A night with KT Tunstall
When Excalibur Press Publicity got in touch to see if I would like to attend the SOMA Festival in Castlewellan, I jumped at the opportunity. And after a quick scan at the programme I knew exactly who I wanted to see.
An intimate, acoustic gig with KT Tunstall in St Malachy’s Church sounded simply perfect. I love gigs like this - a unique location and a chance to see an artist do a set that they don’t normally perform. This was sure to be an unforgettable evening. Even better that I got to bring my wee Daddy with me!
St Malachy’s was the perfect backdrop for this most incredible gig, and what an incredible gig it was. In support of KT was Belfast’s rising star, Tony McHugh. Well, I think the entire audience was as blown away as I was. What a talent.
Tony’s guitar skills were jaw-droppingly brilliant, with an exceptional voice to match. He is one to watch for the future for sure! The atmosphere was like magic, I can’t quite put it into words. You’ve simply GOT to check this guy out. The entire audience was on their feet whooping and cheering when Tony finished his set. One of the most deserved standing ovations I’ve ever witnessed. Absolutely phenomenal.
Within 5 minutes of Tony finishing his set, on came KT. She connected instantly with the audience, her warmth and friendliness charming us all. She shared her intentions for what she hoped for this special gig - taking us on a journey from her 2004 beginnings and that incredible Jools Holland gig. And take us on a journey she did.
In her beautiful, conversational style, KT shared the stories behind the songs, letting us in to some of the private behind-the-scenes moments that have shaped who she is a person and, indeed, as an artist. I sat, captivated from start to finish, mesmerised by her stories and music. KT was right when she said that nothing and no-one can take away from that moment we all shared together in that magical space. No video or photograph can even come close. Read what KT had to say about the gig below:
Incredibly special acoustic evening at The Soma Festival at the beautiful St Malachy’s Church in Castlewellan. I played a chronological, totally acoustic set where I told stories and played a selection of songs from 2004 through to present day, from all 6 albums and 3 acoustic records. Pretty cool to hear the creative progression in one go, and also witness my own journey like that. Loved playing those gentle and tender songs in such an amazing space - thank you to all of you who sold it out! I will do more of these … Xx
Image: © Lee Campbell
The most heartfelt thanks to the guys at Soma Festival and to Excalibur Press Publicity for kindly inviting me along. Genuinely, I couldn’t believe I was able to be there and be part of such a special gig, especially with my Dad. One for the memory bank!
Disclaimer: I was gifted tickets to this gig, all thoughts and opinions are my own.