Irish indie artist ALKY has released his new single Sorrow, marking his second release of 2026 following a sold-out headline show at Whelan’s in Dublin earlier this year.

Built around stripped-back instrumentation and atmospheric indie-rock production, Sorrow explores grief, vulnerability and personal change. The track combines cinematic arrangements with reflective songwriting, continuing the darker and more emotional style that has become part of ALKY’s recent work.

Speaking about the song, ALKY said: “Sorrow was written while holding a vigil around my critically ill mum. The song feels part eulogy, part love song. Somewhere in the middle of all that grief, I found the person I’m now sharing my life with. Bittersweet in many ways.”

The single was recorded and mixed at Gorilla Post Production in Dublin and produced by ALKY himself. The recording features contributions from several Irish musicians, including violinist Aisling Bridgeman, cellist Aonghus MacAmhlaigh, drummer Doug Sheridan and backing vocalist Orla Monelle. ALKY also performed guitars, bass, piano and additional instrumentation on the track.

The release follows growing momentum for the artist after his sold-out Whelan’s performance in April, one of Dublin’s best-known venues for emerging and established Irish acts. ALKY is also set to appear at Kaleidoscope Festival on Friday 3 July as part of this year’s line-up.

While rooted in indie rock, Sorrow draws on folk and cinematic influences, with layered strings and understated production supporting the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song balances themes of loss and connection, reflecting on how personal relationships can develop during difficult periods.

ALKY has continued to build his profile through live performances and independent releases, with Sorrow offering a more intimate side to his songwriting following a busy start to the year.

Sorrow is available now on streaming platforms.