To mark World Environment Day (5 June), Galway-based songwriter (originally from Clonmel) Tom Barry has released his new single, Like Share Scroll On. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
According to Tom, the song not only addresses the environmental crisis we face, but also has resonances of how social media impacts our daily lives and how often do we 'like', 'share' and then 'scroll on'.
Created in collaboration with Sean MacUidhlin (SMAC-U), an up-and-coming electronic composer and DJ from Galway, currently based in Barcelona, Like Share Scroll On is "written about our apathy towards the environmental disaster unfolding in front of our eyes. We are disconnected from the truth and our response to images."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
Married to Kathleen in Galway and have three boys under 10. I am sea swimmer - training to swim 11km across Galway Bay on 20 July for Cancer Care West. I released my debut album at 46 years of age after years of writing and playing.
How would you describe your music?
I write about my experiences and things that hold meaning for me such as history, life, nature and the land. My music has been described as chamber folk but I am recently dabbling in Trip Hop. Like Share Scroll On is my first venture in that world, mixing the beats of SMAC-U and my chamber/folk style singing and lyrics.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Leonard Cohen, John Spillane, Luka Bloom, Bob Dylan, Josh Ritter, U2, Massive Attack, The National.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Siamsa Cois Laoí in 1987 - Wolfe Tones, Christy Moore, The Pogues and Status Quo. I was 12 and it was incredible. I sat on a hill in Glanmire the same year listening to Michael Jackson.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Bros - Cat Amongst the Pigeons. Yes, I know, absolutely random. They actually had really good voices so I think that's what got me. I made up for it with Jon Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet and Def Leppard’s Hysteria soon after.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Like Share Scroll On, of course!! But if I had to choose someone else it would have to be Hozier’s Too Sweet.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"All the other girls here are stars, you are the northern lights" - Kathleen by Josh Ritter.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Dance Me to the End of Love by Leonard Cohen - it is a masterpiece.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My website, Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify.
Alan Corr
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