There are some songs that immediately evoke a full-body chill in the first few opening bars. And this is very much the sensation upon listening to double single “Ataraxic/Drop Everything” from Firewoodisland.

Made up of multi-instrumentalists and songwriters Stian Vedøy and Abi Eleri, the Bristol-based Welsh/ Norwegian duo have perfected their unique brand of ethereal pop, infused with folk and indie sensibilities.

“‘Ataraxic’ is a vulnerable ode to a friend who suffers with PTSD,” says Stian and Abi, “It is meant to encourage and inspire them to keep fighting and pushing forward, and remind them that people are around them who love them and will hold them up when they are struggling to stand. Life is worth fighting for. ‘Drop Everything’ is of similar ilk to ‘Ataraxic’ in its meaning. It is written to remind a friend that they have people around them, but sometimes they spend too much time struggling alone and not opening up. The line “draw breath with me” in the chorus is the idea of being in a close relationship with that person, as close as breath. They have nothing to feel fearful of, support and love are around them and not judgement. “I’ll drop everything” in the chorus is a reminder that they are worth so much more than the other stuff we fill our lives with.”

Listen to “Ataraxic/Drop Everything” below…