Michael Banahan

Broken Heart

Debut album of original material coming soon

Album artwork by Laura Mullooly

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We are thrilled to introduce you to this record and to its lead single, The Tango. For many the clue might be in its title; Broken Heart is indeed an album of heartbreak, yet it is one which also offers hope.

In Michael’s own words, "The Tango, was written against the backdrop of my own life experience; that of the one-sided love and what this feels like and indeed the acceptance that it is not possible for one person to tango on their own. It can be difficult talking about this song as indeed is the case for many songs on the album. I guess there is a lesson too; the rawness or vulnerability witnessed can be experienced as a result of many of life's challenges; not just love! And in an ironic twist, as heart breaking as this track might appear, there is a lovely irony in that it also gives me (and it seems others!) a sense of hope; there is good therapy in both writing and listening. An acceptance by us all for what is, also allows us to heal, and this allows us to hope and hold a full ambition for the future, a collectively good, full-filling future, which is what all of us deserve"

Michael continues:

“I have shared my music with a few close friends and contacts. Some, whose opinions and friendships I hold particularly close, indeed so close these friends don't normally feel the need to rush back to me in reply, to work I share. Yet, this rang differently in relation to The Tango; the response has been both speedy and enthusiastic. Two people in particular have told me how this record puts words to how they are feeling, or have felt and listening to my words has helped, greatly. While this is not what I set out to do, I find this feedback hugely uplifting. It is funny how a song based on heartbreak can offer so much hope and positivity! None of us are on our own, even with a broken heart, whatever the cause or anguish.””

Listen to The Tango

Photography: Catherine Montalbano

What Michael's fellow musicians are saying about Broken Heart

See what his peers are saying about Michael's debut album.

"It's rare and refreshing to hear original and timeless songs recorded to a high quality in this day and age. Michael has managed both on his debut album."

Ultan Conlon

"Eleven songs from a Broken heart, bravely addressed and tenderly told"

Mick Hanly

"Outstanding tracks for me are "Winter in the city" and "The Busker" has lovely pictures in it; also "Finding My Own Way back". Great songs."

Charlie McGettigan

"Congratulations on your new album “Broken Heart” Michael. A wonderful collection of soul-baring songs sung with honesty and deep feeling by you, and beautifully produced by Bill Shanley."

Eleanor Shanley

"This is a beautiful collection of songs from Mike , the songwriter, who weaves through the lived experience of love, loss, uncertainty and yearning anchored always by an undercurrent of hope. With sublime production from Bill Shanley this is a gorgeous album that lingers long after the final note."

Mike Hanrahan

"Down to Earth & Honest to God, Songs and Performances.”

Frankie Gavin

The Story Behind the Album

Over the last thirty-plus-years, Michael is possibly best known as a manager and promoter and in doing so bringing some amazing music to the live scene of the North Midlands while being the facilitator for attracting attention to the music of this Irish region also. Over the years Michael has worked with many greats, including Eleanor Shanley, Sharon Shannon, Charlie McGettigan, Mick Hanley, Paul Brady, Christy Moore, Sean Keane, Luka Bloom, Ultan Conlon and Ralph McTell, amongst many, many others.

Broken Heart is written by Michael and co-produced with Bill Shanley; one of Ireland’s legendary guitarists and record producers. Broken Heart has been taking shape in Michael’s mind for the past few years, and in 2024, the songs finally arrived, followed closely by the production. Reflecting on the experience, Michael shares: “The process was healing in many ways, and as always, working with Bill on the production was a gentle and positive journey.”

We proudly recognise Broken Heart as Michael’s debut album of original music. Based in Roscommon, this talented multi-instrumentalist brings a wealth of experience both onstage and behind the scenes. His previous releases include, Liftin’ of the Latch, Tecumseh Valley, The Baileys (a collection of Irish ballads), and extensive performances across Europe and North America; both as a solo artist and as founding member of critically acclaimed traditional/folk collective Rig The Jig, with whom he recorded five albums.

Still, no previous achievement quite captures the personal significance of Broken Heart. To say Michael is proud is an understatement; this album of original work represents a deeply meaningful milestone in his musical journey.

Tracklisting

1. Winter In The City

2. The Tango (lead single)

3. Ballad of Mikey Carthy

4. Hit The Road

5. Broken Heart

6. Leaving On Your Mind

7. The Busker

8. Walking On Eggshells

9. Find my Own Way Back

10. Closing Time

11. Pollyavaddy Dance Hall

Album production credits

Recorded at Madison Studios

Produced by Bill Shanley

Mixed by Andrew Holdsworth

Mastered by Denis Blackham at Skye Mastering

Musicianship

Michael Banahan – Guitar, Bodhrán, Harmonica, Vocals

Bill Shanley – Guitars, Bass, Bouzouki, Weisenborn, Hammond Organ, Keyboards, Percussion, Drums.

Andrew Molesworth – Keyboards, Drums and Percussion.