Photo credit: Steve Gullick
The new album by Ed O’Brien is out now. DeClunk was lucky enough to see and hear Ed talking about the inspiration for the album. Before the chat was the presentation of a short, three part film that Ed has produced. Blue Morpho: The Three Act Play sets out the depression that Ed suffered and how he forced himself to play his guitar every morning for three hours. He sat with his guitar not making anything in particular. He recorded the sessions. On listening he felt there was something there, something personal and in the moment. It became part of his therapy, along with connecting with nature around his home in Wales. It is a moving, spiritual and personal film.
Ed O’Brien – Blue Morpho (Official Video)
Written during years of personal reflection and experimentation, the album emerged from long improvisational sessions, where he immersed himself in sound as a way to process emotional upheaval and renewal. The result is a record that navigates transformation, healing and spiritual connection, shaped by both introspection and collaboration.
A series of serendipitous encounters helped bring Blue Morpho to life. Paul Epworth became a central creative partner, while saxophonist and composer Shabaka Hutchings contributed flutes following conversations around resonance and frequency at Glastonbury. Dave Okumu weaves radiant, intricate guitar work throughout the record, ESKA lends additional vocals, and acclaimed Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits arranged the album’s string parts, performed by the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, deepening the record’s rich and expansive emotional landscape.
The record was completed between O’Brien’s studio in Wales and The Church Studios in London, with sequencing assistance from Flood and mixing by Ben Baptie.
Live dates:
4-Oct-26 – Netherlands, Amsterdam, Royal Theatre Carre
6-Oct-26 – Italy, Milan, Teatro Lirico
8-Oct-26 – France, Paris, Salle Pleyel
10-Oct-26 – Germany, Berlin, Admiralspalast
12-Oct-26 – Germany, Hamburg, Laeiszhalle
14-Oct-26 – Netherlands, Groningen, Oosterpoort Main Hall
16-Oct-26 – UK, London, Barbican – SOLD OUT
DeClunk 