plus support Aaron Fin |
&The Moons |
Blue Slate Saturday, March 1st, 6pm At The Summit Inn Blue Slate exploded onto the Irish music scene in 2023, and their mesmerising live shows and impressive singles earned them a spot on the ever-exclusive Hot Press “Hot for 2024” list. The genre-defying rockers have played across Europe, including in London, Paris and at Rotterdam’s Left of the Dial festival. Blue Slate cemented their status as one of the most promising up-and-coming bands in Ireland when they played a sold out headline show in The Workman's Club upon returning from London. They have also supported the likes of the UK’s Big Special. With the Irish music scene more prolific than ever, it takes true talent to be hea over all the noise. Blue Slate not only set themselves apart, but make it look easy thanks to their effortlessly infectious, guitar-driven hooks and piercing lyricism. |
Last Apollo Saturday, March 1st, 7.30pm At The Summit Inn Recognised as ‘One to Watch’ by publications such as The Irish Times, Hotpress and Nialler 9, artist and composer Last Apollo (a.k.a Lucy Rice) has gained momentum across streaming services but it is ultimately her astounding live shows that has lead to the cult following Rice has steadily cultivated. Last Apollo effortlessly commands the attention of any crowd and ensnares them with her haunting lyrics and uniquely dynamic vocal style. Placing great value on literary influences as well as musical ones, Last Apollo’s songs are as intricately crafted lyrically as they are musically - each word is deliberate, weighted and merely amplified by her emotionally-charged vocal delivery. Her influences include PJ Harvey, Patti Smith and Indigo De Souza. |
|
Toby Corton Sunday, March 2nd, 3.30pm At The Summit Inn Toby Corton is the cash you dream of finding, rolled up, in the inside pocket of a favourite jacket. An Eastend romantic, with a heart for (Soul) music, Tom Robinson (BBC6 Music) referred to as 'charismatic queer cockney creative'. A tapestry of musical influence and style, Toby has been putting on shows, dancing around kitchens and living rooms since a child, raised on a veritable buffet spread of music. Toby’s work in music extends well beyond his own artistic endeavours, as part of Corton & Quest, a writing and production duo, running their platform and studio space State is Flow. In addition to this the launch of Sounds Queer in 2022, an initiative that aims to create more opportunities and safe spaces for queer artists and audiences to participate in live music, has led to work with Glastonbury, The Roundhouse, Mighty Hoopla and major UK pride festivals. |
Zaska Sunday, March 2nd, 5pm At The Summit Inn ZASKA plays modern soul infused with indie jazz. Max Zaska is a guitarist, songwriter, musical director, and producer known for his collaborations with Irish artists, including Hozier. ZASKA’s high-energy live shows leave audiences buzzing with media describing performances as “masterful,” “incomparable,” and “joyous.” From upstairs at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club to the Mladí ladí Jazz Open Air Festival in Prague and the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, ZASKA delivers good vibes. ZASKA’s 3rd studio album NECTAR is an upbeat danceable blend of soul, jazz, and hip-hop. The first single, No Right Time (feat. Melina Malone) landed on Spotify’s Fresh Finds UK & IE playlist. NECTAR will be released in mid-2025. Blending influences from Silk Sonic, Snarky Puppy, Tom Misch and Nubiyan Twist with a guitar style that pulls from greats Wes Montgomery, John Scofield, Nile Rodgers, and Carlos Santana creates a sound uniquely ZASKA. ZASKA’s live recordings include the Live At The Triskel EP (2024) showcasing songs from the upcoming studio album and Live In Dublin (2023) with live highlights recorded over 5 years. The second album, A Better Way (2022) looks at sustainability in culture and the environment, highlighting infectious rhythms textured with horns and strings. “Notes of pure optimism coursing throughout,” The Irish Times. Songs received support from BBC Radio 1 Introducing, Spotify’s ‘A Breath of Fresh Éire’ and Japan’s ‘Monday Spin,’ KCRW, and British Airways & Aer Lingus ‘Next Big Thing.’ ZASKA’s critically acclaimed debut album, It Takes A Village (2019) features over 25 performers and boldly expresses the complex emotions of becoming a father. It was named Album of the Year by RTÉ 2XM’s Groover’s Corner host Peter Curtin. “Zaska plunders the worlds of neo-soul, funk, hip-hop, rock, and jazz, making for an enjoyably idiosyncratic listen.” (Hot Press) “A benchmark example of the talent that exists in this country.” (The Irish Times) |
