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Album Review: "Halcyon" by Kingfishr

Irish indie band Kingfishr released their debut studio album, "Halcyon," on August 22, 2025. The album was produced by David Anthony Curley and mixed by Cenzo Townsend. It was mastered by Simon Francis. The album features Eddie Keogh on vocals and guitar, Eoghan 'McGoo' McGrath on banjo, and Eoin 'Fitz' Fitzgibbon on guitar. “Halcyon” features 16 songs that were written by the band.

Kingfishr formed in Limerick, Ireland in 2022. Prior to “Halcyon,” they released a live album and two extended plays. They are named “Kingfishr” after the native Irish bird, the kingfisher. Kingfishers are known for staying in one place unless food runs out. The members of the band relate to this because they have moved around to find what they want in life.

The album has a great variety of subjects and styles represented. Each song has a different sound, but they all have a signature Kingfishr sound to it. While there are some nudges to traditional Irish music, the album has a very indie sound to it.

Kingfishr’s song, “Killeagh,” hit number one in the Irish charts on May 2, 2025. The song resembles “Fairytale of New York” in some parts of the melody and the overall vibe of the song. This song was a perfect single for this album as its familiarity drew people in and allows them to connect to the music. The song is a perfect example of the band’s traditional Irish music roots, from the vibe to the storytelling.

This album is perfect for anyone who loves Irish music but wants a more modern and indie approach. The songs all tell a story, which is crucial in Celtic music, and they all have a different feel and sound. This keeps listeners interested as they listen. There is something for everyone on this album.

The lyrics on this album are deeply personal and it is obvious by the performance on the album that the band connects to each song so deeply. They are so passionate about each song, as if it is a story they are telling their closest friends or a page from their diary. This kind of vulnerability and storytelling is so rare in the music industry today.

Overall, this album is a great debut album for Kingfishr. It solidifies their signature sound while showcasing all they are capable of. It has a blend of traditional Irish sounds, an indie feel, and folk vibes blended together perfectly. 

Tracklist:

1. Man On The Moon

2. 21

3. Gloria

4. I Cried, I Wept

5. Next To Me

6. Diamonds & Roses

7. Flowers-Fire

8. Caroline

9. Killeagh

10. Ways To Change

11. Shadow

12. Blue Skies

13. Shot In The Dark

14. Eyes Don't Lie

15. Someday

16. Schooldays

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