For those who know Dermot Kennedy’s music, it’s clear that his words and the way they are delivered are equally powerful - even if taken separately or with one removed, the other still hits with full force. His second single, ‘Refuge’, released on February 20th, promoting his upcoming album ‘The Weight of the Woods’, proves just that. 

Kennedy admitted via Instagram just how exposed he felt recording this track: “Don’t really know if I’ve ever felt this vulnerable in a song.” Whether it’s the studio version or the short acapella one he shared online, the vulnerability is impossible to miss. 

The song starts softly with an acoustic guitar setting the mood and letting Kennedy’s voice carry every ounce of emotion buried in the lyrics. As the single unfolds, the chorus hits with lines like “chasing a dream, but I’m tired / if we never make it, at least we can say we died trying”, capturing the feeling of being exhausted, yet still pushing forward. Then, in the bridge, words like “love, let me be your refuge” offer listeners a sense of comfort. 

All in all, 'Refuge' can be described as a song about the endurance of the human spirit - so even when life throws obstacles your way, you can still find the strength to carry on, either from within or from those who stand by your side. And as Kennedy said in his album trailer: “Sometimes I think they’re just songs, but then I remember what songs can do.” The track is truly a reminder of what music can really do - carry us through moments of doubt, offering a shoulder to lean on, and helping push through. 

Paulina Pasturczak

@kurczvkontour

Image: ‘Refuge’ Official Single Cover