After an action-packed few weeks, we're thrilled to present the new issue of Hot Press – hitting shelves today, and available to order online now, which brings some of Ireland's most arresting voices to the fore. This special issue features Part 1 of an important new project, 100 Voices: #AllAgainstRacism, which involves artists, broadcasters, sports stars and more sharing their experiences and thoughts on racism in Ireland.

The issue coincides with the release of an extraordinary film, featuring one of Ireland's most committed champions of the underdog and the marginalised, Damien Dempsey. Damien is front and centre this issue for good reason.

"Love Yourself Today is such a powerful and moving film," Hot Press editor Niall Stokes says. "It centres on Damo's Christmas gigs in Vicar Street, which represent live music at its finest. The performances are beautifully shot under the direction of Ross Killeen. But the film is so much more than a concert film. By introducing us to three characters – Nadia, Packy and Jonathan – who are fans of Damien Dempsey, and allowing them to tell their sometimes heart-breaking stories in their own unique individual voices, the film becomes a remarkable expression of our collective vulnerability – but also of the value of community, of empathy and ultimately of the hope and joy that is there for all of us if we can find it within ourselves. At the heart of the film is the music of Damien Dempsey – huge, emotional and wonderfully liberating. Love Yourself Today is at once a love letter to ordinary people and a marvellous calling card for Damien. I hope it gets the support and recognition that will enable people all over the world to see it – because it is the kind of film that can change lives."

Inside, the issue, Roe McDermott talks to Damien and to director Ross Killeen, giving the background to – and discussing the themes that are explored in – the film. It makes for hugely compelling reading.

Damien also features in our 100 Voices: #AllAgainstRacism project. Alongside him, on our very special cover this issue, are the brilliant Celaviedmai and the outstanding Sharyn Ward, who both have fascinating things to say on their own experiences of racism in Ireland. Meanwhile (people really are spoiled this issue!) the flip-cover stars troubadour extraordinaire David Keenan, who also contributes to our Movember special feature.

So here's what to expect inside the new issue, beginning with a quick reprise...

Love Yourself Today is one of the most beautiful and brilliant Irish films in years. Damien Dempsey and director Ross Killeen discuss the extraordinary documentary, which captures the remarkable power of Damien’s live performances, whilst also revealing how fans find sanctuary, catharsis and hope in the Donaghmede man’s music...

In Part 1 of a special new project, 100 Voices: #AllAgainstRacism, a selection of public figures share their experiences and thoughts and racism in Ireland – featuring Damien Dempsey, Celaviedmai, Sharyn Ward, Offica, Bob Geldof, Ryan Lincoln, Miss Ireland Pamela Uba, Sinéad O'Connor, Maverick Sabre, Willzee, JyellowL, Wallis Bird, Gary Lightbody, Steo Wall, Jacknife Lee, Demi Isaac Oviawe, Kwanghi Chan, and many more...

The ink wasn’t dry on the reviews for David Keenan’s debut album before his head was off somewhere else, and then life handed us all a two and a seven. “It’s about recalibrating, and enjoying the process,” the supremely talented Dundalk-born artist tells Pat Carty...

As she returns with a new EP, Love & Light, Erica Cody reflects on a tumultuous year – which saw her becoming a prominent voice within the Black Lives Matter movement in Ireland, while also dealing with personal struggles of her own...

Rather than going into hibernation during lockdown, legendary superstar Elton John elected to make a record with some of his favourite younger artists – Dua Lipa, Lil Nas X, Miley Cyrus and Charlie Puth among them. He now tells HP Showbiz Reporter Pat Carty all about it...

Having established themselves as one of the country’s most exciting young acts, hip-hop heroes Tebi Rex are back with the abrasive, rock-influenced It’s Gonna Be Okay. “This album is more purposely chaotic,” they tell Kate Brayden...

Back with his latest Soulsavers collaboration, the haunting covers album Imposter, the enigmatic Dave Gahan talks formative influences, Elvis, the Pet Shop Boys, and Depeche Mode’s induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame...

It’s been been all systems go for emerging Irish folk star, Dani Larkin, since the release of her powerfully compelling debut, Notes For A Maiden Warrior. She talks prize nominations, hectic gigging, supporting Snow Patrol, and offering a platform to up-and-coming acts...

Snail Mail's Lindsey Jordan was a teenage indie sensation. But she’s grown up, had her struggles – and poured all the pain and excitement into her incredible break-up album, Valentine. She talks to Hot Press about the rigours of the road, learning to be the boss, and what she has in common with Billie Eilish and Clairo...

As he releases his autobiography, Shared Notes, Martin Hayes reflects on a remarkable journey, including playing – and campaignin – for Barack Obama, smashing fiddles, and how he could have followed a very different career path into Fianna Fáil politics...

Plus – we speak to some of the figures changing the face of men's health through their work with Movember, in a very special feature. From activists like Seán O'Hara and Kev Sharkey advocating for suicide prevention and the early detection of prostate cancer to musicians like David Keenan, DJ Arveene, Josh Gray, Rob de Boer and drummer Micheál Quinn; it's all systems go.

“It’s a very empowering thing to grow a moustache," Keenan explained of Movember Ireland's 2021 campaign. "When you see someone walking down the street with one, you’ll give them the nod because you’re part of something bigger than yourself. Especially since the pandemic, there’s been that silent pandemic of male suicide. The statistics are so high, and aren’t spoken about enough. Movember shrinks the stigma of being human. We need to get to a place where there doesn’t need to be any push for this."

Whew! – and that's just for starters, folks! You'll find even more interviews, reviews, news and previews inside – so don't miss out! Pick up a copy of the new issue of Hot Press in shops now, or order online below: