B-Side Guys

In “Silk,” the lead single from his upcoming sophomore album “Pull The Sky Inside,” San Francisco-based Irish songwriter Shane Culloty, aka Winter Aid, delivers a deceptively upbeat tune that belies its introspective and somewhat jaded lyrics. The accompanying video by Dermot Lynskey adds a visual dimension to this thoughtful commentary on the aftermath of a turbulent year.

Culloty’s musical approach in “Silk” is a departure from his usual sound, incorporating electronic elements and new percussive textures that showcase his growth as an artist. The result is a track that is both sonically engaging and emotionally complex, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the song’s underlying themes.

Lyrically, “Silk” serves as a reflection on the tumultuous events of 2020, particularly in the Bay Area where Culloty resides. The songwriter draws inspiration from the political rallies, marches against police violence, and the general sense of hope and passion that characterized that period. However, he also expresses a sense of disillusionment as the initial optimism faded and the status quo reasserted itself.

Despite the bittersweet nature of the lyrics, “Silk” manages to maintain a chill and moody atmosphere that is both introspective and relatable. Culloty’s ability to craft a song that captures the complex emotions of a specific moment in time is a testament to his skill as a songwriter and his keen observations of the world around him.

As the first taste of Winter Aid’s upcoming album “Pull The Sky Inside,” “Silk” sets the stage for a collection of songs that promise to explore themes of displacement, assimilation, and the search for meaning in unfamiliar surroundings. With his unique blend of Irish roots and San Francisco influences, Culloty is poised to deliver a compelling and emotionally resonant record that reflects his personal journey and the world at large.