Born and bred in (unsurprisingly) Kilkenny – singer-songwriter Annika Kilkenny ebbs and flows through the gentle motions in her sophomore EP ‘Me in the Mud’, released February 7th 2025.

The opening track Boots for Hiking fits right in with the EP’s name and explores the passing of time. “Now you’re crying on your birthday cause the future’s coming fast, guess there’s nothing quite as daunting as the shadows of your past,” rings a verse.

Taking inspiration from musicians like Lizzie McAlpine and Laufy, the singer-songwriter pens emotive lyrics with a cosy twist. Harmonising throughout the second track of the EP, Call the Cops embodies gentle tones. A gorgeously melodic creation.

“Walking slowly away from the departure gate. I board that plane and spend my time thinking,” flows the introductory verse of It’s Shaped You; a self-conscious track of self-discovery that explores the courage it takes to leave a comfortable situation in search of something new.

“Pull the mask off, close the curtain” Kilkenny chimes in the honest and vulnerable Out in the Garden. “Maybe consider that hurting means you’re on the mend,” her words continue. The letdown and subsequent freedom that arises from this mode of expression exudes hope – once the floodgates have opened, healing can begin.

Tango, the final track on the EP, emulates its namesake. Spanish guitar takes the instrumental lead and flamenco influences prevail in an oh-so-cool Billie Eilish Billie Bossa Nova-esque diversion musically. A different direction to close the EP, but one that works with the flow, holding attention until the very last note.

Annika Kilkenny’s ‘Me in the Mud’ flows in an equally creative and emotive manner, recounting experiences with vulnerability while crafting songs to sing, dance and cry to. An EP to listen to on a sad girl walk or a slow Sunday morning, let Kilkenny’s dulcet tones transport you to a softer world.