Live Report: Rising-star Calum Agnew brings soul-pop to EP

As I make the trek from the Hot Press Barracks to the ArtLot Stage in the depths of the Stradbally woods, my ears shifted from the incalculable renditions of 'Pink Pony Club' (after all, it was Chappell Roan day) to a funky soul-pop sound.

Saxophones blasted, drum kits thundered, guitars riffed and over it all soared a high-octane, energetic and heart-wrenching voice. I had arrived at the right place: The Calum Agnew Show.

The Meath native delivers a set that is able to balance the energy of a full band with the intimacy of a true singer-songwriter. Backed by a stellar seven-piece outfit, he commands the stage with style, flair, and an infectious confidence that quickly gets the crowd moving and grooving.

The bangers come early. The unreleased 'La La La La' bursts with soul-pop mastery and vocal agility, the same qualities that helped Agnew earn Hot Press’ A New Local Hero award last October.

His voice is an instrument of many colours: soaring falsetto, smoky low tones and effortless shifts between styles. His tracks are blues-infused, jazzy and blend soul and pop with seamless charm.

Agnew’s stage presence is palpable. He sways, throws glances and sets the rhythm, for his band and for the audience. With acoustic guitar in hand, he asks the crowd to sing along to his hit 'Anymore', they oblige in ecstatic unison.

A standout moment arrives with Agnew’s latest release, 'At Least', a slow-burner about longing and self-worth. Beginning with just a jazz-leaning piano, the song gradually builds, layering bass, strings, drums, and guitar before swelling into a crescendo of saxophone, trumpet, backing vocals, and Agnew’s spellbinding delivery.

Closing with 'Never', his debut single, Agnew cements his rising star status. He oozes confidence with every movement, and it’s contagious. Friends, strangers and fans alike throw shapes together in joyful abandon.

Even with a few minor technical hitches, the set is soulful, high-energy and tight.

It’s proof of how vital it is to give space to emerging artists, artists who not only need it, but rise to the moment when given the chance.