Tiernan is the frontman in post-rock band deathcrash (untitled recs), known for loud and ambitious live shows and sprawling, epic song structures. On The Ribbon Songs, his first foray as a solo artist, Tiernan stands more alone than ever, stark on a stage, presenting seven songs of deep, intense pain. With Angels, his second single, Tiernan cements his position as one of the country’s most unique songwriters, showcasing an innate ability to turn his deepest agonies into blooming moments of delicate beauty.


Following on from the grief-laden debut single, Nuala, Tiernan’s second single Angels speaks to falling in love; love that gives life yet haunts nonetheless. On the track, which features Oscar-nominated Jerskin Fendrix and members of deathcrash, Tiernan pushes the limits of how quiet a song can be, before the band comes together in tavern tapped-toe tandem, then exhales as he sings “you are the feeling I can’t leave alone”.