Amble at Virgin Media Park, Cork

In a week of amazing shows at the renowned Virgin Media Park that included Kodaline, CMAT, Alanis Morissette and The Lumineers, it was Irish contemporary folk trio Amble that raised the bar to another level. The band pulled off their biggest headline outdoor show yet, giving a fitting finale to the Ballyphehane venue summer series in what can only be described as a magical atmosphere.

You can immediately feel the unique vibe of an Amble crowd. Known for their storytelling and introspective lyrics, the band naturally draw an audience that prioritises the music. The energy was charged, but respectful and highly personal, making Virgin Media Park feel like a massive, open-air living room.

Opening the final night were Cork’s own Maicín. The local outfit immediately captured the early arrivals with their rich, driving arrangements. Blending traditional instrumentation with contemporary folk sensibilities, their set was anchored by brilliant, tight musicianship – and the undisguised pride they felt, in playing to a massive home-city crowd. By the time they hit their stride fully, midway through the set, the early-evening chatter had completely subsided, replaced by an audience collectively leaning in. They are a band operating with a chemistry that suggests massive things ahead.

Next on the bill was Clare Island singer-songwriter Niall McCabe. McCabe’s setlist delved into his 2025 album Stranger and his renowned 2023 album Rituals. During the performance Niall recounted a story that perfectly illustrates the meteoric rise of Amble: the singer remembered a phone call he received just a few years ago from a chap called Robbie Cunningham asking if he and his friends could play a support slot for him at Vicar Street. Mac Cabe playfully said, "Thanks very much lads for having me tonight... how the bloody tables have changed!"

Just before 9pm, as if they were entering their local pub, Robbie Cunningham, Oisín McCaffrey, and Ross McNerney trooped on stage. Underlining an Amble minimal stage layout, apart from the band members, all the band needed was understated lighting – and their incredibly tight, signature three-part harmonies that immediately lifted the packed crowd.

That open-air living room vibe carried into the performance. Instead of reaching designated highs throughout the show, the band kept a constant level with the crowd on the edge all the time. The night opened with 'Shallow River Run' followed by 'Little White Chapel'. It was like turning-on a switch, as thousands of voices began softly singing back every word. At the end of the song, with the crowd still singing, Robbie (Cunningham) stated: "This year has simply been incredible. We have toured the world, played massive venues but there's nothing compared to playing at home. We've had a great day here in Cork and it's great to be with you all tonight, so let's keep the party going."

Early into the night, Oisín introduced their newest release, 'The Swell'. "It's a special day," he said, "and not just because we are here playing for you, but we have released our newest song. I hope you like it".

What truly makes Amble special live is their grounded relatability. All three members took turns chatting with the crowd between numbers, like they were swapping stories with old friends in a pub, injecting humour and context behind their songwriting process and continually thanking the fans throughout the show.

Halfway through, the three artists came into the middle of the stadium to a satellite stage for three songs, 'Thoughts Flood Back To You', 'Mary's Pub' and 'Sam Hall'. This section took on a life of its own. Surrounded by idolising fans and a sea of reflecting mobile phones Robbie, Oisín, and Ross appeared almost to levitate above the crowd.

Back on the main stage, the night continued in the same vein with fan favourites 'One Man's Love', 'Of Land And Sea' and 'School Yard Days'. A magical night came to a close with 'Lonely Island', and 'Tonnta'. A gig that will be remembered by every person that was present...