British singer-songwriter Maddy Carty has released her third single, “Old Hands,” from her upcoming EP, Otherhood, inviting listeners into a soulful journey of love, aging, and memory. Known for her introspective lyrics and unique blend of folk-pop and soulful melodies, Carty has earned a loyal following for her honest storytelling. This single is no different, diving deep into themes that resonate across generations, particularly the ways in which love evolves and withstands time’s inevitable transformations.
“Old Hands” is, at its core, a love song—but one that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of enduring relationships. Rather than focusing on the rush of young romance, Carty’s latest track examines the steady, enduring aspects of love and the quiet fears that come with a lifelong commitment. As Carty explores the questions that arise in relationships over time—“Will love remain as vibrant when we’re older? Will we still hold hands when we’re frail?”—the song strikes a universal chord. Through her tender lyrics, she speaks to the unspoken concerns of many: the natural anxieties surrounding growing old together and the hope that love will still be there in its purest form, even after decades have passed.
Carty’s delivery of these emotions is both poignant and understated, her voice conveying vulnerability and strength in equal measure. The arrangement in “Old Hands” is elegantly simple, yet lush—acoustic guitar lines are woven with soft instrumental layers that accentuate her vocals without overpowering them. This minimalist, organic sound allows Carty’s storytelling to shine, drawing listeners into her intimate reflections. Her lyrical prowess is particularly evident in lines that paint vivid pictures, capturing the small gestures and moments that define a lasting relationship.
Behind the scenes, Maddy Carty collaborated with producer Alex Bayly, a talented musician she reconnected with after meeting at university. Bayly, known for his skill in crafting rich, layered sounds, proved to be the ideal creative partner for Otherhood. Their partnership on “Old Hands” and the rest of the EP has resulted in a sound that’s both live and immediate, highlighting Carty’s emotive style and Bayly’s intuitive production. This synergy is especially evident in the track’s atmospheric quality, which has the effect of making listeners feel like they’re listening in on a private moment. In addition to “Old Hands,” Bayly co-wrote another song on the EP, “Unseen,” bringing even more depth to Otherhood.
Beyond her own music, Maddy Carty has built an impressive career as a songwriter for other artists and producers, with credits from major labels like Warner, Spinnin’, and Mad Decent. Her versatility as a songwriter has allowed her music to reach wider audiences, with her compositions featured in various high-profile television shows on Sky and Netflix. This experience across genres and platforms has enriched her songwriting, allowing her to bring a nuanced perspective to Otherhood.
As Otherhood unfolds, listeners will be treated to a thoughtful exploration of love, identity, and connection, themes that reflect the experiences of both Carty and her audience. “Old Hands” stands out as a particularly moving track in this collection, embodying the bittersweet beauty of aging alongside a loved one. It’s an anthem for those who believe in love that grows and changes but remains strong, even as life shifts around it.
In a world often focused on the fleeting excitement of new love, “Old Hands” is a refreshing and heartfelt tribute to love that lasts. Maddy Carty’s latest single is a testament to her gift for capturing life’s quiet truths, and Otherhood promises to be a continuation of this journey. With her signature warmth and lyrical depth, Carty is a voice worth following as she delves into the heart of what it means to be truly connected.
