Samuel Blaney announces debut EP, Island Rains

Island Rains follows Blaney's 2023 singles "Ember" and "Paradise", with "Brother" arriving as the first preview of the four-track EP. Speaking on the new single, Blaney says: “It’s a song about my love for my brother. We were separated when we were very young. We lived far from each other, yet he was, and always will be, so close to my heart.”

Island Rains features collaborations with English indie-folk composer and producer Adem Ilhan (Fridge, Silver Columns) as well as composer and guitarist Neil MacColl. The EP was mixed by Andy Savours (Black Country, New Road, The Twilight Sad) in London.

Discussing the EP, Blaney adds: “One of the simplest things you can do in times of chaos - to help navigate the unknown - is to plant a seed. Grow something. A flower. A vegetable. This is how I want to live. Rains in Ireland, or on any small island, are a constant companion. They feel wonderful on an island. A reminder of the beautiful patterns of nature. I wrote this EP at my home by the west coast of Ireland. The moon comes to the window some nights of the month. The dark space fills with silk. I go to the sea and she is dancing. I wrote this EP for those I have yet to meet: a prayer for others who feel far from home.”

Island Rains artwork

Island Rains tracklist

“Borderlines”
“Brother”
“Flown”
“Sheltering”