Galway artist Niamh Regan has received consistent praise for her debut album ‘Hemet’ since its release last September via Black Gate Records. This week it was announced that the album is one of ten nominated for the prestigious RTÉ Choice Music Prize Irish Album of the Year Awards 2020. Lankum scooped last year’s Album of the Year for The Livelong Day.
Among the other nominees is Ailbhe Reddy who, along with Niamh, performed on the recent Other Lives online festival “Bringing It All Back Home” which was co-streamed on Folk Radio UK’s Facebook page.
In his review of the Hemet here, Billy Rough concluded:
It’s impossible not to fall a little bit in love with Hemet. Beautifully listenable and rich in some rather gorgeous melodies and emotive arrangements, it is an adept and utterly mesmerizing debut. Niamh Regan’s deliciously languid voice is one to watch; warm and vulnerable in equal measures. Combined with her talent as a songwriter, Hemet presents the artist as a force to be reckoned with. A heartfelt, timeless, and captivating release.
“Over a year and a half ago we set out with Niamh Regan and producer Alex Borwick to make a special album that would do justice to Niamh’s incredible voice and song writing” says Peadar King from The Black Gate Records & music venue in Galway, “In our very first production meeting we talked of dreams of a Choice Prize nomination, a goal befitting of the talent and magic that Niamh weaves into her songs.
“It is the nicest thing to this nomination happen, and we are so proud of everyone who made this possible. To all of you who have supported us on this beautiful journey, we say thank you!
“Above all, well done to Niamh – you deserve every bit of success that you get“
Producer Alex Borwick added: “It took a village to make this album, with many hands keeping faith in Niamh’s music. It was an honour to steer the ship.“
Niamh Regan said: “My initial reaction was disbelief, followed quickly with a bucket of happy tears. I feel it’s a huge honour to have my debut album acknowledged like this in a year where so many good records were released. The making of ‘Hemet’ was a real journey and I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support from the Black Gate label and my producer Alex Borwick.
“What an amazing way to bring in the new year.“
‘Hemet’ is out now on digital, CD, and vinyl, via Black Gate Records: https://shor.by/zC6c