We’ve been vibing to indie rock band Cardinals for a while now. So we’re incredibly stoked that their debut self-titled EP has been released! The six-track EP is a combination of classic indie rock and shoegaze while still being distinctly Cardinals. The warmth that it radiates makes it the perfect summer soundtrack. And it’s the perfect introduction to the six-piece band from Ireland. Not only do we have new tunes to listen to on repeat, but we also got the chance to talk all about their new music with them. Let’s jump right in!
Hi, and welcome to The Honey POP! For new listeners, how would you describe your sound?
Thanks, Honey POP. We’d describe our sound as pop at its core. It’s warm and volatile, and you can pull your own narrative from the midst of it.
Cardinals
Congratulations on the release of your new self-titled EP! What were the main inspirations for the EP? We’re inspired by many different albums, books, and films, so it’s hard to say. At the time of recording the EP, we brought a record player with us and had a few records on rotation by the likes of The Strokes, The Beach Boys, and Lou Reed.
What do you hope fans take away from the new EP?
We’d never ask anyone to take anything in particular away from our music. We hope listeners find their own narrative throughout, and we hope it resonates.
Let’s talk about your song, ’Twist and Turn.’ What was your favorite part about writing and recording it? While Euan was doing his vocal take, the rest of us went for a few drinks next door. We came back after listening to a lot of The Beach Boys all week, and the pints had told us to throw a mic in the middle of the room and do some group backing vocals hand in hand.
How did you know you wanted it to be the intro track?
There was this one show that stands out as our personal favorite, sound and performance-wise. ‘Twist and Turn’ happened to be the first song of the set, so I think it sits comfortably in our heads as a great intro.
What’s your favorite lyric from it?
“Rock and Roll”
Touring
You have a few shows coming up in July, which is so exciting! What can fans expect at a Cardinals show? Lots of leather, hair, and thatch.
What’s one of your favorite past tour memories?
We had a lovely breakfast feed in Birmingham.
We believe in the power of manifestation. What’s one thing you want to speak into existence for Cardinals? First band with wheels.
Last question! Since this is The Honey POP and we love spreading positivity, tell us something sweet about your fellow bandmates?
They’d stand up for you if a middle-aged English geezer tries to fight you over a game of pool in Amsterdam.
We’d like to thank Cardinals for taking the time to chat with us! Be sure to check out their new self-titled EP now! What do you think of Cardinals? And what’s your favorite song? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CARDINALS:
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