Sean Mathews - Welcome to Ballsgrove (2022) Hi-Res

Irish singer-songwriter Sean Mathews defines his music as ‘urban-folk’. His latest release ‘Welcome to Ballsgrove’ is a concept album telling the local tales of the Ballsgrove housing project in Drogheda, Ireland, which at the time it was built was the largest of its kind outside of Dublin. The album was also recorded in a deconsecrated church just minutes away from Ballsgrove.

Mathews has a refreshingly succinct, straight-talking lyrical style; the emphasis is very much on storytelling as opposed to shrouding his message in ambiguous metaphor and imagery. This immediate lyrical approach helps to make the stories instantly relatable to the listener.

The arrangements are delicate and precise, nothing too complicated, but treated with a subtlety that helps give colour and emphasis to every lyric. The female vocal harmonies in ‘The hope that hope will give’ are particularly beautiful and add some real depth and tenderness to the song.

Overall, this is a strong album. The songs consistently explore the varying urban themes of Ballsgrove, except for the cover ´Spencer the Rover´, which seems to be a pleasant anomaly.

Direct, yet delicate, Sean Mathews’ captivating song-writing style is delivered with a unique and passionate voice.