Irish Musicians You Should Listen To In March: The Cranberries
The Cranberries
Formed in 1989, The Cranberries, is an Irish alternative rock band from Limerick. The band includes lead singer and guitarist Dolores O’Riordan, guitarist Noel Hogan, Bassist Mike Hogan, and drummer Fergal Lawler. The group debuted in 1992 with their album Everyone Else is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? Songs from the album such as “Dreams” and “Linger” became a regular part of the MTV rotation and were propelled into mainstream popularity.
“Linger” features twinkling guitars and strings accompanied by the story of a lover who has wandering hands. The song dives into feelings of deceit, overthinking, and lingering love within its memorable melody. The song “Dreams” epitomizes a 90’s movie intro with its ever-present guitar and soft drum sequence. The airy singing by O’Riordan encapsulates the longing and desire that comes from being young and discovering who you are. It was featured in several 90’s movies including, “Boys on the Side (1995)” and “You’ve Got Mail (1998)” both comedy/drama films.
The Cranberries are known for their many hits, including one of their most popular songs “Zombie,” from their album No Need to Argue. The song was a protest against the Provisional Irish Republic Army (IRA). Released in 1994, it was a response to the bombing that had taken the lives of two children in Warrington, England. The sadness and anger can be felt throughout the song, which takes on a much different style than the rest of their music. This song featured heavy drums, loud rhythmic guitar, and O’Riordan’s passionate voice singing about political violence.
In the End
In January 2018, the band lost its lead singer when the beautiful and talented Dolores O’Riordan died at 46 years old. Following her death, the group released an album called In the End, featuring her final vocal recordings. The Grammy-nominated album was the last released by The Cranberries. The group refused to replace their beloved lead singer and they disbanded in her honor.
The Cranberries are an amazing Irish band that created music to remind you what it feels like to dream, be angry, fall in love, and have your heart broken. Their sound is recognizable even 20 years later and is appreciated by listeners young and old.