For the cover story of the latest Hot Press (on the shelves now), Peter McGoran sat down for an interview with Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody, where the Bangor-born singer talked about everything from Snow Patrol's early days, to their recent triumphs at Ward Park 3. He also went into detail about his love for Northern Irish music, his arguments for why Northern Ireland badly needs more competent laws for reproductive rights, and his songwriting relationship with the likes of Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift.

On top of that, Mr. Lightbody was quick to sing the praises of rising Irish troubadour David Keenan.

David Keenan is set to support Snow Patrol as part of their Malahide headliner. It will mark his biggest gig to date.

“We can’t wait for this gig,” Gary told Hot Press. “It’s going to be an amazing day. And speaking of great Irish acts, we’ve got David Keenan on the bill for that, and he’s one of the most extraordinary lyricists. He’s just got it. If people haven’t seen him or heard him play before, they’re going to be absolutely blown away. It is important to us that acts who haven’t played on those stages before are given the chance, because when you look at someone like David Keenan – that’s the future for him. He’s going to have massive headline shows at festivals at some point in his life, because there’s magic in his voice.”

Snow Patrol are performing at Malahide Castle tonight, June 7. For more ticket details, go to ticketmaster.ie

The new Hot Press, with Snow Patrol, is out now. Buy it in stores or order it below here: