Join Duke Special at The Balor this November as he stops off as part of a nationwide tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of his masterpiece.

Duke TSolve – 1

20 years ago, in May 2006, Songs From The Deep Forest was released. The second album from Northern Ireland artist Duke Special it originally came as a limited edition set of six 7” vinyl discs before being re-released as a single CD in October of that same year.

Containing anthemic tracks such as Freewheel and Last Night I Nearly Died (But I Woke Up Just In Time) it was nominated for both the Meteor and Choice Music prizes. Showcasing Duke Special at his creative pinnacle, it remains to this day a fixture in lists of the best Irish albums of all time.

I can’t believe that it’s been 20 years since Songs from the Deep Forest was released. To mark its 20th anniversary, I’ll be performing the album in its entirety, along with the wonderful Temperance Society Chip Bailey. Hope to see you out on the road soon! – Duke Special x

The reprise of Songs From The Deep Forest is not just a nostalgic revisit. It’s a triumph of enduring artistry. What stands out most is how the album has stood the test of time. Duke’s songwriting feels even more special in hindsight. His ability to weave poetic storytelling with memorable, piano-driven melodies gives the album a warmth that few records manage to sustain over time.

Rather than feeling dated, the album’s understated arrangements now read as intentional and timeless. Duke’s voice—distinctive, expressive, and full of character—draws you in completely, making every lyric feel personal.

There’s a bravery in its identity, unapologetically whimsical, tender and rich with imagination. The refusal to chase trends is exactly why it resonates so deeply two decades later. This anniversary edition is less a reminder of the past and more a celebration of an artist whose vision has always been quietly extraordinary.