Dotts O’Connor is renowned as the guitarist of the Choice Music-nominated Irish band Come On Live Long and has more recently embarked on a new solo endeavour that blends classic songwriting with hazy production. Rooted in a folk tradition yet adaptable to both intimate campfires and vibrant clubs, Dotts O’Connor’s solo project deliver a unique musical journey.
Hailing from County Roscommon but now calling County Cavan home, Dotts O’Connor’s musical journey began in the singing sessions of Ireland, where he absorbed the styles and inflections that would later shape his own sound. As a solo artist, Dotts O’Connor skilfully combines intricate guitar fingerpicking with joyful melodies, crafting songs that introduce familiar characters set in unfamiliar stories.
Taking his first steps as a solo artist under his own name in 2021, he released his debut single “Something Grew” which he’s followed up with a string of well-received singles and his first EP, Coney, last year. The EP’s title track, “Coney,” garnered significant attention, earning a spot on RTE Radio 1’s recommended playlist and regular airplay on esteemed shows like The John Creedon Show and Folk On One with Murieann Nic Amhlaoidh.
Continuing his musical exploration, Dotts O’Connor presents his latest offering, the brand new single titled “Brushing off the Rust.” The song recounts the tale of two individuals embarking on a journey of rejuvenation, leaving behind the struggles of their past and embracing the open road.
Brought in by the crash of cymbal, a light groove takes shape with colourful flutters of acoustic guitar, laid back rhythms and delicate piano plinks. Dotts’ smooth lead vocals are met with lush female backing vocals, as intricate sax pips result in a soulful folk pop sound tinged with jazz stylings. Flowing through a delightful scene full of blissful melodies, gentle vocal performance and superb instrumentation, “Brushing off the Rust” is a truly charming outing from Dotts O’Connor who continues to go from strength to strength as a solo artist.
Recorded live at The Meadow recording studio in Wicklow, “Brushing off the Rust” features an ensemble of talented musicians, including Paul Kenny on drums, Brian Dillon on guitar, Ken McCabe on bass guitar and Liam McCabe on saxophone. Together, they create a stellar sonic landscape that complements Dotts O’Connor’s soulful vocals and heartfelt storytelling.
Commenting on the recording of the song, he shares, “I wanted to capture the unfeathered joy of the couple as they emerge from hardship and put all sorrow in the rearview mirror so I ensured that we didn’t do too many takes of the song and tried to keep the recording process fresh and immediate without giving too many directions to the musicians.”
Listen to Brushing off the Rust below
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