Berlin-based singer-songwriter Robert John Hope returns to Limerick for a special live show at Record Room this Friday, 25 July. Formerly frontman of Limerick alt-rock band Senakah, Hope has carved a solo path blending Americana and alternative folk/rock.
He’ll be joined by Berlin-based Irish artists Rufus Coates & Jess Smith and Kilkelly, celebrating their creative ties forged in Berlin. From 2007 to 2014, Hope toured widely with Senakah, before releasing acclaimed solo albums Plasticine Heart (2021) and It Sparks (2025). His emotive voice has drawn praise internationally, with Rolling Stone Germany noting his “greatness and sensitivity.”
Known locally as the frontman of Limerick alt-rock band Senakah, Hope has forged a distinctive solo path rooted in Americana and alternative folk/rock. Hope will be joined on the night by fellow Berlin-based Irish artists Rufus Coates & Jess Smith and Kilkelly, as the trio embark on an Irish tour that celebrates their musical connection formed in Berlin’s vibrant scene.
From 2007 to 2014, Hope fronted Senakah, touring Ireland, the UK and the US, including over 300 gigs across 40 states. Highlights included performances at South By Southwest in Austin, Texas, and the legendary Whisky a Go Go in Hollywood. Their second album, Human Relations, was produced by Noel Hogan of The Cranberries.
In 2021, Hope released his debut solo album Plasticine Heart, recorded on a ship moored in Berlin’s Treptower Park. The album marked a reflective yet hopeful evolution in his songwriting. His second solo effort, It Sparks, followed in May 2025, further showcasing his lyrical depth and expressive vocals. His voice has drawn praise from international press, with The Mail on Sunday comparing his range to Matt Bellamy, Eddie Vedder and Thom Yorke, while Rolling Stone Germany hailed his sound as “Americana with real greatness and a lot of sensitivity.”
Rufus Coates & Jess Smith
This haunting Irish duo craft dark, immersive folk rooted in storytelling and shadowy balladry. Their live performances are visceral and affecting—Coates delivering baritone sermons while Smith’s barefoot harmonies rise with raw emotional intensity. Their electrifying stage presence and brooding lyricism have earned them a devoted cult following across Europe.
Kilkelly
Kilkelly is the project of Irish songwriter Conor Kilkelly, blending the grit of modern folk with lyrical storytelling steeped in longing, missteps, and melancholy. His debut album The Prick & The Petal (2020), a concept record set in a bleak Irish landscape, was praised at Liverpool Irish Fest and by German outlet Plattentests. A pillar of Berlin’s folk scene, Kilkelly also hosts regular live showcases, including Open Sofa Sessions, Kilkelly Cabaret, and Suí Síos Seisiúin. His forthcoming album Solip is due for release in November 2025.
– Robert John Hope – It Sparks (filmed in Limerick) – https://youtu.be/C-rRTZss7KQ?si=uDsD3admT2A_y2Gn
– Rufus Coates & Jess Smith – https://youtu.be/7jbmtlDfUSk?si=c57GNanQ2dw0oZqe
– Kilkelly – https://youtu.be/HGrjksEkWGQ?si=NA9ltUy74nBMYlM3
