Author: Zoé Piater

Daniel Cohen is one of the most original artists to emerge from Ireland in recent years. Hailing from Galway, Ireland’s famed party capital, Daniel started his music career in his teens playing bass with his rock band for six years. After the band failed to break through, he decided to stay involved in music and worked as an independent music producer for over a decade helping independent artists follow their dreams.

In late 2021, while living in Belgium, he recorded a fun Christmas track for his friends back home. Even though it was recorded in just a few hours it was well received and gave him the hunger to do much better. It was time to prove that he could write, perform, and produce tracks as well as the best of them. Six months later he released his debut single and since then he has been making big leaps forward with every release, announcing his arrival as an artist in January 2024 with his track ‘Waiting for Nobody’ about homelessness.

Even without professional management Cohen has enjoyed more success than most independent artists. In under two years Cohen has had received over half a million Spotify streams, gained admires such as music legend Smokey Robinson and Hollywood star Kevin Costner, and most recently received some serious label interest after his last single ‘Waiting for Nobody’ proved very popular in America.

His original writing style and soulful expression easily separate him from other artists. He describes his music as ‘funk-fusion’ which is funk style music merged with hip hop beats and then blending with orchestra arrangements. His new single ‘It’s you!’ is due out on May 24th and continues his quest for his first hit single. Written for his wife after their wedding last year it is a positive and fun track which he hopes will bring some love to the world.

“From the outset, it sounds as if ‘Between Two Fools’ was meant to be played over classic diner stereos, the result of a coin slipped into teal jukeboxes on laminate countertops” 
– Hot Press

Papa Boyle is a Retro Indie artist based out of Dublin, Ireland. From an early age, he was given exposure to a wide range of music that spanned multiple decades and genres which fuelled the fire to become a songwriter and performer.

Taking inspiration from the retro sounds of the ’50s and 60’s Rock n Roll era (ie Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers) with a tinge of modern Indie (ie Father John Misty, Angel Olsen, Kings Of Leon, Orville Peck) Papa Boyle croons over an ambient landscape filled with rousing melodies and pondering punchlines.

The resulting hooks transport the listener to diners of old, bars of new, and crossroads that feel familiar yet unknown at the same time. With aspirations of 2024 being a breakout year with releases and gigs across Ireland, Papa Boyle has already seen himself land some great success with his debut release ‘Between Two Fools’ which was released in April 2024.

He has been picked up in various stations and magazines such as Hot Press, RTE Entertainment, Pure Mzine, The Beat, Shannonside FM, Galway Bay FM, RTE 2XM, Prospect Radio and many more with aspirations to now build on his momentum with his brand new upcoming single ‘Last Chance Saloon’ set for release this June.

His sound brings something fresh and unique to the music scene, watch this space!

‘Last Chance Saloon’ digs into people’s inner dialogues throughout day-to-day life. Lyrically the track explores how the smallest decisions to make or the smallest chances to take can sometimes feel like the biggest ones of all not to miss out on. The vocals in the verses reflect these thoughts or conversations, with the choruses being more explosive in a way that mirrors the feeling of this is the last chance to get it right.

The track continues the exploration of blending the old with the new. When approaching the structure of the song Papa Boyle wanted it to reflect this idea.

“It was great to explore different vocal textures in the verses and to croon over the bigger moments of the song.”

“Musically “Last Chance Saloon” is the cumulation of a lot of influences and inspirations but I do think there is a slightly more country feel to the song whilst it still sitting in the Retro Indie realm, at the time of writing the song the likes of Roy Orbison, Father John Misty and Hermanos Gutierrez had a major influence on the vocal and guitars.”

“I think this song will conjure up a lot of different imagery to people, I’m looking forward to hearing what people think when they listen to the track and I hope they will see my progression from my first release.”

All instruments were tracked and recorded over a few sessions with engineer Stephen Dunne in Portobello, Dublin, the track was then mastered by Ivan Jackman.

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Hot Press Magazine:
“.. a culmination of vintage blues and classic rock with a modern edge, cementing the forceful duo as an act to watch.” 

RGM Magazine…
“..a deliciously dark debut”  

Featuring a pop/rock sound that also references vintage RnB Meath duo One Flew Over are excited to release new single ‘Last Man Standing’. With a music industry pedigree that casts no doubt on their musical chops One Flew Over release their first single of 2024 on June 7.

Sitting alongside peers like Hozier, Amy Winehouse, Nina Simone and Sam Cooke new single ‘Last Man Standing’ from One Flew Over serves as a powerful anthem of tenacity, encapsulating the spirit of overcoming obstacles and emerging victorious against all odds. It’s a testament to enduring through life’s trials and triumphs, ultimately standing tall amidst the challenges.

