Michael McGovern | In Athens | Ally Doherty & Marcus Devlin
Glasgow-born singer-songwriter Michael McGovern blends poetic lyricism.
His debut album, Highfield Suite (2021), recorded during isolation in 2020 and produced by Bill Shanley, earned critical praise across the UK and Ireland. Including BBC Album of the Week, RTE Lyric feature, and an “unexpected gem” nod from folk legend Paul Brady.
His new album Thin White Road marks a confident step forward, expanding on his folk roots with full-band arrangements, layered harmonies, and touches of saxophone and strings. The breakout single ‘Evelyn‘ went viral in early 2025, sparking a wave of online covers.
Michael’s live shows are celebrated for their emotional impact and warmth. Thin White Road confirms him as one of the most compelling new voices in contemporary folk.
Hailing from the rugged meeting point of Galway, Connemara and the Wild Atlantic, In Athens' music boasts a powerful blend of fuzzy post-gaze nostalgia and razor-sharp post-punk energy.
Expect expansive yet intimate guitars, driving bass, hypnotic drums and hazy, 90s-inspired vocals creating a sound both contemporary and timeless
In Athens debut EP "MIRRORISM" (Oct 2025) is available through Blowtorch Records on 12" Vinyl and all streaming platforms.
With over 50 years experience between them Ally Doherty and Marcus Devlin are two veterans of the much heralded Ballybofey guitar scene. Marcus is a nephew of OG Ballybofey guitarist Liam Deery.
A long established guitar duo – think Rodrigo y Gabriel only hairier! – their live shows are an enthralling mixture of original tracks and interpretations of classic tunes. They plan to finally hit the studio and capture their magic for posterity in 2026, a recording that promises to be the most anticipated release since Nelson Mandela.
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