MUSIC O’Connor’s new album marked by dramatic flair

SINGER/SONGWRITER?Michael O’Connor will play in Campbell’s Tavern, Headford, this Friday.?Pic: Mike Shaughnessy

O’Connor’s new album marked by dramatic flair


Henry McGlade

Having just launched his second album, ‘I’m Not Myself in Character’, contemporary singer/songwriter Michael O’Connor will perform live in Campbell’s Tavern, Headford, this Friday, June 13.
O’Connor, who hails from the village of Boula near Glencorrib, brings his background in theatre to bear in his performances, blending deft acoustic guitar work with highly original lyrical, observations, as can be seen in his debut album, ‘Octopus Tattoo’.
Radio 1’s John Creedon has taken a huge interest in O’Connor’s album, playing his music on a number of occasions, while local stations like Midwest and Galway Bay have also featured  the Mayo-born artist.
‘I’m Not Myself in Character’ features musicians who have accompanied the likes of Van Morrison, while also showcasing O’Connor’s distinctive songwriting talents. Songs like ‘Let Your Jowl Hang Down’ – a rare tribute to double chins and those who possess them – show a humorous slant, while ‘Home in Mayo’ displays his heartfelt side: “Well it’s been a while now, sure it’s good to see you / Do you remember when we were young the fun we had / On those calm clear summer nights / seen in solace by the moon’s full glow / still stands silently among the trees / that home in Mayo.”
The album is now available in OMG Zhivago, Bell Book and Candle, Charley Burns, Opus 11, NUIG’s campus shop and Keady’s Supermarket Headford.  
O’Connor began playing guitar in 2002 and wrote his first album in 2006. He then began acting in dramatic productions while working as a butcher until 2008. He took part in the Access Music Project in 2008-09. He is presently studying philosophy, English and drama in NUI Galway, but he still makes time for his music – busking, doing open mics and playing  gigs all over the country.