Ahead of her appearance at Other Voices next month, Irish alt-folk songwriter Maria Kelly has announced details surrounding her second album ‘Waiting Room’. The follow-up to 2021’s ‘The Sum of the In-Between’ is set for release 28th February, 2025 via VETA Records.
‘Waiting Room’ features the singles ‘Drive’, ‘Slump’ and ‘Something Better’ and see Maria Kelly ruminating upon Ireland’s flailing health system, the housing crisis, societal expectations and faded friendships
New single ‘When I’m Angry’ finds Maria tapping into the internal fury created by these issues which she often finds difficult to express in real life. “I’m someone who tends to burst into tears when I feel angry,” explains Maria.
“It’s such a frustrating reaction, because it often makes me unable to speak up for myself in the moments I need to. This song is about the resentment that comes with letting others walk all over you. Though, it’s not really about the other person as much as it’s about claiming back your voice as your own.”
The album’s title ‘Waiting Room’ was inspired by Maria’s frustrations dealing with the Irish health system which built up whilst dealing with an ongoing chronic pain condition.
“This album is an exploration of the roadblocks, both internally and externally, that keep us feeling powerless and taking away our agency,” Maria explains.
Track List
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Like A Wave
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Waiting Room
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Drive
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Something Better
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Nearly Thirty
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Slump
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Rearview Mirror
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His Parents’ House
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When I’m Angry
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Coming to Kill
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Appointments