Biography

Damien Rice is a singer/songwriter from County Kildare, Ireland. He used to be in a band called Juniper. They never got around to releasing an album, but you might remember them from their single "Weatherman", which was released in Ireland. The rest of that band now form Bell X1.

In March 1999 Damien moved to Tuscany, then travelled around Europe, busking the streets. He arrived back to Dublin a year later with a clear head and full of ideas. He approached his music with a new found freshness and decided to put some songs down on record. Borrowing money from those that would lend it, he recorded his demo and sent it off to renowned producer and film composer, David Arnold (Bjork, James Bond). Arnold liked what he heard and provided enough money for Damien to buy his own mobile studio.

Damien Rice released his debut solo album in Ireland in early 2002. In July 2002 this album, "O", was released in the UK and it received widespread critical acclaim. In June 2003 "O" was released in the USA and Europe, with Damien appearing on numerous TV shows and receiving widespread acclaim. In October 2003 Damien was the first winner of prestigious Shortlist Music Prize. He has also won nominations at the Brit Awards, the NME Awards, the Mojo Songwriting Award and the Meteor Music Awards.

Damien's second album "9" was released in November 2006, again to widespread critical acclaim. Early in 2007, Damien's singing partner, Lisa Hannigan, left the band. Damien continued to tour with various combinations of his other regular musical partners Tomo (Tom Osander, formerly of "God Street Wine" - drums, percussion), Vyvienne Long (cello), Shane Fitzsimons (bass), Joel Shearer (guitar) and Brendan Buckley (drums).

Damien played his largest ever solo date in Dublin's Marlay Park in August 2007 and also performed in Wembley Stadium at the Live Earth concert in July 2007. In October 2007, Damien finished the 9 Tour in Cardiff.

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