Gavin Friday has announced the release of his new single ‘The Church Of Love’ for April 4, coinciding with his first Irish live shows in 13 years, with performances in Dundalk’s Spirit Store on April 8 and Dublin’s Vicar Street on April 10.

As part of his upcoming European tour, Gavin will also play his first UK show in 17 years in EartH in Hackney on April 7, along with additional shows in Europe.

Taken from his latest album Ecce Homo, ‘The Church Of Love’ is “a sacred place” says Gavin, “a vibrant sanctuary dedicated to the celebration of all forms of love: self, other, romantic… whatever, whoever you are, you are welcome…

“‘The Church of Love’ celebrates the differences,” he continues, “embraces gender fluidity, the freedom to be your true self - if you are brave in love, you belong... Like how dare anyone tell us what love is? ‘Our love is its own.’”

Accompanying ‘The Church Of Love’, Gavin releases a cover, sung in French, of Desireless’ ‘Voyage, Voyage’ – a song, Gavin says, “at the time we were all too cool to admit we liked”. But, he continues “In the 80s, it felt like the world was opening up - the mixing of people and cultures was futuristic and full of promise. Yet today borders are closing, countries are looking inwards - that sense of optimism, confidence... openness has been lost.”

Ecce Homo, Gavin’s first album in 13 years, released in October and was rated a 9/10 by Hot Press, who called it “a remarkable sonic trip”.

Tickets for Gavin Friday's shows in Dundalk and Dublin are on sale now here.