Dan Devane is an Irish musician known for his tenure as the lead guitarist of the indie pop band Walking on Cars, originating from Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland. He was a part of the band from its early formation in 2009 until his departure in February 2018.
Background Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Genres | Indie Pop |
| Years Active with Walking on Cars | 2009–2018 |
| Labels Associated | Virgin EMI |
Career with Walking on Cars
Dan Devane contributed to the initial success of Walking on Cars, which included the release of their debut album ‘Everything This Way’ and their follow-up album ‘Colours’. Devane’s guitar work was integral to the band’s sound, which combined indie pop with rock influences.
Departure from Walking on Cars
In the midst of recording their second album ‘Colours’, Dan Devane decided to leave the band in February 2018. His departure was amicable, with the band members expressing respect for his decision. The reasons behind his departure were not publicly detailed, but the band continued to reflect positively on the time he was part of their line-up.
Legacy
Dan Devane’s contribution to Walking on Cars helped establish their unique sound and supported their rise to international recognition. His work remains part of the band’s legacy even after his departure.
Walking on Cars
Walking on Cars was an Irish rock band formed in Dingle, County Kerry. Known for their emotive music and energetic performances, the band gained significant popularity both in Ireland and internationally. The band’s music is characterized by a blend of rock and indie elements, with a distinct focus on melodic songwriting.
History
Formation and Early Years (2010-2015):
Walking on Cars was formed in 2010 by five school friends in Dingle. The original lineup included Pa Sheehy (lead vocals, piano, guitar), Sorcha Durham (piano, vocals), Paul Flannery (bass, vocals), Evan Hadnett (drums, percussion), and Dan Devane (guitar, until February 2018). They started by performing at local venues, eventually renting a cottage for six months to focus solely on music creation.
In 2012, the band won the Redbull Bedroom Jam competition, which propelled their debut single “Catch Me If You Can” to No. 1 on the Irish iTunes chart and garnered significant radio play.
Rise to Fame (2016-2019):
Their debut album, “Everything This Way”, released in January 2016, was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 in Ireland and achieving double platinum status. The album’s success was bolstered by the hit single “Speeding Cars”.
The band continued its success with the release of their second album “Colours” in April 2019.
Discography
EPs:
- “As We Fly South” (2013);
- “Hand in Hand” (2014);
- “Clouds” (2020).
Albums:
- “Everything This Way” (2016);
- “Colours” (2019).
Notable Singles:
- “Catch Me If You Can”;
- “Two Stones”;
- “Tick Tock”;
- “Hand in Hand”;
- “Always Be with You”;
- “Speeding Cars”;
- “Monster”;
- “Coldest Water”.
Split and Later Projects
The band announced their split on 21 August 2020, coinciding with the release of their EP “Clouds”. Following the split, former lead singer Pa Sheehy pursued solo projects, releasing singles like “Saw you at a funeral” and “Roisin” in 2021.