‘EURO-COUNTRY’ goes far beyond a deeply introspective track, but instead is something all-encompassing for so many, bringing a political and social discourse that devastated many to light. More specifically, CMAT has given a voice to the Irish families who watched their loved ones scramble to survive in the wake of the so-called economic rise—penned the Celtic Tiger—that saw houses left empty and the weight of bankruptcy weighing heavily on the shoulders of the innocent.
It’s a narrative for a generation that lived amid economic crashes that impacted their lives so directly, from housing and job losses to high suicide rates and financial ruin. A narrative that sheds light on a devastating point in history that has been overlooked, pointing a finger at disgraced politicians and capitalism.
Laden with hopelessness and anger towards those responsible, her voice is haunting as she pays homage to “Everything I thought that I could be” in her “Euro-Euro Country”. Backgrounded by atmospheric instrumentals in the form of her signature country pop sound, the song is a perfect juxtaposition of soaring sounds and delicately raw Irish vocals with heartbreakingly heavy subject matters - all of which provide a winding punch to the gut.
Accompanied by a music video directed by Eilis Doherty , which sees the vocalist visit the Omni shopping centre in North Dublin, it visualises the impact of Ireland’s collective grief.
Not only has CMAT created a devastatingly vulnerable track, but it has also educated many on the realities of life for those living in European countries. The track is a eulogy to them—and is more important than ever.
‘EURO-COUNTRY’ is due for release August 29 via AWAL.
Megan-Louise Burnham
Image: Sarah Doyle
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