West of Ireland indies The Works release 'Upstart'

Hailing from Westport, Ireland The Works expand their sound and outlook with new single release Upstart

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Single: Upstart

Artist: The Works

Released: July 29 2026

The new single Upstart from The Works is a meditation on finding your voice. It encapsulates the optimism and reflection that manifests in the pursuit of self-discovery. A gentle, reflective, sunkissed song, the blend of acoustic guitar and piano with electric instruments evokes the spirit of each member and traces their development from children to university graduates. The subtle, muted tones guide the listener from the dreamy opening to the reversed piano and stripped-back guitar in the closing that feels like one last look back.

After growing up and maturing as students in the west of Ireland, The Works are eager to apply themselves within new environments and find their place amongst it all. Following two consecutive summers spent traversing the vibrant landscapes away from home in The Netherlands and California, Oisín (Gómez-Kelly, frontman and keys) sought to express the frame of mind each member shared in wishing their hometowns and youth farewell to follow their vocations, grounded in optimism and fulfillment for the time passed.

I think this song is absolutely beautiful – it’s brilliantly composed and performed ... so tasteful in using dynamic shifts and interesting production elements to bring it to life whilst allowing space for the track to breathe. If you’ve heard Jeff Buckley’s album Grace, it’s giving me that kind of vibe (there is no higher praise to be found from me). Two-time Grammy Award winning producer Adrian Bushby

Hailing from the West of Ireland, The Works fuse indie rock and psychedelic dreaminess with the same breezy energy found in that first sip of crisp beer after a hard day spent daydreaming. Rich themes of lust and angst characteristic of coming-of-age in Ireland pervade each track, engendering a reflective group that looks ahead toward its future.

Formally comprised of west of Ireland natives Oisín Gómez-Kelly (frontman, keys), Jamie van den Oosten (lead guitar), Fintan Dunne (bass, harmonica), Rory McDaid (guitar), and Nathan McGreal (drums), The Works continue to develop their audience worldwide by travelling across major cities each summer, substituting drums and second guitar with local musicians in The Netherlands and now California.

Upcoming Live Dates

28th August: Headlining band night at Til-Two Club in San Diego, California

17th December: Café Lates hosted by All Thumbs at Little Lane, Bonham Quay, Galway, Ireland

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