First acts announced for Guinness Cork Jazz Festival in Cork City Hall: Jenny Greene & Special Guests and Mack Fleetwood
More to be announced….   

Jenny Greene performs in Cork City Hall on Saturday, October 26, 2024
Doors 11pm – Over 18s – Id required
Tickets €33 available from Eventbrite.ie – Ticketlink : https://shorturl.at/PJNSM

Mack Fleetwood perform in Cork City Hall on Sunday, October 27, 2024
Reserved Balcony Seating – Over 16s :  €35
Unreserved Standing – Over 18 only  : €30
Afternoon show – Ticketlink: https://tinyurl.com/3pt83k2m
Doors 2.30pm – Show 3.30pm
Evening Show – Ticketlink: https://tinyurl.com/2jdwtvra
Doors 7pm – Show 8pm

Tom Keating Presents is thrilled to announce the first acts to perform in Cork City Hall as part of Guinness Cork Jazz Festival including Cork’s favourite adopted daughter Jenny Green and Mack Fleetwood with more acts to be announced soon. Tickets are on sale now.

The superstar DJ returns to the real capital for what promises to be a spectacular night of dance music in Cork City Hall on Saturday, October 26, 2024 as part of Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Jenny Greene has been at the forefront of the Irish Dance music scene for almost 20 years. Starting out at the age of 17 as a dance music columnist, radio presenter and DJ. At the age of 21 she earned herself a spot in the Guinness Book of Records breaking the record for the World’s Longest DJ set.

Her Saturday night dance show ‘Electric Disco’ on RTÉ 2FM has been a mainstay for Irish Clubbers for the past 15 years, leading to an album release back in 2009. Jenny regularly performs to sell-out crowds at both arenas and festivals with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra.

Jenny will team up again with Visual artist & DJ Ant of Generic People for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Their show has been the highlight of the Jazz for clubbers and has previously sold out the last 5 years. This year they again return to the famous Cork City Hall whose stage down through the years has hosted the likes of U2, Depeche Mode, The Prodigy, Orbital, Carl Cox, Bjork and many more.

Following three previous sold out Jazz Festival appearances Mack Fleetwood return to Cork on Sunday, October 27 for their biggest Cork appearances to date with two shows at Cork City Hall, bringing you all the best hits of Fleetwood Mac.

Europe’s premier tribute to the supergroup, Fleetwood Mac, brings you on a magical musical journey from the Peter Green blues era to the multi-platinum selling band that still tour today. Bewitching their audience with authentic renditions of all the fan-favourite and classic Fleetwood Mac hits. Mack Fleetwood’s love of the material and musical prowess shines through each song.

The eagerly awaited Episode 3 of Ollys TV’s revolutionary series, “On The Map Freestyle,” is set to feature none other than Jukebox from Carlow. The series, which has been garnering attention for its innovative approach to showcasing Irish musical talent, continues to captivate audiences nationwide.

Jukebox, also known as Paraigh Curran, has been making waves in the Irish music scene with his unique blend of authenticity and raw lyricism. Born and bred in Carlow, Jukebox’s journey in music began over a decade ago, amidst personal challenges and a relentless pursuit of his passion.

“I rap about real pain I have went through as a young child to put a message out there so people don’t feel too alone,” shares Jukebox, highlighting the deeply personal nature of his music.

With influences ranging from Mazza L20 to Bugzey Malone, Jukebox brings a fresh perspective to the table, offering listeners a message of hope and resilience. His tracks, born out of personal experiences and struggles, resonate deeply with audiences, earning him a dedicated following.

As Jukebox prepares to take the stage in Episode 3 of “On The Map Freestyle,” expectations are high for another electrifying showcase of Irish talent. With Ollys TV at the helm, the series continues to push boundaries and redefine the Irish music scene.

Stay tuned as Jukebox represents Carlow and shares his story through the universal language of music, proving that dreams can indeed become a reality with perseverance and passion.

For more information, visit Ollys TV’s official website and follow them on social media for updates on Episode 3 of “On The Map Freestyle”.

Watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/Ta2-OOW6EXE?si=7VX3al7zUTalPDZL

The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival has been hailed an outstanding success by organisers. The 8-day festival which concluded today attracted over 5,000 people to the opera, concerts and recitals – including ticketed and free events. Visitors engaged their senses as they basked in the summer sunshine with stunning performances by some of Ireland and Europe’s leading classical and operatic performers and bespoke dining experiences, in stunning historic venues.

