Unfettered and Fearless: Diane Cannon Unleashes “Don’t Touch Me” with Nashville’s Finest
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Donegal’s acclaimed singer-musician Diane Cannon is making waves with her powerful new single, “Don’t Touch Me,” a track that promises a fresh yet deeply rooted evolution in her already captivating sound. This latest offering is a testament to Cannon’s lifelong immersion in country music, a journey that began with performing in her family’s band and led to an album release at a young age, shaping her distinct artistic voice.
“Don’t Touch Me” immediately distinguishes itself. While undeniably infused with a country sensibility, it veers away from the conventional, instead drawing from a richer, more eclectic sonic palette. This is thanks in no small part to the collaborative magic conjured with legendary members of The Time Jumpers, including the masterful Joe Spivey and Eddy Dunlop. Their contributions imbue the track with a vibrant fusion of western swing, soulful undertones, and bluesy inflections, all orbiting around Cannon’s remarkably distinctive voice. As she aptly puts it, “It’s not your typical country vibe, but it’s deeply rooted in music I’ve always loved and lived.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the essence of the single: an authentic exploration of influences that have shaped her, rather than a departure from her core.
The richness of “Don’t Touch Me” extends beyond its genre blending. The instrumentation is impeccable, brought to life by some of Nashville’s finest musicians. Their artistry provides a nuanced and textured backdrop that perfectly complements Cannon’s fearless approach to both genre and storytelling. It’s a testament to her vision that she can seamlessly integrate such diverse elements into a cohesive and compelling sound. The track suggests a mature artist unafraid to push boundaries while remaining true to her musical heritage.
Diane Cannon’s musical trajectory has been steadily building momentum, marked by consistent innovation and critical acclaim. Her foundation in the Sean Nós tradition of her native Donegal is evident in the soulful depth she brings to every performance, a heritage that underpins her expressive vocals and artistic versatility. Her acclaimed 2018 debut album laid the groundwork, and subsequent releases have only solidified her standing. The 2023 single “Bean an Fhir Ruaidh” garnered a well-deserved nomination at the RTÉ Folk Awards for Best Traditional Folk Track, highlighting her continued mastery of traditional forms. Simultaneously, her willingness to explore new territory is showcased in tracks like the bluegrass-tinged “Daily Growing” and the powerful “Amhrán Pheadar Breathnach,” both of which have received widespread national and international recognition.
“Don’t Touch Me” arrives as a vibrant marker in Diane Cannon’s ongoing musical journey. It’s a bold statement that she is an artist who refuses to be confined, drawing inspiration from a lifetime of musical exploration and channeling it into a sound that is both fresh and deeply resonant. With its intricate blend of styles and a performance that is both powerful and nuanced, this single is a compelling listen that will undoubtedly solidify her position as one of Ireland’s most exciting and versatile musical talents.