On the Town: Designer John Rocha, artist Guggi and designer Michael Mortell were at the launch of Paul Brady's 12th solo album this week.
The songs on Say What you Feel are about "being human in all its gloriousness, successes and failures . . . about joys and deceptions, trust and lack of trust, hurt and generosity", said Brady. "It's a simple record, recorded very quickly with real people playing live music and no studio-involved trickery."
Shay Healy, broadcaster, songwriter and director, whose musical, The Wire Men, set in the time of rural electrification, is due to open in May at the Gaiety Theatre, said Brady writes "killer songs" that deal with "emotions that are central to a lot of people's lives".
Arts consultant Doireann Ní Bhriain said: "I just love the music and he's such a great live act still . . . focusing on what's right for him and what's important for him has paid dividends in the end."
Broadcaster John Kelly, who launched Say What You Feel, also co-wrote five of the songs on the album. Niall O'Riordan, of The Long Knives, who play at the Sé Club on Ormond Quay next Wednesday, said: "When plays live he puts a lot of depth into his performances. He shows you what you can do on your own."
Musician Fiachra Trench said Brady's "beautifully wrought lyrics and a gorgeous melodic sense" have helped his music stand the test of time. Then Brady took up his guitar and sang songs from the album, finishing with Smile: "Do what you do in style, do it today, Smile, take it the extra mile, it'll be OK, Smile."