Hilary Claire Woods released her debut solo album The River Cry on Valentine’s Day 2013 and the timing could not have been better for star-crossed lovers the world over.
Sonically the record evokes an expansive barren landscape infused with hushed subtleties that bristle with raw feeling and emotion. Minimal instrumentation with lone piano and ethereal vocals expose vulnerable themes of melancholy and longing, although the overriding sense is one of redemptive love. The River Cry was recorded in an old schoolhouse on the Beara Peninsula in the winter of 2012. Nearby a small river made its way secretly seawards and its changing nature often informed the shape and texture of the album.
The River Cry is far removed from Hilary Woods previous incarnation with Irish indie legends JJ72. Joining the band in 1999 as bass player, she was intrinsic to both JJ72’s hugely successful albums. For a teenager it was the stuff of dreams with major label backing, several Top of the Pop appearances, international tours and consistent chart success. With The River Cry however, Hilary has completely reinvented herself with a record that is startlingly honest and searingly beautiful. Take a listen to the promo track ‘Honeymoon’ for a window into the soul of one of the most unique releases of the year.
Although only released on Valentine's Day 'The River Cry' has already caught the attention of Ireland's foremost music site State Magazine who had this to say about the album: '...it’s a million miles away from her old band – instead calling to mind the dreamy Americana of Mazzy Star and Cowboy Junkies – and is really very good...'
