Ballybofey alt-rock artist StrawMan is set to return to the stage next month for the official launch of his much-anticipated fourth studio album.
Victory Has A Hundred Fathers will be unveiled on Saturday, March 28, at the historic Lifford Old Courthouse.
The 11-track record represents a bold and emotionally charged chapter in StrawMan’s evolving catalogue. Tackling themes of defiance, loss, animal rights, murder in America, the strength of the music community, and the urgency of seizing life’s fleeting opportunities, the album confronts the modern world head-on. Musically, it strikes a careful balance between raw, driving rock and moments of calm introspection—inviting listeners both to stamp their feet and to pause and reflect on the state of things.
The album has been over a year in production, shaped in close collaboration with producers Terry McGinty and Kevin Halpin, whose influence is felt throughout its textured, assured sound. StrawMan is confident that the finished product delivers on its promise.
“I refrain from applying adjectives such as ‘better’ or ‘the best’,” he says. “All we have tried to do with this record is to make something different from the previous one. With the lyrically global, outward-looking tracks and with Kevin on board, we have definitely managed to do so, and I couldn’t be prouder of how it turned out.”
Ballybofey artist Tommy Bonner, AKA StrawMan.
Production was temporarily halted last summer as the singer-songwriter dealt with the loss of his father—a period that profoundly shaped the emotional core of the album.
“It was something I was in denial about for a long time, and when I finally had to face the situation, it hit me like a train,” he reflects. That experience found its most direct expression in the heart-wrenching track ‘83, 25’, a song both for and about that personal loss, and one that stands out as a deeply affecting moment on the record.
In 2026, StrawMan will be joined by a seasoned and talented four-piece band featuring Kevin Halpin on lead guitar and keys, Sean Brogan on drums and percussion, and Rory Halpin on bass and vocals. Rory Halpin will also provide support on the night, adding further depth to an already strong bill.
Drawing from his four studio albums to date, StrawMan’s live set promises to be expansive and dynamic. Fans can expect favourites such as Cycle the Volcano, Wither, Krakatoa, and My Capital, alongside new singles Capo Happy and The Final Arrow in Your Quiver. The set both rocks hard and, at times, allows the audience a welcome breather.
With some tickets still available, music fans are urged to book early for what promises to be a momentous night of original music in one of Donegal’s most atmospheric venues.
Ballybofey alt-rock artist to launch new album next month was last modified: February 18th, 2026 by Staff Writer
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