Photo Credit: Zyanya Lorenzo
“Effortlessly breaking across genres while maintaining a raw authenticity and deeply personal lyricism, Hánt’s debut promises a lasting presence for the emerging artist in the ever-evolving indie-folk genre.” – Hotpress Magazine
“The Real Deal” – Badly Drawn Boy
Irish indie-folk artist Hánt announces the release of his debut EP ‘Is This As Far As We Go?‘, out February 6th, with the first single ‘Wait For The Sun‘ out on the 30th of January.
Blending intimate songwriting with widescreen folk arrangements, Hánt’s music sits somewhere between hushed confession and quiet resolve. His work has already caught attention from Hot Press, and his reputation as a compelling live performer has seen him support Pa Sheehy, Toucan, and The Fynches on tours across Ireland, the UK, and Europe.
The EP features an exceptional cast of collaborators, including JT Bates (Bonny Light Horseman) on drums, and lush string arrangements from Áine Delaney, whose previous work includes collaborations with Leif Vollebekk, The Staves, Ben Howard, and many more. Hánt recorded and mixed this EP himself, with help from producers Kealan Kenny on Wait For The Sun and August Ogren on Leaving.
Outside of the studio and stage, Hánt’s songwriting has been shaped by deep immersion in Irish culture and language. As Artist in Residence at Ionad Cultúrtha, he wrote an EP as Gaeilge, composing on Seán Ó Riada’s piano – an experience that was deeply inspiring. This was a throwback to his roots in Irish Traditional music, which he grew up playing.
While ‘Is This As Far As We Go?‘ marks his recorded debut, Hánt is already looking ahead. He has begun recording his debut album, which is dedicated to his late mother, due for release later this year, continuing to expand his sound while staying rooted in honest, emotionally driven songwriting.
Emotionally charged indie-folk, where hushed vocals and carefully crafted arrangements unfold through a palette of warm strings, brass and piano.