Paul Casey
On August 13th 2012, Northern Ireland's best-kept secret, Paul Casey, will independently release his new album ‘Big World’ in the UK.
Hailed as one of the standout albums of recent years to emerge from Ireland, ‘Big World’ is Casey’s first UK release, presenting nine epically scored musical landscapes, peppered with Casey's Celtic sensibilities and evocative lyrics that reflect a maturity beyond his (insert age) years.
Despite displaying all the hallmarks of being produced in a world-class studio, the new album was recorded in Casey's own home studio. Every song is produced, written and performed (apart from the odd instrumental or backing vocal) by Casey, who describes Big World simply as "an album about what's going on in my head. I know how to write songs and that's all I know."
The album’s tracks switch effortlessly from lavish string arrangements to upbeat pop-rock anthems with unflinching choruses. Add Casey's unmistakeable riffs and his distinctive voice and you’ve got a mine of wonderfully crafted songs.
The Derry star pulls no punches throughout the album, kicking off with its title track - an opening statement described by Ireland's Hot Press magazine as "an epic opener... sweeping, atmospheric, otherworldly".
Casey knew he had struck a chord when Big World was released as a single in Ireland and radio station phone lines jammed following its first airing. BBC Northern Ireland took the almost unheard-of decision of playing the song for a second time on individual shows, echoing John Peel's reaction to 'Teenage Kicks' by Derry's The Undertones.
The song reveals many of Casey's influences, from the haunting lyrics reminiscent of a modern-day Neil Young, to the beautiful Pink Floyd-esque guitar solo.
On hearing a Ry Cooder record as an eleven year-old, Casey quickly developed an intriguing slide guitar technique using a piece of copper pipe, left behind by a plumber following a water leak at his childhood home the same day.
To this day, Casey can't to read a note of music - he is completely self-taught by ear - which has only heightened his natural instinct for composition. Ever since, the unassuming musician has been composing, recording and producing his own work as well as that of acts around the world, while also being a much sought-after live act. A household name in the North of Ireland, the self-effacing guitarist, singer-songwriter has been quietly honing his craft and now, with the UK release of Big World, the Derry star is set to become an international hit.