Lets cut to the chase: “I Didn’t Love You When I Said I Did and I Don’t Now.” Why have a fancy title for a song when actually you should simply state it as it is—just like in relationships, right?
This is the title of the new song by Dublin-based trio Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra, released Valentines Day 2021 on Anon Records. Thank goodness Valentines Day has expanded to express not just the traditional boy and girl, roses and chocolates image, but one which is much broader, more realistic, more inclusive, and lets face it, more fun.
This immediate thing that strikes you about this track is the vocals. Comparisons with the likes of Liz Fraser and Dolores O’Riordan are inevitable and justified with such a voice as Sarah Deegans. The distinctive waver on the notes, rather than simply holding the constant—it gives an emotional edge. The song begins as a ballad but quickly moves into something more powerful, more emotional. The clever lyricism is full of double meaning and irony. It depicts the experience of disappointing relationships, a counter image to the roses and chocolates we are bombarded with on Valentines Day.
A penny for them love
Its expensive stuff
I only borrow
give back when I’ve had enough
The drum and bass build the intensity and emotion of the track. How can just six words strike at your very core:
It wasn’t love,
It was enough
This song drives on, finally reaching a crescendo…and then suddenly stops, as if final acknowledgement that the relationship is irrevocably broken.
The Dublin-based three-piece consists of singer/guitarist Sarah Deegan, bassist Alice Grollero and drummer Danni Nolan, who came together about three years ago after meeting through gigging around the Dublin underground music circuit.
Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra have been working hard in the studio throughout 2020, and the single release paves the way for a busy 2021. Make sure you add them to your ever growing list of music from Ireland to watch out for this year.
To find out more please check out their website @PCRO | Linktree