The latest show in our acclaimed Up Close and Personal series at The Grand Social, Dublin – run in association with Aidan Shortall and supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media – is just around the corner. To celebrate, we're offering you the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Damien Dempsey, in conversation about his acclaimed 2003 album, Seize The Day, on Wednesday, October 20.

This intimate discussion series brings the audience a deep dive into a number of classic Irish albums with the artists who created them, talking about the background, the songs, the recordings and the mood of the times in which they were created. It promises the most fascinating insights into some of the greatest Irish albums ever recorded.

Following shows with Villagers and Gemma Hayes at the end of September, and Mary Coughlan, Tim Wheeler, and Andy Irvine & Donal Lunny earlier this month, the upcoming line-up includes Damien Dempsey (Oct 20) – taking place live at The Grand Social, Dublin.

At these one-off listening parties, we’ll bring the lucky ticket-holders into the heart of the writing, recording and release of the album in question, as told live – and in person – by the artist that was at the heart of an outstanding creative achievement. And of course, we’ll listen to the album along the way, allowing listeners to experience the music again, in all its power and glory!

Damien Dempsey's sophomore album, produced by John Reynolds and released in 2003, confirmed the Donaghmede man as one of Ireland's greatest singer-songwriters. The following year, it scored him the only ever double win at the Meteor Music Awards 2004. Featuring the talents of Sinead O'Connor and the legendary Brian Eno, Seize the Day confirmed Dempsey’s status as a folk genius, capable of standing alongside Luke Kelly and Ronnie Drew.

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets to the sold out gig, enter our competition below:

Up Close & Personal is presented by Hot Press in association with Aidan Shortall and supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.