With “The Tempest,” Dublin-based artist Ultan unleashes a bold and blistering single that fuses the grandeur of history with the urgency of modern rock. It’s a track that refuses to play in the shallow end—diving headfirst into the emotional undercurrents of war, legacy, and human frailty. Inspired by the brutal sweep of European history and the unseen stories of individuals caught in the tide of battle, “The Tempest” recalls the past and resurrects it with thunderous riffs and aching questions. Released on June 1st, 2025, it’s a striking addition to Ireland’s ever-vibrant alternative scene.
From the opening notes, “The Tempest” barrels forward with raw momentum. Ultan’s methodical layering of bass, drums, and jagged guitar pays off—the track carries a pulse that feels almost primal. There’s a gritty tension in the sound, like a battleground suspended in time, and the frenetic riff driving the song keeps your heart galloping along. Yet it’s not all fire and fury. Ultan skillfully carves out space for a dramatic break midway through, letting the storm momentarily still before crashing back in. That dynamic range mirrors the push and pull of fate and free will, of resignation and defiance—themes deeply embedded in the lyrics.
What elevates “The Tempest” is its sonic impact and emotional insight. Ultan namecheck wars, glorify combat and centres the individual—the soldier, the son, the soul trembling before battle. His lyrics ask the unspoken: Did they know what they were dying for? Did they cling to hope or face death with hollow eyes? It’s history reimagined through the lens of empathy, not spectacle. And in doing so, Ultan gives voice to those who were never meant to be remembered—not as heroes, but as humans. It’s that quiet reverence beneath the roar that makes this track resonate long after the final note fades.
Recorded at Pirate Studios in North Dublin, the track’s humble origins contrast with its grand thematic sweep. There’s nothing flashy here—just conviction, sweat, and truth. Ultan’s quote—“When God made time, he made plenty of it”—feels like a fitting mantra for his approach. Despite delays, limitations, and the inherent difficulty of creating meaningful art, he’s crafted a release that hits hard and digs deep. It’s a powerful reminder that substance always outlasts style, and that history is alive in sound, blood, and memory.
“The Tempest” is a time machine powered by distortion and soul. Ultan’s combination of musical intensity and lyrical depth makes this a standout track, one that demands attention and reflection. As he lines up more singles and teases live performances, there’s every reason to believe his following will only grow. For listeners craving rock music with real weight and purpose, Ultan is an artist to watch and reckon with.
Connect with Ultan on Spotify, Soundcloud and Bandcamp.