Dea Matrona return with explosive new single “John Doe”, the second taste off their highly anticipated second album “Hate That I Care”, set for release on 5th June 2026.
Recorded, written and produced entirely by the band, “Hate That I Care” marks a bold and self-assured step forward for Mollie McGinn and Orláith Forsythe. Leaning further into alt-rock, the record showcases a sharper, more confident sound while diving deeper into themes of identity, pressure and self-reflection.
“John Doe” leans into a heavier, more rock-driven sound, with crunchy electric guitars running throughout, cutting through lines like “I’m not hollow ‘cause I got a feeling / I’m so tired and my soul is grieving” which land before the track’s anthemic chorus.
Speaking about the song, Mollie said:
“We wanted to write a song about having your choices taken away. “John Doe” was one of the tracks on the album that took the longest to write. Quite often we come up with a chorus that we like and then spend ages trying to work on a verse that matches the vibe”.
Across “Hate That I Care”, Dea Matrona take a more personal approach, reflecting on expectations, pressure and their own experiences. The album captures the tension between external pressures and internal truths, balancing raw energy with moments of vulnerability.
Reflecting on the album, the band said:
“People have always tried to assume who we are; both musically and personally. This album is more personal, more honest, and more aware of the world around us than anything we’ve made before” – Orláith
Dea Matrona’s rise has been driven by constant touring and unforgettable live performances. From busking on the streets of Belfast to commanding stages at Reading & Leeds Festival, Electric Picnic and Rock Werchter, they have built a devoted and rapidly growing fanbase. Fresh from touring with Canadian rock favourites The Beaches, they are set to join Sting on tour across Europe and perform at the Isle of Wight Festival this summer, bringing their powerful new era to even bigger stages.
With “John Doe”, Dea Matrona step further into this new chapter – and they’re only just getting started.
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