Stand-out performance by CMAT at All Together Now

Set against the historic backdrop of Curraghmore House, Saturday at All Together Now offered something that can’t be bottled: a sense of emotional resonance that was driven largely by the depth of Irish talent on show.

A perfect example came relatively unheralded, in the afternoon, on the Flourish Stage, where Bren Berry, formerly of the beloved ‘90s indie band Revelino, delivered a performance that was as touching as it was measured. His set was marked by lilting melodies and lyrics steeped in reflection. You might think that this kind of intimate, soul-stirring approach would be drowned out in a festival's mad rush. Not so. Even to someone unfamiliar with songs like ’Turn On Your Radio’ or ‘Bullet Proof’ from his album In Hope Our Stars Align, Berry's heartfelt delivery was impressive. The set was warmly received by an audience that clearly appreciated both his sincerity and melodic craftsmanship.

Over at the Hidden Sounds stage, Kez delivered a genre-blurring performance that proved one of Saturday’s most intriguing surprises. Surrounded by an ensemble that included an electric cello, synths, and drum machines, Kez built a sonic world that was both futuristic and deeply emotive. Her powerful vocal range allowed her to soar over lush electronic textures, creating a soundscape that was equal parts cinematic and intimate. She may have been on one of the smaller stages, but the reception she received was rightfully rapturous.

As the evening descended, the Circle Stage came alive with two standout performances. The enigmatic Rois delivered a powerful and engaging set, blending moody synths and thoughtful lyricism with a magnetic stage presence that left a strong impression. Later, Dry Cleaning took to the stage, showcasing their signature blend of post-punk minimalism and deadpan spoken-word storytelling. The band’s set – anyone familiar with songs like ‘Scratchcard Lanyard’ and ‘Unsmart Lady’ will know what’s on offer – was taut and atmospheric, offering a darker, more angular energy that contrasted nicely with the warmth earlier in the day.

When it came to electronic music, Irish acts Max Cooper and Bicep delivered what can only be described as supreme audio and visual spectacles. Max Cooper's set was cerebral and immersive, pairing deeply textured soundscapes with a mesmerising visual show that transformed the performance into a scientific digital dreamscape, no doubt drawing inspiration from the fact that the man himself holds a doctorate in computational biology.

Bicep, meanwhile, turned the intensity up a notch, producing one of the most kinetic moments of the day with their signature blend of progressive beats and pulsing visuals. Both acts showed why they’re considered among the best in the world at what they do, setting a new benchmark for Ireland's electronic music community. Today Waterford, tomorrow the world!.

Back on the Flourish Stage, more homegrown brilliance was on display courtesy of The Altered Hours. The Cork-based band served up a heady cocktail of psych-rock and shoegaze textures, creating a sound that felt raw and expansive all at once. Their performance proved yet again that Ireland’s underground scene continues to produce bands with depth, energy, and an unmistakable sense of identity.

There was an interloper in the form of London Grammar, with Hannah Reid (pictured) – a commanding presence – in fine vocal form. Yet, even among so many high-calibre performances, one artist stood apart.

CMAT’s set on Saturday night wasn't just the best performance of the day, it may well prove to be the high point of the festival for many. Taking the stage with her signature irreverent humour and charisma on display, CMAT led the crowd through a joyous, sing-along odyssey of hits from her increasingly beloved repertoire.

CMAT at All Together Now on August 2nd, 2025. Copyright Trevor McGrath/ hotpress.com

Songs like 'I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby’, 'EURO-COUNTRY', and her emotionally charged closer 'Stay For Something' were met with full-throated enthusiasm by the crowd, many of whom knew every word. She leapt around, threw herself on the floor and generally acted like there were no limits.

Which may yet prove to be the case, The rise of CMAT feels inexorable right now. The question remains: will she break the States? One thing's for sure on this weekend’s showing: if she doesn’t, it won’t be for want to effort...