There was a real summer buzz in the air in Waterford last night, and Bank Lane was absolutely alive with it. With the sun still lingering and people spilling into the venue early, it felt like it was going to be a brilliant gig from the get go. On these kinds of nights it really does remind you how lucky we are to have a space like Bank Lane, a venue that’s really coming into its own and clearly winning the hearts of the local crowd. The turnout speaks for itself, and it’s great to see the town showing up for live music like this.
Opening the night was Waterford’s own Tadhg Williams, who warned the crowd up beautifully. He’s got that easy-going charm and that pulls people in without trying too hard. His set was very entertaining and it was great to see the talent the City has got a chance to play to a big crowd.
Next up was Toucan. This was my first time seeing him live after missing his gig at the distillery a few summers back, and he was worth the wait. He hit the stage just after 10, and from the very first notes of Honey, you could tell the crowd were made for it. The band sounded great, the new and improved stage at Bank Lane gave them all plenty of space, Toucans voice was flawless, and the energy was just infectious.
The front of the crowd was packed with fans singing along and dancing like nobody was watching (great to see). He played a lot of his most popular tracks mixed in with some new ones. The set list included highlights like Don’t Understand Why, Cool Side of the Pillow, and Rock My World. By the time he reached We Fell For Miles, it felt like he could’ve played all night and nobody would’ve budged.
A brilliant night in a brilliant venue. If Toucan’s swinging back around anytime soon, go! You won’t regret it.
Tadhg Williams photos:
Toucan photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Honey
To be without you
Don’t understand why
Anywhere
If this isn’t love
Cool side of the pillow
You at last
Pretzel
Warm morning light
Gold
Another lover
Rock my world
Wonderful way
We fell for miles
Photos & Words – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography