Cry Before Dawn / Paul J Bolger – live gallery & review from Bank Lane Waterford 18.04.2025

Cry Before Dawn made their return to Waterford last night at the newly revamped Bank Lane in Waterford. From the moment the doors opened, there was a steady stream of long-time fans and even some new fresh faces. Cry Before Dawn has built a real and lasting legacy and there’s a certain buzz and excitement that comes along with that.

Kicking off the night was Paul J Bolger, who you might recognise from past connections with Cry Before Dawn. He opened the night confidently, blending some brand new material from his upcoming album with a few older gems. There’s a warmth to Paul’s presence, humble, honest, and clearly grateful to be back on stage in support of some old friends. The crowd gave him a warm welcome too, with a few heads already nodding to the potential of what’s coming on that next release. After his set he rejoined the crowd and had some chats with friends and fans before watching Cry Before Dawn.

When Cry Before Dawn came on they immediately had a presence on the stage. The new setup at Bank Lane gave them space to move, interact, and really connect with the audience. Their energy was infectious, and they weren’t afraid to have a bit of craic either, the band had a good laugh with the crowd between songs, keeping it all down-to-earth.

Vocals were sharp, the band was tight, and the setlist hit all the classics. Whether you were there since the start or catching them live for the first time, you felt part of something and could appreciate the talent and love the band have for the industry.

The room was packed, sold out, shoulder to shoulder. Just a real, proper gig. The kind people will go home talking about. Next up, Cry Before Dawn are hitting St. Luke’s in Cork tonight. If you’re lucky enough to be attending, you’re in for a great night. Last night set the bar sky-high.

Paul J Bolger photos & set-list:

Set-list:
Godforsaken
Swim
Like a Fool
September Sun
Hard Truth
Different Sky
Testify
Start of It

Cry Before Dawn photos & set-list:

Set-list:
Outside Europe
I Want You For Your Soul
Is This What You Waited For
Second Sight
Last of the Sun
Victorians
Yesterday’s Girl
All Breaks Down
Always to Win
Big Wheels
Open Water
Word of Mouth
Girl in the Ghetto
No Living Without You
White Strand
Seed That’s Been Sown
Flags

Photos & Words – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography