Susie Dawson-Howe – narcissus pool (2024)
Despite being a relative newbie in the music scene with a year-and-a-half of performances and one single released, singer-songwriter Susie Dawson-Howe brings sophistication, maturity and old soul savvy to listeners. Quickly building a loyal following in her native Ireland, Dawson-Howe’s melodies resonate with listeners connecting on a personal level; a sense of solace, warmth and ease carefully crafted with each chord. Inspired by the likes of Hozier, Lizzy McAlpine and The Crane Wives, Dawson-Howe leans toward indie-folk with a tinge of indie-rock slivering through. Come with us as we delve into her debut single, ‘narcissus pool’.
Penned when she was 16 years old, ‘narcissus pool’ reaches from those complex teenage years into the even more confusing world of appearances, expectations and popularity. Reflecting on a friendship that ended several years prior, Dawson-Howe “grieves a friendship… outgrown as they grew apart, likening a teenage boy’s desire to fit in and conform to the myth of Narcissus, watching a person draw away from those who care about them in favour of focusing on appearances…” An insightful reflection on the painful tearing apart of friends for society’s expectations – or rather just finding you drift to other sides of reality.
One aspect I find intriguing about Dawson-Howe is how she blends vintage folk with modern-day indie-folk offering a hit of youth with warm old-school charm. It’s as if you are sharing a hug with an old friend instead of her being an entirely new acquaintance; and considering her heart-warming grin and soft vocals, there’s a cup of tea coming along with that friendly embrace. Yet, while the calm, laidback, heartfelt melody is powerful, it is the alignment of this sound with the profound lyricism that adds weight to ‘narcissus pool’.
Oscillating between the hopelessness of broken relationships and the hopefulness of wishing them well, ‘narcissus pool’ is brutally honest with a balm for the painful wound. With only one single, Susie Dawson-Howes has already won my heart. I have but one complaint: even at four-and-a-half minutes ‘narcissus pool’ is not long enough. I cannot wait for more from this Irish songstress!
Find out more about Susie Dawson-Howe on her Instagram and Spotify.
Discover more indie-folk music on The Other Side Reviews Indie Folk playlist:
