in the live circuit supporting the likes of Kings of Leon, The War On Drugs and headlining his very own homecoming show at Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre.
All this combined has led to a full circle moment for him to release his best work yet, reflecting his growth as an artist as his own youth fades away to produce a more lavish and mature sound. Being handed the opportunity to work closely with Grammy-nominated producer Peter Katis on the record, together they may have just created something special and worthwhile that could leave a lasting effect on the modern indie rock scene.
‘When Youth Fades Away’ is a very welcome addition to Somebody’s Child’s already sizeable catalogue of music so early on in his career. ‘The Kid’ is an inspiring start to the album, setting the tone of the record by introducing its rich sound with striking instrumental and melodic sections.
At its core, the album’s goal is to sound reminiscent and nostalgic and it executes this perfectly within its instrumentation and more noticeably its lyricism. Listening to it will make you miss the days of being young and carefree. The third track ‘Porcelain (Losing All My Patience)’ is a prime example of Somebody’s Child’s ability to deliver honest and raw lyrics with lines such as “Losing all my patience, holding onto youth”.
‘My Mind Is On Fire’ is a track that will make you keep coming back to listen to the record again and again. A clear highlight in the 11 track LP with euphoric guitar sections complementing Cian Godfrey’s raw and emotive vocal capabilities. This all builds up to a fantastic crescendo towards the end of the song that will certainly get crowds on their feet in its live form.
Lead single “The Time Of My Life” finds its way onto the record in the form of a closer. Rounding the record off perfectly by channelling all nostalgia-filled emotions into a celebratory song of Godfrey’s life. An exhilarating exit for a record that’s beaming with personality.
‘When Youth Fades Away’ is the ultimate package of cathartic guitar rock. With its massive sounding guitar segments that leave you with a heavy nostalgic feeling in your chest. Accompanied with some of Cian Godfrey’s best lyricism to date, making the album feel intimate and personal to the listener. A valuable listen to anyone who is a fan of modern indie-rock and dare say one that has the potential to be a mainstay in the scene.
Somebody’s Child: When Youth Fades Away – Out 28 March 2025 (Frenchkiss Records)