Dea Matrona Turn Up the Grit on New Single John Doe

Music Review | 13th April, 2026

A 90s Indie Rock Revival with Bite

Time is ticking fast toward the release of Hate That I Care, the highly anticipated second album from Dea Matrona. Landing on June 5th, 2026, the record promises a bold evolution for the Belfast duo - Mollie McGinn and Orláith Forsythe.

Before the full album drops, the band has given fans another taste with their latest single, John Doe and it hits hard.

Leaning into a heavier, more rock-driven direction, the latest single is soaked in 90s indie attitude. Crunchy electric guitars drive the track forward, while the duo’s signature synchronized harmonies cut cleanly through the distortion. It all builds toward an anthemic chorus that feels tailor-made for live crowds.

Speaking about the track, Mollie McGinn shared insight into its long creative journey:

We wanted to write a song about having your choices taken away. "John Doe" was one of the tracks on the album that took the longest to write. Quite often we come up with a chorus that we like and then spend ages trying to work on a verse that matches the vibe

That tension is felt throughout the John Doe - there’s a push-and-pull energy that gives it emotional weight beneath the gritty surface.

A More Personal Era for Dea Matrona

With Hate That I Care, the band is stepping into a more introspective and self-aware space. Orláith Forsythe explains:

People have always tried to assume who we are; both musically and personally. This album is more personal, more honest, and more aware of the world around us than anything we've made before- Orláith

That honesty is already shining through in John Doe, hinting that this album could mark a defining moment in their career.

From Belfast Streets to Big Stages

Dea Matrona’s rise hasn’t come overnight. From busking on the streets of Belfast to commanding stages across Ireland and the UK, they’ve built a reputation for electrifying live performances and a fiercely loyal fanbase. John Doe feels like a natural progression of that journey - bigger, louder, and more confident.

Final Thoughts - A Band Hitting Their Stride

With John Doe Dea Matrona push further into their evolving sound, embracing heavier influences without losing the melodic hooks that made them stand out in the first place.

If this track is anything to go by, Hate That I Care could be their most impactful release yet.

And the feeling? They’re only just getting started.

The single, John Doe, is available through all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Dea Matrona