Session musician, producer and multi-instrumentalist David Murphy, who has played pedal steel guitar for acts such as The Delines, The Lost Brothers, John Blek, and Arborist, has released his debut solo single, Citi na gCumann. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
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The track is taken from David's debut album Cuimhne Ghlinn: Explorations in Irish Music For Pedal Steel Guitar, which will be released on Rollercoaster Records on 19 April.
The all-instrumental debut album recasts ancient Irish harp tunes and historic airs by O’Carolan, O’Riada et al into the 21st century.
It features a diverse cast of supporting musicians including Peter Broderick (strings), Steve Wickham (fiddle), Laura McFadden (cello), Aisling Urwin and Alannah Thornburgh (harp), Rory McCarthy (piano), Mark McCausland (guitar), Anthony Ruby (uilleann pipes), and Cory Gray (trumpet).
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I’m a pedal steel guitarist from Cork. I’ve been a session musician and band member for a number of years. I am about to take my first baby steps as a solo artist!
How would you describe your music?
This project is my first solo endeavour and I guess it lies somewhere between modern classical, traditional Irish folk and ambient music though led with the evocative voice of the pedal steel guitar. An unusual melting pot for sure!
Who are your musical inspirations?
There is so much boundary-pushing music around at the moment, especially here in Ireland, it is very healthy. My tastes range very broadly. Olafur Arnalds, Brian Eno, Buddy Emmons, The Unthanks, The Gloaming, Bill Frisell and Greg Leisz, Nick Cave and Warren Ellis’ soundtrack work, Balmorhea have been some of the primary inspirations for the sound of this new record.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
My parents had a dancehall in Liscarroll in north Cork so I was a gig-goer from a tiny age - though my memories of those days are few! Ocean Colour Scene at the Showgrounds in Cork with my older brother was one of my first big outdoor gigs.
What was the first record you ever bought?
A compilation of The Kinks on cassette circa 1990!
What’s your favourite song right now?
Arborist - One Morning Mid November. Mark McCambridge (Arborist) is one of this island’s most criminally under-the-radar songwriters - go check him out!
Favourite lyric of all time?
Gillian Welch - Barroom Girls: "Oh the night came undone like a party dress / And fell at her feet in a beautiful mess / The smoke and the whiskey came home in her curls / And they crept through the dreams of the barroom girls".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Led Zeppelin - Since I’ve Been Loving You.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My website or here for all the socials updates on live shows and releases.
Alan Corr
