Liverpool alt-indie folk singer-songwriter Luke O’Hanlon becomes a conduit for naturalism and catharsis when armed with his acoustic guitar and warmed vocal chords. Released on the 31st of March as a teaser from his upcoming LP, The River Only Flows One Way, the standout single The Parrots of Lark Lane allows listeners to witness his infatuating sensitivity—his rare ability to perceive what we usually overlook.
As the track unfurls, it evolves gracefully into a Neutral Milk Hotel-esque lo-fi arrangement, with O’Hanlon, the poet of melody, gripping his pen firmly as he writes calligraphy with his affecting sonic signature. There’s a touch of James Yorkston in the observational clarity of his lyricism; its gentle grandeur inspires listeners either to adopt a similar macro lens or simply indulge in the reverie of his unique perspective. His innate gift lies in tying personal experience to wider phenomena, creating tenderly affectionate parables of everyday existence.
O’Hanlon, known for weaving poetic storytelling with evocative melodies, continues to delve into nostalgia, survival, and the quiet poetry found in ordinary life. His latest single gracefully blends sharp observational songwriting with surreal beauty, honouring Liverpool’s iconic Lark Lane with affectionate authenticity. Through O’Hanlon’s lens, even the smallest details feel monumental.
The Parrots of Lark Lane is now available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify.
Review by Amelia Vandergast