Dermot Kennedy unveils his upcoming album The Weight of the Woods at special event for fans

Dermot Kennedy has unveiled his upcoming album The Weight of the Woods, due out April 3, at a special gig for fans. The event took place on March 21 at Beyond the Trees Avondale in Coillte's Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow.

Featuring a first listen to the full album, the event included a surprise live performance from Kennedy, accompanied by the Maynooth University Chamber Choir. The gig took place on the 38-metre-high Viewing Tower, set against the backdrop of the Avondale Forest.

During the set, Kennedy performed tracks from the upcoming The Weight of the Woods, including singles 'Funeral', 'Refuge', and latest 'Honest'.

The Weight of the Woods is Kennedy's third studio album. It was written and recorded between Ireland and Nashville with producer Gabe Simon.

"To me, the album is a beautiful homegrown thing with Irish instruments and an Irish story," said Kennedy about the new record.

"There’s a forest behind my house, which is a haven for my sense of wonder. It's a peaceful place where I can escape. I’ve entertained the idea of living somewhere else, but I don’t think I’d be happy anywhere else."

Kennedy performed at Hot Press's History in the Making 50th anniversary concert in the 3Arena last month.

In May and June, he will embark on his biggest European tour to date, finishing with two Ireland headline shows at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on July 11 and 12.

Kennedy stars on the cover of the new issue of Hot Press, where he talks to Stuart Clark about hanging out in Nashville, surviving pop stardom, man of the match performances at Old Trafford, Lana Del Rey, and a very special night in the 3Arena.

You can order the new issue below: