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Over the years Donegal-based Ren Marabou has played with some amazing bands and musicians: Kerouac, Marabou, and currently Peralis to name a few. 2020 saw Ren begin to release his solo music, and it’s fair to say that the man has been prolific ever since. Here’s an introduction to Ren Marabou: the man, the myth, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan…
What are your origins, how long have you been playing?
I kicked off my solo career in early 2020. Up to that point, I’ve been very lucky to have gotten to play with some incredible bands and musicians for many years. Bands such as Kerouac, Marabou, and still currently Peralis.
How did you feel performing your first gig? And how was it?!
My first solo gig was a stripped backed acoustic set which is very different for me. It was well-received, even better than I had hoped. I am looking forward to kicking off my full band solo tour in 2021 when the Covid restrictions are lifted.
What should people expect when they check you out? How would you describe yourself?
The first thing I’d say is people can expect a broad mix of many different sub-genres of Rock and Metal. Rocking grooves, lots of riffs and guitar solos, melodic and heavy vocals. Energy, honest lyrics, and a constant sound evolution. I personally describe my music as Glitch Rock.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that you stand out from the others trying to build a name?
That’s true today’s music scene is jam-packed full of amazing musicians. I have a hybrid approached to writing, releasing, promoting, and recording music. Old school ideals combined with modern musical advancements. I also take inspiration from a huge range of bands from many different eras and musical styles. I guess all this makes my music unique. I’ll let the listeners decide if that’s uniquely good or bad.
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
I’m super busy at the minute in the studio working on my 3rd solo album ‘Ultra Mega’. It is set for release at the end of Jan 2021. I also have a charity Christmas single ‘Happy Christmas Punk’ out now which is in aid of Dublin Zoos ‘Save Dublin Zoo Fund’. All my tracks are available on all major platforms, iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Play, Deezer, etc.
What band out there at the minute do you feel that you would be best suited to open for?
There are so many bands that I would love to open for but If I was to pick one that would work well with my current set I would have to say Dead Letter Circus. They inspired me quite a bit while writing my current album ‘Solar Systems’. They’re an incredible band, it would be an honour to share the stage with them.
Who do you feel is the next band to break out?
Another band who inspired me a lot while writing ‘Solar Systems’ and a band who I think are on the verge of a massive break are Vola. They have perfected their musical style and vision. I was lucky enough to catch them last year on tour at the Ramblin’ Man Festival UK. Impeccable live and studio sound.
What are your first musical memories? And what was the light bulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
Growing up my Dad always had music playing around the house. He is a huge music lover, so he began my love for music. My musical journey really began when I stole my sister’s ‘Nevermind’ cassette tape. I heard her listen to it and was absolutely blown away by the sounds I was hearing. My parents then bought me my first guitar and the rest is history.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
I think it was a local show here in Donegal. My pals Stone Relic put on a great fundraiser show in aid of the Australian forest fires back in March. Lots of other great local acts played such as Blackbird and Crow.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
I’m not sure if any of my albums in my collection would surprise people but one that possibly might is one of my nostalgia albums, the ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack from 1990. Sends me back to a simpler time of Ninjas, Pizza, Cartoons, and Turtle Figures. I often wonder whatever happened to my Turtle Van.
What are your plans for 2021?
I’m trying to cram in as much as possible now before Christmas. A few music videos and my Christmas single will wrap up my year. I’m really looking forward to the New Year and the release of my 3rd album ‘Ultra Mega’. Hopefully, it will bring a better year for all.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
Since Covid and the lockdown restrictions hit I’ve had a lot more time to spend on engaging with people on my social media which has been great. I’m very active on all social media but Facebook and Instagram would be the best place to keep up to date with my news and releases. I also have an official website and of course a TikTok page (sorry no Ren dancing-just music).
