Lorraine Nash of Lyracrumpane has released her new single, Steel Hearts, and plays Coughlan's, Cork on 10 November, The Cobblestone, Dublin on 17 November, and Bridge of Song, Castlebar on 11 December. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
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25-year-old Kerry native Lorraine is a multi-instrumentalist, and singer, songwriter. She will release a deluxe version of her critically acclaimed debut album, All That I Can Be (with four extra songs) in January.
Speaking about Steel Hearts, she says, "As a self-identified people pleaser, I wrote this song reflecting on how it's a trait that seems deeply ingrained in Irish culture.
"Steel Hearts is about how constantly putting others before ourselves doesn't always serve us well. It's about finding balance - doing right by yourself while still being mindful of others."
Tell us three things about yourself…
I studied English Literature in college and loved every second. I had always loved reading but I think this really directed me towards books I wouldn't have considered reading before, and it was the first time I started reading poetry properly. Had I not ended up working as a musician I would definitely be working with animals in some way. I recently took up crocheting and despite feeling like a granny I love it. It is a great way to stop myself from mindlessly scrolling Instagram in the evening.
How would you describe your music?
In general, I would call it folk music, but as that term is so broad I would say trad/country/Americana depending on the song!
Who are your musical inspirations?
Female acts like Laura Marling, Gillian Welch and Lisa Hannigan. And then of course the greats, Joni, Dylan, Paul Simon.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
My first love was trad music so I went to see a lot of great trad bands when I was younger, like Beoga, Flook and Goitse.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I have four older siblings so I mainly listened to whatever they liked at the time, which included everything from Marilyn Manson to Whitney Houston. But being totally honest, the very first album I made the conscious decision to buy myself was a Hannah Montana album. No judgment please.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I’ve really been enjoying The Brother Brothers at the moment, I’ve had their Illinois River song on repeat.
Favourite lyric of all time?
This changes often but this one from Tangled up in Blue by Bob Dylan came to mind: "And every one of them words rang true, And glowed like burning coal, Pouring off of every page, Like it was written in my soul from me to you".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life what would it be?
Wayside by Gillian Welch, I’ve already listened to it a ridiculous amount and haven't gotten sick of it yet which is a good sign.
Alan Corr
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