In the clandestine corners of North x Northwest Ireland, a cadre of devoted musicians has assembled under the enigmatic banner of The Savage Hearts. Led by Evan Walsh, former drummer of The Strypes, this group has embarked on a mission to honor the obscure yet influential figure of Cavan rock ‘n’ roll, Eddie Cruizer. With a nod to Cruizer’s eclectic tastes spanning garage rock, psychedelia, rhythm & blues, and cow-punk, The Savage Hearts have emerged as torchbearers of a frenetic musical legacy.
Their debut single, “Gang War/Speed Kills,” released under Blowtorch Records, serves as a thunderous proclamation of their arrival. Co-authored by Evan Walsh and Ste Kelly of Raglans, “Gang War” launches with a thuggish bruiser boogie, challenging listeners with its unrelenting intensity. Meanwhile, “Speed Kills,” penned by Evan Walsh and Niall Walsh, propels forward like a mile-a-minute deathtrap ditty, leaving no room for respite.
The Savage Hearts’ sonic assault is a testament to their influences, ranging from the likes of Ty Segall and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard to the raw energy of The Damned and The Gun Club. Their sound, a fusion of garage rock, psychedelia, and alternative rock, defies easy categorization, reflecting the band’s refusal to conform to convention.
Formed in the summer of 2022, The Savage Hearts have swiftly made their mark on the Irish music scene. Their electrifying performances at festivals like Electric Picnic and Sea Sessions have garnered widespread acclaim, while support slots for iconic acts such as The Boomtown Rats have further solidified their reputation as ones to watch.
Behind the relentless energy of The Savage Hearts lies a formidable lineup of talent. Darragh Muldoon leads the charge on guitar and vocals, supported by Evan Walsh on bass and keyboards, Terry Brady on harmonica and keyboards, Eugenio Collinassi on saxophone and trombone, Emil Kapusta on drums and percussion, and Becky Walsh on backing vocals.
The production of “Gang War/Speed Kills” is a testament to the band’s DIY ethos. Produced by Evan Walsh and engineered by Dan Doherty and Martin Quinn, the single captures the raw intensity of The Savage Hearts’ live performances. Martin Quinn’s deft touch in mixing and mastering brings out the nuances of their sound, enhancing the primal energy that courses through each track.
Accompanying the music is artwork by Stephen Finnegan and logo design by Ferdia McMorrow, adding visual depth to the band’s sonic universe. Spontaneous prose by Andy Hilton further enhances the mystique surrounding The Savage Hearts and their elusive inspiration, Eddie Cruizer.
With “Gang War/Speed Kills,” The Savage Hearts have unleashed a primal force that demands attention. As they continue to carve their path through the Irish music scene, one thing is certain: their savage hearts beat with a relentless passion that shows no signs of waning. As questions swirl about the enigmatic figure of Eddie Cruizer and the band’s tumultuous journey, one thing remains clear—The Savage Hearts are here to stay.
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