Irish heavy rock band Countervela are set to perform at Sandino's in Derry. The gig follows the release of their new single, Least Expected Turns, on August 27.

The band includes Ciaran Colton on vocals, Michael Ahern on guitar, Conor Mullan on drums, and Philip Donnelly on bass. Donnelly joined in 2023, and the band began reworking their sound in early 2024 after his addition.

Least Expected Turns features guest vocals by Berlin-based singer Eimeara and string arrangements and electronics by London-based Irish composer Ruaidhrí Mannion. The song includes lyrics in both English and Irish.

Colton said the song had been in development for some time and the band felt it could become something bigger. He said the theme is rebirth, coming together, and drawing on each other's talents. He added that the lyrics read as if from two people's viewpoints, which led to introducing Eimeara's voice.

The Derry bands Hong Kong Nocturne and Shasma will support the gig.