Offaly poet pens first original release for Midland family band

THE poet and songwriter Anthony Sullivan, a native of Lusmagh in Offaly, has teamed up with "The Wrafter Family Band" for the release of their very first original song, "That Tune", which will be available on all platforms from this Friday, August 8.

An upbeat blend of folk and country, "That Tune" explores how certain loves leave a permanent echo in the heart—memories that can linger with both sweetness and a quiet ache. Written by Sullivan and brought to life by the energy and harmonies of The Wrafter Family Band, the track marks a new chapter for the group, known for their spirited live performances and deep musical roots.

The song is powered by the emotional longing expertly expressed in the vocal of Thomas Wrafter, and the unmistakable banjo sound of his brother Conor. Indeed, the brothers' input on That Tune runs deep as they also co-produced the song alongside Seamus Cullinane, one of Irish music's finest producers.

For Sullivan, this release represents a bridge between his lyrical craft and musical passion. A devoted traditional rhyming poet, Sullivan’s work is heavily inspired by Irish literary icons like Patrick Kavanagh, W.B. Yeats, and Thomas Kinsella, as well as Romantic giants such as Wordsworth, Keats, and Emily Dickinson.

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As a songwriter, he draws influence from the raw storytelling of classic American country—Hank Williams, Harlan Howard, Guy Clark—as well as the elegance of the Great American Songbook, citing Irving Berlin, the Gershwins, and Cole Porter as among those he admires and looks to for inspiration.

Among more contemporary voices, Sullivan names Take That’s Gary Barlow as a standout songsmith for his melodic craft, emotional resonance, and career versatility.

Sullivan has previously published two well-received poetry and lyric collections: Under Star And Under Sun (2004) and Pilgrim In The Heartland (2009). His third collection, The Light Of Hope's Ascent, is due out later this year, continuing his legacy of thoughtful, emotionally rich verse.

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“This collaboration is a celebration of the Irish tradition of lyricism and storytelling,” says Sullivan. “It’s an honour to work with The Wrafter Family Band and to see my words take on new life through their music.”

~ "That Tune" will be available on all major streaming platforms from Friday, August 8, marking an exciting new step for both Anthony Sullivan and The Wrafter Family Band. "That Tune" is available to pre-add/pre-save now, and also to request from radio stations nationwide.