An expatriate New Zealander of Irish heritage now living in Europe, Mike Brosnan is a true craftsman of song, a powerful and emotive singer, and a superb acoustic guitarist.
Despite extensive international touring, for much of his early career he remained relatively unknown in the wider world. Working away from the spotlight, every year or so he would release a new recording, each of which was well received within the broad circle of contemporary acoustic music.
This lack of wider recognition was in all probability due the music industry's inability to "pigeon hole" his music, containing as it does such diverse influences; from rock to folk, from blues to Celtic to country.
With the recent re-emergence of interest worldwide in Roots Rock / Americana Music, containing exactly such influences, this anachronism is now quickly being addressed and for the last three years Brosnan has increasingly received the level of recognition he is manifestly due.
An incendiary live show only added to the buzz, but it is the songs – combined with Brosnan's ability put himself inside the characters body and soul – that leaves the strongest impression. As a songwriter, he is in a class by himself, presenting a level of lyrical honesty and vulnerability seldom found.
From solo performer to full bandleader Brosnan has journeyed throughout the UK, Asia, Continental Europe, NZ and most recently the US; from small cafes & coffee houses to the best-known clubs, from smoky bars to concert halls. His festival appearances include many of Europe and NZ's most prestigious. And the experience gained playing 200 plus concerts per year for more than a decade has forged his live performance into one of the strongest shows on the road anywhere, any time.
A stunning yet understated guitarist, Brosnan plays superb lines that perfectly support his powerful, emotive voice. His slide guitar playing is also considered a highlight. Positive comparisons are often drawn with Ry Cooder's best work.
A reviewer attended a Mike Brosnan solo concert in Germany recently - sceptical of the acclaim surrounding his work - and walked away a believer: "The audience was completely overcome by Brosnan's emotions... we were into his music body and soul. He clearly believes every word he sings, and so did we..." (Frankenberger Zeitung)
As a recent album reviewer wrote: "Do yourself, and the New Zealand music scene a favour by buying this Cd. And then go out and see him live for the full story!"