A powerful ode to loss wrapped in shimmering shoegaze and uplifting post-punk energy
Dublin-based alternative rock band The Neon Sea return with their compelling new single “Burning (Troubadour Version),” a poignant yet sonically uplifting track that channels the emotional aftershocks of deep personal loss. Known for their unique blend of shoegaze introspection and raw post-punk urgency, the band—led by vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Tom Doyle—continues to craft music that resonates with emotional depth and cathartic energy.
At its core, Burning (Troubadour Version) explores the disorienting silence that follows the loss of close loved ones—the kind of grief that unravels inner peace and leaves behind a lingering sense of anxious longing. Yet despite its heavy thematic roots, the song shimmers with a hopeful energy, echoing Doyle’s desire to “lift listeners up, not bring them down.”
“I was conscious that although the theme of burning is heavy,” says Doyle, “I wanted the music to be uplifting… we have enough sadness in the world at the moment.”
Produced by Stefano Vita at Troubadour Studios in Dublin, the track marks a creative expansion for The Neon Sea, bringing in a fresh sonic lens while retaining the band’s signature atmosphere. Long-time collaborator Dave Flood takes on drums, bass, and additional guitars, while mastering was handled by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios, whose credits include Coldplay, Blur, and LCD Soundsystem.
Tom Doyle (vocals, guitars, harmonies) and Dave Flood (drums, bass, guitars, harmonies) continue to drive The Neon Sea as a potent studio project, with plans to evolve into a full live band in the near future.
The new release follows on from their well-received debut “As I Wonder” and the darker, genre-bending “Sleepwalker,” further establishing The Neon Sea as one of Ireland’s most evocative new alt-rock acts. Their influences span from The Cure, My Bloody Valentine, and Pink Floyd to Whipping Boy and Nirvana, all of which echo throughout their textured, emotionally rich sound.