In a night filled with musical talent, Kingfishr set the stage alight as the supporting act for Tom Walker at the O2 Academy in Bristol on April 19th. This Limerick based trio, comprised of former engineers turned musicians, showcased their remarkable journey from humble beginnings to sharing the stage with renowned artists like Walker.
This is what I love about artists like Walker, allowing bands like Kingfishr to showcase their immense talent on a nationwide scale and introducing bands like the trio to myself, as without going to Walker’s Bristol gig I wouldn’t have discovered them. Drawing from their Irish roots, Kingfishr enchanted the audience with a fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, skillfully weaving melodies with a combination of banjo, acoustic, and electric guitars. All members of the band – Edmond Keogh, Eoghan McGrath & Eoin Fitzgibbon – pride themselves on their independence by producing, writing and recording all of their music at their home studio.
For a setlist which only lasted around 30 minutes, it was hugely memorable and remarkable to witness. About halfway through their set, the band’s connection with their audience for the night was highlighted by a moment when each member ventured into the crowd, igniting a sense of intimacy between artist and listener which rarely occurs. The three-piece ensemble delivered a dynamic and captivating performance which left a lasting impression prior to Walker gracing Bristol’s stage shortly after.
Despite being the opening act, members of Kingfishr remained engaged throughout Tom Walker’s set by entering and viewing Walker perform amongst the sold out crowd, showing their appreciation for their fellow musician and their commitment to the art of touring.
Kingfishr are one of those hidden talents that are very few and far between in my opinion, as their sound and style of music is exquisite and I can see their music and fanbase growing in no time. Some of my new found favourites I recommend checking out include: ‘Shadow’, ‘Vancouver’, ‘Eyes Don’t Lie’ and Coward’ but honestly, I enjoyed everything I heard. I feel that their music would be a perfect addition to the score of a major motion picture one day.
Dan Rose
Photographer
Portfolio – www.danrose.uk
Dan Rose @danrose.uk
Role: Photographer
I’m primarily a photographer for both concerts and festivals, and am also available for BTS photos, portraits, promo shoots and tour photography. I also write the occasional review.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots and Touring
First attended gig: My most memorable early concert experience was seeing Eminem in 2014 at Wembley Stadium. This was a very pivotal moment in my life as it reinforced why I love music so much and reignited my passion for it.
First gig shot: The very first artist I photographed live was the DJ and producer Nathan Dawe at SWX Bristol. This was an incredibly fulfilling start to concert photography, as I was on stage with him during his set, and even hung out backstage afterwards.
Dream gig: My top 5 dream artists to one day photograph would be Eminem, J. Cole, Rod Wave, Jon Bellion, and Logic. One of my favourite artists, Juice WRLD, is sadly no longer alive, and I wish I had had the opportunity to see him perform live and photograph him.
