Eurosonic 2012: The Irish Invasion Is Underway

Wednesday night saw both Lisa Hannigan and James Vincent McMorrow in live action, wowing the delegates and attendees.

With James Vincent playing the European Border Breakers Awards and the Festival Awards Europe, both in front of packed houses, there is a real sense among the booking community here of an artist on the rise – and one who'll be hotly sought-after throughout Europe for festivals this summer.

Ms Hannigan, meanwhile, has taken Groningen by storm, playing first a club show at Vera and then moving on to the Grand Theatre as the night's headliner. The show – a brilliant roller-coaster of emotions – confirmed Lisa Hannigan as a genuine star. There is a rare deftness of touch to her music and she delivers it in a wonderfully elegant and winning style, always fully engaged and committed. Those watching were left in no doubt that she is one of Ireland's finest talents, a fine singer and songwriter who has matured superbly as a live performer.

On this occasion, Irish talent is in abundance in Groningen: the next two days will see over 20 Irish performances, under the Music From Ireland banner. With so much to choose from, it can be tough to grab the attention of the delegates but overall the omens are positive. Working the festival beat, and talking to international delegates, almost all of the acts have been mentioned in dispatches at different times by the industry attendees, but the anticipation is highest right now about The Minutes' midnight show and Jape in the Grand Theatre.

Watch this space.