Cardinals have said their next album is likely to be darker than their debut, ‘Masquerade’, as the Cork band begin writing while balancing an extensive touring schedule. Speaking backstage at Reading 2026, they said the material will reflect experiences built up on the road and could broaden their sound, though they stressed it will not become either a black metal or fully electronic record.

The band made their Reading & Leeds debut at Reading on 28 August, following a rapid rise from small club shows to major support slots and large international stages. Frontman Euan Manning and accordionist Finn Manning said they still value intimate venues, where they feel a closer connection with audiences, and prefer writing in familiar, quiet places such as Cork and Kinsale rather than while travelling. Cardinals are scheduled to tour Europe, the UK and North America until the end of the year.