Since the demise of indie dignitaries Jubilee Allstars, Barry McCormack has carved out a niche for himself as pre-eminent musical chronicler of historical Dublin. His fifth album, Cut Throat Lane (the old name of a dodgy Liberties throughfare) is all set in the glorious, grotesque and romantic surrounds of the capital, with tales of horse fairs, Sally Army Soupers, ballad singers and a contemporary nod to young ones in pyjamas.
Musically, it’s a more cohesive and accomplished collection than its predecessors; the songwriting and arrangements sparkle on this outing. McCormack is in fine lyrical form, possessing a dexterity that vividly conjures his characters and their capers.  
Stylistically, the album blends sundry strands; from the melodic canter of the title-track with its playful piano and singalong chorus, to the country-tinged harmonies of ‘When The Windows Shake’, via-the shimmering quasi-pop sensibilities of ‘The Night Before The Horse Fair’ and the insistent, infectious rhythms of ‘Never Leave The House’.
Co-produced by McCormack with Stephen Shannon, its stellar supporting cast includes The Sick And Indigent Song Club’s Gary Fitzpatrick on banjo and The Dudley Corporation’s Joss Moorkens on drums.
McCormack is a singular songwriter who defies categorisation. Elements of Dylan and MacGowan are evident here and even Nick Cave, especially on ‘Lord, Forgive Us’ with its religious sentiment and ominous piano. That said, he occupies a creative space all his own and we’re lucky to have him.
Here’s to the next instalment.

Key Track: 'Never Leave The House'