Cruel Sister

Faith Nico, known professionally as Cruel Sister, hails from Dublin, Ireland. Growing up in a musically inclined family, she was exposed to a diverse range of sounds from an early age. Her father, a musician himself, introduced her to various genres, including traditional folk and contemporary rock. This eclectic musical environment nurtured her passion for music and storytelling.

At the age of 11, Faith began playing the guitar and writing her own songs. Her early compositions were deeply personal, reflecting the trials and tribulations of adolescence. By 19, she had delved into music production, determined to craft a sound that was authentically hers. This self-reliant approach allowed her to experiment freely, blending elements of shoegaze, grunge, and alternative rock to create a distinctive sonic identity.

Cruel Sister emerged on the music scene in 2021 with her debut single 'my forever,' which garnered attention for its ethereal soundscapes and introspective lyrics. This release was followed by her debut EP, 'girls my age,' in 2022, a collection that delved into themes of youth, love, and existential angst. The EP received critical acclaim, with tracks like 'chihiro' drawing inspiration from Studio Ghibli's 'Spirited Away' and showcasing her ability to weave cinematic elements into her music.

In 2023, she released the single 'Hands,' a grunge-infused track that addressed the struggle with intrusive thoughts and the facade of normalcy. This song marked a maturation in her songwriting, tackling complex emotional landscapes with raw honesty. The accompanying black-and-white music video further emphasized the song's themes, featuring dynamic visuals that complemented the track's intensity.

Throughout her career, Cruel Sister has maintained a DIY ethos, producing and mixing her own music to ensure her artistic vision remains uncompromised. Her live performances have been noted for their immersive quality, drawing audiences into the haunting worlds she creates through her sound.

Cruel Sister's music is a tapestry woven from various influences, both musical and literary. She cites artists like PJ Harvey, My Bloody Valentine, and Sonic Youth as significant inspirations, evident in her use of distorted guitars, layered vocals, and atmospheric production. Her moniker itself is derived from the 17th-century murder ballad 'The Twa Sisters,' reflecting her fascination with dark, narrative-driven themes.

Her songwriting often explores the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the challenges of youth. By blending traditional storytelling with modern musical elements, she creates a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. This fusion has resonated with listeners seeking depth and authenticity in music, establishing her as a compelling voice in the alternative music scene.

Since her debut, Cruel Sister has built a discography that reflects her artistic evolution. Her initial EP, 'girls my age,' released in 2022, featured tracks like 'chihiro' and 'too much,' which showcased her ability to blend dreamy melodies with grunge undertones. The EP was praised for its cohesive sound and emotional depth.

In 2023, she released the single 'Hands,' a track that delved into the struggle with intrusive thoughts and the pressure to maintain a facade of normalcy. This release was followed by the announcement of her second EP, 'Turgid,' set for release in September 2023. The EP promises to further explore themes of self-acceptance and the complexities of the human psyche.

Her music is available on various streaming platforms, including Spotify and SoundCloud, allowing her to reach a global audience. Each release has been accompanied by visually striking music videos, enhancing the storytelling aspect of her work and providing a multi-sensory experience for her listeners.

Cruel Sister's live performances are an extension of her recorded work, offering audiences an immersive experience that combines music with visual storytelling. She has performed at various venues across Ireland, including a sold-out show at Whelan's in Dublin and a notable appearance at the Other Voices festival in Dingle.

In 2023, she announced a headline show at The Grand Social in Dublin, scheduled for November 3rd, following her performance at Ireland's prestigious Irish Music Week in October. These live shows have been praised for their emotional intensity and the way they bring her recorded music to life, solidifying her reputation as a compelling live performer.

https://www.instagram.com/cruelsisterr

https://soundcloud.com/cruelsister-music