Ephemera (Little Green Cars album)

Ephemera
Studio album by Little Green Cars
Released	March 11, 2016 (2016-03-11)
Recorded	November 2014 – September 2015
Studio	Exchequer Street and Magennis Place, Dublin, Ireland
Genre	Indie rock, indie folk
Length	50:37
Label	Glassnote
Producer	Rob Kirwan
Little Green Cars chronology
Absolute Zero (2013) Ephemera (2016)

Ephemera is the second studio album by Irish indie rock band Little Green Cars, released on March 11, 2016, through Glassnote Records. The album explores themes of love, loss, and the transient nature of life, reflecting significant personal experiences of the band members during its creation.

Background and recording

Following the success of their debut album, Absolute Zero, Little Green Cars began working on Ephemera in November 2014. Recording sessions took place in Dublin at Exchequer Street and Magennis Place studios, concluding in September 2015. The album was co-produced by the band and Rob Kirwan, known for his work with Hozier. Mastering was completed by Vlado Meller.

The album's creation was influenced by personal events, including the sudden passing of guitarist Adam O'Regan's father and various relationship changes among band members. These experiences shaped the album's introspective themes.

Composition and themes

Ephemera comprises 12 tracks that delve into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The opening track, "The Song They Play Every Night", sets a contemplative tone with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics. "Easier Day" showcases Faye O'Rourke's commanding vocals, reflecting the band's dynamic range. The album's title, inspired by a poem by W.B. Yeats, encapsulates the transient nature of life, a central theme throughout the record.

Release and promotion

The lead single, "The Song They Play Every Night," was released on January 7, 2016, ahead of the album. To promote Ephemera, Little Green Cars performed at various venues and festivals, including appearances on television and radio programs. Guitarist and vocalist Adam O'Regan directed several music videos for the album, including "Easier Day", filmed in Tokyo with actor Hugh O'Connor, which premiered on March 3, 2016.

Critical reception

Ephemera received mixed reviews from critics. The Irish Times praised the album for its harmonious compositions, stating it contains "the most harmonious songs you'll hear all year." In contrast, HeadStuff criticized it as "dull," suggesting it lacked the spark of their debut.

Commercial performance

In Ireland, Ephemera debuted at number two on the Irish Albums Chart, reflecting a strong domestic reception. However, it did not chart significantly in other major markets, marking a quieter international presence compared to their debut album.

Artwork

The album artwork features photographs of Patrick Scott's tile mosaics at Busáras in Dublin, reflecting the band's connection to their hometown. The design was created by Slater Design, with photography by Matthew Thompson.

Track listing

1. "The Song They Play Every Night" – 3:45
2. "You vs. Me" – 4:07
3. "Easier Day" – 4:13
4. "The Garden of Death" – 3:35
5. "Brother" – 3:18
6. "Clair de Lune" – 4:27
7. "Good Women Do" – 3:49
8. "OK OK OK" – 4:13
9. "The Party" – 3:59
10. "I Don't Even Know Who" – 4:02
11. "Winds of Peace" – 5:15
12. "The Factory" – 5:54

Personnel

• Stevie Appleby – vocals, guitar
• Faye O'Rourke – vocals, guitar
• Adam O'Regan – guitar, piano, synthesisers, vocals
• Donagh Seaver O'Leary – bass, vocals
• Dylan Lynch – drums, vocals

Additional personnel

• Rob Kirwan – production
• Vlado Meller – mastering
• Slater Design – design
• Matthew Thompson – photography