By Emma Faid

Galway-born singer-songwriter, Holly Macve, is entering 2024 with truly gorgeous new single ‘1995’, which they call “the most hopeful song I've ever written.” ‘1995’ is the latest single from Macve’s upcoming EP ‘Time is Forever’, along with previously released singles ‘Beauty Queen’ and ‘Suburban Houses’, featuring Lana Del Rey. 

‘1995’ opens with a melancholic piano, in a similar fashion to Joni Mitchel’s ‘River’, however, far from the heartbreak of Mitchell’s lyrics, Macve pulls us into an enchanting, picturesque scene that can be seen vividly in your mind's eye, as if filmed on a super 8 camera. 

With an ethereal vocal tone that conveys optimism through their lyrics, ‘1995’ perfectly encapsulates the feeling of peace that comes when you are finally able to allow yourself to be content. It beautifully illuminates the moment of allowing yourself to let go of any fear or doubt and to be vulnerable enough to imagine a future with someone. “You think nothing’s changed, but everything has, I see the future like a movie, in your eyes.” This theme is mirrored throughout the song and comes to a crescendo in the chorus. “Look into my eyes, tell me we’re okay, this time I’ll believe you”.