Orla Gartland’s first performance in Nashville at the Basement East captured the wonder in every gaze of the room that night, along with the longing just after the finale chord. A performance I believe many would agree with to be a perfectly encapsulated blend of sharp wit with undeniable charm, vulnerability, and the resilience of Orla’s songwriting Journey. From uploading covers on YouTube as a teenager to headlining international tours, Orla Gartland has carved a thriving, entertaining and strong path as an independent artist. The Dublin raised musician is very well known for her catchy collision of indie pop, alt-rock, and folk-pop sound that all together makes for a very unforgettable listening experience.
Fightmaster being the opener set the atmosphere right with a calm, groovy tone that cascaded through the night making it easy for the audience to fall into the lyrics wholeheartedly. E.R. Fightmaster is a nonbinary artist, actor, and musician originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. Most recognized for their role as Dr. Kai Bartley, the first nonbinary doctor on Grey’s Anatomy began their solo music career in August 2023 with a sound that ties together alt-rock, indie folk, and pop to tell raw stories exploring identity, love, and self-discovery. The performance felt so authentic that you couldn’t help but sing along and step to the rhythm of the guitar. The energy of the room was calm yet so cheerful even Fightmaster noted feeling as if they were on the set of a tiny desk concert due to the melodic synchronicity of the crowd. The most memorable performances of their popular tracks, and now my personal favorites, ‘Bad Man’ and ‘Hot Shame, spread a certain enticement of wanting to dance throughout the night. The soothing nature of Fightmasters voice and the haunting passion of the guitars lead the audience through a delightful experience that will long not be forgotten.
Orla makes an energetic entrance, instantly capturing the audience’s attention and setting the tone with a touch of theatricality— dare I say a heroic way to get the audience ignited for the start of the first song. The crowd’s energy elevates the moment the first drumbeat of ‘The Sound of Letting Go’ echoed throughout the venue. Known as the first song off of her second studio album Everybody Needs a Hero, released in 2024, is recognized as Orla Gartland’s second studio album and a significant milestone in her evolving sound. The chemistry between the entire band anchors the performance, creating a playful and engaging environment throughout.
The Dublin writer has a way of storytelling that makes you feel as though you’re listening to an introspective confessional conversation from a trusted friend which makes her stage presence very inviting and easy for a crowd to lose themselves in the words beautifully. Glancing around the crowd was hanging on to every word, singing along. Orla seamlessly engaged with the crowd, having them hold up signs, she selected the most interesting dressed fans to join her on stage. This moment showcased her great ability to connect with the audience, turning the performance into an interactive, and even more memorable experience for everyone.
A major highlight came when the crowd fell into silence, knowing Orla was about to play one of her most loved songs, ‘Why Am I Like This.” With its raw empathetic tone, ‘Why Am I Like This?’ captures the universal struggle of self-doubt, and the question of why or why not, which makes it so easy to resonate with.
A standout moment came when Orla showcased her versatility by stepping behind the drums, adding an unexpected surprise for the audience. As the night came to a close with a vulnerable final moment, it perfectly captured the storytelling and energy that had carried throughout the entire show—carving a lasting impression and leaving everyone wishing it had lasted just a little while longer.
