By Kyle Horne
Photo Credit: Zenith Cafe Records
Last Thursday, we were treated to an industry showcase by Belfast and Cambridge-based, Zenith Café Records, home to the likes of Gareth Dunlop and Danny Addison.
The family-owned record label, now under new ownership, from its next generation – Sophie and Laura Turner – is turning over a new leaf in 2025, starting with this very showcase, where they introduced their top talent: Gareth Dunlop, Danny Addison, and Nathan O’Regan.
Hosted at the Gibson Garage in London, we were surrounded by musical greats – of course, the industry experts in attendance, and the artists, but I’m talking about the gorgeous guitars filling all wall space in the shop – of different colours, styles, and definitely prices! 😳
Kicking off the night, after a short introduction from Sophie and Laura, was Belfast’s greatest kept secret – Gareth Dunlop – an artist we recently covered here on ADRENALINE Magazine! His raspy, yet soothing, voice, along with intricate finger plucking from one of Gibson’s top guitars, made for the perfect intro. Performing a few songs from his latest album, Welcome to the House of I Don’t Know, which garnered him a nomination for Northern Ireland Music Prize’s Album of the Year 2024, his dedication to his craft was so evident, as he warmed the crowd and performed every note to perfection. And as if that wasn’t enough – Dunlop invited two of his bandmates on stage with him to adlib harmonies to the album’s closing track, All We’ll Ever Need. All of us in attendance stood in awe.
Next up was Danny Addison – who told us a story about how he came to be signed to Zenith; that he originally just asked if there was a chance he could join Dunlop on tour, to play guitar with him. However, to his surprise, Sophie and Laura decided to ‘keep him [to themselves]’, as they could see just how promising his talent was. His standout hit of the night was definitely his latest single, Pheromone, because that’s where his vocal ability truly shone. Don’t let the quiet, shy intro fool you – Danny Addison has a lot to give.
And last, but certainly not least to take the stage, was the ever-so relatable, Nathan O’Regan, who connected with the crowd from his very first song, giving us a personal anecdote from each. Despite giving such deep context, including how nervous he was to become a father, which prompted him to write soon-to-be-hit Baby Steps, his lyricism was still painstakingly versatile, allowing you to relate the words to your own situation. It’s been in my head all weekend, and I’m gutted it’s not on streaming yet!
Overall, the night was a spectacular celebration of music. Those working in the industry were reunited with friends, accompanied by great food, drink, guitars, and exceptional vocal talent. These three artists, their determination, ambition, and humility, are a treasure to Zenith Café, and it will be so exciting watching their music journeys blossom.
If you haven’t already checked any of these artists out – what have you been up to?!
Unless otherwise stated, Photography & Text Copyright 2025 © Kyle Horne/ADRENALINE Magazine.
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