ARREN’s Thinking About July is a cinematic Indie pop-rock anthem full of heart

Music Review | 19th May, 2026

Irish Artist ARREN Expands His Sound Ahead of Debut Album Dark Earth

Irish artist ARREN has steadily built a reputation for blending vintage songwriting with modern indie production. Moving comfortably between folk, indie-rock, and pop-rock influences, ARREN creates music that feels deeply personal while still delivering huge emotional hooks. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, legacy, and personal growth, turning raw emotion into unforgettable anthems.

With an already impressive catalog behind him, ARREN has also become a standout presence on the live music scene. His performances balance emotional vulnerability with an infectious charisma that instantly connects with audiences. The contrast between his deeply heartfelt songwriting and his energetic, golden-retriever-like personality gives his shows a warmth that feels both intimate and electric. Whether performing stripped-back acoustic moments or full-band indie rock anthems, ARREN has proven himself to be a genuine live draw.

Now, 2026 looks set to be a defining year for the Irish singer-songwriter as he prepares to release his highly anticipated debut album, Dark Earth. Leading the charge is his latest single, Thinking About July, a bold step forward that showcases a much bigger and more cinematic sound.

Thinking About July Pushes ARREN Beyond Indie Folk

Fans familiar with ARREN’s earlier indie-folk leaning tracks like Rising Son will immediately notice the evolution happening on Thinking About July. Rather than leaning into understated folk textures, the new single embraces sweeping orchestral pop-rock energy with massive indie vibes and a soaring, instantly memorable chorus.

ARREN’s vocal performance sits confidently at the center of the track, supported by layers of triumphant brass horns, cinematic strings, and uplifting instrumentation that give the song a widescreen emotional quality. The production feels expansive without losing the emotional honesty that has always defined his songwriting.

Lyrically, Thinking About July captures the bittersweet ache of a relationship with an unavoidable expiration date. There’s a tension throughout the song between hope and heartbreak, making it feel both uplifting and devastating at the same time. It’s the kind of emotionally charged indie anthem that sticks with you long after the final chorus fades out.

If Thinking About July is any indication of what’s coming on Dark Earth, ARREN’s debut album could be one of the most exciting Irish indie releases of 2026.

The single, Thinking About July, is available through all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: ARREN