Scullion Friday, February 28th, 7pm at The ABBEY TAVERN Formed in the mid-1970’s, Scullion are revered and feted as one of Ireland’s most innovative, original and brilliant live bands. Their latest record 'Time Has Made a Change in Me' (released September 2022) emphasises the band's musical curiosity and like all of their records, it breaks new ground. James Joyce and Sufjan Stevens are woven into the DNA of this record with the inspirational music of Sonny Condell beating at the heart of it. Recorded during the pandemic, this record is an uplifting and inspirational collection of songs for the head and heart, written to take to the highway, collapse distance and bring us back together in the halls, front rooms, back rooms and bar rooms of Ireland. Robbie Overson, Philip King and Sonny Condell are back on the road, meeting old friends and new, bringing new music and their favourites from their back catalogue to venues all over the country. |
Frank & Walters Saturday, March 1st, 7pm at The ABBEY TAVERN In 2024 The Frank and Walters were named person of the year in Cork and were Grand Marshalls for the Saint Patrick’s day parade. Formed in Cork, Ireland they have been spreading joy and happiness with their indie-pop music for over 30 years. Recently the band captured a whole new audience when their ‘90’s hit single ‘After All’ featured on the cult comedy show ‘The Young Offenders’ (the infamous ‘Billy Murphy’ bus hijack scene). Their recent single featured Peaky Blinders Cillian Murphy doing a voiceover on the track ‘Stages’ – with the Franks & Walters you never know what to expect next, but you know it will be a bit quirky and great fun.... ‘The Franks’ became world famous in the 90’s Indie scene and have a catalogue of hundreds of songs from 7 studio albums.They still play sold out gigs all over Europe. The group appeared on the UK music show Top of the Tops with their single Afterall which reached no 11. On that night they met their hero Paul McCartney as he was also appearing . Their support bands have included Radiohead and Suede ,PJ Harvey and Noel Gallagher was their roadie. Noel Gallagher has been quoted as saying. “If I wasn’t for the Frank and Walter’s I’d be working on a building site now” Their concerts are quirky and fun and you can be sure to hear all their hits including ‘This is not a Song’, ‘After all’, ‘Walters Trip’ ‘Fashion Crisis hits New York’ and ‘Stages’. |
Leslie Dowdall & Mark Caplice Sunday, March 2nd, 2pm at The ABBEY TAVERN One of Ireland’s legendary female vocalists, Leslie Dowdall teams up with young artist and multi-award winning songwriter Mark Caplice for Irish tour and a thoughtfully reimagined interpretation of a Joni Mitchell classic “Both Sides Now”. While Dowdall has toured with bands including U2, Simple Minds, Bob Dylan, and The Pretenders, Mark Caplice has been on the rise in recent years having collaborated with the GRAMMYs as well as writing and producing tracks for Netflix, Eurovision and multiple artists all over the world. Whilst both artists are in different stages of their career, their stories now combine to breathe fresh life and perspective into Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now”. Leslie Dowdall first came to prominence as lead vocalist with celtic rock band, In Tua Nua touring USA and Europe extensively. Her solo single and hit song “Wonderfull Thing” was chosen for multiple ad campaigns and had massive radio and tv success in Ireland and abroad. In 2022 Mark Caplice was invited by the Grammy’s to be apart of their online series “Reimagined at Home” where he recorded Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain” in Windmill Lane Dublin. The Recording Academy sang incredibly high praise stating “Caplice's smooth, honeyed vocals lend extra weight and emotional power to his version of the song”. |
