Shiny Eyes light up Shane’s world

After a busy summer season on the festival circuit, Shane Owens went back to the recording studios. The end result sees the release of his new single, Shiny Eyes, a bright, bouncy, catchy number that encapsulates Shane’s personality and good humour.

The 21-year-old, who was born and raised in Reading near London, is proud of his Breffni roots. Both his parents hail from Co Cavan.

Last year, Shane won numerous friends with his down-home natural performance on Opry Derry on TG4. The inherent modesty and good nature of the young man shone through his stage presentation on the night. Walking on the Waves marked his debut about three years ago.

His rendition of Never Tire of the Road, a song celebrating Woody Guthrie, proved hugely popular last year.

Shane Owens.

“Shiny Eyes is a number that appealed to me and I was keen to record it. The production people have done a great job and I am very pleased with the finished product.

“We are anxious to broaden our horizons and are delighted with the reaction we have been receiving at the various venues to date,” says Shane.

A video to accompany Shiny Eyes has just been uploaded on YouTube.

Alex ready for Moate launch

It looks like Offaly is becoming the new home of emerging country talent. Alex Roe is the latest addition to the Faithful County, that now sees John Hogan, Ciarán Rosney, Simon Casey, Stephen Rosney and The Back Axels and Olivia Douglas all flying the flag for Offaly.

Alex Roe.

Alex, who hails from Clara, will launch his debut album in The Well in Moate on 16 October. The Ryan Turner Band will provide the music for all the acts on the night and joining Alex for his celebration launch will be Olivia Douglas, Gerry Guthrie, TR Dallas, Paul Kelly, Andy Feery, Colin Kenny, Sabrina Fallon, Tommy Power, David Kiernan, Ger Long and Chrissy Mac. The comperes for the night are Joe Cooney and Kevin Lalor Fitzpatrick from Midlands Radio and dancing gets under way around 8.30pm.

Paudie at home in the Green Hill

Down Kerry way, Paudie McAuliffe has been part of the local entertainment scene for many years. The man from the village of Shrone has just released his latest album, The Green Grassy Hills, featuring 14 songs.

Paudie and Declan, who comprise the Shades of Country group, enjoy a steady following – especially in Kerry and neighbouring areas. Former albums have been well received, and The Green Grassy Hills looks set to do the same.

The album features four songs composed by local Kerry writer Ted Leszczynski, and one by Brian Finn. Paudie also includes cover versions of The Irish Nurse and The Passing of Time, both recorded by Big Tom and written by Henry McMahon and Frank Nelson respectively. Other well-known country standards like The Winds of Yesterday, Cold Hard Facts of Life and I Have Not Seen Mary in Years complete the album.

The album was recorded in Music Row Studios, Co Cork, and produced by Leo Fitzgerald.

Brendan is ticking over

Brendan Quinn will release his 12th studio album later this month. The acclaimed singer from Magherafelt rose to fame in the 1970s when he achieved major chart hits with Four in The Morning and Behind Closed Doors.

Renowned for his class performances on stage, Brendan Quinn has always held a special place in the hearts of country followers in Ireland.

Tickin’ Over is the title of the new album and the single of the same name has just been released for radio play ahead of the album, which was produced by Manus Lunny.