Ronan is an Irish musician/songwriter who writes and performs a diverse repertoire of highly original, thought-provoking music which spans many musical genres and styles. The hallmarks of his music are strong melodies, a committed vocal style, strong musicianships and refreshingly unique lyrical themes that complement and elevate the underlying song.
He is a renowned guitarist who can play a broad range of styles. He received lessons from Mexican guitar virtuosos, Rodrigo y Gabriella, whom he met after one of their early performances in Dublin.
Ronan typically plays and writes all of the music on his recordings (with the exception of drums which are played by Brendan Carthy on recent recordings). He prefers to perform unaccompanied with just a guitar and a microphone in a live setting. His recordings are produced and mastered by Orchard Studios with earlier releases produced by Michael “Mick” Egan.
Ronan’s interest in history and philosophy is apparent from his unique lyrics.
His diverse and impressive catalogue of releases have received global airplay (including the
BBC). Four of his albums have been placed in the Hotpress top twenty folk albums of the
year (2017,2019, 2021 and 2022) including his most recent album “The Hive Mind’s
Holiday”. He was named as Rock Radio UK’s “Breakout Artist of 2021”.
Contact – Minervasmeddling@gmail.com
Reviews:
“Mystic Mountain is a true masterpiece of guitar magic, transporting you to another world
with its hypnotic rhythms and ethereal tones. A truly unique and introspective listening
experience. Innovative, genre defying music.” – Wild Dogs Radio, USA
“Without doubt one of the most technically gifted guitarists that the country has ever
produced, but it’s the combination of Furlong’s sublime playing skills mixed with his
inimitable vocal style and accurate storytelling ability that sets him apart from his
contemporaries…The fact he is an outstanding guitar player certainly helps but it’s in the
songs where the real magic lies”. – Brendan Keane – Storytellers (“People Newspaper”).
‘Furlong is an assured & engaging solo performer with an expressive, flexible voice and dextrous guitar playing…helping pioneer a superior form of literate, contemporary song based music for attentive listeners…His elegant lyrics range over a myriad of subjects.That said, Furlong also delivered accessible, snappy tunes…”
Jackie Hayden – Renowned Irish Music Journalist and CBS Marketing Manager (masterminding marketing
campaigns for Dylan, Leonard Cohen, ABBA, The Clash & Paul Simon).
“Far Beyond The Cares Of Men, embodies the essence of powerful, melodic rock,
enhanced by a clever mix of Celtic and classical influences. The track showcases Furlong’
exceptional guitar skills, making the song as energetic as it is emotional.” – Vault Lab,
Media, Italy
“Far Beyond The Cares Of Men demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship displayed by an
artist of authentic talent” – Euphony.com, Media, USA
“Far Beyond The Cares Of Men, sounds like a rousing fusion of Celtic rock and classical
influences, delivering a high energy, almost cinematic experience. With a pace that mimics
the forward momentum of a careening ship, or a hard flowed journey across stormy seas,
the track seamlessly blends powerful guitars, thunderous drums, and commanding vocals to
create a bold musical adventure. The lyrics evoke a sense of exploration, courage and
freedom”” – Oghamyst Music, Record Label, India
“The listening experience for Far Beyond The Cares of Men, was fantastic. It’s one of those
songs which is both hypnotic and energizing, which is a rare combination – 10/10”- This Is
HipHop HQ, Media, Nigeria
“Tied To The Mast is a haunting and mesmerizing rock track that grabs hold of your senses
and doesn’t let go. The song’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, painting a vivid picture of a
journey of self discovery and inner turmoil. The arrangement is dynamic, with sweeping
melodies and intricate guitar work that create a rich sonic landscape. A true gem in
the rock music scene. A Masterpiece.” – United Music Mafia, media USA
“Tied To The Mast captures a haunting blend of folk and rock with introspective lyrics and
powerful guitar work” – Honk Magazine, UK
“Always technically excellent and inventive, “Tied To The Mast” is a powerful Rock song
from this virtuoso guitarist with a distinctive Celtic influence and wistful lyrics” – The Wrinkly
Rockers Club, UK radio and blog.
