Episode 379: SHORTEST STRAW | Finding Their Own Voice Through A New Normal.

This week on The Metal Cell Podcast, Richie sits down with Paul O'Rourke (Vocals), Brian Gribben (Guitar), Daryl Hill (Bass) and Lucas Todesco (Drums) from Belfast heavyweights Shortest Straw. With their debut EP A New Normal arriving on 11 August, the band discuss far more than breakdowns and blast beats. They reflect on finding their identity, balancing aggression with honesty, writing songs with purpose and building a band that values authenticity over imitation. The conversation explores the creative process behind the EP, working with producer Josh Sid Robinson (JSR Audio), the realities of starting a heavy band in 2026, preparing for their Irish tour with Dead Mob and Carynx, and why live performance remains the heartbeat of Shortest Straw. Upcoming Shows: • 03 August – Limelight 2 supporting Vio-Lence • 20 August – Ulster Sports Club, Belfast • 21 August – Sin É, Dublin • 22 August – Fred Zeppelins, Cork • 24 October – Northern Dissonance, Limelight 2, Belfast Shortest Straw link: https://linktr.ee/shorteststrawuk If you enjoy discovering the stories behind Ireland's heavy music scene, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share.