Gemma Hayes‘ [MySpace] Night On My Side is, hands down, one of the best Irish albums of the past decade, a completely under-rated modern classic worthy not only of the Mercury Prize nomination it garner, but the critical attention it brought her here in the US. Many have heard of the Tipperary-born Hayes; however, things could have been much different had she received her “due” at 2003′s Field Day Festival (which was cut down to one day from two and was moved to Giants Stadium).

Had it not been for a series of unfortunate events (and the poor judgment of the promoter), her stellar set at the event might have won her over a legion of young, currently affluent (or possibly unemployed but still very musically passionate) fans who would be singing her praises. Instead, about 5,000 people checked her out that day in the drizzling and annoying weather and most, if any, hardly cared for her style of pop, but they were wearing pukka shell necklaces and trucker hats. Maybe it’s for the best, as I was there that day and have become a strong supporter of the Irish songstress ever since.

Check out the video for my favorite track from the album, “Back of My Hand”, after the jump

Last 5 posts by Shawn M. Smith

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