In a remarkably close chart race this week, For Those I Love's acclaimed self-titled album has debuted at No.2 on the Official Irish Albums Chart. The Dublin artist, who was tipped as one of our 'Hot For 2021' Irish Acts, also achieved the most downloads and vinyl sales of the past seven days.

It's the latest landmark on what's been a remarkable week for For Those I Love, aka David Balfe – who sold out his Olympia Theatre headliner (October 1) yesterday.

At its core, For Those I Love pays tribute to Balfe's best friend and former bandmate, Paul Curran, who passed away in 2018. Following Paul’s tragic death, Dave locked himself away in his home studio for months, ultimately recording over 76 songs that would eventually be condensed down to form the basis of his debut album.

The result is an incredibly beautiful, raw and uncompromising 9-track project addressing grief and catharsis, which we described as  "potent and stirring" in our 'Album of the Month' review. Balfe has also been interviewed by Stuart Clark for the next issue of Hot Press – coming soon...

Narrowly beating For Those I Love to No.1, by just 67 sales, Justin Bieber has secured the top spot for a second week, with Justice.

Elsewhere on the chart, Live At Sydney Opera House earns Glen Hansard his first Top 5 album in six years, entering at No.5.

See the full chart here.