Paddy Smith is back, and he’s reaching new heights with his latest single, ‘Angel Took Flight’, set to release this Friday ahead of his forthcoming album, Could Have Found Grace, arriving September 19th. Known for blending blues, rock, folk, and punk, Smith has crafted a slow-burning anthem that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. With its soulful storytelling and raw emotional power, the track offers a glimpse into the album’s thematic core: hope, redemption, and the grace found in moments we often overlook.
The single showcases Smith’s mastery in merging grit and melody. “This song is about the moments we miss, and the grace we seek after the fact,” Smith explains, emphasizing its introspective nature. Unlike many contemporary releases that rely on studio polish, Angel Took Flight feels lived-in. The harmonica-driven arrangements and heartfelt lyrics reveal a man shaped by experience—someone who has faced struggles and emerged with insight and emotional depth. It’s a song that lingers long after the last note fades.
Smith’s journey is as compelling as his music. From overcoming addiction to embracing the lessons of his past, he channels real-life trials into art. His voice carries both weight and warmth, reflecting a lifetime of ups and downs. With Angel Took Flight, he doesn’t just tell a story—he invites listeners into his lived experience, creating a connection that is intimate, raw, and redemptive. It’s a testament to the resilience of an artist who refuses to be defined solely by hardship.
Adding to the excitement is the all-star ensemble supporting him on the album. Featuring talents such as Aongus Ralston (The Waterboys), Jason Duffy (The Corrs), James Delaney (Van Morrison, Rory Gallagher), and Danny Tobin (The Business Blues Band), Could Have Found Grace promises a rich, textured musical experience. Produced by Ivan Jackman at Dublin’s Hellfire Studios and complemented by Alfredo Kuna’s evocative artwork, the project positions Smith among Ireland’s most compelling contemporary musicians.
In the end, Angel Took Flight serves as both a poignant single and a herald for what promises to be a career-defining album. With its emotional honesty, intricate musicianship, and thematic depth, the track confirms Paddy Smith’s status as more than a bluesman—he is a storyteller, a survivor, and an artist whose music resonates with the triumphs and trials of life itself.
Album Release September 19th 2025
single release August 19 2025