The isolation of the pandemic has been difficult for many, but born extroverts like Eugene-based singer-songwriter Cuchulain might have felt the challenge more than most. Cut off from his usual modes of connection, he repurposed his sense of longing in search of new ways to continue friendships and working relationships. The result is forthcoming album FEAT, a collection of songs developed in collaboration with artists all over the world from the safety of home studios.
Each song on the record features a guest contributor, and in total more than twenty musicians lended their talents in fleshing out the arrangements. Cuchulain would write and record a demo, then pass the prototypical version on to his various friends and see where their creativity would take it. The cross country (and Atlantic) project therefore not only helped break the isolation of lockdown, but also reinforced the mutual relationship between creativity and human connection.
Today sees the release of ‘Iris’, a single featuring Seattle-based musician Katie Kuffel. Centering on Cuchulain’s mother (whose nickname is Iris), the track draws inspiration from an overheard conversation between his parents. And though Cuchulain and Kuffel do not strictly take on the roles of each parent, the back and forth vocals brings this exchange to life. What emerges is a track warm if somewhat wistful, the playful energy undercut by a lingering sadness. An awareness of time passing.
Mama says they’re tearing down the church where we used to dance
putting up high-rises condos and offices to rent
They called it an investment in the community
but it saw the community out on the street
