A little over two years since she first began to make waves in the music world, the first full-length album by Derry songstress SOAK is finally live for all to hear.
Preceded by two self-released EPs and all manner of singles, remixes and covers since signing with Rough Trade Records last September, Before We Forgot How To Dream comes long-awaited to those who've followed the teen's rise from her beginnings.
Just this month the 18-year old, real name Bridie Monds-Watson, previewed tracks from the album in a debut appearance on BBC 2's flagship music show Later...with Jool's Holland. Internationally renowned artists Paul Weller and Father John Misty featured on the same edition of the decades-spanning programme.
Earlier this year, Culture NI named Before We Forgot How To Dream amongst its list of Northern Irish Albums To Get Excited About. Writer Chris Jones wrote: 'It was recorded with Villagers man Tommy McLaughlin at his Donegal studio, and if the re-recorded 'Sea Creatures' is anything to go by, it promises to be lush and full-bodied, but intimate too.'
Meanwhile, SOAK – who has always been open about her sexuality – was in full support of the successful Yes marriage equality campaign in Ireland, commenting on her Facebook page: 'There are tears in my eyes. Congratulations Ireland! It's your turn Northern Ireland' on news of the result. A day later she performed at BBC Radio One's Big Weekend in Norwich, just two years after her home city of Derry played host to the event.
Stream Before We Forgot How To Dream now on NPR First Listen.
