Irish indie-rockers The Academic have just shared ‘Figure It Out’, their first release since September’s ‘Bye Bye Baby’.
The song moves away from the youthful sound of their debut album ‘Tales From The Backseat’ and instead paints them in a richer, more mature light whilst retaining the quartet’s signature style. This is heard throughout but is especially highlighted by Matthew Murtagh’s piercing guitar tones which act as the track's driving force. From start to finish, they ensure that ‘Figure It Out’ is an anthemic earworm that listeners can’t help but revisit.
At various points, the tune feels chaotic and overwhelming, a symbolic reflection of its themes. Lead singer Craig Fitzgerald’s fast-paced delivery and Dean Gavin’s fiery drums - which help make it so catchy - prove this perfectly. Speaking about the track, the band emphasise that it’s about "trying to keep your head above water. Yet also about that moment of clarity where you realise no one's going to fix it for you". The lyrics “Just let yourself move on / Tell yourself to let go of everything you’re used to / need to get yourself together and just figure it out” stunningly showcase this.
The vast majority of The Academic’s discography is made to be played live and this one is no different. By now, it's evident that they know how to work with each other to create something memorable for the audience and have fun whilst doing so. Proven by Fitzgerald’s impressive vocal range being beautifully complimented by Stephen Murtagh’s bouncy bass, they inject an element of euphoria into the mix.
‘Figure It Out’ proudly hints at a new chapter for The Academic. Currently on tour across the UK and Europe, it would be foolish to miss out on seeing these rising stars.
Madi Briggs
Image: ‘Figure It Out’ Official Single Cover