Complex And Authentic: Michael Gallagher – Out Of Time Review.

Words: Ruby Corrigan.

Following his sold out headliner at KU in Stockton along with several summer festival announcements, Hartlepool native Michael Gallagher released his new single ‘Out of Time’ today, and it is an instant hit! 

‘Out Of Time’ is an extremely complex and authentic tune, combining infectiously upbeat rhythms with contemplative lyrics that are guaranteed to touch everyone’s heart. Speaking about the song, Gallagher comments that ‘Out of Time’ is a song that I wrote about the breakdown of a relationship. The song is an observation of how relationships break down and people try desperately to make things work, but, inevitably when the cracks appear there is not much that you can do’, and this sentiment certainly shines through. A particular lyric that really stuck out to me during my first listen was:

You came and filled my heart with hope

But you still made it explode

For me, this phrase is extremely poignant, as I feel it perfectly captures both the highs and lows of love, highlighting how romance can be so beautiful and full of joy, but it also has the ability to ‘explode’ and cause catastrophe in your personal life. 

What’s more, the single also really underscores how much Gallagher has grown as an artist. He has already established himself as an extremely versatile artist who constantly pushes his musical boundaries. As we can see on this latest track it is clearly working for him, as he has never sounded better! While the tune itself has an upbeat and nostalgic sound, similar to bands such as Two Door Cinema Club and artists like Jake Bugg, it is undeniable that vocally, Michael Gallagher is one hundred percent original. Both punchy and soulful, his ability to make even the saddest lyrics sound so light-hearted is really impressive, as it adds a bittersweet tone to the tune that really matches the lyrics. 

With a jam packed year ahead of him, including featuring on the BBC’s ‘Introducing’ stage at Soundwave Festival alongside Kaiser Chiefs and Feeder, Michael Gallagher is set to explode!

Listen to ‘Out of Time’ below!