After the release of their debut EP Lackluster Writing Makes Fundamental Reading in 2025, it was clear that Belfast’s Makeshift Art Bar don’t mess around. That first project already hinted at a band uninterested in half‑measures and their sophomore EP Marionette is even louder, heavier, more fearless, and far more deliberate in its descent into chaos.
Makeshift Art Bar is Joseph Sweeney (lead vocals/guitar/electronics), Callum McGuigan (bass), Alleyah Boulaich (drums) & Callum Sweeney (guitar/lapsteel) – A four piece that, together, creates an unforgettable sound that stands out in Ireland’s music scene. There’s a freshness here, but also a kind of menace, a willingness to push past the expected and into something more jagged.
Photo Credit: Thomas McGuigan
The opening track and lead single, 'Chocolate', sets the tone immediately. It begins with an almost binary, mechanical rhythm that explodes into a rage fuelled arrangement in the latter half. The band describe it as:
“Our character screams the paradox of saying everything, yet having no desire for anything in return. This is the last attempt to gain ownership, despite their imminent doom. This is a descendant into a cave of madness and the deeper we go, the harder it is to hear the voice of clarity at the surface. The frenzied mantra becomes a prison - built brick by brick with your own hands.”
What’s remarkable is how precisely that sentiment translates into the music. You can hear the descent. You can feel the walls closing in. The track moves like someone clawing at their own reflection, desperate for control but slipping further into the dark with every attempt to grasp it.
'Crow' is very bass-heavy and 'Discipline' more industrial than anything. 'Servant', the EP’s last track ties the whole thing together in an immaculately orchestrated chaos.
As aforementioned, Makeshift Art Bar have a real talent of translating what they want the track to be about into its instrumentals and general vibe. This EP feels suffocating while offering catharsis in the same breath. It’s fascinating.
Makeshift Art Bar are reshaping the edges of Ireland’s music scene instead of simply being a part of it. This second chapter is promising in its entirety, the only thing left is a full album to prove just how far they’re willing to push the descent.
MARIONETTE OUT NOW.
Words by
Marie Müller, 2026.