Rhona Macfarlane’s touching ode to siblinghood ‘See You Grow’
Rising Scottish singer-songwriter Rhona Macfarlane shares new single ‘See You Grow’
Debut album As The Chaos Unfolds is due out on
January 24th, 2025
“A gorgeous song” Angela Griffin, BBC Radio 2
“It’s so topical, it’s so new and she’s very talented. Just really love this very much, just a lovely voice” Ricky Ross, BBC Scotland
“An honest and touching ode for fans of Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell and Rufus Wainwright.” Record Of The Day
“Rhona Macfarlane continues to showcase the winning appeal and charm of her moving sound and the immersive, swirling nature of her writing.” CLOUT
“Woozy bass and a gentle strum are the foundation for Macfarlane’s beautiful voice, which winds its way through a tranquil tune.” Americana UK
Today, rising Scottish singer/songwriter Rhona Macfarlane has released her new single, ‘See You Grow’, a touching ode to siblinghood. The single is the latest to be taken from her highly anticipated debut album, As The Chaos Unfolds, which is set for release on January 24th, 2025. The album, recorded in the Autumn of 2023 at Watercolour Studios in the serene Scottish Highlands, was co-produced by Macfarlane and Matt Ingram, known for his work with Laura Marling and Lianne La Havas.
Of her new single, Macfarlane says:
‘This song is an ode and a declaration of love to siblinghood. It’s a heartfelt reflection on the journey of sibling relationships, as they evolve from childhood into adulthood. Told from my perspective as an older sibling, it captures the universal struggle of wanting to guide and shape a loved one, while recognizing that they ultimately need to find their own way. Through it all, the song is a reminder that family bonds and love endure, even as each person grows into their own.’
As The Chaos Unfolds is an evocative collection of songs that captures the essence of a "coming of age" experience. Written during her mid-20s—a time of profound personal change—the album delves into themes of love, identity, mental health, and the often chaotic journey of navigating early adulthood. Macfarlane reflects, "Many of my friends and I had just come out of university, trying to settle into a job and embark into ‘adult’ life. You’re trying to feel like you have your life together whilst simultaneously feeling that you have no idea what you’re doing, never mind the global pandemic that was thrown into the mix."
The album was recorded in the tranquil isolation of Watercolour Studios, providing the perfect setting for Macfarlane to immerse herself fully in the creative process. “It’s a residential studio isolated amongst beautiful lochs and hills, even the nearest shop was an hour's drive away as the ferry wasn’t running!” Macfarlane recalls. “It was perfect to get away from everything and be in this tranquil setting where the control room looked out onto the magnificent view of Ben Nevis. It really allowed me to get into a concentrated headspace where I could fully dive deep into the music.”
The album's tracks offer a diverse range of emotions and experiences, each contributing to the overarching theme of navigating life’s uncertainties. The opening track, ‘Return to the East’, was inspired by a visit to Macfarlane’s hometown of Montrose and reflects on reconnecting with one's roots and finding strength in authenticity. “It is a song about going back to your roots, connecting to your inner child, and through this, overcoming doubt, reclaiming personal identity, and finding clarity and strength in what you want,” she explains.
Macfarlane's musical journey began in a creatively rich household, where she was surrounded by the sounds of Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell, and family members playing various instruments. Her early exposure to both folk music and classical training at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has shaped a unique sound that marries storytelling with modern, introspective lyricism.
To celebrate the release of As The Chaos Unfolds, Macfarlane will be performing shows across the UK. Fans are encouraged to sign up for her mailing list and follow her on Spotify to stay updated on new live dates and releases.
Pre-save the album: https://hudsonrecs.lnk.to/ATCU
Live Dates
13/11/2024 - The Glad Cafe / Glasgow / Supporting Niamh Bury
14/11/2024 - Sneaky Petes / Edinburgh / Supporting Niamh Bury
15/11/2024 - The Grace / London / Supporting Ellie Gowers
18/01/2025 - The Pavilion Theatre / Glasgow / Supporting Blue Rose Code (Celtic Connections)
11/01/2025 - The Glad Cafe / Glasgow
17/01/2025 - Glenfarg Folk club
18/01/2025 - Montrose Folk Club
Connect with Rhona Macfarlane online
