James Or

James OR is an Irish singer-songwriter whose music has been marked out for its honesty, wit, and a lyrical openness that connects quickly with audiences. His songs often move between sharp observation and heartfelt reflection, carried by melodies that are understated but memorable.

His debut album, All the Beds We’ve Been In, explored themes of isolation, resilience, and the search for connection. It introduced him as a writer willing to approach difficult subjects with clarity and candour, balancing personal experience with a sense of wider resonance. That ability to pair direct storytelling with melodic craft has made him a distinctive voice on the contemporary folk and acoustic scene.

This new project, Work Imperfect, is not a conventional album launch or a polished showcase. Instead, it’s a rare opportunity to hear brand-new material in its earliest public form. Performed live for the first time, these songs will arrive without the weight of overproduction, leaving space for raw ideas, new energy, and genuine interaction with the room.

Broadcaster Phil Taggart described James OR as part of Ireland’s strong heritage of original songwriters, remarking, “Ireland has a fine heritage of producing great popstars, and here we have another.” It’s an endorsement that points both to his talent and his ability to engage listeners with songs that are approachable while still carrying depth.

On stage, James OR brings a balance of focus and ease. His performances are not about grand gestures but about drawing listeners in, line by line, until the songs feel personal. Whether exploring the intricacies of everyday life or more universal themes of change and recovery, his writing shows a steady hand and a willingness to be candid.

At The Harrison, he will present Work Imperfect in a setting that suits his style: intimate, attentive, and tuned to the detail in every lyric. For those who value contemporary folk songwriting that speaks plainly while still carrying layers of meaning, this is a chance to catch an artist in motion, sharing new work at its most immediate.

Source: The Harrison website