Below is a selection of quotes and reviews that reflect how the press has responded to Gavin Friday’s body of work.
‘Ecce Homo’ album reviews
“Ecce Homo magnificently continues to tread that territory, perfectly plaiting an ethereal sensitivity in a blaze of Euro-disco, the titular lead single being exhibit A – so good it has you dashing to the accompanying remixes.” 9/10
- Will Russell, Hot Press
“Gavin Friday’s best release in 30 years […] Throughout, his vocals captivate. That expressive croon has always been his strongest suit.”
- John Meagher, The Independent
2025 concert reviews
“Gavin Friday raises the roof, bar and gold standard to a transfixed Vicar St.”
- Hot Press Magazine, Ireland. (April 11, 2025)
2011 – 2012 concert reviews
“The biggest passion and conviction possible”
- Lust for Life Magazine, The Netherlands (February 20, 2012)
“Theatrical and Phenomenal”
- Oor Magazine, The Netherlands (February 20, 2012)
“Soul searching observations on his personal holy trinity: love, sex and death.”
- Musiczine.net, Belgium (February 18, 2012)
“Between the songs you felt that the emotional bond with his audience goes deeper than the average artist.”
- De Morgen, Belgium (February 17, 2012)
“Friday remains as fearless and engaging a performer as ever.”
- Irish Examiner, Ireland (December 1, 2011)
“Gavin has developed into an exceptional singer and he is also a brilliant performer with a deep understanding of the theatrical side of rock’n’roll. He is also a genuinely brave songwriter, who is unafraid to deal with difficult themes.”
- Niall Stokes, Hot Press (November 30, 2011)
“A born performer who doesn’t shy away from pathos and theatricality.”
De Morgen, Belgium (November 11, 2011)
‘catholic’ album reviews
If [ Gavin Friday ] once tartly likened the Catholic Mass to glam rock, wit hits purple robes, smoke bombs, dry ice and death cult trappings, catholic evokes the solemn grandeur of the high Latin Mass. **** – Peter Murphy, Hot Press
Friday pours his heart out on his fourth solo album, facing both his personal demons and mortality head on. Weighty stuff, but tungsten-strength tunes, a lush orchestral feel and Friday’s laconic delivery make for a winning combination. **** – Paul Moody, Q Magazine
An epic reckoning of midlife loss, bruised romance and broken hallelujahs. **** – Stephen Trousse, Uncut
… torchy, mirror-ball beauty. These are his silkiest arrangements yet, but shadowy undercurrents ensure the tension never lets up. **** – Martin Aston, Mojo