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Declan O'Rourke
Declan O'Rourke used to be one of Ireland's best kept secrets, but rave reviews for his debut album 'Since Kyabram', a growing international fanbase and an enviable collection of eminent devotees, including Paul Weller, Snow Patrol and Kate Rusby, are rapidly changing that.
Declan O'Rourke has just finished backing tracks for his new and eagerly awaited second album, due for release in September 2007. Declan spent April in the state of the art residential studios at Grouse Lodge in Westmeath, where the likes of Bloc Party, Muse and even Michael Jackson have previously recorded. Declan is currently working on string arrangements with L.A based composer/arranger Brian Byrne, and recording of these is scheduled in May. The first single from the album will be released in July 2007.
Declan toured relentlessly in the UK and Europe in 2006 with artists such as Snow Patrol, Teddy Thompson, Paulo Nutini, The Cardigans, Rodrigo y Gabriela, The Divine comedy and Paul Weller and spent January 2007 touring with Badly Drawn Boy. Declan has picked up many fans abroad on his journey over the last couple of years such as Paul Weller and broadcaster Jonathon Ross and intends to continue to build on this work both here and abroad.
Since Kyabram
Declan's album, Since Kyabram, was released by N4 Records in Ireland in October 2004 and debuted at No. 5 in the Irish Charts soon achieving double platinum status and continues to sell. Declan is also signed to international touring agency X-ray Touring which looks after Robbie Williams, Coldplay, Snow Patrol, Greenday and Outkast.On its release in Ireland, 'Since Kyabram' reached double platinum status and garnered Hot Press magazine's 'Best Debut Album' award. A major record deal with V2 followed, as did patronage from his peers - invitations to support Snow Patrol at Marlay Park in Dublin, Teddy Thompson on his UK tour, The Divine Comedy for dates in Germany and the U.K., and to perform at the legendary 100 Club at the request of Paul Weller.
The buzz is growing, based on the simplicity of great songs and a unique voice. Declan's lyrics touch on all aspects of the individual, his songs focus on the centre of everyday emotions and his voice irresistibly draws the listener in. He has an understated charm, a quick-wittedness that make him highly endearing live and equally at home playing to one person as he is to thousands.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/declanorourke