Ireland’s seven-piece Projective burst onto the scene with their debut single 'Running', a radiant blend of neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop that has already earned early praise from BBC Radio 6 Music’s Craig Charles.
In just a year, Projective has built a formidable reputation as a live act, selling out headline shows across Ireland, including a standout performance at Cork Opera House’s Green Room. Their performances at events like the Cork Guinness Jazz Festival and Chamomile Garden Dublin, where they shared the stage with artists like Jordan Adetunji and Strandz, highlight their wide-ranging appeal and exceptional musicianship. With 'Running', the band has captured the vitality and vibrancy of their live shows in a polished and emotionally rich studio recording.
Produced by double-platinum producer Cian Sweeney, known for his work with Robert Grace and Shiv, 'Running' showcases a refined and mature sound that belies its status as a debut release. The track opens with a soft, enveloping soundscape, combining layered vocal harmonies, delicate guitar lines, warm bass, swelling synth, and subtle percussion. This tranquil introduction is enriched by the emotive lead vocals, which evoke a sense of introspection and melancholy.
At the 50-second mark, the song undergoes a stunning transformation, shifting into a dynamic, drum-and-bass-inspired rhythm. The upbeat tempo is paired with an infectious melody, inventive guitar work, and choral backing vocals that drive the song forward with a sense of urgency and energy. As the track evolves, it delves deeper into its influences, embracing gospel-inspired tones and a hip-hop-inflected groove. The song closes with a smooth, elegant rap flow, tying together its many musical elements into a cohesive and captivating whole.
The band describes 'Running' as one of the first songs they wrote together, inspired by the restless, overwhelming feeling of being trapped in negative thoughts. “We jammed the chorus idea, and the hook fell into place soon after,” they explain. “The song has so many different vibes and sections, but it all felt right in the moment, so we decided to run with it.” Months of live performances allowed the band to refine the track before entering the studio, where they focused on bringing their vision to life. “We had a very clear vision for the sound, and from the first day in the studio, we made sure to keep that vision in mind with every decision we made,” they add.
With 'Running', Projective has not only made an impressive debut but also set the stage for a bright future. The single reflects their ability to merge genres, channel their live energy, and deliver a sound that is both sophisticated yes commercially viable.
Listen below:
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