"Grand Affair is a pop-rock whirlwind. Break out the Bordeaux and buckle up, baby."

GRAND AFFAIR DEBUT EP RELEASED 26th APRIL

W: Mandy Morgan

Ireland’s indie scene is currently a fertile ground for talent, but few acts arrive with as much "unabashed confidence" as WINEMOM. Comprising Millie Molony, Reese Martin, Rosanna Harrington, and Matthew Marshall, this Dublin and Galway-based quartet has spent the last year fermenting their sound in the studio vineyard. The result is Grand Affair, an EP that functions as a bold opening statement, blending the swagger of 1970s Americana with a sharp, modern "Twenties" twist. With a name that started as a joke and stuck due to a Spotify glitch, the band have quickly become a formidable force, having already graced the Electric Arena at Electric Picnic and supported heavyweights like Deacon Blue and Jane’s Addiction.

The band describes their aesthetic as "nostalgic rock," a high-energy fusion where fiery frontwoman Rosanna is backed by a powerhouse rhythm section and blistering guitar work. Their creative process is as eclectic as their sound, often fueled by band movie nights featuring classics like The Big Lebowski and The Long Goodbye. When they aren’t pushing their sonic boundaries, their pre-show ritual is a relatable mix of chaos and discipline: Matthew tackles push-ups, the girls "do their faces," and the rider is stocked with green Vit-Hits, a few cans, and, naturally, a bottle of wine.

Grand Affair is more than just a collection of catchy hooks; it is an exploration of the complexities of modern youth. The title track is a high-octane nod to The Jam and Tina Turner, designed for "young dreamers navigating a chaotic world." Meanwhile, the blues-rock layers of "He Was So Kind" provide a raw, melancholic look at first heartbreak, inspired by the likes of The Black Crowes. The band isn’t afraid to tackle weightier subjects either; the EP’s pinnacle, "Everest," is a "paean" that confronts the blizzard of societal pressures surrounding sex and consent with fierce femininity and unforgiving honesty.

Despite their rapid ascent, the journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Transitioning from college directly into the unpredictable music industry brought a sense of uncertainty that the four-piece navigated by leaning on one another. While they admit their previous release schedule was "scattered," they are entering 2026 with a renewed focus and a consistent output of new music. Their ambition is clear: they want to collaborate with the likes of CMAT and Wolf Alice, and they aim to create a space where everyone—from your granny to your auntie—feels welcome. As they prepare for a year of "theatrics and live shows," WINEMOM invites listeners to break out the Bordeaux and buckle up for the ride.