Live Report: Laura Elizabeth Hughes on the Y&E Series

Fast establishing herself as one of Ireland's most unique talents, a series of lauded releases have earned Laura Elizabeth Hughes an impressive 2.6 million views across her YouTube channel – with R&B star Joss Stone counting herself among Laura's ever-growing fan base.

2019 was another landmark year for the Dublin artist, with 'For You (Home)' and 'In My Defence' signalling stunning new developments in her sound. The latter earned her a coveted spot as cover artist on Spotity's 'A Breath Of Fresh Éire' playlist. Last year also saw Laura team up with 1000 Beasts on the powerful ambient house track 'Because of April'.

With a sold-out Dublin headliner and support slots for the likes of Dermot Kennedy, James Bay, Little Hours and Cry Monster Cry to her name, this rapidly rising star unsurprisingly gave her all on the Y&E Series.

Hughes kicked off her intimate set with 'Another Side of Conversation', written a few years ago about finally feeling ready to start something new and go with the flow, "which is not something I'm very good at, but it was a step in the right direction".

Hughes wrote a 3-track, entirely self-recorded EP last year, her one step in keeping her creativity going ("My God, was it hard," she laughed). Not seeing an end point to the pandemic was only alleviated by news of a gig to keep her grounded. "It's hard to set any goals when you're floating in limbo".

The powerful 'Swear To God' is up next, remaining in her repertoire as one of her favourite tracks. The song is about overstepping a line, thinking it was for the best in that moment.

Hughes then delivers a cover of one of her most loved songs, 'Poke' by Frightened Rabbit. "It helps me to feel connected to every other human on the planet by the commonality of loss," the singer remarks. It's a beautiful choice, her soft yet strong vocals match the lyrics perfectly.

Hughes describes how she started a long-distance relationship in January 2020, just before lockdown. Filled with uncertainty and grieving the loss of potential as a chronic over-thinker, the singer-songwriter put pen to paper. Named 'Two', the gorgeous offering is taken from her EP We, Myself And I. Feeling as though everyone around you has their act together while you're struggling is a relatable experience, but Laura puts it effortlessly into words.

Craving that minuscule moment where herself and a member of the crowd aren't strangers, totally connected in song, Hughes also mentions her forthcoming Sound House show on October 15th. Tickets are available now.

The final song played is the title track from her acclaimed EP, 'We, Myself and I'. It's a stunning way to sum up her set, watch this space for the talented Dublin artist.

Revisit Laura Elizabeth Hughes' performance on the Y&E Series below:

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Take a look at our dazzling selection of upcoming acts:

Monday, August 23: PRiiCE
Initially rising to prominence as Sean & Conor Price, the acclaimed Irish duo are back with a brand new sound under a brand new moniker: PRiiCE. Exploring the line between indie-pop and hip-hop, the pair released their debut single 'Sunflower' last month – garnering international airplay, and coveted inclusions on Spotify editorial playlists like Fresh Finds: Pop and New Music Friday. Following the success of their debut track, they're back with 'Sweet Life' – offering a promising taste of what expect from their upcoming EP.

Tuesday, August 24: NÍV
Drawing influence from Irish folk music, as well as the legendary likes of Damien Rice, The Cranberries and Joni Mitchell, NÍV has rapidly become one of the country's most hotly tipped talents. The Kildare singer-songwriter sold-out her first Single Launch at The Workman's Club in Dublin for 'Silly Voices' last year, while her next single, 'Moonlight', clocked up nearly 18,000 streams on Spotify alone. Earlier this year, she returned with the poignant folk song 'Home'.

Watch the Hot Press Y&E Series performances every night live on the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine) at 7.30pm – supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

Keep an eye on hotpress.com and our social media platforms for more information...