Ireland’s heavy music scene has long been a breeding ground for raw talent, but few acts are currently hitting as hard—or as honestly—as Cork City’s own Following The Signs. Comprised of vocalist Alan Jevens, guitarists Noel Crowley and Vinnie Renoux, bassist Rory Taylor, and drummer Chris O’Hanlon, this five-piece powerhouse has spent the last few years bridging the gap between nostalgic groove and the cutting edge of modern metalcore.
Since their formation in 2018, the band has been on a relentless upward trajectory. Their debut record, ‘Conflictions’, acted as a sonic manifesto, blending nu-metal textures with pummelling breakdowns. That release didn't just win over local fans; it took them across the continent to the stages of Warsaw and Kraków, cementing their reputation as a formidable live force. Now, they return with ‘Evolve’, a project that feels less like a mere sequel and more like a total transformation.
Recorded and produced by Josh Robbinson at JSR Studios, the new EP showcases a band that has matured significantly. While fan favourites like ‘Bury Me’ established their heavy credentials, ‘Evolve’ leans into a sophisticated balance of grit and melody. The opening salvos, such as ‘Stuck in Place’, deliver an adrenaline-fuelled throwback to late-90s aggression, while ‘Break the Frame’ flirts with industrial-tinged earworms.
However, the undeniable beating heart of the record is the title track, ‘Evolve’. Born from a chorus idea by Renoux and elevated by Jevens’ most commanding vocal performance to date, the song is a defiant anthem of resilience. Lyrically, it moves away from external frustrations to focus on internal growth. It’s about the scars we carry and the pride found in survival. Sonically, the band isn't afraid to experiment here either, introducing ambient melodies and even a surprising jazzy bridge that demonstrates their refusal to be boxed into a single sub-genre.
Following The Signs are no longer just "one to watch" in the Irish underground; they are a polished, high-intensity unit ready for the international stage. By mixing relatable themes of mental fortitude with a sound that could rattle stadium rafters, they’ve crafted a release that truly lives up to its name.
Stream 'Evolve' now on all major platforms and follow Following The Signs on Instagram, Facebook, and Bandcamp for more updates.
