Irish duo Without Willow return with tender new single

Music Review | 14th Sept, 2025 Without Willow

Since making waves in 2024 with their debut album Left Behind, Without Willow have been building a reputation for heartfelt songwriting. Now they’re back with their third release of the year, a tender new single, Love You Last.

From the very first notes, Love You Last is all about atmosphere. Simon and Karen’s vocals weave together, resting gently over fingerpicked guitar and a warm, soothing cello line courtesy of Laura McFadden.

Lyrically, Love You Last is a love song that finds beauty in the small stuff, the quiet, everyday moments that make a relationship strong. No grand gestures here, just the quiet magic of showing up for someone, rain or shine.

The song came about after Simon got engaged and showed me this stunning guitar idea he had just written. Straight away I could feel the emotion in it, and I knew I had to try and do it justice. It was a lovely writing process, one of those songs that just flowed so easily. And the best part is I get to sing it at their wedding next year, which makes it even more special – Karen

Recorded at Derry’s Blast Furnace Studio with producer Orri McBrearty, Love You Last captures the intimate, organic vibe that Without Willow do best, proof that sometimes the simplest songs are the ones that stick with you the longest.

Love You Last comes just as the duo are getting ready to do their first headline Irish tour which kicks off on Sept 13th in the Roisin Dubh, Galway. Special guest on the night is Kerry singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lorraine Nash. Other tour dates include:

17/09/2025 - Bridge of Song, Mayo

18/09/2025 - Poppy Lane Sessions, Galway

20/09/2025 - Pot Duggan's, Clare

24/09/2025 - Cat and Cage, Dublin plus special guest Helena Connolly

26/09/2025 - The Commercial, Limerick

27/09/2025 - Finn's Folk Club, Tipperary

04/10/2025 - The Glens Art Centre, Leitrim plus special guest Shauna McDaid

18/10/2025 - The Cobblestone, Dublin plus special guest Shauna McDaid

27/10/2025 - Sligo Live Festival

Without Willow - Love You Last

The single, Love You Last, is available through all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Without Willow