“Tied To The Mast, was an absolute burst of refreshing energy. From the moment the song
kicked off, the entire atmosphere was instantly charged with an exhilarating energy…an
immersive and intense sonic landscape” – Dulaxi media, UK
“Furlong, celebrated for his versatile musical style, showcases his prowess through
“Samarkand”. The song features intricate guitar work complemented by powerful vocals with
dynamic tempo changes that enhance its captivating allure” – Click Roll Boom, Media UK
“Samarkand is a truly oriental journey, an epic track with melodies that evoke exotic
landscapes and powerful riffs that bring an unmistakable energy. The song transports the
listener to a world of fantasy and adventure” – Letsgorock, Media, Brazil
“Mystic Mountain is a captivating and heartfelt reflection of everything he is, as a musician
and philosopher. With stunning guitar work and soulful lyrics, Ronan delivers a brilliantly epic
song.” – EnTijuana Rock, Music Blog, Mexico
“Mystic Mountain is a magical and immersive soundscape full of energy and Arabic
rhythms. A track with a cultural essence that will take you to live intoxicating atmospheres
that will catch you mentally and emotionally. A high value proposal that cannot be missing
from your favourite playlist” – Cosmonauta, Media and Radio, Mexico
“Samarkand is a song with epic overtones that flows on a journey in which it invites us to
bring out all the powers of our imagination” – Revista El Bondi, Media Outlet, Argentina
“Powerful and inspired! The riffs are razor sharp and Celtic touches give a distinctive colour
making (Always Amazed) stand out from the crowd” – Home Cooking Media, France.
“Ronan Furlong’s music is like finding a chest of emeralds shining from the Emerald Isle. A
true progression of timeless tales melded with the art of a talented accomplished multi-
instrumentalist and songwriter” – Chris Watson, Music Eye (UK)
“In the vast constellation of melodies, “Seneca Said” shines like a rare celestial gem.
Remarkable fingerpicking style cascades through the composition, forming a harmonious
backdrop to the soulful vocals” – Certified Bop Magazine
“Captivates the listener from the first moment, Always Amazed, is a track that feels fresh
and familiar at the same time, offering epic touches what will leave the listener always
impressed. Captivating grooves and careful orchestral elaboration.” – Avanzada (Media and
Entertainment website, Mexico).
“Always Amazed is a true explosion of energy that captivates from the first chord. The song
has an immersive and addictive atmosphere, with a unique combination of instrumentation
and melody that creates an exhilarating listening experience. Without doubt a masterpiece” –
– Penhasco Rock (Radio Station Brazil)
“Ronan Furlong is an Irish guitarist and composer who manages to do what might seem
absurd, which is to show a virtuoso technique without seeming forced or even egocentric.
This is addictive music.” – Underground Extremo Media, Brazil.
“Consummate mastery, mixing intricate subtleties and great slabs of glorious noise!”
Hotpress Magazine (Ireland)
“Rhythmic, hooky, warmly acoustic, without being folk or country, “Giving Me A Reason”
evolves into a harder electric rocker to showcase Ronan’s diverse performing skills” Daniel
Flores (Editor in Chief for Rolling Stone Argentina).
‘Exceptional work fusing music, literature, history, philosophy, mesmerising guitar work and
a unique voice, the spirit of creativity soars to new heights. Pete
Feenstra http://getreadytorockradio.com/presenters/pete-feenstra/ European/UK
Based “Broadcaster of the Year 2020”.
“Giving Me A Reason” is a superb release featuring charismatic vocal performances,
thought provoking lyrics and stunning musicianship. This is a magnificent release that you do
not want to miss” – FV Music Blog (www.fvmusicblog.com)
“Perfect in every respect” – Indie Now
“Ronan Furlong weaves a tapestry of enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, capturing the
sensibilities of classic folk with soulful lyricism. A must listen for aficionados seeking soul
stirring musical brilliance that transcends time and genre boundaries” – Honk Magazine
“Always Amazed is great and energetic, the melody beautiful, liked the timbre and vocal
performance, but the highlight goes to the beautiful guitar solo” – Only Indie Music, Blog
Brazil
“Musical exploration between classic rock and Celtic Influence, with an expressive and
contagious vocal line that keeps the listener’s attention within its musical universe” – R+
music blog Mexico.
Albums:
- Diotima’s Ascent
- Minerva’s Meddling
- The King Of Leaves
- Ataraxia
- The Hive Mind’s Holiday