Live Report: Jack O'Rourke on the Hot Press Lockdown Y&E Series

On Monday's Lockdown Sessions, we had the privilege of welcoming Jack O'Rourke to the fold. The Corkonian singer-songwriter opened his explosive set with a brand new song called 'Crop Circles', before transitioning smoothly into 'Patsy Cline'.

"It's like being in a sitcom with no laugh track," the singer joked of the lack of live audience, but you can rest assured people were buzzing in the comments section when he sang 'Shining for You', a Nina Simone inspired jazz pop track. O'Rourk and his band closed with his hit single 'Ivory Towers'.

Watch Jack O'Rourke's full performance below.

 

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Take a look at some of the brilliant acts performing this week on the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions Y&E Series.

Wednesday, 15 July: CIARAN LAVERY
Ciaran Lavery's sophomore record Let Bad In saw him rack up millions of Spotify streams. His language is that of heartbreaking melodies, gentle acoustic guitar and deep, cavernous sonics; he has a sound to get lost in. His latest album Plz stay, bb is a must hear album of 2020.

Thursday, 16 July: JACK RUA
Glam-based pop artist Jack Rua has just released his debut mini-album ‘Narcissus’. Inspired by some of the most ambitious and creative artists of the last fifty years, Jack Rua spent his formative years studying the work of icons such as David Bowie, Madonna, Lady Gaga & Prince; analysing their every move and how they used their art forms to innovate and rebel. He has fast become one of the most compelling young glam pop artists in the country.

Friday, 17 July: JANET DEVLIN
Many will remember Janet Devlin from her storied days as an X-Factor contestant, but that was just the beginning. Devlin's latest concept album Confessional came with a matching book, and saw the singer use her phenomenal voice and Celtic sensibilities to grapple with her demons. Inadvertently finding a new meaning in 2020, the final album single ‘Big Wide World’ brings a positive message of re-embracing the outside world.

Saturday, 18 July: JESSY ROSE
Formerly a member of Hare Squead, Jessy Rose took a break from the group back in 2017 – now, he's back and better than ever. The 23 year-old Dubliner blends R&B and elements of soul to create a tender and touching sound, while his latest solo offering 'Bloom’ was described as a "moving, radio-ready ballad” by Hot Press.

The Y&E Series, supported by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, is broadcast live at 19:30 every night from the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine).