FROM THE IRISH HILLS TO THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS - KINGFISHR GOES THE DISTANCE
FONDA THEATRE - LOS ANGELES, CA
After much anticipation, beloved Irish trio Kingfishr hopped across the pond from Limerick to LA for their 2026 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR on Saturday night, for a sold out show at the iconic Fonda Theatre. I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this evening, however this became the best show I’ve had the opportunity to cover this year.
The night started off on a pounding note with perhaps the best opening act I’ve witnessed thus far – Tadgh Nolan. The Irish singer-songwriter has a voice that commands the room, and a warming stage presence that welcomes you like a friend. Showcasing original works such as "Dickhead" while grinning through covers like Creedence Clearwater Revival’s "Have You Ever Seen The Rain," Tadgh left the room with jaws dropped. I’ve never reached for my Spotify more quickly than I did at the conclusion of his set.
Finally, the time arrived for Kingfishr to make their appearance. The opening drums of "I Cried, I Wept" sounded with cheers echoing as lead singer Eddie Keogh leaped across the stage. He wasted no time breaking the barrier between the stage and fans, immersing himself in the pit and shaking hands with the fans that he clearly adores so much.
This was especially evident when the group left the confines of the stage to become one with the crowd during a heart-felt performance of "Shot In The Dark."
The room was illuminated by hundreds of flashlights, showcasing the mile-wide smiles across the faces of everyone in attendance. I watched in awe from the balcony of the Fonda, and captured one of my favorite photos as a result. The night continued on with fan favorites such as "The Sun Will Never Settle," "Anyway," and "Killeagh," that all left me aching to be at a pub in the Irish hills.
This group exudes endless love, gratitude, and jubilance. I found myself holding back tears multiple times throughout the night - not just from the heart-felt lyrics, but from the utter joy that was seeping from the room. Everywhere I turned, fans were chanting, dancing, embracing, and relishing in the music before them. This energy has become a staple for a Kingfishr performance. Their music demands to be heard, and to be loved. I left the venue on a euphoric high, and with a tinge of disappointment that I’m not Irish.
