The Gilhoolys transport us to a realm of introspection and emotional catharsis with The Passing Of Time. The Glasgow-based band’s latest opus is a fierce and assertive experience – a timeless encapsulation of resilience, defiance, and hope. Like a relic unearthed from the depths of the ’90s alt-rock renaissance, it strikes a balance between raw authenticity and polished artistry, reminiscent of the melancholic grandeur of Smashing Pumpkins or the seductive intensity of Placebo.
Lyrically, Paul Devlin emerges as a narrator caught in the throes of existential reckoning, his words weaving a tapestry of perseverance against the weight of adversity. The opening lines, “In the passing of time, nothing less is what we’re afraid of…” set the tone for a journey through the relentless passage of time, punctuated by themes of struggle, self-discovery, and triumph. The chorus – an explosive, arena-ready anthem – screams defiance It’s an emotional gut punch, with a melody that lingers like the echo of a life-changing decision.
Musically, the song is a masterclass in alt-rock dynamics. The relentless drive of the bassline acts as the heartbeat of the track, propelling it forward with unyielding determination. Over it, the guitars weave a tapestry of distortion and clarity, with moments of psychedelic flourish that evoke a dreamy, otherworldly quality. This is most evident in the bridge, a kaleidoscopic interlude where shimmering chords and ethereal harmonies create a moment of introspection before the band returns to the powerful, hook-laden chorus.
The Gilhoolys’ collaboration with producer Andy Anderson at Main St Records shines through in the production quality. Every layer of sound is meticulously crafted yet brimming with the kind of raw energy that makes live performances unforgettable. This attention to detail ensures the song captures both the intimacy of a small venue performance and the grandeur of a festival stage, making it easy to imagine it being performed at a place like The Bronze, where the likes of Buffy Summers would fight both personal and supernatural battles.
What truly elevates The Passing Of Time is its universality. While deeply rooted in Glasgow’s gritty realism, its themes transcend geography and time. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations or personal setbacks and found the strength to keep moving forward. Devlin’s delivery is not just a performance; it’s a rallying cry for those who dare to dream of a better tomorrow.
As the band prepares to support James (Jay) Lees in Glasgow this March, it’s clear that The Gilhoolys are on an upward trajectory. Their commitment to “good, honest indie rock n’ roll” is unwavering, and The Passing Of Time is proof of their prowess. Fans craving heart-on-sleeve lyrics, magnetic melodies, and music that resonates long after the final note will find solace in this release.
In an era dominated by transient trends, The Gilhoolys offer something timeless. The Passing Of Time is an anthem for the resilient, a soundtrack for the dreamers, and a reminder that, even as the clock ticks on, we have the power to define what remains eternal. We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of The Gilhoolys, including Little Glasgow Boy, Days Like This, and Your Cartoon Life.