A Band Called Paul is the creative outlet of former orchestral percussionist, soundtrack composer and session musician Paul McDonnell. Based in Dublin, Ireland, the band’s music showcases the broad experience and influences from Paul’s career with deft lane-changes between hard rock, Latin Jazz, electronica, pop, reggae and world music.
Paul was percussionist with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra in Ireland for many years, while also being the original drummer with Irish ska/rock band The Pale. He has performed and recorded with many industry luminaries such as Elmer Bernstein, Jimmy Webb, Paddy McAloon (Prefab Sprout), Midge Ure and Bill Whelan (Riverdance) to name but a few. He has also composed soundtracks to two feature films, many short movies, TV commercials and theatre productions.
The band’s debut album Primero was released on February 21st, 2019. It is available to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and Deezer. It’s also available to purchase on iTunes, Google Play and Amazon Music.
Collaborations
In addition to A Band Called Paul’s core releases, Paul has also collaborated with other artists. Most visible among these collaborations are the two singles release with American rap artist JoeliD (pronounced “Joel I.D.”) – “Breaking Through” in March 2021 and “I Believe” in August 2021.
Sandwiched between the two releases with Joel, Paul produced and remixed a track for Irish female singer/songwriter Rhesus Freak. “Cabin In The Woods (A Band Called Paul mix)” was released in July 2021 and Paul also directed, filmed and editing the accompanying music video which can be viewed here.
Paul also participated in a “virtual choir” for a collaboration release by French indie artist Clint Slate and Scottish singer Iona James.
Live performances and touring
Paul started rehearsals with a five-piece live band in October 2022 with a view to performing A Band Called Paul in concert during 2023. The band lineup is as follows:
Paul (Vocals, guitar, congas, timbales, small percussion)
Oyena Sixaba (Keyboards and vocals)
Niall Fallon (Guitars)
Michael Sheridan (Bass)
Tim McGrath (Drums)
Further details will be announced on the site and on social media when they become available.
Sync and licensing information
All tracks by A Band Called Paul are available for non-exclusive licensed use in commercials, television productions, films and games. Instrumental versions and stems may also be made available for use in same.
Unless indicated otherwise (for example, by collaboration) all songs are written, produced and 100% owned by Paul McDonnell.
Licensing enquiries should be emailed to:
licensing@bangwalloprecords.com