The Henry Girls Sunday, March 2nd, 7pm at The ABBEY TAVERN The Henry Girls are sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin from the most Northerly part of Co. Donegal. The trio formed as a professional music group in 2001 after Lorna and Karen returned from living in Australia where they started to perform and write songs. Joleen the youngest of the three was finishing her leaving certificate and was becoming a very promising harp and piano player so it was a natural progression to join together. They wrote and recorded their first album later that year, produced by Maire Breathnach. They have since gone on to record 5 more original studio albums, a couple of EP´s and a live album of music by The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans (released February 2020). Infused with the rich cultural heritage of their native Donegal but with a transatlantic flavour their music has been described as ʻfull bodied and powerfully dynamicʼ by Froots magazine. They have successfully learned to interweave their traditional roots with contemporary elements, earning them both commercial success and spectacular critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. As well as writing and recording albums The Henry Girls have written and performed music for Theatre productions, Dance pieces, Childrens shows and film and television , including the Canadian/Irish co-production “A shine of Rainbows (2008) for which they received an IFTA nomination for their contribution to the musical score. |
Allied Irish Bandits Friday, February 28th, 10pm at The Harbour Bar Howth Allied Irish bandits first met in Vancouver Canada in 2012. They enjoyed some initial success with a series of gigs, culminating with a headline slot at the St Patrick's Day festival in 2013. Lee Page, one of the original line up, has recently reformed the band with some new and old members alike.. the Bandits are back! Expect some classic ballads and sea shanties mixed with some banging original material! |
Colm Skwirbat Saturday, March 1st, 4pm at The Harbour Bar Howth Colm Skwirbat is an emerging talent in the Irish music scene, crafting a distinctive sound rooted in his deep passion for Irish traditional music and original songwriting. His musical journey began with a diddley bow - a simple 1-string guitar his father built from a cigar box and a broomstick - which sparked a lifelong love for the history and storytelling present in different musical traditions. Inspired by artists like The Pogues, Leonard Cohen, and Robert Johnson, Colm weaves poetic lyricism and raw emotion into his work, creating songs that feel both timeless and deeply personal. His dynamic live performances, ranging from soft, introspective acoustic ballads to rousing drinking anthems, capture the spirit of his Irish musical heritage while pushing its boundaries. With appearances at renowned festivals like Electric Picnic and the International Rory Gallagher Festival, Colm’s energetic stage presence, raw vocals, and unique compositions make him a standout performer. His music reflects a dedication to honoring tradition while fearlessly exploring new horizons. |
Sam Earlwood Saturday, March 1st, 10pm at The Harbour Bar Howth Sam Earlwood is a distinguished singer and guitarist whose classical training and extensive experience have established him as a prominent figure in the music industry. From a young age, Sam was a key member of the renowned Palestrina Choir, performing across Europe, the United States, and beyond. In his solo career his exceptional vocal talents have graced prestigious events, including corporate gatherings for global companies like Smurfit Kappa and EA Games, as well as high-profile occasions such as the American College Football Classic at Aviva Stadium.He was also a former resident musician at Dublins College Green Hotel (Formerly The Westin) and performs weekly in venues across Dublins City Centre and surrounding areas. With a rich background in classical music, Sam’s artistry is marked by his technical skill, versatility, and a deep understanding of musical tradition. His performances reflect a unique blend of precision and passion, earning him recognition as both a seasoned professional and a dynamic performer in diverse musical settings. |
Dogs Saturday, March 1st, 4pm at The Harbour Bar Howth DOGS, the inspired collaboration between Nick Kelly (The Fat Lady Sings, Alien Envoy) and Seán Millar (Dr Millar & The Cute Hoors), brings together two of Ireland’s most celebrated and creative musical forces. Blending their distinctive talents, this duo has crafted a sound that is equal parts poetic, soulful, and thought-provoking, firmly establishing themselves as one of the most intriguing acts to emerge in recent years. Known for their ability to push boundaries in both music and storytelling, Kelly and Millar create songs that resonate with emotional depth, melodic ingenuity, and lyrical artistry. Their music captures a spectrum of influences, from the shimmering echoes of Laurel Canyon to the raw power of