M STEVENS & THE GHASTS
plus support
DANNY CARROLL (Shrug Life)
Thur 17th Nov 2022
Whelan’s Upstairs
M. Stevens & The Ghasts launch their debut album, Birds, Upstairs in Whelans on Thursday November 17th. M. Stevens & The Ghasts is the latest project from Popical Island co-founder Mike Stephens who has previously honed his craft across a string of Irish alt folk & indie pop bands.
Birds emerged in an unexpected fashion. After the sudden death of beloved Silver Jews songwriter David Berman, a tribute night was organised in Dublin’s Sound House with various Irish indie luminaries taking to the stage to perform, including one Mike Stevens. With an alchemy present from the off, Mike, Hugh McCabe (keys/mandolin) and guitarist Mark Jordan (Dudley Corporation) continued to collaborate, joined by bass player Ciaran Canavan (Land Lovers) and drummer Donagh O’Brien (A Ritual Sea, Sweet Jane).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvGpPbFJmOM
Passing emails back and forth over the course of the pandemic, Birds began to take shape. Funded by the Arts Council’s Agility Award, recorded and mixed by composer/producer Stephen Shannon, the album is testament to the idiosyncratic perspective of Mike Stevens, and the musical sensitivity of the group.
The addition of flute and violin adds depth to the album’s more tender moments, while The Ghasts prove they can get loud and abrasive when required. True to form, Stevens is distinctly Irish in his specificity and candour, be it “winding up in Tubercurry”, or imagining the statues of O’Connell and Parnell in conversation. Pervading the collection is a mordant wit and irresistable warmth:
Birds will be released on all major streaming platforms on Friday 28th November and limited edition CDs will be available for purchase at the launch.
Joining M Stevens & The Ghasts on the night will be special guest Danny Carroll. Danny will be unveiling his new project and band.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67YzLiryT50
CONNECT
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TICKETS
€10 available online from Whelan’s.
– 50c per ticket service charge applies on all bookings. Final ticket price may be higher from other outlets.
Strictly over 18′s, I.D. may be required.
AFTER THE GIG
Whelan’s Silent Disco from 10:30pm – 2 DJs, just pick the one you like best (€5 cover charge), plus Late Bar.