On Feb. 3, indie rock artist Somebody’s Child, also known as Cian Godfrey, released his debut self-titled album. Somebody’s Child leaves fans entranced for 40 minutes, loaded with anthems and ballads featuring Godfrey as he pours his heart out. Every lyric addresses challenges he faces while transitioning into adulthood. By laying loud electric guitar solos over methodic drum beats, Godfrey sets the foundation for his pieces while grabbing the attention of listeners.

In the song “Hold Me Like You Wanna,” Godfrey expresses his struggles with past relationships as he states “I’m not gonna be the one to tell you, you’re acting like a kid.” He then explains how he wants to fix the relationship and while attempting to overcome frustration and be the bigger person. 

Godfrey is a pioneer in the indie rock music scene. He paints a desolate story with his lyrics, consistently playing with instrumentals and leaving no room for redundancies. Originating in Dublin, Godfrey has quickly emerged as one of Ireland’s up and coming artists with his early singles gaining traction on national radio. When he returned to Ireland, he started writing about relationships and struggles with morality. These stories focus on challenging mental health situations in contrast with his depiction of the charming progression of his childhood in Dublin. 

Tracks range from upbeat pop to slow indie rock. There is a song for everyone, whether it be the honest lyricism in “I Need Ya” or a track like “Sell Out,” which instantly catches any listener’s ear with engrossing guitar riffs. 

“I Need Ya” begins with a fast and upbeat guitar intro with deep lyrics describing not wanting to be just another ‘nobody,’ or plain person in the world. It is a telling single that makes the listener feel like they’ll always need someone else in their life. On the other hand, “Sell Out” is an encouraging song focused on Godfrey’s desire to freely be himself. The song has a hint of old rock in the drums and guitar, but ultimately lands in the category of pop. The following song, “Broken Record,” has a similar energy supported by heartfelt lyrics and instrumentals rather than a redundant tempo. Occasionally, the song alludes to a melody on par with that of Bruce Springsteen. Godfrey creates a story brimming with passion as he sings of conflict between his opposition to change and his desire for self-actualization.

After multiple tracks with fast-paced instrumentals, Godfrey switches to a more relaxed, gloomy vibe on “Hold Me Like You Wanna.” Godfrey takes time to explain his desire to make the best of an uncertain relationship. Both the lyrics and the music are intriguing. Through the verses, one guitar plays meandering melodies while another holds the beat with a simple repetitive theme all at the same time. 

Through a passionate voice, Godfrey conveys a vision of a modern, progressive Ireland that is both personal and global. In this album, Godfrey finds ways to include thoughtful meaning in each verse, while still having an upbeat feel to certain tracks. Although most songs have the same energy, he still  differentiates the instrumentals while incorporating rage and sorrow. Altogether, Somebody’s Child is deserving of three and a half out of five feathers.