Caolan McCarthy is thrilled to launch his debut EP, ‘Paper and Stone’ with a gig featuring his 5-piece band, ‘The Pines’, at the world-famous George IV on Wednesday 1st November 2023.

Born and raised in County Tyrone, Ireland, and now based in London, Caolan is a multi-faceted artist who has made a name for himself in both music and acting. He is a Grammy-nominated musician, composer, arranger, and music coach for theatre and film. He is also a trained actor who graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 2015, appearing in numerous theatre productions from the West End to the National Theatre. He can most recently be seen as Uncle Sammie in Kenneth Branagh’s Oscar-nominated film, ‘Belfast’.

‘Oregon’, McCarthy’s first single, was released on 18th August to widespread acclaim. Consistently being played on local and national radio stations in the UK and Ireland, the critics have praised the record as a “bold and impressive debut”. His growling vocals and poignant lyricism have been lauded by listeners in every corner of the globe.

‘Paper and Stone’ is Caolan McCarthy’s first solo music project and showcases his talent as a singer-songwriter and pianist. The EP features six tracks: ‘Oregon’, ‘Three Men Were Walkin’’, ‘Selma McGlone’, ‘The Day’, ‘Tell Me Why’and ‘The Show’. Each song reflects a different aspect of Caolan McCarthy’s musical influences with songs ranging from stomping pop-rock ballads like ‘Selma McGlone’ to introspective and melancholic country ballads like ‘The Day’. A gigging musician since he was 15 years old, ‘Paper and Stone’ is the culmination of years of honing his craft and finding his voice as an artist.

“It is such a joy finally to release my own original songs and launch my debut EP at one of my favourite venues in the UK,” says Caolan McCarthy. “None of the 6 tracks is alike. Each pays homage to so many of my diverse musical influences. This record is the culmination of years of playing other people’s music and finally getting the courage to share my own. I am delighted to be joined onstage by the stellar musicians who played on the record and am thrilled to have the great Americana singer-songwriter and hometown hero Karen Turley playing a set to kick off the night.”

On the 1st November, don’t miss the chance to hear all 6 originals in their world premiere, alongside covers of songs by bands that have greatly influenced Caolan from Ray Charles and Van Morrison to Springsteen and The Band.

Doors:7 pm. Music: 7.30 pm. Early booking: strongly advised.