Hailing from Ireland, Greywind are a sibling rock duo. Taking inspiration from bands like Jimmy Eat World and Thrice, vocalist Steph O’Sullivan and guitarist Paul O’Sullivan are bringing back emo for good. With the success of their 2017 debut album Afterthoughts, Greywind are back with their EP Antidote, marking a new chapter as they departed from their major record label to go independent. With themes of frustration, fighting to continue and emotional responses, Antidote shares some of their most personal moments with their fans.
The opening track, Swing and Sway, is lyrically deep and insightful. Steph O’Sullivan has beautifully haunting vocals as she sings “A simple remedy will make this go away”. It is abundantly clear that the song is meant for someone who has struggled with their mental health and is in a dark place. While the duo doesn’t shy away from the dark theme, they acknowledge that talking to someone about it is important. They simultaneously explore how it feels to be depressed, but also share how there are those in people’s lives who care deeply about them and will go above and beyond to help them. As for Paul O’Sullivan’s guitar riffs on Swing and Sway, there is so much going on. From what sounds like The Cranberries at the start, he catapults the song with elements of grunge. Plus, the riffs create a sense of hopefulness to balance out Steph O’Sullivan’s dark lyrics, giving listeners some relief from the heavy topic.
As the lead single off the EP, Antidote is a tune that could easily have come from Neck Deep. With the theme of saving yourself at its core, this song reflects inwards. With conflicting thoughts contrasting the pop-esque chorus, Antidote adds that little extra to the music genre. Steph O’Sullivan is crafty with her chorus as she sings “Why are you waiting?” to which she replies. The duality she creates with this song and deep searching within herself is what empowers her. This song is full of hope and self-belief, even when it is tough.
Ending the EP, Greywind lay more on the emo angry sound with You’re My Medicine. With a heavy baseline and a gritty sound, Steph O’Sullivan and Paul O’Sullivan create a cathartic release of pent-up angst. With catchy hooks in the pre-chorus and chorus, Steph O’Sullivan hits hard with her vocals. There is a bit of a breakdown on the guitar which compliments the lyrics and emphatic words. This song is well thought out and put together; it’s experimental and it pays off. Like Antidote, there is a sense of empowerment. Steph O’Sullivan doesn’t need this person anymore, nor does the listener.
Greywind know how to make a great song. With imaginative lyrics and an emo influence, the duo are very gifted. They will continue to grow in popularity as they address human emotions and the duality of conflict inside everybody. Oh, and they know how to put a song together that even bands like Honey Revenge would be jealous of. With a blend of emo, rock and pop, the duo’s EP is tantalising enough to hook millennials and Gen Z. The EP develops the story as each song goes on and You’re My Medicine is a powerful anthem to close on.
9/10
Standout Tracks: Antidote, Glimmer, You’re My Medicine
For Fans Of: Stand Atlantic, Hot Milk, Honey Revenge
Written by: Jo Lisney
