Richard O’ Flynn at the Static. Photograph by Ian D. Hall.

Originally published by L.S. Media. October 1st 2010.

Seeing Richard O’ Flynn perform his debut album live at the Static Bar in Liverpool should go down as one of those I was there moments for the eager crowd that braved the onset of autumn and its blustery, dirty weather.

The temperature outside may have been a sharp reminder that winter is now just around the corner and the temptation to wrap up against all things cold and unfeeling will be tantamount in a lot of people’s minds but on the first night of a tour that will see Richard travel to selected venues in Britain, onto Norway and finally end up in Ireland there was nothing but warmth and good cheer to see the man they had come to see show why critics are raving over his talent.

Perhaps it was fitting for Richard to play at the Static Bar, for it was here during 2010’s Sound City that Richard was showcased by the Liverpool Echo’s Jade Wright and at that moment a huge boost for the young man from Cork.

With no sign of nerves and armed with songs from Albeit Nothing and a couple of acoustic numbers from his ever growing catalogue, Richard thrilled the audience with songs such as the stunning This Means War. This song showed just how versatile Richard’s voice can be, one moment melancholic and laidback, the next, he was giving the type of performance that the best made violin or guitar can only dream of ever giving.

Joining Richard on stage were three musicians who had only been practicing and rehearsing with him for the previous week. However short their time together in the studio it certainly didn’t come across as that on stage and indeed the truth be known…it was nothing short of wonderful. On stage with Richard were Luis Santos, Gareth Bullock and Sindre Skie, these three guys played their collective hearts out but were professional enough to step back so the main man could rightfully take the plaudits and applause he fully deserved.

Richard’s night was over far too soon but this man is destined for big things and it can’t be too long before the venues get bigger as more is heard of this talented adopted Scouser.

Ian D. Hall