Megan O'Neill, Grainne Hunt and Emma Langford. PICTURES: Andy Teo, Paddy Glennon and Conor Kerr

Three top artists feature at Kildare gig with a difference

Megan O'Neill, Grainne Hunt and Emma Langford

by · Leinster Leader

Songwriters ‘In the Round takes place at the Riverbank, Newbridge featuring Megan O'Neill, Grainne Hunt and Emma Langford. ’

This intimate and unique style of gig originated in Nashville at the Bluebird Cafe, where it has now become a hallmark tradition. The classic style of songwriters ‘in the round‘ usually features three to five songwriters, taking turns singing their own original material and sharing the stories behind their songs.

‘In the Round’ gigs are typically cosy, informal and conversational – where artists will get personal, have fun on stage and let you in on some beloved stories and tales from their lives.

Named one of the Irish Examiner’s Ones to Watch, Kildare singer – songwriter Megan O’Neill is currently working on a new collection of songs set for release next year.

Having shared the stage with the likes of Sir Tom Jones, Jamie Cullum, Lighthouse Family and Glen Hansard, O’Neill has travelled the globe with her original music throughout the past decade. She has had her work featured in hit Netflix TV show ‘Firefly Lane‘ and ABC’s ‘Nashville‘, as well as performing twice on Ireland’s beloved Late Late Show.

With a voice like complex coffee, Gráinne Hunt enchants audiences with her heart-melting vocals and emotional songs, making her a standout among Ireland’s vocalists and songwriters.

Described as ‘The Irish Joni’, her two original records delve into personal experiences, evoking pain and longing, and comparisons have been drawn to Tracy Chapman, Natalie Merchant, and Dolores Keane. She’s shared stages with Glen Hansard and U2 and has opened for Gladys Knight.

Emma Langford creates work that playfully blends folk, traditional and contemporary sounds and styles. Songs such as The Winding Way Down to Kells Bay and Birdsong have solidified her place on the Irish and international music scene.
She can currently be found touring a brand new collaborative body of work celebrating Irish myth, history and folklore.
This gig takes place on December 13 at the Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge. Tickets cost €18.
Log on to www.riverbank.ie for more information.