Dublin singer-songwriter Niall Brennan has released his new EP, Something Glorious. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Niall was formerly the frontman and principal songwriter with The Prescriptions who made two albums and an EP. A best of compilation of their work will be released this year.
After The Prescriptions, folded Niall remained an active working musician playing solo gigs and continuing to write songs, but it wasn't until he reconnected with old friend Gavin Ralston at a gig that the Something Glorious EP was born.
Gavin and Niall had both played music growing up together in their earliest bands The Close and Silverwood Blues Band. The EP was almost finished when Gavin tragically passed away after a long battle with cancer.
Another long-time friend and solo star in his own right Brendan Tallon subsequently stepped in and helped Niall finish the EP.
Other musicians who play on the songs are Aonghus Ralston, John Boyle, Frank McGing (Woodtown Sound) and a special guest appearance on The Other End Of Your Dreams by Steve Wickham of The Waterboys.
The full EP is available for download from Niall’s Bandcamp page.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I’m always trying to whittle everything down to family, friends, and music. I'm a sucker for a good murder mystery. I like putting my detective hat on. In 2016 I went to Desert Trip in California and got to see Dylan, The Rolling Stones, McCartney, Neil Young, The Who and Roger Waters over one weekend. I'm still dining out on that one.
How would you describe your music?
Well, this EP is melodic folk rock space pop but I reserve the right to try my hand at whatever takes my fancy.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I try find inspiration everywhere. I'll listen to anything. You can learn from the things you don't like just as much as the things you do like.
What was the first gig you ever went to and the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
First gig was the Boomtown Rats in 1985 in the RDS. Not great tbh. It was just before Live Aid and Geldof had buckets on stage looking for money. He got pelted with coins and cursed a lot. First record I bought was Gary Numan's Living Ornaments '79 double LP. Loved it then, love it now.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Warm Animal by Sure Sure. That's some serious ear candy
Favourite lyric of all time?
Ok now that's a tough one. Today I'll go with Hello in There by John Prine. Gets me right in the feels.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Stick After the Love is Gone by Earth, Wind and Fire on loop for eternity and I'll be happy out.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can hear and buy my music from my Bandcamp page and also find me on social media, Spotify, Facebook, YouTube , Twitter, etc.
