The Eskies, Conor Linnie and Corroboree all performed as part of this month’s Goldenplec & Claire Beck presents night in the Workman’s Club.
Coming as part of a special Knockanstockan festival preview, the event showcased a trio of artists from alternative-folk, blues and traditional styles that worked to highlight the broad, yet cohesive, array of acts that form the festival’s line-up next month.
The alternative-blues inspired sound of Corroboree began the night. Moving like a ball of energy between each track, front-man Danny Maher bounded around the stage delivering a hard-edged dynamic sound. Smashing upon the guitar while accompanied by equally visceral drumming the artist’s unique take worked as an effective opening set that captured the tone of the show.
Working in contrast to the more aggressive aesthetic of Corroboree, singer-songwriter Conor Linnie’s serene harmony driven performance provided a palpable contrast in style while keeping the concert feeling cohesive. Accompanied by Katie Lynn on violin the musician’s clear songwriting talents were brought forth through several deftly performed songs, including the energetic, scratching blues inspired number ‘Crash Bandicoot Blues’.
The Eskies brought the night to a close with a joyously raucous set. Bustling and blending together a myriad of folk and traditional styles, the group’s up-tempo sound moved dynamically from brief moments of repose (seen in ‘Rapture & Revelry’) to full-scale, manic passages of infectious rhythm and melody (seen in ‘Fever’). The group’s captivating abandon and singular approach gave the show the perfect finale, and highlights the band’s truly deserved live reputation.
Providing a line-up that felt considered and cohesive, the June edition of Goldenplec and Claire Beck presents delivered on the entire concept on which the night was built. Showcasing exciting new acts from the Irish music scene of varying genres the bands chosen were able to keep the balance the show stylistically, while also singling themselves out for their own individualistic approaches to their art.