Track of the Day: Iann Brennan, ‘Game Over’

“Follow your heart and start as you mean to go on.” Those were the wise words of singer-songwriter Iann Brennan’s granddad Johnny Flynn, whose wisdom inspired the Irish musician to give up his safe day job and pursue songwriting and performing full-time.

Now, after 7 years of gigging all around the country, the rising Irish singer is gearing up to share his full-length debut.

That gifted courage to chase one’s dreams lives on in Brennan’s forthcoming album, the aptly-titled Start As You Mean To Go On, out November 24 via AGR Television Records. Brennan’s debut is preceded by the lead album single ‘Game Over,’ a hearty, anthemic tune with an equal mix of eclectic instrumentals and earworm riffs.

The tune was written on a train journey in Ireland, during which Brennan overheard a couple having an argument which peaked as the woman shouted, “I’m done, it’s game over.” Witnessing this one-liner inspired Brennan to pen the pop-rock tune.

‘Game Over’ is the lead single off Brennan’s forthcoming debut album, written by the singer himself and performed with his band, recorded and produced by renowned Irish producer Ray Traynor.

Also featured on Start As You Mean To Go On is original Aslan songwriter/bassist Tony McGuinness, who heard Brennan’s tunes and wanted to be part of the album. He brings his own flair of magical, grooving bass lines to the record.

“A pleasure to be part of Iann's debut album. He just rocks it,” McGuinness shares of the collaboration.

Adding to the list of album credentials, U2’s renowned album designer Steve Averill lended his talents to the album cover, logo and artwork on Brennan’s soon-to-be-released album.

Start As You Mean To Go On - album art

Iann Brennan has spent the past few years building a rapport as a live performer across the country, taking over some of Ireland’s most iconic venues and festivals, such as the 3Olympia Theatre, icar St, Cork’s Opera House, and Electric Picnic.

He has garnered a network of acclaimed Irish friends and collaborators, having supported acts like Christy Dignam, Aslan, Declan O Rourke, Damien Dempsey, Mary Coughlan, Hazel O Connor and Eddi Reader.

“Within Iann Brennan’s soaring anthemic melodies, are lots of wise lines between the cracking hooks,” Dempsey shares of the rising talent. “If he’s playing near you, do yourself a favour and try to get to him, he’s the bomb.”

Check out ‘Game Over,’ the lead single from Iann Brennan’s forthcoming debut album Start As You Mean To Go On, out everywhere November 24.