Oh Yeah Centre, Belfast
Friday, 21st, February, 2014
The Oh Yeah Centre played host to one of Dublin's most exciting prospects tonight, as eighteen year old singer/songwriter Orla Gartland arrived for her first headline UK and Ireland tour.
Opening proceedings was Emily McGarvey, a young pianist asked on tour personally by Orla after covering one of the Dublin born singer's songs. With her calm demeanor, relaxed stage presence and effortless vocals, the young songstress took no time in winning over the near capacity crowd. Heartfelt originals were delivered with passion, never allowing the momentum of the occasion to overshadow her performance. Opting for a varied set of covers and originals, it was her own material which seemed to carry the most gravitas, particularly 'Pretend's gentle croon and emotional delivery. A confident set from a clearly talented young songwriter.
She was soon followed by the ever charismatic BriBry, sweetly accompanied by his fiance Candice. Also emerging from Dublin's bustling acoustic scene, the performer has clearly developed everything from his unique and personable vocal delivery, to his brilliant stage presence. Opening with the vibrant and energetic 'Home', (as beautifully crafted an acoustic ballad as you are likely to hear this year) it felt almost as if it was a homecoming gig, as a dedicated fan base sang many of his lyrics back as loud as possible.
BriBry's heartfelt lyricism is captivating and moving in equal measure, wrapped in delicate melodies that's near impossible to dislike. Radiating a natural confidence that seemed to instantly transfer to the audience, the sheer performance element was almost as enjoyable as the lovingly written songs which echoed through the venue. Finishing with fan favorites such as the poignant 'Adventure Time' and the simply stunning 'Your Life Over Mine', BriBry's impressive back catalog and cult following make him one to watch for the rest of this year.
Finally, arriving on stage to a chorus of cheers, came headliner Orla Gartland. Boasting a new, fuller sound through a recently assembled backing band, her self confessed brand of 'Quirky folk-pop" was undeniably fresh from start to finish. Delivering a high energy set, Orla's powerful vocals showed none of the strain that a consistent touring schedule could so easily have provoked. Instead, a strong and typically upbeat performance highlighted her ear for balladry, as Corr's styled melodies poured out of every song. A playful cover of Spice Girls 90's chart hit 'Wannabe' had the whole venue singing along, a rare step back from the mature, introspective nature of her superb originals. Having delivered a fine set, an encore seemed inevitable, and so it was as the patient crowd were awarded for their adoration with a flawless rendition of EP title track 'Roots'. A fantastic end to what was a proud night of celebration for some of this islands most promising young songwriters.
Taylor Johnson
