The singer/songwriter is holed up in LA recording the follow-up to Living, which was released three years ago.
He's working with prolific producer George Drakoulias, who's done the job for Black Crowes, Primal Scream, Jayhawks and others.
The anticipated album is due to be released in early 2007, but fans can get a sneak preview of the new songs when he plays a couple of low-key dates when he's back for Christmas.
The gigs take place at Dolan's, Limerick on 21 December and The Music Factory, Carlow on 23 December.