Gaelic Storm & The High Kings

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March 6, 2024 – Steelhouse – Omaha, NE

Steelhouse in Omaha, Nebraska was the place to be on March 6, 2024 when Gaelic Storm and The High Kings brought their “The Mighty Tour 2” to town!

The night kicked off with the Omaha Pipes and Drums Band, a local non-profit band that’s been thrilling audiences since 1970! The band offers scholarships to members and students to encourage participation in local, regional, and national piping and drumming schools and workshops. In 2024, the Omaha Pipes and Drums competed in three games in Scotland, North Berwick, Bridge of Allan, and the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. What a fun way to start the show!

Next up was Gaelic Storm, and they didn’t disappoint!

Founded in 1996, Gaelic Storm has become synonymous with high-energy Celtic performances, and this show was no exception. This was the third time I’ve seen them live, and they just seem to get better and better!

The band’s diverse lineup of talented musicians brought an authentic taste of Ireland to the stage.

From the very first note, they had the audience on their feet, immersing them in a whirlwind of jigs, reels, and ballads. The band’s infectious enthusiasm was contagious, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that resonated throughout Steelhouse. Their skillful navigation through traditional Irish tunes and original compositions showcased the band’s commitment to preserving Celtic musical traditions while infusing them with their own contemporary flair.

One of the highlights of the evening was the band’s ability to seamlessly blend various instruments, including fiddle, guitar, and percussion. Each member’s virtuosity added layers to the rich tapestry of sound, creating an experience that transported the audience to the shores of Ireland.

Gaelic Storm’s frontman, Patrick Murphy, proved to be a charismatic and engaging presence on stage. His spirited storytelling between songs provided insight into the band’s heritage and added a personal touch to the performance. The crowd responded with cheers and applause, creating a lively exchange between the band and audience.

The set featured a mix of Gaelic Storm’s classic hits, such as “Johnny Tarr” and “Kiss Me, I’m Irish,” as well as tracks from their more recent albums. The diversity of the setlist showcased the band’s evolution over the years, keeping their music fresh and relevant while staying true to their roots.

The set was a jubilant celebration of Celtic music, expertly delivered by a group of musicians who are not only masters of their craft but also passionate ambassadors of a rich musical tradition. For fans of Irish folk music or those simply looking for a lively and heartwarming performance, Gaelic Storm proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of Celtic music! Fantastic!

After a brief intermission, it was time for The High Kings.

The Irish folk band, featuring Darren Holden, Brian Dunphy, and Finbarr Clancy, and former member Martin Furey, formed in 2008 and swiftly ascended to the forefront of the Irish folk music scene.

From the moment The High Kings stepped into the spotlight, the crowd was transported into a world of Celtic magic. Opening with their trademark vocal harmonies, the band delved into a repertoire that seamlessly navigated between traditional Irish ballads, lively jigs, and original compositions. The seamless integration of instruments, including guitar, banjo, accordion, and bodhrán, showcased the band’s musical prowess and commitment to preserving Ireland’s rich musical heritage.

Throughout their set, The High Kings demonstrated not only their technical skill but also a genuine passion for storytelling. Each song was introduced with anecdotes and historical context, providing the audience with a deeper connection to the music. The band’s charismatic stage presence, combined with their infectious enthusiasm, created an atmosphere that resonated with fans of all ages.

The concert featured a mix of beloved classics such as “The Rocky Road to Dublin” and “Whiskey in the Jar,” as well as newer compositions from their repertoire. The seamless transitions between upbeat anthems and soulful ballads showcased the band’s versatility, keeping the audience engaged and captivated throughout the performance.

The High Kings’ commitment to their craft was evident in their flawless vocal harmonies, intricate musical arrangements, and genuine love for the music they create.

As the concert reached its crescendo, Gaelic Storm returned to the stage and the audience was treated to an encore that left them yearning for more.

The night was a captivating journey through the heart of Irish folk music, expertly delivered by a group of musicians who not only honor tradition but also breathe new life into it. For fans of Irish heritage, lively tunes, and heartfelt ballads, Gaelic Storm and The High Kings’ performance was nothing short of a musical masterpiece, leaving the audience with a renewed appreciation for the timeless magic of Celtic melodies.

The High Kings Setlist: