‘Name Your Sorrow’ is an impersonal and distant release; leaving little impact on the listener, it marks a change of direction for Pillow Queens; sacrificing their unique sound and former brave authenticity.

In 2020, Dublin’s Pillow Queens self-released their homegrown debut album ‘On Waiting.’ A journey of  the heart and mind, the LP possessed a rawness and sincerity somewhat absent in their new album  ‘Name Your Sorrow.’ Mourning the honesty and emotion which initially drew attention to the band,  they return with a tamed, sterilised sound. 

Composed of co-vocalists Pamela Connolly and Sarah Corcoran; lead guitarist Cathy McGuinness; and drummer Rachel Lyons; Pillow Queens are an all female, queer band balancing on the cusp of mainstream success. Working with producer Collin Pastore, ‘Name Your Sorrow’ marks the group’s anticipated third album release.  

Opening with ‘February 8th’ there is an attempt to evoke profound feelings within the listener- yet their refreshed sound has lost its personality and flair. The tracks which follow dissipate in to removed and disconnected territory; thirsty for the experimental, reverberating guitar heard on prior releases, we are left feeling bereft. 

Furthering the distance is the absence of vocal curiosity and bravery throughout, with Connolly’s vocals safe and simple in delivery, it becomes difficult to invest and believe in what they are saying-  despite the zealous lyrical content. ‘Heavy pour’ however re-ignites that euphoric feeling, making use of crescendo (a popular tool in their music) and a slightly wilder vocal approach, it becomes sonically interesting and addictive.  

While their sound is leaning in a mainstream direction, it would be an incredible triumph to see an all female, queer band rise to the top; performing on the same level as Kings of Leon for example. 

‘Name Your Sorrow’ is an impersonal and distant release; leaving little impact on the listener, it marks a change of direction for Pillow Queens; sacrificing their unique sound and former brave authenticity.