Michael McGovern Sunday, 18th October

Clonmel World Music Proudly Presents :

Michael McGovern (Scotland)

Sunday 18th October

Jerry Moynihans Clonmel

Clonmel World Music is delighted to welcome Michael Mcgovern to Clonmel.

Glasgow-born singer-songwriter Michael McGovern blends poetic lyricism with folk roots, evolving beyond his acclaimed debut Highfield Suite. His new album Thin White Road showcases full-band arrangements, literary influences, and viral single ‘Evelyn‘, cementing him as a compelling new contemporary folk voice.

Michael’s poetic lyrics and fingerpicked nylon-string guitar craft a deeply emotional folk sound. His debut album, Highfield Suite (2021), recorded during isolation in 2020 and produced by Bill Shanley, earned critical praise across the UK and Ireland. Including BBC Album of the Week, RTE Lyric feature, and an “unexpected gem” nod from folk legend Paul Brady.

His new album Thin White Road marks a confident step forward, expanding on his folk roots with full-band arrangements, layered harmonies, and touches of saxophone and strings. The breakout single ‘Evelyn‘ went viral in early 2025, sparking a wave of online covers. The album draws on literary influences like Laurie Lee and Hunter S. Thompson

Michael’s live shows are celebrated for their emotional impact and warmth. Thin White Road confirms him as one of the most compelling new voices in contemporary folk.

Reviews

“I love it! What an unexpected gem!”- Paul Brady

“The songs are visionary, beautiful and refuse to be beaten down by the world; exactly the tonic

that is needed.”- Liverpool Sound and Vision

“I’m totally besotted with him!”- Marty Whelan, RTE Radio

He writes as an old soul and as someone who has a deep sense of craft of songwriting and of melody and harmony. I’d place Michael squarely with the likes of Leonard Cohen, John Hiatt and Ron Sexsmith. He’s that good!” – Doug Cox, Vancouver Island Music Festival

His beautiful voice, incredible guitar playing and wonderful songwriting were matched only by his completely lovely demeanor and he won our audience over immediately! His joy-filled performance was so irresistible, he had nearly everyone singing along with him.”- Lisa Schwartz, Cambridge Folk Festival