Donegal folk duo Charles James & The Rise return with their latest single, Greatest Prize. Known for their cinematic folk sound and evocative storytelling, the husband-and-wife duo once again delves into deeply personal themes, delivering a track that is both haunting and profoundly introspective.
Inspired by Charles James’ recurring nightmares, Greatest Prize is a poetic exploration of lingering traumas—the “ghosts of the past” that remain buried until they can no longer be ignored. The song’s lyrics are self-aware and raw, offering a glimpse into the quiet battles of the mind. Yet, amid the song’s darker themes, Charles injects moments of wry humor, acknowledging, “I’d be the first to tell someone to get help and the last to actually take my own advice!” This signature blend of vulnerability and levity makes Greatest Prize a strikingly human and relatable piece.
Sonically, the track captures Charles’ heartfelt, raw vocal delivery, complemented by Catherine O’Donnell’s ethereal harmonies. The duo’s ability to craft rich, layered melodies gives Greatest Prize a cinematic depth, immersing listeners in its introspective journey.
Following the success of their November release, The Sailor & The Saint, Charles James & The Rise continue to build momentum toward their debut album, slated for release later this year. The duo’s growing acclaim was further solidified when Rolling Stone Magazine (ES) named them among its “20 Artists You Should Know for 2024.”
Rooted in the rugged beauty of Donegal, Charles James & The Rise craft songs that blend traditional folk storytelling with a modern cinematic touch. Charles, a Ship’s Pilot by trade, draws inspiration from a life shaped by adventure, loss, and the wild Irish coastline, while Catherine’s harmonies bring a haunting, choral quality to their music.
Their reputation for electrifying live performances has taken them to stages from Ireland’s Electric Picnic to Chicago’s Irish American Heritage Centre, earning them a dedicated following both in Ireland and internationally. Fans will have the chance to experience their music live as they perform at Your Roots Are Showing, Ireland’s leading folk and roots music conference, on January 16th—coinciding with the release of Greatest Prize.
With their deeply personal songwriting and captivating sound, Charles James & The Rise are carving out a unique space in contemporary folk, solidifying their place as one of the genre’s most exciting acts to watch
