Tender Claws arrives with a debut EP that feels fully formed from the very first note. Tear Him To Pieces is a bold introduction to the world of Belfast-born artist Tess Corr, blending grunge, goth, shoegaze and alternative rock into a collection of songs that are as emotionally raw as they are sonically adventurous.
Across its five tracks, the EP thrives on contrast. Moments of crushing distortion sit comfortably alongside shimmering melodies, while themes of vulnerability, escapism and disillusionment are delivered with equal measures of intensity and elegance. Rather than settling into a single mood, Tear Him To Pieces constantly shifts shape, revealing new textures and emotional shades with every track.
The title track serves as a perfect centrepiece. Driven by fuzzy guitars, infectious hooks and a darkly playful energy, it captures everything that makes Tender Claws so compelling. There’s a cathartic release at the heart of the song, but it’s balanced by an undeniable sense of melody that keeps it accessible without sacrificing its edge.
Elsewhere, the EP demonstrates impressive range. Twinge leans into driving alternative rock grit, while Ersatz Life showcases a more theatrical and immersive side of Corr’s songwriting. Throughout the record, the production remains expansive and atmospheric, creating the feeling of stepping into a carefully constructed world where beauty and darkness coexist.
What stands out most is Corr’s ability to make heavy themes feel engaging rather than overwhelming. The EP explores corrupted innocence, personal struggles and fractured idealism, but never loses sight of the excitement and freedom that come from artistic expression. Even at its darkest, there’s a sense of momentum and possibility running through the songs.
Drawing influence from artists such as PJ Harvey, Queens of the Stone Age, Chelsea Wolfe and Nine Inch Nails, Tender Claws wears its inspirations lightly while establishing a distinctive voice of its own. The result is a debut that feels confident, cohesive and packed with personality.
Tear Him To Pieces is an impressive opening statement from an artist with a clear vision and the talent to realise it. Haunting, heavy and often unexpectedly beautiful, the EP showcases the many sides of Tender Claws while hinting at even greater things to come
Upcoming Live Dates:
15/08: Frogfest, Liverpool
25/08: Grand Central, Manchester
06/11: Supporting Venus Grrrls, O2 Academy in Liverpool
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