Cormac Looby is an up and coming singer-songwriter from Ireland, with a wonderful sound to his music. I loved his latest song Hard-wiring and wanted to find out more – read the interview below if you liked the track!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a song titled Hard-wiring, which we reviewed. What can you tell us about the track and where can it be purchased?
Hard-wiring is the second single from my debut EP, Things We Don’t Control, and it can be streamed or bought on all major platforms.
What does the title refer to?
The title is about reflecting on who I am as a person and wondering why I am ‘hard-wired’ to behave the way I do.
Has the pandemic hindered your work much?
In terms of writing, the pandemic was a very prolific period which was one positive that came from it, I suppose. In terms of gigging, we are only now seeing a definite light at the end of the tunnel, which has made it very difficult to gain any sort of momentum.
What is the writing and recording process like for you?
My songs are very introspective and personal so I prefer to write alone. Recording is very much a collaborative process between myself and the lads in the band. Last year we recorded the EP, and everyone brought their own musical ideas to the table which I think aided the tunes immensely.
Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?
Late last year we recorded a single at the prestigious Windmill Lane studio in Dublin, which is set for release later this year.
Do you have plans to release an EP or album anytime soon?
My debut EP Things We Don’t Control is set for release on February 25th! We were lucky enough that the two singles Patriot and Hard-wiring, featured on BBC Introducing and the RTÉ Radio 1 Recommends Playlist.
What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
Narrowing it down, Sam Fender and Phoebe Bridgers were two big influences on the tunes on the EP. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Mitski, Samia and Nilüfer Yanya. Girl power!
Where are you based? What is the music scene like in your part of the world? Are you influenced by your surroundings?
I’m based in Galway, Ireland, a city well-known for its music scene. There is a thriving busking culture here too, which I am proud to be a part of. I don’t know if Galway has directly influenced my songs, but a walk down the Prom in Salthill is always good to clear the head and gather ideas.
Do you have any tour dates lined up?
March 2nd, we launch the EP at the Róisín Dubh, Galway. We are currently in the process of organising a tour which will include a slot at the Claremorris Folk Festival, on April 30th.
What can people expect from one of your shows and why should people come and see you perform live?
Our live shows are good craic, for us at least! We don’t take ourselves too seriously and I think that is evident in our performances.
Any last words for the fans?
Mind the gap.