Folk star Michael McGovern's ode to Clonakilty

Glaswegian singer-songwriter Michael McGovern reflects upon the unique, timeless charm of Clonakilty for musicians

Michael McGovern performing in Shanley’s Bar, Clonakilty, Co Cork.

It’s 10pm on a dark January night. In a post-dinner haze, you decide to take a quick walk around town.

A freezing sea mist hangs low across the eerily still red-and-white bunting, crisscrossing Pearse Street from lamppost to lamppost. You are guided by a yellow orb of light in the distance, the sound of an electric guitar and a snare drum echoing out in the empty, cavernous night.