Stepping into London’s Dingwalls, the air buzzed with anticipation. The Answer, the Irish rock band known for their blues-infused hard rock, were set to take the stage. The excitement was tangible. This gig in England’s capital was part of their much-anticipated Europe/UK tour following the release of their latest album, Sundowners in 2023.
The Answer
Dingwalls, Camden – 20 June 2024
Words And Photography: Manuela Langotsch
The band’s signature sound, characterized by crunchy guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and a tight rhythm section, filled the venue, and the crowd was immediately hooked.
Tonight’s setlist was a well-curated mix of tracks from their new album and classic hits. Each song was met with enthusiastic applause, showing The Answer’s enduring appeal.
Their stage presence was commanding. Frontman Cormac Neeson, who didn’t just showcase his vocal skills but also his harmonica talents, connected with the audience effortlessly, thanks to his charismatic energy and engaging banter. The funny stories just kept on coming.
His powerful voice, coupled with his dynamic stage movements, kept the crowd engaged throughout the set. The rest of the band – Paul Mahon on guitar, Micky Waters on bass, James Heatley on drums, and latest addition Cara Bruns on keyboards – played with precision and passion, creating a cohesive and compelling performance.
The stage was clearly too small for Neeson, who couldn’t wait to jump into the photo pit and get up close and personal with the fans. He even hopped over the barriers, not to mosh but to sit amongst them and have a singalong. You do not get to see that every day.
As part of the encore and a regular at every show, was a solo performance by Cormac Neeson, singing the Irish Traditional Here’s A Health To The Company. Just beautiful. Sláinte!
For fans of rock music, catching The Answer live is an absolute must.
They continue to prove why they are one of the most exciting bands in the genre today.
Set List – The Answer
- Blowin’ In The Wind (Bob Dylan Song – Played From Tape)
- Blood Brother
- Nowhere Freeway
- Under The Sky
- Sundowners
- Want You To Love Me
- Put Your Money On Me
- Comfort Zone
- Solas
- Spectacular
- Wild Heart
- Come Follow Me
- Cold Heart
- Preachin’
Encore
- No Salvation
- Here’s A Health To The Company (Irish Traditional) (Solo Performance by Cormac Neeson)
- Demon Eyes
