Cardinals Announce Debut Album ‘Masquerade’ with Vulnerable Title Track

The debut album ‘Masquerade’ by Cardinals dives deep into vulnerability and musical evolution with a blend of folk and goth-rock.

A New Chapter Unfolds for Cardinals

When a band is as promising as Cardinals, the wait for their debut album feels like a lifetime. Well, the moment has finally arrived! The Cork-based five-piece has just announced their eagerly awaited first full-length record, Masquerade, set to drop on February 13 via So Young Records. As someone who has followed their journey from the start, I can’t help but feel the excitement bubbling up. Their music, which marries the brittle honesty of folk with the dramatic flair of goth-rock, promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions and soundscapes.

The release includes the title track "Masquerade," a beautifully vulnerable song that sets the tone for the album. It’s the kind of track that feels like a quiet conversation in a noisy room—intimate and disarming.

If you want to get ahead of the crowd, Masquerade is available for pre-order online, and it’s shaping up to be a tactile experience with physical formats including a Rough Trade exclusive Galaxy vinyl and cassettes sold only at the band’s store. Collectors, take note!

Peeling Back the Layers: The Heart of ‘Masquerade’

Frontman Euan Manning shared some insightful thoughts on the album’s theme, which revolves around stripping away the “masquerade” — the facade we all wear. He explains:

“The curtain is pulled and cynicism takes its place – it’s really easy to be cynical and far harder to be hopeful and genuine... making art forces you to dig deeper than that protective layer.” – Euan Manning

This honesty resonates deeply. As a fan, I’ve seen many bands shy away from such rawness, but Cardinals lean into it, embracing the discomfort of vulnerability. The title track is perhaps the most intimate moment on the album, reflecting that tender but uneasy space where honesty meets art.

The evocative artwork for Masquerade mirrors the album's layered emotional landscape.

Experience ‘Masquerade’ Live and Beyond

If you haven’t caught Cardinals live yet, this is the moment to get familiar. Over the past months, they’ve warmed up stages supporting legends like Fontaines D.C., Wunderhorse, and The Pogues. Now, they’re gearing up to headline the So Young tour alongside Mên An Tol and Pebbledash later this month, with a European headline tour slated for November.

This live momentum adds a whole new dimension to the album release. From the punchy indie hooks to the honey-drizzled shoegaze elements, their stage presence amplifies their rich, layered sound.

The ‘Masquerade’ Tracklist Revealed

The 10-track album promises an immersive journey through various moods and stories. Here’s the full lineup:

1. She Makes Me Real
2. St. Agnes
3. Masquerade
4. I Like You
5. Over At Last
6. Anhedonia
7. Barbed Wire
8. Big Empty Heart
9. The Burning Of Cork
10. As I Breathe

Only one of the band’s previous singles, "Big Empty Heart," makes it onto the album, which speaks to how fresh and cohesive this record is.

The Hype and Hopes for a Classic Cork Album

Already highlighted as one of the essential emerging artists for 2025, Cardinals have been gathering quite the momentum. Their sound has been described as a blend of The Strokes’ laid-back indie charm, shoegaze sweetness, new wave elegance, and a sprinkle of Irish spirit — complete with an accordion touch that adds a bit of unexpected texture.

Manning’s desire to craft a “classic Cork album” is evident throughout Masquerade. The band refuses to settle, pushing their sound forward while capturing a wide spectrum of feelings. This restless creativity is exactly what makes following Cardinals so thrilling.

Listen to ‘Masquerade’ Now

Here’s the official video for the title track, a beautiful introduction to what the album holds:

Final Thoughts

Masquerade feels like more than just a debut album; it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, honesty, and artistic courage. Cardinals invite us to peel back our own facades and meet the vulnerability underneath. If you’re craving music that’s both theatrical and intimate, familiar yet fresh, this album is for you.

FAQ

• What genre best describes Cardinals’ debut album?
  The album blends the brittle honesty of folk with the dramatic melodrama of goth-rock, creating a unique indie sound.
• When is ‘Masquerade’ releasing?
  The album will be released on February 13 via So Young Records.
• Are there any exclusive physical editions?
  Yes, the album will be available on all physical formats, including a Rough Trade exclusive Galaxy vinyl and cassettes only through the band's store.
• Which singles from Cardinals appear on the album?
  Only “Big Empty Heart,” released earlier, is included on Masquerade.
• Will Cardinals be touring to support the album?
  Absolutely! They are headlining the So Young tour this month and have a European headline tour planned for November.

Feel inspired to bring a piece of the Masquerade vibe home? Shop your favorite Cardinals album cover poster at our store for a stylish and nostalgic touch to your space. Explore the collection here.