In a world drowning in algorithmically generated, sterile “rock,” Atlanta’s KINSALE arrives not with a whimper, but with “Is It Time,” the opening salvo from their debut EP Nights & Weekends.
Raymond Gurley owns the microphone with a voice that’s seen some miles—earthy, urgent, and cutting like a switchblade. Flanking him is the six-string spine of David Thornton, whose guitars weave between ringing arpeggios and charging chords. With a relentless, melodic pulse is Jeff Malpass on bass, the unsung hero who locks in with the thunderous, session-drummer prowess of Aaron Sterling to create a rhythm section that drives the whole damn machine forward. Produced by Damon Moonat Standard Electric Recorders Co., “Is It Time” sounds expensive in the best way. The production is huge, giving every instrument its own space to breathe and roar.
The song itself is a tidal wave of feeling. It’s that restless, late-night energy, the palpable tension of standing at a crossroads. Without inventing a single lyric, the music tells the story: the shimmering, anticipatory guitar lines, the steady build of the verse that feels like a deep breath before the plunge, and the explosive release when the chorus finally hits. It’s music that resonates in your chest, the kind of track you crank up with the windows down, answering its titular question with a resounding “HELL YES.”
KINSALE isn’t messing around. “Is It Time” proves they’ve spent their “nights & weekends” wisely. Consider this your wake-up call. The rock scene needs a shot of adrenaline, and these guys are holding the syringe. Get on board or get out of the way.