New single from popular Strabane singer song-writer

Strabane singer-songwriter Darren Doherty of ‘Heathen Choir’ fame, is gearing up to embark on a new tour in a re-branding which he has described as ‘the most me’ he’s ever been.

Also releasing a new single today (Thursday), entitled ‘Violence,’ Darren says he can’t wait for people to hear his new sound.

Describing the song’s influence and meaning, he explained, “We all have coping mechanisms of some description, whether they be a person, a substance, foods, television shows or whatever. ‘Violence’ is a song about those mechanisms and how they can affect us adversely and how, in the end, they can end up being destructive by not helping us cope with things at all.

“It’s a great song and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.”

Coinciding with the single’s release, Darren will be embarking on a five-date tour taking in venues in Ballybofey, Bangor, Derry, Belfast and his home stomping ground of Dicey’s in Strabane.

Darren says he chose venues which ‘champion singer-songwriters and original, local music.’

He said he will be playing new material as well as his most popular songs such as ‘London Bridge’ and ‘The Life and Times of Me’ among others.

Previously, Darren would have gone to a producer but, under the new regime, he’s taken a hands-on approach to making his music a reality.

“‘Violence’ and all music going forward will be produced in my own home studio and will represent my most personal sound,” he remarked.

“It’s also a reason for the name change.

“As everyone knows the Heathen Choir was the name I gave myself and where I collaborated with many great musicians down the years but, I felt as time went on, it wasn’t representative of what the show was and it no longer feels appropriate to be called Heathen Choir.

“I feel confident now in selling my own music under my own name. The Heathen Choir might make an appearance again, never say never, but for now Darren Doherty will be out selling his own music in his own name.”

‘Violence’ is available for download from today through Spotify.