CMAT Captivates at All Together Now 2025 with Powerful Set

Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, known as CMAT, delivered a standout performance at the All Together Now festival in 2025, capturing the attention of festival-goers and critics alike. Her set, which showcased a blend of humor, emotional depth, and social commentary, has quickly been touted as the highlight of the weekend.

The summer has been transformative for CMAT, a rising star from Dunboyne, Co Meath. She first gained widespread recognition in June when her song “Take a Sexy Picture of Me” sparked a viral dance trend on TikTok, dubbed the Woke Macarena. Her popularity surged again with the release of “Euro-Country,” the title track from her upcoming third album, which prominently features the Omni shopping centre in Santry, North Dublin.

At the festival, CMAT performed “Euro-Country” for the first time, a poignant reflection on the impact of the 2008 financial crash. In her lyrics, she addresses the lingering effects of the Celtic Tiger’s demise, highlighting how many of Ireland’s current issues trace back to that seismic event. CMAT remarked on the scarcity of artistic expression that addresses such national traumas, noting how they remain largely unspoken in Irish society.

In her set, CMAT opened with “Have Fun!”, a seemingly lighthearted tune inspired by reports of parakeets in London. Yet, beneath the upbeat melody lies a narrative about overcoming a painful breakup, revealing her ability to weave complex emotions into her music. The contrast between her cheerful stage presence and the emotional weight of her lyrics adds depth to her performance.

CMAT’s humor shone through in her song “The Jamie Oliver Petrol Station,” which reflects her frustration with seeing the celebrity chef’s image in service stations across Britain. She playfully acknowledged her evolving feelings, recognizing that her emotions were her own to navigate.

Throughout the performance, CMAT’s charisma resonated with the audience. When a fan held up a sign reading “CMAT for president,” she laughed and took the opportunity to passionately address the ongoing assault on trans rights globally. As the set concluded, the atmosphere shifted from Saturday evening sunshine to shadows, symbolizing the duality of her persona as a pop star whose music delves into darker themes.

Critics like Ed Power from The Irish Times have noted CMAT’s ability to blend upbeat sounds with profound messages. Her performance at All Together Now not only showcased her musical talent but also solidified her position as a significant voice in contemporary Irish music. As CMAT continues to rise, her work promises to challenge and inspire audiences both at home and abroad.