Barry Kerr, multi-instrumentalist, composer, singer and painter releases his new single ‘Father’s Way’ on August 20th. When composing this track, Kerr drew inspiration from the often complex and turbulent relationship between a father and a son. Collaborators on the album include Niamh Dunne on strings, John Reynolds on percussion, Conor McCreanor on bass, Pauline Scanlon on vocals and it was recorded by Seán Óg Graham at Bannview Studios with further production provided by John Reynolds.
Speaking about the track Barry says:
“I was inspired to write it in dealing with my relationship with my own late father who passed away in 2013. The song touches on the idea that we are sometimes more like our parents than we care to admit. That their good qualities and what they have taught us in life often shine through in us when we most need them.”
Barry was awarded the Agility Award by the Arts Council of Ireland to create the video for this song. Along with Alan Doherty of Aldoc Productions they came up with the idea of the video featuring Galway hurler Maidhc Ó Conghaile.
“I have a love for the great game of hurling and I used the game as an analogy of a father – son relationship. We were blessed with great weather on the day of the shoot. That along with Al’s artistic eye really showcases the beautiful surroundings of my new Connemara home.”
Originally from the southern shores of Lough Neagh in County Armagh but now living and working in Connemara, Co. Galway, Barry Kerr is one of Ireland’s most accomplished artists. He has toured the world as a solo artist and has been equally at home sharing the stage in the company of other artists including Steve Cooney, Cara Dillon, Julie Fowlis, Lumiere and Dervish. Renowned folk acts such as Karan Casey, Flook, Jiggy, Beoga, Brian Finnegan, Damian O’Kane and Kate Rusby include his compositions in their tour repertoires. As Artist in Residence at the celebrated Duncairn Centre for Culture and Arts in Belfast for a number of years, Barry played a central role in developing the city of Belfast as a vibrant cultural hub.
Previous works include; ‘Cairn’ (2020) a result of being awarded the Liam O’Flynn Award from The National Concert Hall and the Arts Council in March 2020, ‘Castor Bay’ (2018) a duet album of traditional song, flute, uilleann pipes and fiddle music with his sister Laura Kerr and guitarist Donogh Hennessy; ‘Boy In A Boat’ (2015) a collection of original songs; ‘CEATHAIR’ and ‘Continuum’ an exploration of the concept of relating visual art with musical performance, storytelling and composition.
‘Father’s Way’ will be released digitally on Bandcamp.
Visit https://www.barrykerr.com/ or https://barrykerr1.bandcamp.com/ for more information.
