Paddy Hanna's West Cork bound

Described more than once as “Ireland’s best kept secret”, enigmatic indie artist Paddy Hanna has certainly earned his cult following.

In support of his fifth album ‘Oylegate’ and following a standout performance at Electric Picnic this year, Hanna has just announced a string of Irish shows including one in West Cork.

Hanna and his band will be making their way out to Connolly’s of Leap on 30 October meaning it’s crucial to book tickets soon if you don’t want to miss out on what we can assure you will be a show to remember.

With a reputation as a theatrical live performer with a commanding voice and irresistible charisma, Hanna has curated a dazzling display of light, music, and theatre, with a touch of the extraterrestrial to bring the audience into a celestial new dimension. Featuring some of Ireland’s most innovative musicians and artistic talents, the highly anticipated shows arrive after a year of widespread acclaim and national attention for Hanna, who released album ‘Oylegate’ in April.

The new album marks yet another creative leap Hanna, an artist who refuses to be boxed in.

“One advantage of being an ‘artist’s artist’ is that you never have to worry about being creatively different between albums.

There's real freedom in doing whatever you want and not being judged for it. And even if you are judged, who gives a shit?” says Hanna.

Despite its moments of cold introspection, ‘Oylegate’ is sonically rich and enveloping. Hanna wanted the music to feel like satin lining the listener’s ears, wrapping them in warmth even when the themes tilt towards darkness.

A spirit of fearless exploration and finding joy in the unknown, the absurd, and the deeply personal lies at the core of ‘Oylegate’ and shapes the ethos behind the upcoming performances. An odyssey of tenderness and turbulence, each show will offer the sound of an artist embracing life’s messiest, most beautiful contradictions - inviting the audience to do the same.

Paddy Hanna plays Connolly’s of Leap on 30 October. Tickets are €20 including booking fee and can be booked online at connollysofleap.com. Doors are at 7pm on the night. To check out some of Hanna’s music, visit paddyhanna.bandcamp.com.