News
31 October 2026 – Esmerelda Road Release Here Honey and Challenge the Digital Distractions Destroying Real Human Connections
By Editorial Team - October 31, 2026
Summary
Belfast indie trio Esmerelda Road release Here Honey, an emotionally direct pop-rock single confronting digital distractions in modern relationships.
Key Facts
- Belfast alternative trio Esmerelda Road share punchy new single 'Here Honey'.
- The song and Jay Whylie-directed video confront the constant digital distractions weakening interpersonal relationships.
- Follows their acclaimed Northern Ireland Music Prize Single of the Year winner 'To U'.
- Entities: Esmerelda Road, Here Honey, Moonboot, Northern Ireland Music Prize, Jay Whylie, Belfast
- Tags: esmerelda-road, here-honey, belfast-indie, northern-ireland, indie-pop, indie-rock, soul, jazz-pop
Belfast alternative trio Esmerelda Road have released "Here Honey", an infectious and emotionally piercing new single confronting the digital barriers eroding face-to-face relationships. The track follows several productive years during which the group established a devoted following across the UK and Ireland for their seamless blend of jazz chord voicings, soulful vocals, and energetic indie pop.
Originally known as Moonboot before adopting their current identity after a trademark dispute with a global fashion brand, the band scored an early triumph when debut single "To U" took home Single of the Year at the Northern Ireland Music Prize. "Here Honey" adopts a tighter, hook-forward pop-rock dynamic without forfeiting the trio's penchant for sophisticated musicianship. The lyrics directly address the modern plague of endless smartphone scrolling and fractured attention spans competing with genuine intimacy.
The track's stylish video was directed by Jay Whylie, playfully highlighting the absurdity of staring into illuminated screens while lovers sit inches away. While Esmerelda Road have issued several well-received standalone tracks, a debut full-length has yet to be formally scheduled, making every new single a fascinating window into their evolving sonic identity.
Belfast has a proud history of alternative acts forging singular styles by cross-pollinating diverse genres, and Esmerelda Road carry that torch with flair. "Here Honey" will resonate deeply with anyone who has tried to maintain a heartfelt conversation while their companion checks a phone for the twentieth time. Modern technology made communication instant, but apparently gave us endless excuses not to listen. Discover more vibrant pop-rock in our indie pop section and follow daily updates in the news hub.