Sally Hossack/Joe Doyle/Kenton Hall/The Bridge

SALLY HOSSACK/JOE DOYLE/KENTON HALL/
THE BRIDGE

Duffys 24th May 2026

I hadn't been to the last few "Up the Duffy's" evenings due to other commitments, so it was a delight to be back in Duffy's Bar last night, and what a lovely night it was... Chris does have a knack of putting quality bills together for these events, and this was another!

First up, on a break from festival field duties was Sally Hossack. It's always a delight to see a Sally Hossack gig, and this was no exception... somewha t scatty at times between songs, Sally delivered a great set, her singing sweet and gentle and guitar playing perfectly suited to the songs... She concentrated on her own excellent material, but did include one cover, Aimee Mann's "Heroin.

A couple of false starts to pieces didnt detract from the overall quality of the performance... great start to the evening.

Next up, a new name to me, Joe Doyle. Joe delivered a fine set concentrating on his own material but including a cover of Tom Waits... always a plus to hear a Tom Waits song!! His own songs seemed quite intense, though for my tastes, the blues songs were a bit dull, though towards the end he delivered a fine guitar solo and the last verse really came to life... overall a pretty good set, but to be honest, sadly not strictly to my taste

Next up, in total contrast... the unique Kenton Hall. Kenton is always full of life, positivity and fun, one of those artists who always make you feel good!... this set was another cracker...featuring songs both familiar and brand new and each delivered in Kenton's upbeat style. Full of personality and attitude, a great songwriter and outstanding performer... and finishing with a glorious sing-along "Sun Shone Down" which the audience were happy to sing along with and keep it going as Kenton stepped away... great set

Final act was something special, brought together by Luke Broughton, a band called THE BRIDGE, from the "Homelessness to Hope" project... each of the musicians have their own issues to contend with, and under Luke's guidance they come together to perform music, and give hope to everyone... and fine music it is...

Difficult to say much more about them... hugely enjoyable and uplifting performance as always by the band, it's always a joy to see this band perform... huge respect to the band and to Luke.

Keep music live... keep music real... support your local venue