Decency Week

It scarcely seems credible but yes, this is a different Ste O’Brien – one with a ‘v’ rather than a ‘ph’ in his first name – releasing an album at more or less the same time as his near as bedamned namesake. Recorded in a former old people’s home and maternity ward in Co. Wexford, Decency Week is the debut album from the Slaneyside soothe-sayer. It represents something of a milestone for the singer, who has been performing some of these songs for years. Lauded by the likes of punk poet Jinx Lennon and featuring a backing band that includes Frames fiddle player Colm Mac Con Iomaire, the LP is a collection of pop rock songs that is packed with a kind of geekish charm. ‘Clothes’ (a song inspired by a thong-sporting lady in Ugg boots) and the XTC-ish ‘I’m In Retail’ (the tunesmith’s alternative career involves working in a supermarket) are highlights. While the vocals are limited, O’Brien overall delivery adds to the endearing oddness of it all.