Local school children were the first to get a glimpse of what was in store for lucky audiences as over 400 primary and post-primary students took part in educational workshops on set, attended the Opera Dress Rehearsal, and performed at the Opening Ceremony.

The flagship opera Giulio Cesare by G.F. Handel on the breathtaking grounds of Lismore Castle received rave reviews from audiences. Conductor Nicholas McGegan led the Irish Baroque Orchestra and a stellar cast directed by Tom Creed in an outstanding interpretation of one of Handel’s greatest Italian operas.

Other highlights included some incredible performances at Dromore Yard – a romantic, semi-restored 19th-century farmyard on the banks of the River Blackwater; including a belcanto operatic concert – Of Emperors, Kings, and Queens, which starred Serenad Uyar, Leonardo Galeazzi, and Dearbhla Collins; the Clara Haskil Piano Competition Concert presented by Finghin Collins, which featured Magdalene Ho with Marc Coppey, and the festival finale Vivaldi Concert with the Irish Baroque Orchestra – conducted by Nicholas McGegan, and with Arianna Vendittelli, and Iestyn Morris.

Audiences were treated to some breathtaking performances at a series of intimate classical recitals held in various historic locations and precious homes throughout the Blackwater Valley,  including the scenic Cappoquin House and Gardens, Tourin House, Salterbridge House, Woodhouse Estate, and the atmospheric St. Carthage’s Cathedral, Villierstown Church, and St Mary’s Collegiate Church.

Performances included recitals by this year’s RDS Collins Memorial winner, BVOF Bursary winners, RIAM John Pollard winners, and Irish Heritage award winners.

The return of the Free Open Air Recitals Waterford and Cork (Lismore, Dungarvan, Youghal and Castlemartyr) proved to be a big hit with people of all ages enjoying the good weather with beautiful outdoor performances.

Food enthusiasts enjoyed incredible pop-up dining experiences throughout the week which highlighted the stunning produce of the Waterford and Cork region. These included celebrity TV chef Eunice Power’s Giulio Cesare menu at Lismore Castle, Gourmet Table Picnics by award-winning culinary duo Eamo & Ró, and lunchtime recital packages at local eateries.

Eamonn Carroll, Festival Director of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, expressed his delight with the success of the festival, thanking all involved for their support in showcasing Blackwater Valley’s rich musical and cultural offering. “The atmosphere all week long was just electric, from the world-class performances to delightful dining experiences, and of course the glorious weather. We were delighted to see people of all ages enjoying the programme of events and welcome both returning visitors and those new to opera and classical music.  We are indebted to the over 100 volunteers who supported us over the week, our valued sponsors and donors, and we are incredibly grateful to the Arts Council, Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Leader, Fáilte Ireland, Kildare Village, Marsh, AIB, the John Pollard Foundation, Castlemartyr Resort, Waterford Whisky, and the many local hotels and businesses for their support. “ 

Dates for next year’s festival 26 May – 2 June 2025. Priority booking opens at the end of January 2025 for BVOF members. Visit blackwatervalleyopera.ie for more information.

Combining traditional Irish music with influences from soul, gospel and rock Hothouse Flowers have made their mark on the Irish music scene for four decades and with a motto of “Let’s do this thing” have plenty more to give. They are pleased to announce a series of shows across Ireland for 2024 and 2025 in Clare, Cork, Galway, Wexford and Kilkenny. Tickets go on sale 10am Friday, June 7, 2024. Tickets €30 plus booking available from Box Office.

Formed in 1985 in Dublin starting out as street performers it wasn’t long before they released their first album, People, in 1988 which saw them reach No. 1 in Ireland and No.2 in the UK. Their 40 year long career is bookended by their most recent album Let’s Do This Thing (2020) and Hothouse Flowers continue to bring their unique flavour of rock to their electric live shows. Something amazing happens when Hothouse Flowers step onto the stage – something that has been shaped by almost forty years of singing and playing all over the world, yet no two shows have ever been the same! There is a sense of musical adventure, an impulse to reach new heights and depths in music where the unspoken aim is that the band and the audience become one and the world becomes a different place for a while.

There is an unpredictable energy in the band that harkens back to their ‘Risk’ days playing on the dancefloors of Dublin’s late-night clubs. They call upon their grand repertoire to create a show that is unique to the time and place. Improvisation can come at any point and allow the band express their brightest and their darkest influences. “Rock and Roll is not about safety or politeness, it is not about perfection either. It is expression and it is spirit.” Humour is also never far from a Hothouse Flowers night. They do not take themselves seriously however, there is no mistaking the musical integrity among them as they open up to each other in musical dialogue.

