In the vibrant music scene of Dublin, one artist is making waves with her unique sound and unapologetic approach to the industry. Molly Vulpyne, known offstage as Maeve Molly, is gearing up for her appearance at the LOUD WOMEN Fest Dublin on 29 August. With a name inspired by her love for foxes and a sound that she describes as melodic, chaotic but calm Molly is carving out her own niche in the music world.
Her journey is one of resilience and creativity, marked by a deep understanding of the pressures faced by artists today. As she prepares to take the stage, Molly shares her story, her struggles, and her dreams for the future of music.
From Maeve Molly to Molly Vulpyne
The name Molly Vulpyne is as distinctive as the artist herself. Maeve Molly, who prefers to go by Molly, chose the stage name Vulpyne because of her affection for foxes. ‘I love foxes,’ she explains, ‘and ‘Vulpine’ was already taken!’ The name reflects her playful yet fierce personality, setting the tone for her music and her approach to the industry.
Molly’s band is a tight-knit group of musicians, each bringing their unique skills to the table. Alongside Molly on vocals and guitar, Peter handles the guitar, Tony plays the bass, and Jay is on drums. Molly affectionately refers to them as her ‘male backing band,’ a testament to the camaraderie and collaboration that defines their sound.
A Sound That Defies Categorization
Describing her music in just three words is no easy task, but Molly sums it up as melodic, chaotic but calm. This seemingly contradictory description captures the essence of her sound, which blends structure with spontaneity. Her debut album, ‘Houndstooth and the Hum,’ released this year, delves into the routines and pressures of modern life, from the 9-to-5 grind to the pressure to monetize art.
In her previous band, Molly focused on creating a ‘wall of sound,’ but with her solo project, she shifted her emphasis to the power of words. The video for her song ‘My Expiry’ is a poignant example of this. Molly invited people of all ages to share why they felt ‘expired’ or pressured by society. The responses were a stark reminder that the fear of running out of time is a universal experience, one that Molly aims to challenge through her music.
Challenging the Status Quo
Molly’s critique of the music industry is both sharp and insightful. If she could rewrite the rulebook, her first change would be drastic: she would eliminate all streaming sites except Bandcamp. Her reasoning is simple yet profound: musicians deserve fair compensation for their work, both in the studio and on the stage. This advocacy for artists’ rights is a central theme in her approach to music and her interactions with the industry.
Her journey has not been without its challenges. Molly has faced bullying in the music industry a reality that many artists grapple with. Her advice to others in similar situations is clear: speak up and speak loudly. This philosophy is not just a personal mantra but a call to action for all artists to stand up for themselves and their work.
Looking back on her decade-long career, Molly reflects on the many proud moments that have defined her journey. From her earliest performances to the release of her debut album, each milestone is a testament to her dedication and passion. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Molly remains thrilled by the opportunity to create and perform.
Dreaming Big
When asked to imagine her dream lineup, Molly’s choices are as eclectic as her sound. She envisions sharing the stage with Amy WinehouseThe Cramps and The Clash. These artists, each iconic in their own right, represent the diversity and innovation that Molly aspires to in her own work.
As Molly Vulpyne prepares to take the stage at LOUD WOMEN Fest Dublin, she embodies the spirit of resilience and creativity that defines the music industry. Her story is one of passion, advocacy, and the unwavering belief in the power of music to challenge and inspire. For those attending the festival, Molly’s performance promises to be a highlight, a testament to her unique sound and her commitment to the art of music.
