Rock

It seems to be a regular occurrence that Irish singer/songwriters are picked up by roving A&R personnel eager for the Next Quiet But Passionate Thing. Indeed, the cache of Irish singer/songwriters has rarely been higher, what with the apparent successes of Paddy Casey and Juliet Turner. It now looks as if the next person to join the ranks of the reflective is Tipperary woman Gemma Hayes (right). Hayes has been a noticeable part of the Dublin singer/songwriter scene for some time and her sweet but thoroughly effective way with a tune has been rewarded with a steadily growing fan base. Lyrically, she focuses on the whispers of despair and alienation, her voice full of subtle slurs and nuances. She plays Dublin's Whelans next Thursday, June 22nd. Prepare to elbow your way in.