Last autumn folk-flavoured, Hilltown-based hit-maker Matt McGinn released one of the tastiest tunes of 2019 in the form of the still spine-tingling ‘Bubblegum’. This summer, the talented songsmith looks set to repeat that success with new track ‘Annie (Many Moons Ago).’ A single which is sure to feature on any best of 2020 list worth its salt, you can buy the track tomorrow (August 7) via his Bandcamp page, but be warned, it’s available to purchase for one day only* so don’t hang about!

Boasting a brace of Beoga members on accordion and fiddle, ‘Annie (Many Moons Ago)’ tells a tale of past lives and loves and if the absorbing lyrics and gentle melodies don’t stop you in your tracks then those swooping strings most certainly will.

“I think I’ve written a song that raises more questions with folk than answers them,” offers Matt. “For me too...I want to know more about these characters. What happened before? What’s going to happen to them next? I suppose I might enjoy finding out myself….”

Matt was of course a part of our Hot For 2020 list and the multi-instrumentalist had many plans for world domination this year (which included a tour to promote his critically acclaimed album Lessons Of War). Sadly they were put on ice due to the lockdown, but in true lemons/lemonade fashion, McGinn kept busy and launched a virtual “in the round” platform on Facebook alongside Cormac Neeson called Cocoons. Over the last 20 weeks or so, the show has featured over 70 established artists from around the world and raised in excess of £10 000 for various charities and you can join the fun via facebook.com/groups/cocoons.

Matt has also used the downtime to record a new album and ‘Annie (Many Moons Ago)’ is its first single. Keep your peppers peeled on Hot Press for further news/release dates on Matt’s impending fifth opus.

* ‘Annie (Many Moons Ago)’ is set to be released via all streaming platforms on Sep 7, but don’t be a cheapskate and buy the track tomorrow (August 7) instead.