Late Interference singer Fergus O'Farrell honoured in touching documentary Breaking Out, featuring Glen Hansard

A filmmaking achievement that acts as an intimate journey into the heart and soul of Fergus O’Farrell, Breaking Out was filmed over ten years by director Michael McCormack.

Those who remember the glorious 90s cult band Interference will be well aware of Fergus O’Farrell, the charismatic Cork man whose talent for writing beautiful melodies and ability to put on legendary live performances didn’t translate into the commercial success he and the band deserved. Then, when O’Farrell was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, the debilitating condition that breaks down muscle tissue, his music career seemed to be in jeopardy, as he lost the ability to hold a guitar or move his hands across piano keys, and eventually led to him using a wheelchair.

However, O’Farrell’s determination to create gorgeous music never waned, and he continued composing, collaborating and singing, adapting his vocal performances as the muscular dystrophy progressed. He performed across Europe, sharing the stage with Glen Hansard, who went on to use O’Farrell’s timeless song ‘Gold’ in the soundtrack to Once, the Oscar winning film and multi-Tony-award-winning musical.

O’Farrell sadly died in 2016 at age 48, and Breaking Out is a deeply affecting film that pays tribute to his talent, warmth and impact on Ireland’s music scene.

To coincide with the release of the film, Interference will play the National Concert Hall with Glen Hansard on July 18.