The Rice stuff

Damien Rice is feeling suitably chuffed with himself this week, having signed his own record label DRM to no less than two major licensing deals in Europe and the USA.

Christian Tattersfield, the former MD of East West records, has set up a new imprint label – a sub-section of the Warner Group that will now be responsible for the marketing and sales of Rice’s music throughout Europe.

Rice has also signed a similar partnership/licensing agreement in the US with the former Managing Director of RCA, Jack Rovner. Both deals were signed this week.

"There's a huge buzz about Damien in the UK, and one beginning to start in the US as well," says the Warner Group’s Conor O'Mahony. "Everyone connected with Damien has a really good feeling about things."

The good news doesn't end there, with Rice confirmed to play at the Fair Play Dublin gig that's taking place on April 16 in Vicar St. Also on the bill, which aids the Oxfam Make Trade Fair campaign, are Nina Hynes, Leya and Mundy.

St. Patrick's Day also sees the UK release of 'Woman Like A Man', his first single there, which also features 'Lonelily', 'Delicate' and 'The Professor & La Fille Danse'.