Tom Gee Calls for Change with Funk and Soul on New Single Better

By Chris Kennedy | Published 21st Oct, 2026

Since releasing Belfast back in August, anticipation has been building for Tom Gee's forthcoming EP, Doubting Thomas, due in November 2026. A familiar face on Belfast's live music scene, Gee has been steadily making a name for himself through heartfelt songwriting, catchy melodies and a genuine love of bringing people together through music.

With the EP now just around the corner, the Belfast singer-songwriter has given us one last taste of what's to come with his latest single, Better. It's a track that mixes a laid-back opening with a healthy dose of funk and soul, while taking a look at some of the things going wrong in the world around us.

A Slow Start That Finds Its Groove

Better takes its time getting going, opening with gently picked guitar strings and Gee's vocals taking centre stage. There's a stripped-back feel to the first minute or so, allowing the lyrics to settle in before the track starts to reveal what else it has up its sleeve.

It's not until just after the one-minute mark that the beat finally kicks in, and that's where things really start to pick up. A tight rhythm section brings a prominent funk and soul groove into the mix, giving the song a welcome lift without losing the easy-going charm of its opening.

As the track progresses, the guitars gradually get thicker, adding a little more bite while the rhythm keeps everything moving along nicely. It all builds towards a dreamy-toned guitar solo that rounds things off beautifully. There's a definite John Mayer influence in there, particularly in the way the guitar work sits so comfortably alongside the groove.

Trying to Make Sense of a World Gone Mad

Lyrically, Better finds Gee looking at a world that often seems to be heading in the wrong direction and asking whether we could all be doing a bit more to put things right. Political disappointment, environmental concerns and the general madness of the internet all find their way into the song.

There's plenty for Gee to get off his chest, from the ongoing problems surrounding Lough Neagh to the seemingly endless stream of ridiculously talented young guitarists popping up online. It's an interesting mix of serious concerns and everyday frustrations, with a touch of humour stopping things from becoming too heavy.

But for all the frustration running through Better, there's a more hopeful message at its heart. Gee recognises that nobody has all the answers and that progress rarely happens overnight. Sometimes it's simply a case of admitting where we're falling short and making an effort to do something about it.

There's a nice balance between the humour and the more serious subject matter, with shades of Tim Minchin's lyrical wit sitting alongside the soulful songwriting approach of Foy Vance. Add in a little Fleetwood Mac and Sara Bareilles influence, and you get a song that has plenty to say without sounding like it's delivering a lecture.

Another Taste of Doubting Thomas

Better is the final single ahead of Gee's upcoming EP, Doubting Thomas, which arrives in November. Recorded with Belfast-based musicians and produced locally, the project explores themes of uncertainty, resilience and connection, along with the everyday contradictions that most of us can probably relate to.

If Belfast helped build anticipation for the release, Better gives us another reason to look forward to hearing the full EP. There's a natural warmth to Gee's songwriting, and his willingness to mix thoughtful lyrics with catchy, groove-driven arrangements makes for an enjoyable combination.

Final Verdict | Tom Gee Better

Better is another strong offering from Tom Gee, blending thoughtful songwriting with a laid-back funk and soul groove that really comes into its own once the rhythm section kicks in. The gradual build, thicker guitars and dreamy solo are particular highlights, while the lyrics give you something to think about without taking themselves too seriously.

With Doubting Thomas arriving in November, Gee is rounding off the build-up on a high note. If the rest of the EP can strike the same balance between catchy melodies, honest observations and a little humour, it'll certainly be worth keeping an ear out for.

The single, Better, is available through all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Tom Gee