Martha Ffion playfully addresses relationship doubts with the lush surfy sway of new single Take Your Name, taken from her forthcoming debut album Sunday Best.
Originally from Warrenpoint, Northern Ireland and now based in Glasgow, Martha Ffion has already delighted listeners with last year’s Trip EP and wowed audiences with both full band shows and stripped-back acoustic sets. Her eagerly awaited debut album Sunday Best (to be released on 9th March via Turnstile Music) promises to provide more addictive and swooning guitar pop – covering her early songwriting as well as recent compositions. To coincide with the release, Ffion is also heading out on a short UK tour (dates below).
On new single Take Your Name Ffion’s voice is velvety, melting over the swing and sway of the retro sounding melody. This song wouldn’t sound out of place in a dancehall in the sixties, but it also has a wonderfully fresh edge that brings it bang up to date. Much of that has to do with Ffion’s distinctive vocals combined with knowing lyrics and catchy hook that is reminiscent of Camera Obscura and Alvvays. Expressing doubt in the relationship, she hints at wanting more than a rush of desire – “I know that you want me. Do you really need me for life?” – before offering to make a deal very much on her terms – “We could reach a compromise. I’ll take your name if you take mine”.
The black and white video (watch it below) is a wistful affair with Ffion – in a trench coat and beret – seeming to follow Catholic Action’s Chris McCrory around various Glasgow landmarks, providing a light if needed and taking polaroids.
Martha Ffion’s songs are a thrilling mix of shadow and light, her voice both sultry and cool. Her debut album will undoubtedly be her distinctive songwriting at its best.
Martha Ffion UK tour dates
7th March – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff
8th March – The Waiting Room, London
9th March – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh
10th March – Mono, Glasgow
11th March – Think Tank, Newcastle
This article was written for Backseat Mafia.