DECLAN O'Rourke returns to Tralee this Friday for a show in Siamsa Tire

Singer/songwriter O'Rourke began his career on the Dublin singer-songwriter circuit in 2000. He released his debut album under an independent Irish record label in late 2004. His debut album, Since Kaybram, went straight in at fifth position in the Irish charts. It very soon achieved Gold, Platinum and then double-Platinum status. Even now, almost four years after its release, it continues to sell steadily.

Declan's songs have gained him much interest both here and abroad with a number of the industry's top names. In 2006, when asked by Q Magazine which song from the past twenty years he most wished he'd written, Paul Weller chose Galileo, a song from 'Since Kyabram.'

Jonathan Ross, Britain's top chat show host and foremost radio DJ, plays him regularly on his Saturday morning show. Declan's songs have been recorded by a number of artists, including Brian Kennedy and Maura O'Connell, among others.

Declan released his longawaited second album, Big, Bad, Beautiful World, in late '07 which reached fourth position in the Irish charts winning favour with critics everywhere.

Declan is praised for his heartfelt, intimate performances as well as his larger, energetic concerts. In 2006, Declan supported Snow Patrol on their European tour, and in February 2009, he shared a Belfast stage with Nancy Griffith.

Declan plans a more extensive tour of Australia in Spring 2010. He will be touring in Scotland in October this year, and in October/November will be supporting New York songwriter Ari Hest on a nationwide US tour.

His next album is due for a release next Spring.

Declan's popularity continues to grow steadily, with a vast amount of sell-out performances in Ireland's most prestigious venues. He has also toured in England and mainland Europe, supporting such notable names as Paul Weller, The Cardigans, Paulo Nuttini, Paul Brady, The Beautiful South, Nizlopi, while appearing on the same bills as Planxty and Bob Dylan.

Tickets are €26 an the show begins at 8pm. Booking on (066) 7123055.