Was Man

Was Man is a solo musical project of Dublin singer-songwriter, Warren McCarthy. He has released two singles to date, both of which have been lyrically inspired by the world of TV and film. The first, 'Season 3, Episode 11', is an ode to the famous ‘Pine Barrens’ episode of The Sopranos. The lyrics draw from images of the episode and are related to thoughts the artist had about a past relationship at a specific time of watching. The track has a lo-fi, alt folk sound. It's driven by a plucked acoustic guitar and enhanced with heavily melodic synth lines. It received attention and acclaim from media such as Nialler9, N-Eight Magazine (London), The Last Mixed Tape and 98FM’s John Barker.

He followed with a second single in 2021, ’The Zodiac Speaking’. This song opens with descriptions of scenes from David Fincher's 2007 mystery thriller, Zodiac, before developing into a meandering recollection of a party in Dublin. The song is initially carried by organ chords and voice. It is eventually layered with intricate, duelling, ostinato guitar patterns, twinkling synth arpeggios and emotive strings to create a protracted but captivating piece clocking in at just over six and a half minutes. This song was featured as ‘Track of the Day’ by Hotpress magazine, and again received positive mentions from national media and international blogs.

McCarthy is currently working on his debut EP. He is also the songwriter, lead vocalist and guitarist in the Dublin band, Let’s Set Sail.