Comprised of brothers Conor, Cian, Eoghan, and Colm MacSweeny – it’s clear that for indie rockers MKAI, music is very much a family affair.

The unsigned Cork band made waves across national media in early November when they knocked Taylor Swift off the #3 spot on the Irish iTunes chart with their debut EP ‘Waiting’. Drawing on local support and an enthusiastic fan base, the group successfully financed the EP through online crowdfunding. They then enlisted the help of producer Rob Kirwin – known for his work with a number of celebrated home-grown talents including Hozier, U2 and Delorentos. The immaculate production distinguishes ‘Waiting’ as a confident and sophisticated debut.

Waiting certainly serves as a strong expression of the band’s abilities. The opening track and lead single channels the anthemic energy of Kodaline and Villagers and starts the EP off on an epic note. The bridge in particular offers a moment of lip-bitingly satisfying pop perfection. Meanwhile the eerie Loop provides the energetic peak of the EP as MKAI move to a more synth-focused vibe which ultimately culminates in a grungy guitar solo.

Fans of Radiohead will enjoy the shimmering and ethereal Evening’s End, which shamelessly pilfers everything from the alt legends’ drum beats to falsetto vocals. ‘Waiting’ draws to a close with the luscious slow-burner Breathe. Cian McSweeny’s plaintive vocals in particular shine here. Overall the song serves as a great demonstration of the band’s talent for maintaining a careful balance between restraint and intensity.

There is not a single wasted second on ‘Waiting’. The EP may at times show the group’s over-reliance on influences; however this is understandable for a band still finding their feet. On balance however, ‘Waiting’ is an often hypnotic and always enjoyable listen. This polished debut provides an excellent showcase for the MKAI’s wealth of talent.