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Maria Somerville, an emerging force in the Irish music scene, is set to captivate audiences once again with her latest album, “Luster,” released on April 25, 2025. Renowned for her ethereal blend of ambient and dream pop, Somerville draws inspiration from her roots in Connemara, County Galway. This new release marks her third studio album and her first collaboration with the prominent label 4AD, promising a fresh, innovative sound that takes her music to new heights.
Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Connemara, Somerville has been immersed in music from an early age, influenced by the musical talents of her family. Listening to her father and uncles perform, she found her passion for singing, while her older brother taught her to play the guitar. Her music career took off around 2013 when she shared her original compositions on the platform BreakingTunes, leading to her debut performance at the Electric Picnic festival. This exposure paved the way for a flourishing career highlighted by her self-released albums, “The Man Called Stone In My Shoe” (2018) and “All My People” (2019), both showcasing her signature sound – reflective and atmospheric.
“Projections,” one of the standout singles from “Luster,” embodies the fusion of captivating dream-pop elements and introspective lyrics that Somerville is known for. This album serves as an exploration of what home means to her, intertwining her experiences and memories from Connemara with her newfound knowledge gained while studying sound engineering in Dublin. Unlike her earlier works, which were often steeped in nostalgia and longing, “Luster” reflects a sense of assurance and personal growth, rooted in the familiar landscapes of her youth.
The recording process for “Luster” unfolded against the backdrop of her Connemara home, where she immersed herself in the natural beauty that surrounded her. Collaborating with a dynamic group of artists, including Henry Earnest and Roisin Berkeley, she synthesized the eclectic sounds of her community with a contemporary approach. Ethereal tracks such as “Garden” resonate with the influence of artists like Grouper and My Bloody Valentine, encapsulating the essence of her coastal hometown through lush melodies and hypnotic soundscapes.
Upon its release, “Luster” received widespread critical acclaim from music publications, including an impressive 8.5 out of 10 rating by Pitchfork, which praised it as a “Best New Music” designation. Critics noted that this album is a departure from the melancholic themes of her previous projects, demonstrating a newfound confidence in her artistry. The intimate, immersive nature of the album transports listeners to the wild terrains and tranquil waters of Ireland, beckoning them to experience the serenity and depth of her musical journey.
As an Irish artist who has consistently evolved over her musical career, Somerville has made significant contributions to the folk and electronic genres, carving out a niche that honors her heritage while embracing modern influences. With “Luster,” Maria Somerville solidifies her position as a formidable artist in today’s music landscape, inviting listeners to share in her journey back to the heart of her home and heritage. This album stands as a testament to her artistic evolution and a celebration of the landscapes and communities that shape her sound.
