Biography

Formed in Summer 2018 and based in Belfast, Gin Palace produce a delicate and intricate form of indie music infused with elements from the early jazz and funk traditions of the USA, and the pop and psychedelic musical heritage of 1960s Great Britain but with a modern twist.

Vocalist, rhythm guitarist and brass player Joel McCracken and lead guitarist Daniel Donaghy are the architects of their vibrant, guitar-driven sound. Whilst the foundations of the band lie with bassist Darren Mercer and drummer Josh Lown , who provide a consistent groove and compelling rock-solid rhythms. Their tight and unforgiving live performances have earned Gin Palace with a devoted following across Northern Ireland in a matter of months.

In August 2018, Gin Palace released their debut single 'Marianna,' to much acclaim across the Northern Irish music circuit and further afield. Their second single, a stripped-back psychedelic groover, entitled ‘Tripped The Light Fantastic’ was released in November of the same year. Fast forward to 2019 and it has been a special year for Gin Palace. Without any label or industry backing; they received local and national radio airplay on Blast 106 and BBC Radio Ulster, headlined the prestigious Empire Musical Hall for three dates, and won Sound of Belfast and Translink's 'Metro Sessions' by public vote, cementing their status as one of the fastest growing unsigned indie bands in the province. In July 2019, Gin Palace self-released their eagerly-anticipated debut record, 'Gin Palace - EP', with 'Passing By' as their lead single.