No Ordinary Fool

Hailing from Malahide in North Dublin, singer-songwriter Paul Hourican released his debut album back in March on his own label. For those dreading that this may be another Damien Rice or Fionn Regan kicking about, do try to read on a bit more, all may not be lost!

Let the Enemy In has quite an eclectic sound from the catchy disco-rock of opening track New York City Lights to the sleazy blues of Alive, the U2-esque Even Though You’re Gone, the pop balladry of She’s Gotta Be (the One) and the gospel-choir backed Let it Go.

The standout characteristic of Hourican’s singing style is that he can suddenly hit the afterburners two-thirds of the way through a song and go from a quiet style to absolutely belting out the last portion with incredible, attention-grabbing force. This is particularly effective when he is performing live. On the other hand, much of the richness of the album’s sound is lost when he plays acoustic solo. For example, All I Ever Wanted is not half the song without two guitars playing, as well as the accompanying female vocals.

Moreover, Hourican is not opposed to a little verbal dexterity, as is required on Don’t Know If I Do Know, which carries on for several lines more in a similar vein to the song’s title. This might be an amusing song to encourage an unwary and slightly inebriated friend to attempt at karaoke!

Thematically, many of the songs are based on his relationships with women. Several come across as being quite laddish, where either women are throwing themselves at the song’s hero or the latter is gone, leaving broken hearts in his wake.

On balance, this album is a pretty solid offering, with several songs that are entirely worth hearing. You can even try a few here!