Ways of Seeing

Ways of Seeing is the solo moniker of songwriter & multi-instrumentalist James O’Donnell. The project began after converting the attic of his childhood home into a studio. The unfolding pandemic provided time to flesh out years of voice notes and musical sketches. The songs that came out inspired ‘Ways of Seeing’; the idea that songs could reveal parts of the self and memories from the past that otherwise might never have been revealed.

The Kerry musician’s alternative rock sound was brilliantly executed on his debut album 'End Comes To Light', released in October 2022 to much critical praise and attention. Singles from the album received national radio airplay on shows such as The Alternative with Dan Hegarty on 2fm and Newstalk’s Tom Dunne Show. The album also featured on many prominent music websites/magazines such as Nialler9 - “sounds a bit like War on Drugs” and The Goo Dublin - "the soundscapes are broad and lush..." Following on from his debut album, singles ‘Gold Hand’ and ‘Hasn’t Happened Yet’ have been released to much praise; featuring on The Last Mixed Tape and Nialler 9 weekly playlists.

To begin 2024, Ways of Seeing headlined Upstairs at Whelans to a sold out crowd, building on performances supporting Cork legends The Frank and Walters and headlining Mike The Pies in Listowel. Ways of Seeing’s songs have taken on their own energy in a live setting, evolving into a captivating four piece band.

Ways of Seeing’s musical journey, guided by producer Christian Best (known for his work with O Emperor, Mick Flannery and Susan O’Neill), showcases songs that exist as dreamlike stories where the subconscious voice inhabits a world of lush experimentation and panoramic soundscapes indebted to artists such as Damon Albarn and David Bowie. Currently working on his sophomore album, this year is shaping up to be an exciting prospect for Ways of Seeing.