Gavin Glass album launch at Whelan's

As album launches go, it is an eventful one. The night begins with hillbilly music (from support I Draw Slow) that wouldn't sound out of place at a hoedown, is later beset by electrical failings and flashing lights, features a duet with Lisa Hannigan, and then goes all Baptist Church with the bilblical rantings of Reverend WC Butcher. In between, we get onstage offerings from Gavin Glass' second record, Myna Birds, set for release the following day.

Glass walks on stage with his trademark Western string tie and his Holy Shakers launch straight into ferocious opener 'Awake On The Weekend'. Myna Birds was recorded in Nashville and Glass transplants the Western sound and vibe to the Whelan's stage with ease, as the twin organ swirl plays its small part. It is hard-edged music with a soft centre. Derivative, certainly, but this is the kind of music that is supposed to derive from tradition and what has gone before.

The new album explores a varied sound with the songs taking in the full breadth of its American roots. 'Ragdoll' is about as good as Americana can get when sung by an Irish soul, 'Wake Up' starts out as a gentle piano ballad before transforming into a Stonesy stomp. It is clearly a personal occasion for Glass as well. He plays the song that acted as his catalyst for leaving the insurance business ("that and getting fired!" he laughs) and begins his encore by wishing his sister a happy birthday.

It is a night noting opportunities passed but celebrating chances taken. By the end, he has been joined on a packed stage by friends and musicians alike. Glass closes with the song that remains his best, 'Older Than My Years', and Whelan's is left with the feeling that, for the moment, he is far better than his sales.