Irish singer spearheads uprising against AI dominance
Ireland’s musical scene finds itself at the forefront of a rebellion against the encroaching rise of AI, with Cormac Neeson carrying the banner. To him, music represents the essence of humanity, a sentiment he expresses passionately by stating, “Music is about soul, it is the most human thing in the world.” Neeson, originally renowned as the frontman for the rock powerhouse, The Answer, has taken a bold step in a fresh direction with his most recent endeavor.
Emerging as a seven-piece band, California Irish has recently unveiled their inaugural album, titled “The Mountains Are My Friends.” A poignant nod to the iconic Laurel Canyon sound that once housed musical legends like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and Joni Mitchell, the album breathes life into Neeson’s long-cherished aspirations. The concept sprung from the indelible impact left on him by the sounds of Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens echoing through his childhood home.
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the valley outside Los Angeles, Laurel Canyon acted as a magnetic force for artists seeking pure expression through music. Decades later, Neeson and his newly minted band, California Irish, attempt to capture the essence of that bygone era. The band’s inception can be traced back to a production centered on the life of rock icon Neil Young, staged at the MAC in Belfast.
Neeson’s original intention was to compile the songs for a sophomore solo album, but driven by an inescapable vision, he elevated the project into a collaborative effort. The band convened at Middle Farm in Devon, the same setting where The Answer’s previous album came to life. Resolute in his stance against the sterile interference of AI in music creation, Neeson underscores the significance of authenticity in artistic expression.
Eschewing the modern trappings of excessive technicality, Neeson and his band chose to record the album organically, without the undesired influence of AI technology. Their process, reminiscent of Laurel Canyon’s golden era, involved spontaneous creativity and undiluted emotional energy. The result stands as a testament to their dedication to preserving the purity of music’s essence.
Recently, festival audiences at Stendhal received a taste of California Irish’s musical essence. Despite Neeson’s extensive experience on stage, including supporting AC/DC during The Answer’s European tour, he acknowledges the enduring thrill of performing amidst a live audience. As he navigates the dynamic landscape of music, Neeson remains committed to multiple projects, such as his involvement with Unholy Gospel and the forthcoming endeavors of The Answer.
As a testament to his unwavering passion for music, Neeson affirms that creative collaborations and solo projects alike continue to fuel his artistic endeavors. Fans of The Answer can anticipate exciting announcements on the horizon, reaffirming the band’s enduring legacy. While plans for California Irish’s forthcoming performances take center stage in Neeson’s current musical journey, the artist remains dedicated to sharing the soulful authenticity of his latest musical venture with audiences far and wide.