How I Became A Wave

How I Became A Wave is the solo project of Cork-based artist Pat Carey, formerly of indie band The Hard Ground. Blending literary and natural world influences with strings and steel pedal guitars, the music of How I Became A Wave speaks through considered lyrics and quietly rousing melodies.

This is quiet music that by its nature provides an antidote to the cacophony of today’s world. Drawing inspiration from writers like Mary Oliver, Eavan Boland, Max Porter, Sylvia Plath, Seamus Heaney, Doireann Ní Ghríofa and Sara Baume, and musical influences such as Paul Buchanan, Bon Iver, Big Thief, Nils Frahm and Anaïs Mitchell, How I Became A Wave reflects on love, loss and the quiet significance of everyday moments.

How I Became A Wave’s forthcoming debut album features contributions from some of Ireland’s musicians, including Carey’s former Hard Ground bandmates Davie Ryan and Hugh Dillon, pianist Rory McCarthy, cellists Laura McFadden and Aoife Burke, and multi-instrumentalist Brian Casey, among others. RTÉ Concert Orchestra composer Cormac McCarthy has arranged a number of pieces on the album. Each musician brings a quiet depth to the record, enriching its layered, reflective sound.

Live support slots with Joan Shelley, Lisa Hannigan, Villagers, Gemma Hayes, Niamh Regan, Ailbhe Reddy and John Spillane have demonstrated the backing this project has received from artists across the genre. Festival appearances at Your Roots Are Showing, Quiet Lights and Sounds From A Safe Harbour have continued to build momentum, introducing the work to new audiences.

In addition to new single Sea Swell, the album features previously released singles 05:00, Fading Out and Cycles, all of which have received support from RTÉ Radio 1, BBC Radio Ulster, Red FM, Galway Bay FM, The Irish Independent, Nialler9, Genuine Irish, Hot Press and Golden Plec.

How I Became A Wave was recently named in The Irish Independent’s Ones to Watch for 2026. They wrote: “Pat Carey makes music that quietly acknowledges the strength it takes to be vulnerable, and the comfort that comes from creativity and collaboration,” summing up the ethos of this project, which has been a long time in the making.