Kingfishr at Lafayette

After speaking with Irish-folk rockers Kingfishr in November of this past year, ideas of what the future held for Eddie Keogh (vocals, guitar), Eoghan “McGoo” McGrath (banjo, miscellaneous strings), and Eoin “Fitz” Fitzgibbon (bass, guitar) were uncertain, yet exciting. Since then, the group has performed to sold-out crowds throughout the UK and Ireland whilst releasing new projects; to simply put it, they have been booked and busy. On 22^nd February, the band wrapped up their journey across Britain with a stellar show in King’s Cross.

Excellence comes easy to Kingfishr; their chemistry can only be described as an spectacular, unbreakable bond. As soon as McGoo and Fitz graced the stage and began Heart in the Water, cheers erupted and smiles decorated their faces. When Keogh appeared, the venue filled with warmth from the high anticipation within the audience. 

With the tone of the night set, the trio was ready to put on the performance of their lives, relishing in the glory of a sold-out Lafayette. Headlands showcased McGoo’s technical prowess on the banjo whilst joining the hearty and ever-impressive vocals of Keogh. Kingfishr introduced a few new songs; although Shadow and Coward are unreleased, fans belted alongside the band’s melodies as if they were cult classics. Fitz ditched his guitar for the banjo for Shadow, proving he is a jack of all trades; similarly, McGoo used the guitar to show off his strings knowledge. Leave carried the passionate energy with more McGoo banjo brilliance and, once again, the singer’s lead was moving.

Shot in the Dark is a special song for Kingfishr; the band went into the pit of the crowd for an intimate transition and the bright blue and red lights were exchanged for raw phone torches that swayed along to the touching tune. Once back on stage, they were awarded a well-deserved extended round of applause. The tune is a tear-jerker for some, but the audience cheered with pride and love, grins reaching ear to ear throughout the venue.

Next were a slew of hits: Vancouver, Eyes Don’t Lie and Anyway rounded out the main set nicely. Luckily, the show was not over. A delightful encore including another new track, Diamonds and Roses, and the beloved Flowers-fire and Caroline satisfied attendees and completed the night on a memorable note.

The final show at Lafayette may be the last of this tour run, but the three-piece will continue to have a flourishing future. Although Kingfishr is only two years old, their stage presence is remarkable and their fanbase will follow them without a doubt. They will return to Olympia Theatre in Dublin to take on two more sold out shows next month, and the electric environment of last night will surely travel with them.

Taryn Crowley
Photos: Virginie Viche

For further information and future events visit Kingfishr’s website here.

Watch the video for Caroline here: