After the track’s anticipatory, synth-driven intro, the band quickly breaks into a jaunty, bouncy rhythm that contrasts with the serious mood of the instantly memorable opening lyric: “Raised on missions of mercy / Reared on visions of Christ / Every man’s got a limit, honey / As every day’s got a night”. Lead vocalist Matthew Hurley knows when to strike a melancholy tone, as proven on the band’s previous single ‘Kicking the Habit’. But on ‘Mouth Open Wide’, he brings a much more spirited attitude that matches his bandmates’ vitality.
Hurley is a unique, distinctive lyricist who always takes an off-kilter, sideways look at the world, and his approach on this track - a series of vignettes that explore both his internal monologue and scenes from everyday life - is incredibly effective. The second verse is particularly striking; he switches from reminiscing about a sunny inner-city laundry room to giving a speech at a wedding, which ends with him noticing, “Rows and rows of people so worthy / Pass the mic to literally anybody else”.
Not only are Maicín expanding their sonic palette on this song, but they’re pushing the boundaries and expectations of Irish indie music. The bridge, where distorted vocals and guitar battle it out against a backdrop of lush piano, is unexpected on first listen, but grows on you instantly. The dreamy atmosphere continues into a slowed-down, emphatic chorus, after which the song begins to fade out. A smattering of applause joins the mix before the band jumps back in for one final, energetic chorus, as if they’re giving an encore that no one asked for, which is a brilliantly fun and playful idea.
‘Mouth Open Wide’ was produced by Oli Deakin, who is best known for his work with fellow Irish musician CMAT. The five-piece have also drawn the attention of Irish music legends The Pogues, who have tapped Maicín to support them on their Irish tour later this year. With an accomplished producer behind them, the skill of all five musicians, their distinctive indie sound, and their playful attitude, Maicín are ones to watch.
Mia Tobin Power
Image: ‘Mouth Open Wide’ Official Single Cover