BAD Make an Impressive Debut with Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking
The story behind BAD is an interesting one. The three first crossed paths at Soft Gut songwriting camp, where they quickly found themselves on the same wavelength. Their first song was written, recorded and produced together in just eight hours, and that initial spark has since developed into a collaboration built around writing and recording music in the moment.
Even the band's name has a story behind it. As well as combining the first initials of Brigid, Alan and Declan, BAD is also the Irish word for boat. It's a fitting choice for a group whose music draws inspiration from nature, landscapes and the changing moods of life, something that comes through on their first release.
Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking – The Sound
At the centre of Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking
is the pairing of Brigid and Alan's vocals, which work particularly well together. Neither tries to dominate the track, with both voices blending naturally throughout. It's this combination that gives the song much of its character, and there's a lovely sense of balance in how everything comes together.
Musically, the track takes a fairly understated approach. Layers of synths create a slightly mystical feel, while a steady mid-tempo beat keeps things moving along. Guitar lines drift in and out of the arrangement, adding little touches here and there without pushing themselves to the front. There's plenty going on, but nothing feels unnecessarily busy or overdone.
What works particularly well is how the music leaves room for the vocals. The electronic elements, guitars and subtle rock influences all have their place, but the song never loses sight of its main focus. There's a definite indie-folk influence running through it too, although BAD aren't a band that seem particularly interested in sticking to one musical style.
A Song About Life's Journey
Lyrically, Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking
looks at the experiences that shape us along the way. Memories, loss and the moments worth celebrating all play a part, with the imagery of travelling along the water providing the inspiration. It's an idea that ties in nicely with the band's name and their interest in the natural world.
Speaking about the meaning behind the song, Alan Daniel Tobin explains:
A song of memories, life losses and triumphs, inspired by being at water level, journeying from river to sea.
A Promising Start For BAD
Although BAD are a new name, there's plenty of musical experience behind the project, and it shows. The three musicians seem comfortable giving each other space, with the focus firmly on what works best for the song rather than individual performances. It's a good starting point for a collaboration that has grown out of a shared approach to songwriting.
With their debut album scheduled for release in early 2027, Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking
is our first proper introduction to what BAD have planned. If this track is anything to go by, we can expect a mix of interesting musical ideas, carefully worked arrangements and, hopefully, plenty more of those excellent vocal combinations.
Final Verdict
Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking
is a strong opening release from BAD, with Brigid O'Neill and Alan Daniel Tobin's vocals being the real highlight. The synths, guitars and steady rhythm all fit together nicely, giving the song its own identity without trying too hard. It's an encouraging first outing from the trio and makes their forthcoming debut album one to keep an ear out for.
The single, Every Turn Is A Cutting Worth Taking, is available through all streaming platforms.
Photo Credit: BAD
