Draft:Oisin Leech

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Oisín Leech (born 25 October 1980) is an Irish musician, songwriter, and radio host from Navan, County Meath. Best known as one half of the folk duo The Lost Brothers and for his solo album Cold Sea (2024), Leech is recognised for his poetic songwriting and evocative storytelling. His work spans genres such as folk, roots, and cinematic minimalism, drawing inspiration from Ireland’s northwest landscapes and literary figures like Seamus Heaney. He also hosts the popular Caravan Radio show on RTÉ Radio 1, showcasing diverse musical styles.

Early Life

Oisín Leech was born and raised in Navan, County Meath, Ireland. He grew up in a musically inclined family—his mother is a singer, his father a violinist, and his grandmother a pianist. These early influences laid the foundation for his love of music. Leech’s exposure to punk bands in his teenage years led him to form The Vermin, a group inspired by The Clash and UK Subs. His transition into folk and roots music was sparked by his discovery of Bob Dylan’s The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan, which he credits as life-changing.

Career

The Lost Brothers

In 2008, Leech co-founded the folk duo The Lost Brothers with Mark McCausland. Over the years, the duo released seven critically acclaimed albums, working with notable producers such as Brendan Benson of The Raconteurs. Their evocative Americana sound earned them opportunities to tour globally, opening for artists like Billy Bragg, Elvis Costello, and Arctic Monkeys. The Lost Brothers performed at Glastonbury Festival’s Acoustic Stage in 2009 and 2015.

Solo Career

Leech launched his solo career during the COVID-19 pandemic, composing songs inspired by Donegal’s rugged landscapes and the poetry of Seamus Heaney and Patrick Kavanagh. His debut solo album, Cold Sea (2024), was recorded in an old schoolhouse in Malin Head, Donegal, with producer Steve Gunn . The album features contributions from Dónal Lunny, M. Ward, Tony Garnier, and Róisín McGrory. Described as a poignant blend of tradition and innovation, Cold Sea garnered widespread critical acclaim.

Musical Style and Influences

Leech’s music is marked by poetic simplicity and evocative themes of love, loss, and the natural world. His solo work blends traditional folk melodies with atmospheric soundscapes, often drawing inspiration from Ireland’s northwest coast. Key influences include Seamus Heaney, Patrick Kavanagh, Townes Van Zandt, Nick Drake, and Bob Dylan.

Discography

The Lost Brothers

• Trails of the Lonely (2008)
• So Long John Fante (2011)
• The Passing of the Night (2012)
• New Songs of Dawn and Dust (2014)
• Bird Dog Tapes (mini album) (2016)
• Halfway Towards a Healing (2018)
• After The Fire After The Rain (2020)

Solo

• Cold Sea (2024)

Tours and Performances

Leech’s 2024 solo tour spanned Ireland, the UK, and Europe, with sold-out performances at venues like Whelan's in Dublin and London’s Union Chapel. He has supported Gaz Coombes of Supergrass and appeared at festivals such as Other Voices (Irish TV series) and Another Love Story.

Radio Hosting

Leech is the host of Caravan Radio on RTÉ Radio 1, a program showcasing an eclectic mix of music. Inspired by his family’s childhood road trips, the show reflects his passion for exploring diverse genres and unearthing hidden gems.