Fiachna, Liam and Peter are traditional musicians. This allows for moments of ancestral connection. From a Doors-like musical workout one minute, to an earnest and timeless offering to the memory of Currachaí na Tra Báine the next. A song inherited by Fiachna describing the blow inflicted upon a community and a family due to drowning. This moment and moments like these set the Flowers apart from almost any other band of their time and trade. They are carriers of culture and all of what that entails.

Despite the bands lengthy career which is now not far off its fifth decade there is a sense of unfinished business. Every night they want to play the best gig they have ever played and take the musical risks that can maybe make that possible. There are still songs to be written and emotions to share. Whether it’s in a tiny club, an arena or in a festival field there is a sense that the best is yet to come.

2024 saw the band release a brand new documentary “Stick Around and Laugh a While” that followed their  amazing journey from performing on Grafton Street, Dublin through to current day. “Stick Around and Laugh a While” isn’t just a look back—it’s a heart-to-heart, a story of persistence, passion, and the sheer joy of making music with your mates. It’s about sticking together through thick and thin, and why, after all these years, Hothouse Flowers continues to bloom.

Tickets €30 plus booking available Friday, June 7 from Box Office.

Tour Dates:
November 29, 2024 – Glór, Ennis
February 15, 2025 – The Hub, Kilkenny
February 22, 2025 – Leisureland, Galway
March 14, 2025 – Cork Opera House
March 15, 2025 – National Opera House, Wexford

When the fans of a band put together a tribute production, you should expect microscopic detail, but when they’re also seasoned performers, you can expect fireworks. An exciting collaboration sees Europe’s best tribute show Qween team up with the renowned Dublin Gospel Choir to embark on a nationwide tour in 2024/2025. Tickets go on sale Friday, June 7, 2024 at 10AM. Tickets available from Box Office.

Qween formed in 2018, after members performed together in numerous other guises over the years. This new iteration saw them reach new heights in terms of production and adventure. With notable fans in Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet), Mark Shaw (Then Jerico) and Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) Qween have sold out the 3000 capacity King John’s Castle in Limerick and played main stage at Electric Picnic, a first for any tribute show. Fans may also recognise lead singer Brian Keville as he portrays Freddie Mercury in the Live Aid drama ”When Harvey Met Bob” alongside Domhnall Gleeson’s Bob Geldof.

In late 2023, singer Brian was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that necessitated extensive surgery. “Performing is my life, and being so close to seeing it taken from me was one of the most difficult challenges I’ve ever faced.” A fundraising show was organised that featured appearances from Tony Hadley, Mark Shaw and TV chef James Martin. “I’m grateful that fans and musical friends alike jumped on board. We had the biggest gig of our lives, and this helped me get fit again, so it was especially memorable,” said vocalist Brian Keville.

Qween have gone to extreme lengths to capture the magic of Queen, acquiring everything from a tailored lemon leather Freddie jacket (á la Queen’s legendary Slane Castle show in 1986) to guitar equipment from Brian’s May’s technician. They even play with period-correct six pence’s on the guitars. The live two hour production of Queen’s greatest hits preserves the image, sound and stage personas of classic Queen hits from ‘Radio Ga Ga’ to ‘Somebody to Love’. “Queen’s music is technically difficult, but we’re massive fans, so we were able to put in the dedication to get every detail just right. If all these things were removed fans would know it wasn’t right,” says guitarist Thomas Brunkard.

In 2022, with the aim of making their shows even more engaging for fans, Qween took their show to a new level by drafting in The Dublin Gospel Choir. This addition bridged the gap between the central four piece live band and the signature Queen sound created with a studio band. Now each shows sees the marriage of Queen’s studio arrangements played with the edge of a live band and choir. Dublin Gospel Choir has a penchant for bringing the house down. Their annual slot at Ireland’s internationally-acclaimed boutique festival Electric Picnic is now legendary. They have shared the stage with music industry heavyweights such as Rod Stewart, John Legend, Kodaline, Outkast, Take That, Damien Rice, Duran Duran and Ennio Morricone to name a few. While they are best known for their gospel, soul and RnB repertoire their creative interpretation of contemporary pop and rock numbers raise the roof and have audiences shouting for more.

Tickets €30 plus booking fee go on sale Friday, June 7, 2024 at 10AM. Tickets available from Box Office.

Upcoming Shows
October 26, 2024 – Glór, Ennis
November 8, 2024 – