Since launching his debut album “Ara” at Doolin Folk Festival in 2021, multi-instrumentalist and producer HUGSIE has gigged extensively in both the Irish-pub and original music scenes. Having supported artists like Guitar virtuoso Shane Hennessy, Multi-Genre aficionado Eric De Buitleir, and Traditional Irish Music Legends Dave Sheridan and Brian Hughes, HUGSIE headlined a sold out “YOUNGBLOOD MUSIC” show in Carlow in May of this year, before showcasing some of his new material at Carlow Arts Festival in June, 2023.
His second studio album, “Sound!”, was launched in August 2023 to a sold out room in Scraggs Alley, Carlow. This 10 track alternative folk album, supported by Carlow Arts Office, was written, performed, produced and mixed by HUGSIE; and mastered by Billy Farrell (Brian Kennedy, The Corrs, The High Kings) during the summer months of 2023. HUGSIE is joined by some exceptionally talented local traditional Irish musicians on the record.
This album shows the clear progression and maturing of HUGSIE as an artist, musician and song writer. He has refined his individual sound through creative experimentation and live gigging experience. Drawing inspiration from The Dubliners, The Wolfe Tones, Damien Dempsey, Muddy Waters and Metallica, HUGSIE has put together an eclectic mix of raw, honest, colloquial songs compiled of soaring, gritty vocals, driving acoustic guitar, thumping suitcase kick drum, dramatic Bodhrán, delicate Fiddle playing and banjo picking, peppered in parts with hefty basslines.
HUGSIE uses storytelling and a range of different musical instruments to create an energetic live show that is light-hearted, lively and jovial.
Keep up to date with upcoming gigs and shows by following HUGSIE on Instagram HERE
