REVIEW: Happy Sunny’s Debut Single is a “Delight”
WRITTEN BY ANNE TILLEY
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Source: Abu Festival
Emerging from the quiet county of Leitrim, Ireland, indie rock group Happy Sunny is far more brazen than their hometown, with their latest single “Delight” debuting a bright, boisterous sound. The group consists of four energetic teenagers ranging from 16 to 17 years old, including James McFadden (vocals, guitar), Adam Dallat (drums), Caydn Maguire (bass, vocals), and Cian Brett (vocals, lead guitar).
On “Delight,” Happy Sunny embraces their alternative roots, backed by the relentless beat of Dallat’s frantic drumming and paired with melancholic guitar riffs, garnering comparisons to Inhaler or Sam Fender. The track is far from just an indie jingle, combining elements of post-punk. The track notably includes a breakdown that would make Billy Corgan proud, seamlessly integrating heavier transitions while maintaining a light, poppy overall feel. The song is backed by an easily singable refrain crooned in McFadden’s raw vocals, a blend between Alex Turner’s deep crooning and the laidback delivery of Julian Casablancas.
Despite these similarities to other artists, Happy Sunny is far from a cover band, as demonstrated by the song’s final section. The track swells and builds into an explosive last minute, consisting of ferocious drumming and frenzied guitar tapping, with Brett’s layered vocals eventually culminating in an impressive high note.
Happy Sunny provides a fresh sound, with an upbeat, exciting tone consisting of the familiar musical motifs and repetitive riffs that are often found in today’s indie giants (Arctic Monkeys, Fontaines D.C., The 1975) while paving their own path forward. As its name suggests, “Delight” is a quick, sweet, refreshing earworm, showcasing the group’s abilities to create their own sound while drawing on decades of incredible inspiration.
