Galway singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Tracy Bruen has released her new album, Waiting, and plays Levis in Ballydehob on 4 February. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Waiting is her second album and follows her debut, 2017's Mirror. Two years in the making, Waiting "is an ode to love and loss. It explores hidden grief and our darkest moments but it is also a celebration of how love can guide us through it all".
Tracy toured extensively throughout Ireland and Europe over the last few years and has played support to Lisa Hannigan, We Banjo 3, Mick Flannery, The Stunning and Mary Coughlan, and performed at Electric Picnic, Body & Soul, Sunflower Fest and the Galway Arts Festival.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I'm completing a Masters in Music Therapy. I'm a year-round sea swimmer (when I'm not recovering from broken bones or breast cancer!) and I'm fuelled by imposter syndrome.
How would you describe your music?
I have a fairly eclectic sound which varies depending on the primary instrument I write on. I take influence from artists like Fiona Apple, Kate Bush, Feist, tUnE-yArDs, The Divine Comedy. I draw inspiration from other genres and there are often folk and theatrical elements in my writing too. It could be described as falling within the genre of art pop.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I draw inspiration from the artists I mentioned above when I write but to be honest, my bandmates are my biggest inspiration. They're all incredible musicians so every time we play together, I'm raising the bar for myself.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
It was either The Beautiful South in Dublin Castle or Elton John and Billy Joel in Croke Park, both with my folks. If Bosco Live in Tuam counts, I was at that with my folks too when I was four.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I want to say No Need To Argue by the Cranberries, but I have an awful suspicion it was Fresh Horses by Garth Brooks.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Right From The Start, SIOMHA.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Kick me under the table all you want, I won't shut up, I won't shut up." - Fiona Apple
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
God Only Knows by The Beach Boys.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Bandcamp is the best way to find my music:. I'm on Instagram (@tracybruen), Facebook and all major streaming platforms.
