From touring with some of the biggest names in the industry to becoming a household name on both sides of the pond, Gareth has carved out his own sound and brand – blending his Irish roots with a polished country sound. His 7-track project, Bluebird, landed this week, and we’re diving right in.
Opening with Born Yesterday, this track wouldn’t sound out of place on the radio – it’s upbeat, it’s catchy and would slot right into anyone’s playlist – it’s a strong opener and has me excited to hear what the rest of the record has to offer.
On ” Stampede, the second track on the album, there’s more of a country twang, and Gareth’s vocals really shine through. The lyrics in this track are uber catchy, and as I’m listening through, I’m adding this track in particular to my playlist as I know it will be getting sung on my next road trip.
The third track on the record, Shoulders I Stand on dives into a more emotional moment for Gareth. This is the kind of song I expected to hear from this record, for those who don’t know too much about Gareth, he’s from Ireland and made the leap over to America to cut his teeth in the industry, and Shoulders I Stand on honours the people that helped shape him. There’s an emotional weight with this track, and it’s a nice mix to be right in the centre of the EP.
Now the wildcard collab for me was Gareth’s duet with the only and only, Joss Stone! An artist I have listened to for YEARS. Her vocals fuse so perfectly with Gareths, giving a delicate touch to the track – tapping into more pop than country, but a brilliant pairing. I like the fact that with this EP, despite only being 7 songs, we’re seeing different sides to not only Gareth’s creativity, but ability to delve into various genres.
Long Story Short stays on the pop-country fusion. This track wouldn’t sound amiss on national radio, with moments of Morgan Wallen and Zach John King – it’s country fuelled, it’s catchy, and it’s feeling like the track of the summer (even if it’s October, I still feel summery listening to this).
Closing up the EP is the title track, Bluebird, which, like Shoulders I Stand On, brings emotion to the forefront of the writing process. This is more of the music I want to hear from Gareth, the heartfelt and story-led songs. The best track on the album, in my opinion.
Closing the EP is a cover of Goo Goo Dolls Iris, which is an ode to the original with Gareth’s own spin on it. ]
The EP has left me with a lot of thoughts, which I guess is what an artist would do. This record has showcased Gareth in pop, country and fusions of soul – leaving me wondering where he will go next? There are tracks that feel quite safe and crafted for airtime, but this is a beautifully created EP, with the more emotionally charged tracks being a total standout for me. I look forward to seeing what 2026 holds for Gareth.
Review by Lauren Page
