Music Industry News

Tāmaki Makaurau-based alt-folk songwriter Greta O’Leary has today shared her unyielding and bold new single + video ‘The Greatest Peace I’ve Known’ and announced the release of her debut album RIVER DARK – out May 9!

Yet another captivating chapter in Greta’s unfolding artistry, today’s release encourages listeners to embody the artist’s quiet assuredness, and unapologetic nature. The track combines a haunting and spacious upright piano with a swaying rhythm section, complete with Greta’s signature vocal tone; eerie and tender. With these spook-folk stylings, and defiant lyrical messaging, ‘The Greatest Peace I’ve Known’ is an ethereal ballad, audacious and unafraid.

“Sometimes you need to spit on the shoes of those who don’t understand you, and never will,” says Greta. “Crush the boxes they build and forge ahead alone.”

The commanding new track follows the breakout success of 2024 singles ‘Baby I’m A Singer’ and ‘Baptised At The Desktop Computer’ – both of which reached #1 on the SRN Top 10, while the latter also reached #1 on RadioScope’s Alt Chart. Already this year, Greta has shared the lullaby ‘Prelude’ (UTR, TAHI FM, RollingStone AU/NZ) and delivered captivating performances at Newtown Festival and Te Papa’s Rongo Rehutai Summer Music Sessions!

‘The Greatest Peace I’ve Known’ now joins these releases as tasters of Greta’s highly anticipated debut album, RIVER DARK – which is set for release on May 9!

The moving record was created alongside producer Jol Mulholland at LAB Studios, with Greta’s hypnotic songwriting and unmistakable vocals accentuated through the skillful musicianship of instrumentalists Cass Basil, Alastair Deverick, Callum Passells and Anita Clark.

Also out today is yet another shining self-directed music video from Greta, shot with the help of Adam Rohe (DOP), starring Monica Evans, Sam McGlennon, Rata Gordan, and the mysterious white hooded figure, Spook.

Soaring and stark, ‘The Greatest Peace I’ve Known’ is set to become an empowering anthem for indie listeners across Aotearoa, and paints an exciting picture of her debut album!

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