folk and soul, enriched by their shared commitment to authenticity and connection. Beyond their musical prowess, DOGS stands out for their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Their eco-conscious ethos was demonstrated during their 2022 journey to Glastonbury, traveling exclusively by bicycle and public transport to perform. This remarkable adventure is chronicled in The Song Cycle, the award-winning feature documentary directed by Kelly, which showcases the duo's passion for music, environmental responsibility, and community. Nick Kelly, hailed as “Ireland’s most visual songwriter” by Hot Press, rose to prominence as the frontman of The Fat Lady Sings and has since become an acclaimed solo artist and filmmaker. His genre-defying approach to music is matched by his success in cinema, including the Oscar-shortlisted short film Shoe and the multi-award-winning feature The Drummer and The Keeper. Seán Millar, often described as “Ireland’s greatest lyricist” by RTE Guide, has built a career as both a critically-acclaimed musician and an internationally-recognized theatre maker. His ability to weave intimate, poignant narratives through song and theatre has earned him a reputation as one of Ireland’s most compelling creative voices. |
The Macks Sunday, March 2nd, 7pm at The Harbour Bar Howth Hailing from the heart of Fingal, The Macks are a four-piece ballad band that celebrates Irelands history with a modern twist. Featuring accousic guitar, banjo, accordion and bass, the band delivers powerful performances steeped in tradition yet brimming with contemporary energy. With a repertoire of ballads and infectious singalongs, The Macks have become a favorite in pubs and festivals across Ireland and beyond. Their music captures the essence of Irish storytelling, blending tales of love, loss, and laughter with unmistakable charm and wit. The Macks performances are more than just music—they’re a celebration of community, culture, and humour. Whether igniting the atmosphere in a pub or captivating a festival crowd, the bands dynamic harmonies and foot-stomping rhythms always leave audiences wanting more. Perfect for a pint and a dance, The Macks bring the craic to every stage they play. |
The Skalps Saturday, march 1st, 10.30pm at The Harbour Bar Howth They were never supposed to become a band, they were a group of musicians brought together by Tommy Byrne or should we say stolen from other bands hence the name ( The Skalps ). The idea was to record a 4 track Ep then go their separate ways but faith jumped in and as they played and jammed together and found a nice little groove. that was fun and inspiring - The Skalps were born. |
The Rebel Souls Friday, February 28th, 10:30pm at McNeills The Rebel Souls a 6 piece vibrant Reggae and Ska outfit from Dublin Ireland. Established in 2010 and have built a great repore since, playing many well known venues and festivals in Ireland and across Europe. They bring their own uplifting originals driven by a great guitar, sax and vocal sound. They also offer great ska and reggae covers with their own twist. The Rebel Souls bring energy, fun and memories to any audience they perform too. |
Howth Gospel Choir Saturday, March 1st, 3pm at Mcneills Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged and your spirits lifted! The Howth Gospel Choir brings a soulful energy to every performance, blending powerful harmonies with heartfelt emotion. With a repertoire that spans gospel classics and contemporary favorites, their music resonates deeply, creating an atmosphere that’s both uplifting and unforgettable. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of gospel or discovering its magic for the first time, the Howth Gospel Choir promises a performance that will make your heart melt and leave you humming with joy. |
2B40 Sunday, March 2nd, 3pm At MCNeills 2B40 are a 2 piece tribute to UB40 formed in 2018 by Pat Murphy and Fred Hynes. Both of whom play with 8 piece UB40 tribute Promises and Lies. Pat the lead vocalist and Freddie rhythm guitar and vocals decided to put together the 2 piece to accommodate smaller venues and pubs who couldn't accommodate the full band. As well as all UB40 classics 2B40 throw in some up beat Ska from Madness Bad Manners The Specials etc. |
