Krea at Garter Lane Arts Centre Waterford (Photos)

“It was a first for me for a lot of reasons. It was my first proper headline show. It was my first time playing the harp in front of people. It was my first time playing new songs in front of people. And of course, this is the first time that I've played a gig since my debut EP has come out. I'm just completely overwhelmed by people's responses and people's attentiveness and people's kindness. I feel so encouraged and supported and inspired.” That was the initial reaction from Krea aka Karen Cowley after her debut solo gig at Garter Lane Arts Centre Waterford on Friday evening.

Krea is no stranger to the Irish music scene, having released two no. 1 albums as part of indie band Wyvern Lingo and collaborated with household Irish names such as Denise Chaila and Hozier, but Friday evening was different. As a vocalist, pianist and now novice harpist from Bray, Co. Wicklow, this was the beginning of a totally new solo adventure. There were some initial nerves but these were quickly cast aside as the singer’s immense talent began to shine. Songs from her new EP including ‘The Callows’, ‘September Sun’ and ‘Last Day of the Year’ took centre stage and there were also covers from her favourite artists including Queen, Fleetwood Mac and Madonna all before a totally engrossed audience.

Again speaking after the gig Krea said, “this means the absolute world, I'm so excited about the next couple of gigs. I'm really enjoying playing solo, being out of my comfort zone and testing myself.”

Tour Dates:

July 18th - Ruby Sessions, Dublin

July 20th - Frank's Place, Wexford

July 21st - Sea Church Ballycotton, Cork

July 30th - Workman's Cellar, Dublin EP LAUNCH

August 17th - Harbour Bar, Bray, Double Headliner with Caoi de Barra