Not our usual review, but we’ve been outside, and Morgana was there.

Firstly, we always feel for the opening acts. They have to sing to a crowd that usually doesn’t care who they are, and 90% of the people haven’t arrived. It’s a harsh way to cut teeth, and actually, Morgana handled that really well. Even throwing in a little Dankjewel (Dutch for thank you) after each song. And offering up orange merch - thoughtful on two levels. We appreciate that.

The worst thing about hearing new music at a live gig is that you’re scrambling for a crumb of information. What is the song called? Can you remember a couple of lyrics to get you by?

Turns out, yes, because there are a couple of standout tracks that are very sticky. Thankfully. We reached out to her management to get the setlist so you can enjoy it in the order we got it in (scroll down).

Before the playlist, though, it’s good to have a frame of reference for what you’re getting into. Vocally, it’s light and airy but solid. We easily made some quick comparisons to Florence Welch, Chappell Roan, and, for sure, Kate Bush. By default, if you’re in that area, while she doesn’t vocally sound like Stevie Nicks, something in the toneality and cadence in the composition will give you that stamp. And I’ll Cry When I’m Dead feels like a direct line to Imogen Heap's vocal play.

It’s an interesting mix, and it works both in the studio and live.

As for stage presence, Morgana has this ease about her; in fact, the hand movements and the depth she brought to the songs on a personal level came across, landing with more emotional weight. A combination that becomes captivating.

Realistically, the best we could describe Morgana’s music is being at a really cool club, surrounded by cool people, but crying glitter. Her lyrics are ridiculously real and highly relatable, almost glib in the right places, funny in others, and thanks to her vocals, they feel like so much more.

One of the most joyous things about listening to Irish singers is that the accent comes through as they sing, if you’re lucky. Happily, Morgana holds true to that. As well as singing about Ireland in parts. This is a common theme with Dermot Kennedy, Snow Patrol, Hozier, and others. Notably, she’s opened for all of those; if that’s not the biggest compliment, we dunno what is.

A cute onstage anecdote about Gary Lightbody giving her a shoutout led her to decide to keep going with music. We’re glad, because Party Killer, her 2025 EP release, is excellent… so whatever is coming, with a new dedication and tenacity? It’s gonna be an album to laugh-cry-party to.

The setlist:

I’ll Cry When I'm Dead
Nothing Kills A Party Like a Song
Fix Your Heart For Free
Power Cuts
Win Once (unreleased)
I’m Not Going Anywhere

I’ll Cry When I’m Dead is our favorite; it’s bright, poppy, and catchy as hell.