it's Irish bands and DJ acts at the fore for the 1st day of Temple House

Friday at the Temple House Festival played host to a wide range of excellent up and coming Irish bands and DJ acts. Things kicked off on the Music Makers stage around 4pm with Boy Lights Fire. They were followed by Chuckys River, a Co.Wexford based band playing off the release of their new single 'Personality Crash'. Although I will freely admit to having heard of neither band, Chuckys River in particular impressed me with their technical ability and song writing skill. Also worth a mention are the Marley Bob. With an ingenious take on the name of the legend Bob Marley they played a thoroughly enjoyable reggae set, relaxing and uplifting the intimate crowd in equal measure.

On Friday night the Bavaria Main Stage stage welcomed Co Derry based band Fighting With Wire. The band, comprised of Cahir O'Doherty, Craig McKean and Jamie King are well known for their brooding grunge sound, similar in nature to the Seattle grunge bands of the early 90's. Easy comparisons could be made with the likes of Nirvana and Weezer. I had the pleasure of seeing them at last years at Glasgowbury festival and once again was not disappointed.

The band, who have been together since 2003 are at one with one another on stage and in this capacity the intensity of the performance appears effortless. Any curious readers should check out the singles, 'Everyone Needs A Nemesis' and 'I Should Let You Go'. Touring off the release of their new album, 'Bones Of Twilight' they are a must see at any summer festival. One thing I will say with regard to the gig is that the generally disappointing crowd turnout on the Friday at Temple House detracted from the atmosphere. Fighting with Wire require a lively, surging crowd to help create an atmosphere befitting of their quality.

Ryan Sheridan headlined the rather beautiful and original Acoustic stage in the walled Garden on the Friday night. Set in an impersonated medieval village complete with an archery range and candle lighting the singer songwriter held the crowd in the palm of his hand. The Cajon drum played by Arthur Graczyk plays a large part in creating Sheridan's unique sound which has been gathering critical acclaim and wowing audiences around Ireland.

Sheridan, spotted playing in the infamous Temple Bar area of Dublin and subsequently signed by Rubyworks records played both his recent hits, 'Jigsaw' and 'The Dreamer'. He also repeated a stunning cover performance of 'Little Lion Man' by Mumford and Sons which he played at Oxegen 2010. A real crowd pleaser and a talented and crafty guitarist people will find him touring with Bryan Adams in the months to follow. A thoroughly enjoyable and gifted performer.

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