“Phenomenal” – Hot Press
Following the initial success of Cork-based alt-rock buzz-band Bowden, they have returned after almost two years with Be Your Own God, their latest single set for release on February 21st. This is arguably their best work yet, displaying their widespread appeal, while retaining their unique, experimental nature.
After Peel and Everyone in 2023, which gained national airplay—including plays on Dan Hegarty’s 2FM show—Be Your Own God marks a big evolution in Bowden’s sound, with real identity and nuance in their melodies and structure, showing all the signs of a band that placed the utmost value on time during its creation.
On the single, the band says:
“This song reflects a deep sense of isolation, of drifting without anchor as familiar structures of community and connections fade. It speaks to uncertainty, whether struggling to find a place to call home, questioning your future, or feeling the weight of a world that seems utterly indifferent.”
Debut Album Glacier Arrives May 9th
Alongside the single release on February 21st, Bowden announce their highly anticipated debut album, Glacier, set to drop on May 9th. It’s a stunningly crafted record, with quality throughout, marking the coming of a new period of Irish Music.
Produced by the renowned Christian Best (Mick Flannery, O Emperor, Susan O’Neill), the album also features contributions from acclaimed musicians Matthew Berrill (saxophone) and Dylan Howe (trumpet).
“As the ties that once bound communities loosen, this song echoes that quiet loneliness, the seemingly futile search for something solid to hold onto in a time when so much feels uncertain. When you feel you cannot wait on a superman to swoop down and save the day, you’ve got to don that cape yourself.”
About Bowden
Bowden, a five-piece alt-rock band from Cork, Ireland, have made a serious impression with their first two singles, Peel and Everyone.
Described as “phenomenal” by Hot Press and lauded for their “quality tunes” by Deputy Editor Stuart Clarke, Bowden take influence from bands such as Villagers and Radiohead, crafting a sound that is both immersive and powerful.
In late 2024, they were voted Best New Act by Spotify’s The Cork Playlist, a clear sign of their growing fanbase.
Renowned for their electric live performances, Bowden have graced the stages of iconic venues such as Mike The Pies (Listowel), Kavanagh’s (Portlaoise), Bakers (Clonmel), and headlined Cork’s legendary Fred Zeppelin’s.
With Glacier on the way and a string of shows lined up, 2025 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for Bowden.