With “Here Comes the Night,” Thom Bishop Looks Toward Ireland

Ireland has become an unexpected but important part of Thom Bishop’s latest artistic chapter. The American songwriter, novelist and educator is preparing to release “Here Comes the Night,” a cinematic and reflective single from his forthcoming album Roy Orbison, Elvis and Me.

Bishop, who is based in Colorado, began spending more time in Ireland with his wife Michele while their daughter Simone studies at the University of Galway. Those visits opened a new creative door. He found himself inspired by Irish audiences, traditional music, street performers and the country’s continuing respect for songs with emotional depth.

His interest in Ireland was strengthened by the country’s reception of American music. Bishop has specifically pointed to Garth Brooks selling out five consecutive nights at Croke Park in Dublin in 2022 as a moment that made an impression on him. With his own Irish heritage, Bishop began to feel that Ireland might offer a natural place for his work to connect.

“Here Comes the Night” was produced by Billy Panda, whose career includes long-standing work with Garth Brooks. The single introduces an album of six original songs and six covers, designed to make new material feel classic and familiar songs feel fresh. For Bishop, the release suggests arrival after a long journey, and Ireland may prove to be an important part of where that journey leads next.