Fast-rising Irish artist Curtis Walsh, from Dublin, has recently released his brand new single 'Picture Perfect' - an immensely upbeat and positive offering. The perfect summer anthem, his rich and vibrant single is certainly one to be played loud through the speakers! Inevitably, this unbelievably infectiously catchy track will be ringing in your head for days on end.
Having been immersed in music from a very young age, artists such as U2, Oasis and Adele became the soundtrack to his younger years, his discovery of Ed Sheeran truly inspired him to begin writing his own music. During the current on-going pandemic, he made the decision to focus more on his own style and sound. He believes that lockdown gave him a chance for positive self-reflection and explore new ideas and avenues.
His previous releases include singles such as 'Sarah' and a beautiful collaboration with Anna Pancaldi on track 'Bend,' which was released earlier this year. His debut EP 'Breathe,' which was released in May 2019, has racked up over fifteen million streams to date - and yet he continues to go from strength to strength!
Here at The Lowdown, we had the opportunity to speak with Curtis Walsh about his new single, his plans for the remainder of the year. Keep reading to check out what he had to say!
You've recently released your brand new single, titled 'Picture Perfect.' What has it been like for you to get new music released?
"It really feels great, especially since this track in particular is so different when compared with the last few tracks that I have released. I'm super excited, but also very nervous to see how people react to it."
You've explained that the new release is a testament almost to the uncertainty during the pandemic. Do you feel that this song came together in a really natural way, possibly maybe more so than other tracks?
"For sure! I wrote this one at the start of the first lockdown, so it was one of the last big changes in my life before everything went quiet due to the pandemic. I definitely feel that this song got everything that I feel about lockdown into it. It was absolutely, really organic and also totally unexpected how the song sort of flew out of me, to be honest."
Do you have a favourite lyric from the single?
"Probably: 'Going country surfing, we could be there - pull through,' because I feel that is so many people's mission in life now - just to see the world and enjoy life, but yet create reasons that seem important enough to hold them back, when in hindsight making that first move to save up and book a flight will be so worth it. I feel that everyone should do it once this all ends!"
You have cited Ed Sheeran as being a massive inspiration for you. Do you feel that his style of music has a direct impact on the music that you release to an extent?
"I'd say so! Looking back on one or two of my songs, I can see now that he would have played a part as an influence for sure. With my upcoming tracks, they are definitely far from Ed Sheeran's style in my opinion. I am probably just growing and maturing as a songwriter. My listening habits and influences are definitely changing."
You have several headline shows around Ireland later this year, along with performing at Hit The North Festival too. Are you looking forward to being able to perform live again?
"I'm so excited! It's been way too long since I've stepped foot on a proper stage. I've been really planning out my approach to these gigs to try and stand out as much as possible, especially compared to my old sets for those who have already seen me live! It's going to be amazing. I'm so buzzing for them!"
Aside from your live performances, do you have anything else that you can tell us about that you have planned for the rest of the year?
"There's lots of new music coming, and also lots more gigs being discussed/in the pipeline. There are definitely big things coming later this year that I'm super hyped about!"
Finally, do you have a message for all of your supporters?
"Life can be crazy and easy to get down about, but as once (famously) said by Bobby McFerrin: 'When you worry, you make it double' - so don't stress and enjoy life while you can!"
'Picture Perfect' is out now. The track can be streamed from Spotify by clicking here. The single is additionally available to purchase and stream through all major responsible music purchasing and streaming outlets.
By Rachel Dempster