Paul Byrne Sunday, March 2nd, 9pm At McNeills Paul Byrne was the drummer and songwriter with highly successful 80s rock band from Ireland ‘In Tua Nua’ with whom he opened for Bob Dylan, U2, Simple Minds, Fleetwood Mac and many more. Widely known for his unique singing-drummer skills, he has worked with many acts including Shane MacGowan, The Texas Kellys, The Drays, The Guilty Party and The Unelectables. Paul features in the new Sinead O’Connor documentary ‘Nothing Compares’ as it was he who first spotted her talent. Paul sang lead vocal on the title track of ITN’s US breakthrough album ‘The Long Acre’ and co-wrote the album. In 2014 Paul released his debut solo album ‘Cruel & Tender Ways’ co-produced by Paul and his long time collaborator Conor O’Farrell Brady which included the very popular single ‘I’ve Got You’. Paul runs the ‘Howth Roots and Blues Festival’ in the fishing village of Howth, Dublin. FUH (I Can’t Stop Falling) is his new single. It was written, recorded and produced by Paul in his home studio in Howth, county Dublin. The guitar solo was performed by Paul’s long time music collaborator Conor O’Farrell (Brady) of The Blades. Paul was originally going to call the song ‘Fucked’ but was concerned that it would prevent the song from being widely heard. Then during Glastonbury ‘22 he saw that Paul McCartney had a song called ‘Fuh You’ and discovered that Macca, in the same predicament changing Fuck to Fuh. As a huge Beatles fan the decision was made easy, he had to rename the song. About The Song “We all have that friend who falls for totally the wrong person who is either mean to them or plain doesn't like them, and even though everyone else can see it they themselves cannot. Their obsession or lust blinds them so that they just keep taking crap in the certainty that things will turn around. My protagonist takes it a step further and keeps repeating the same mistake again and again. Maybe they like being mistreated. Who knows?...its just a song!” |
Ispíní na hÉireann Friday, February 28th, 9pm at O'Connells Ispíní na hÉiereann is a five-piece Irish punk folk band, lead by front men Adam J Holohan and Tomás Mulligan, and joined by cellist and fiddle player Aongus MacAmhlaigh and the saxophone and Uilleann Pipes player Pádraig Óg Mac Aodhagáin. The lads create and play music that is a combination of original songs and reimagined covers and tunes, all influenced by the Irish musical tradition. They are working on their second album, a follow-up to their hit Hard Working Men, with more exciting new material that will inspire and make you laugh at the same time. Their music has layers of subtext and commentary, and a genuine method to all the madness. Ispíní na hÉireann is just off the stage from their sold out Album debut at the Grand Social Dublin and a full summer of festivals in Ireland, and are playing their largest headline show to date in The Academy in Dublin on Thursday December 21st. |
Howth Trad Collective Saturday, March 1st, 3pm at O'Connells Bringing the soul of Ireland to life, the Howth Trad Collective is a group of talented musicians who weave the magic of traditional Irish music into every performance. From lively jigs and reels to hauntingly beautiful ballads, their music captures the essence of our rich cultural heritage. Rooted in passion and community, the Collective creates an atmosphere where every note feels like home. Whether you're tapping your feet or swaying to the melody, the Howth Trad Collective is sure to leave you with a smile and a deeper appreciation for the heart of Irish tradition. |
Mursheen Durken Saturday, March 1st, 9pm at O'Connells |
Eric & Oz Sunday, March 2nd, 1pm at O'Connells |
members of The Bonny Men Sunday, March 2nd, 4pm at O'Connells The Henry Girls are sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin from the most Northerly part of Co. Donegal. The trio formed as a professional music group in 2001 after Lorna and Karen returned from living in Australia where they started to perform and write songs. Joleen the youngest of the three was finishing her leaving certificate and was becoming a very promising harp and piano player so it was a natural progression to join together. They wrote and recorded their first album later that year, produced by Maire Breathnach. They have since gone on to record 5 more original studio albums, a couple of EP´s and a live album of music by The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans (released February 2020). Infused with the rich cultural heritage of their native Donegal but with a transatlantic flavour their music has been described as ʻfull bodied and powerfully dynamicʼ by Froots magazine. They have successfully learned to interweave their traditional roots with contemporary elements, earning them both commercial success and spectacular critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. As well as writing and recording albums The Henry Girls have written and performed music for Theatre productions, Dance pieces, Childrens shows and film and television , including the Canadian/Irish co-production “A shine of Rainbows (2008) for which they received an IFTA nomination for their contribution to the musical score. |
