A Conversation With John Cathal O’Brien.
I had the pleasure of stumbling across Dublin born John Cathal O’Brien while surfing the interwebs not too long ago. “Cures” off his 2018 album These Boarders was the first song I listened to of his that reeled me in. It’s melody obligated me to recollect memories of times past and because of this, I had to get in touch with him. Enjoy my conversation with O’Brien, a talented man who’s music should be celebrated.
He’ll be performing at the Campfire Festival at Club Passim in Boston in May! Keep your eyes on his socials for more information.
For those who may not know of you or what you do, please introduce yourself.
I’m John Cathal O’Brien, a singer-songwriter from Dublin, Ireland.
How old were you when you were first exposed to music and songwriting?
I was certainly aware of music from a very young age — and slowly over time the emotional impact it could have. I started song-writing as I was learning guitar. I became frustrated playing songs I liked it but not liking how they sounded coming from me — writing my own lyrics seemed a better option.
Where are you originally from and where do you currently reside? Do you find that your surroundings inspire the music you produce?
I was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland and then I lived in San Francisco for a few years before relocating to New York where I currently live. I definitely think somebody’s surroundings are an influence. In a direct way or not. Here in New York, I find it changes even with the seasons.
Some people describe the art of songwriting (and art in general) as a wave of inspiration that simply hits you and, bam, there it is. Do you relate to this way of songwriting? Or do you have to consciously put time aside to write?
I do a little of both I think. Sometimes the melody or a lyric or something is there. I’ll make a note on my phone of it or if I’m at home I’ll work it out a little more. Sometimes it all comes at once but I always seem to return to the songs over time and tweak them before recording. But I realize now that I’m still writing a lot of my songs — even the long released old ones — I’m still always looking for a better line or break or something.
Sometimes I consciously make time and force myself to finish (or at least to try to finish) something, if I’m feeling unproductive and giving myself a hard time about it.
Are there any upcoming tours or new material we should watch out for?
I’m playing the Campfire Festival at Club Passim in Boston in May that I’m very excited about and hope to release a few songs soon — there’s a few we’ve been working on.
If you could recommend three albums to readers that have inspired you, what would they be?
Bryter Layter — Nick Drake
The Stone Roses — The Stone Roses
Songs From A Room — Leonard Cohen
Last words?
Thanks for having me!
Socials?
