It may seem like CMAT achieved overnight success, but she has been honing her craft for years. Initially, she was part of the pop band Bad Sea, which she formed with her then-boyfriend. However, they never quite broke through. Undeterred, CMAT embarked on her solo journey, adopting an abbreviated version of her name, Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson.
CMAT’s debut album, “If My Wife Knew I’d Be Dead,” captured critical acclaim upon its release in February 2022. It garnered the Choice Music Prize and earned a spot on Review’s prestigious list of the top 50 Irish albums ever made. Her follow-up, “CrazyMad, for Me,” showcases even more confidence and includes several songs with mainstream appeal.
While several songs on the album feature a distinct country feel, such as “Have Fun!,” which incorporates fiddles and bar-room piano while lamenting the affordability of CMAT’s hometown, there are also elements that support NME’s claim that she is “Dublin’s answer to Dolly Parton.”
One notable aspect of this album is its eclecticism. CMAT is determined to avoid being pigeonholed, showcasing her versatility as an artist. While some songs aim for mainstream success, “Stay for Something” stands out as a remarkably catchy track with a faintly Eighties vibe, masking its underlying troubling subject matter.
This song delves into the complexities of a controlling relationship, exploring the conflicting emotions that arise in many love stories. CMAT sings candidly about the sacrifices made and the self-discovery that comes after. Her lyrics are both profound and relatable, resonating with listeners as she reflects, “You’re just some long lost baby/ Hope you find what you’re looking for.”
CMAT’s keen observational skills shine through in her music, exploring life’s idiosyncrasies. While her subject matter can be somber, she maintains a lighthearted approach. Her track, “I… Hate Who I Am When I’m Horny,” embraces irreverence right from its title.
CMAT’s lyrical prowess extends beyond catchy titles. She avoids clichés and delivers thought-provoking lines like “My dirty heart in glycerine.” These unconventional lyrics can be found in her lead single, “Whatever’s Inconvenient,” which playfully navigates the complexities of a dysfunctional one-sided relationship.
Recently, CMAT performed at a Patsy Cline appreciation show in Dublin, where she made a strong connection with fellow musician John Grant. Their collaboration on the beautifully arranged, Abba-esque track “Where Are Your Kids Tonight?” highlights the harmonious blend of their voices. This standout moment on the album solidifies CMAT’s soaring trajectory.
While predicting future success is uncertain, CMAT’s journey serves as a reminder that the music industry can be unpredictable. Just like the Scottish electro-pop band Chvrches, who initially garnered attention with their irresistible single “The Mother We Share,” CMAT’s talent suggests the potential for an exceptional debut album. Her latest single, “Shame,” produced in collaboration with US songwriter and DJ Matthew Koma, incorporates elements of industrial rock into a delightfully unique pop song.
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