The Music of Mythen
Canada’s award-winning folk sensation Irish Mythen returns to Australia for a highly anticipated season of summer shows that includes a spot at the Byron Theatre and Bluesfest. The perfect example of a contemporary folk troubadour, Mythen is renowned for holding a crowd, be it 50 or 50,000 people, right in the palm of her hand with just a guitar, her monumental voice, refreshingly subversive lyrics and wicked wit in tow.
‘Up there on the stage, I’m in my element,’ said Irish. ‘In the true spirit of the 60s folk movement, I’ll whack you with home truths about politics, religion and civil rights and the entertainer in me will have you crying with laughter while I do it!’ Born in Ireland, Irish has spent her life on the road, picking up her first guitar in the Middle East at 15 when her parents thought she needed something constructive to do while they travelled. ‘We were always surrounded by music but no-one in my family had ever played an instrument or sung; so when my folks gave me that guitar, let’s just say we were all very surprised at how quickly it became clear this was my life’s calling.’
By 19 Mythen was touring Europe and signed to a record label; then after touring the world for years, she settled on Canada’s East Coast, where she has become a much-admired and highly respected artist, selling out shows and winning awards, and now looks set to do the same in Australia.
‘Aussies are my kind of people,’ said Irish.
‘You have a wicked sense of humour and aren’t afraid to call shit out – I have to say I’m glad you finally sorted out marriage equality.
‘We always have a laugh together. I can’t wait to escape the Canadian winter and see you all on the road this summer.’
So, hold onto your hats Australia, because Irish Mythen’s foot-stomping, soul-shaking shows are sure to leave you not only exhilarated, but searching through her calendar for the next show as she ‘leaves it all up there on the stage for ya’.
Tickets on sale now at irishmythen.com. Byron Theatre on Wednesday 2 Jan and Bluesfest 2019.
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