Snow Patrol's Gary Lightbody has written his fair share of hits over the years. So when the Northern Irish songwriter describes a little known talent as "stunning" and "magical" then it's time to sit up and take notice.
Said talent is Ciaran Lavery, a native of Aghagallon in County Antrim. Debut album 'Not Nearly Dark' caused ripples in 2013, with its tender evocation of love, loss and redemption winning critical acclaim.
With 'Not Nearly Dark' gaining a full German release and a UK tour in the offing, Ciaran Lavery has shot a video for 'Shame'.
A sparse, folk-informed track, there's an unforced honesty to the singer's work which he credits to small town life.
"You could literally drive through it in thirty seconds, but it's jam packed full of characters and real, genuine people," he reflects. "It's the type of place where, if you're being an idiot, someone will tell you. That's just how the environment was. I guess that sort of honesty comes out in my music."
"Once I've let someone in to hear them, they aren't my songs any more. People come up to me and say the strangest things like, 'This song meant a lot to me', or they tell me what they think the song is about. And maybe it's not, but their version is usually better than mine, so I usually agree with them."
Check out 'Shame' below.
Ciaran Lavery is set to play the following UK shows:
October
16 Glasgow Nice N Sleazy
17 Newcastle Upon Tyne The Cluny 2
18 Leeds Games Room, Brudenell Social Club
19 Nottingham Rescue Rooms
20 Birmingham The Kitchen Garden Cafe
21 London The Islington
22 Brighton The Hope & Ruin
23 Bristol The Louisiana
24 Cardiff Four Bars at Dempsey's
25 Manchester Castle Hotel
