The launch party drew a full house of devoted fans and newcomers eager to hear Devlin’s latest work. She appeared on stage dressed in sparkling silver cowboy boots, a sheer black dress, and a white cowboy hat—an outfit nodding to Nashville, where she recorded much of the album. Performing with a full band, Devlin delivered a mix of raw acoustic and dynamic full-band arrangements.
Opening the set with the title track, 'Emotional Rodeo', Devlin’s performance radiated energy and confidence as she moved seamlessly through a setlist packed with songs from the new album, including 'Daddy', 'Red Flag', and 'Country Singer'.
Each song reflected the album’s themes of resilience and self-discovery, punctuated by her characteristic wit and humor. During the night, Devlin frequently interacted with the crowd, sharing jokes and expressing heartfelt thanks to her supporters, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere.
The evening’s emotional centerpiece was an acoustic rendition of 'Whiskey on My Breath,' which saw Devlin’s band step offstage, allowing her voice and lyrics to take centre stage. Tracks like 'Burden' and an older song 'Whiskey Lullabies' continued this intimate tone, highlighting the vulnerability and personal storytelling woven throughout Emotional Rodeo.
Devlin later brought the full band back for songs like 'Best in You' and 'Place Called Home', ending the main set with 'Back to My Senses' and 'Austin' as an encore.
Co-written with Ben Earle of The Shires and Kaity Rae, and produced by Grammy winner Vance Powell, Emotional Rodeo represents a confident foray into country-rock for Devlin.
The album, which was recorded at Nashville’s Blackbird Studio, blends Devlin’s Irish roots with classic Americana influences, drawing inspiration from artists like Chris Stapleton and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
With lyrical themes addressing self-empowerment and overcoming mental health struggles, the album has already generated excitement, climbing to No. 4 on the iTunes Country Charts earlier this year.
“My writing used to be very self indulgent and I don’t regret it for a second. I had to write those songs to end up in the place I am now. In the past I would have buried everything in heavy metaphors and colorful phrases whereas now I’m just out and out saying it.I know I’m not the only person whosoever been ghosted, been a bit of a catfish with their looks or been a psychotic emotional rodeo to be in a relationship with. So even though its country music, I’m not singing songs about a truck or my wife leaving me. (Even though I listen to it and enjoy it). I wanted to make contemporary country in the old timey way. Write songs for the folks in the era we’re living in. With online dating, Ghosting and social media. I want the girlies to feel ownership of their womanhood in a society that tells us we lose value for every year that passes. For the guys who are fed up with being the breadwinner and just want to be looked after. But all in a fun way. I mean, I’m Irish so I can’t take myself too seriously. It’s in my bones” Devlin shared.
The album builds on Devlin’s distinctive storytelling and authenticity, qualities that have set her apart since her 2011 appearance on The X Factor. Now, with Emotional Rodeo, Devlin takes on a country-rock sound tailored to modern listeners, addressing themes of online dating, social media, and mental health.
Pre-save her album here: https://lnk.to/emotional_rodeo