In just seven days country singer Derek Ryan has gone straight into the Irish charts at number ten with his new album, Country Soul.

In what is the busiest time of the year for album releases, it is a marvelous achievement for the former lead singer of D-Side who had a string of top ten hits with the boy band including a number one in Japan.

This week’s chart also contains albums from international singers like Katy Perry, Kodaline and One Direction.

Speaking about his achievement, the country star said: “It’s amazing to be competing with such huge names in the charts. Arcade Fire and Lorde also released albums this week, and I still managed to make it into the Top 10”.

“It’s so exciting to see Irish country music make such an impact on the charts alongside international household superstars, and it’s even better to see my own name up there”.

Derek has also has reached No.4 in the UK country iTunes charts, surpassing veterans like Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and The Zac Brown Band.

‘Country Soul’ is the Carlow’s singer-songwriter’s fourth album, and is on the way to being his biggest seller yet. The album features old country favourites, chart covers and his own original material, including “Welcome Home”, “To be A Man” and “Dancing in the Moonlight”.