Hugh Buckley Friday, February 28th, 9.30pm at findlaters (Sky bar) Hugh Buckley is a Dublin born and based, self-taught guitarist, composer, arranger, educator and author. He has performed throughout Europe, the U.S., Argentina and China, working as a sideman and also leading his own groups. Besides featuring on many recordings as a sideman, Hugh has released five CDs as leader, "Yes Indeed" (1998) w/ James Williams, Peter Washington, Darren Beckett, "Spirit Level" (2001) (both recorded in New York) and "Sketches of Now" (2008), ‘Only Hugh’ a solo guitar album (2021) and ‘Purple Dayz’ organ trio (2024). “The Day of the Duo” (2014) is a duo recording with renowned Scottish guitarist Nigel Clark. In March 2016, "Two Heads are Better Than One", a duo recording with vocalist Honor Heffernan was released. In 2013, Hugh launched his highly acclaimed book “The Guitar Chord Doctor”. The book deals with chord voicings and techniques for the contemporary guitarist. He has conducted many workshops on guitar harmony and improvisation throughout Ireland, Britain, Europe, Argentina and China. Hugh is the founder and former organiser and host of the extremely successful and acclaimed monthly event “ The Dublin Guitar Night”. The event showcases national and international guitar players across all genres. Hugh was producer, arranger and guitarist on the 2008 platinum selling CD release by the legendary folk artist Ronnie Drew, “The Last Session - A Fond Farewell”. From 2014-2017 he was coordinator of the “Guitar Gathering” at the Cork Jazz Festival. Alongside his saxophone playing cousins Richie and Michael, he was the subject of an hour-long TV documentary "The Living Bridge - A Family Affair" which featured original music by all three musicians. |
Luke Howard Saturday, march 1st, 9.30pm at Findlaters (Sky bar) Luke Howard is a singer-songwriter, jazz pianist and multi-instrumentalist from Dublin, Ireland. Born into a family of musicians and songwriters, he began playing the piano, violin and guitar at an early age. He completed a degree in jazz piano performance at Newpark Music Centre and during his studies was offered a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has performed and recorded extensively in Ireland, Europe and beyond with artists such as Mary Coughlan, Zaska, James Vincent McMorrow, Mas Exodus, Molly O’Mahony, Niamh Bury, The Conor Guilfoyle Octet and Glasshouse. His original music blend elements of jazz and folk with modern styles of songwriting. His debut single release “Counting Rain” was featured on RTE Radio 1 on the programme ‘Folk On One’ with Muireann Nic Amhloaibh. Luke is also a member of the electronic jazz group ‘Moondiver’, whose music was featured on Jamie Cullum’s Jazz Show on BBC Radio 2. |
Lulu’s Jazz Club Luisa Annibali Quartet Sunday, March 2nd, 1pm at Findlaters Luisa Annibali is one of the leading lights in the newest generation of jazz musicians on the Dublin jazz scene. Having moved from Rome to Dublin in 2016, she has quickly established herself in the scene with her boundless enthusiasm and vocal prowess. Performing both in Ireland and Italy, with her original project she blends music from her native Italy with Brazilian tinges and contemporary jazz making ample room for her distinctive voice to shine through. Her new tracks ‘My Own Paradise’ and ‘I Could Melt’ are a perfect example of her own personal take on jazz music, mixing feminist themes in her lyrics with contemporary jazz undertones reminiscent of artists such as Esperanza Spalding and Gretchen Parlato. The music feels fresh and cutting edge while never losing sight of its roots in the jazz standard repertoire. Indeed, it is also the encounter between people from different cultures and musical influences that makes her music and her performances so unique. Her lyrics are often focused on self development and self love. With her performances she brings the audience throughout a joyful, inspiring and uplifting musical and emotional journey of empowerment and consciousness. |
Jazzabelles Sunday, March 2nd, 5pm at findlaters (Sky bar) |