Coronas command crowd at Live at the Marquee concert 

The Coronas returned to Cork on Friday night as they played to a packed-out Marquee, reminding all those in attendance why they remain one of Ireland’s favourite acts.

The Coronas’ authenticity is their greatest asset. They don’t rely on gimmicks or elaborate production; they let the songs speak. And on Friday night, they spoke volumes.

Danny O’Reilly, the lead singer, had a command of the stage, and after a few songs the crowd were eating out of the palm of his hand.

Danny’s sister, Roisin O, was part of what O’Reilly dubbed the ‘supergroup’ that took to the stage, and had also been their opening act. Each of the band members on stage were introduced, including True Tides’ Cian McSweeney, himself a Cork man.

During the show both Roisin and Cian were brought centre stage to perform.

As is always the case for a Coronas gig, the energy of the crowd surged as the band moved through the mix of fan favourites.

Frontman Danny O'Reilly’s vocals were as commanding as ever. He met the crowd at the front early in the show, giving high fives and hugs, but made sure those in the back also felt involved, and made his way through the crowd - while singing note perfect - to the back of the room.

Highlights of the evening included ‘Closer to You’ and ‘Heroes or Ghosts’ and the nostalgic crowd pleasers that had the entire venue singing along. The three band members made their way to the front of the stage during ‘Heroes or Ghosts’, which also featured a verse as Gaeilge. The rest of the ‘supergroup’ joined as the song took life.

And ‘San Diego Song’ as their breakthrough hit, was the perfect song to leave the tent on.

What stood out most was the band’s connection with their audience. O’Reilly had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand, and when he declared “The Marquee is out Glastonbury,” anyone who hadn’t already been won over certainly was.

“Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for coming back to see us,” O’Reilly said. “We will continue to come back as long as you want to see us,” he added.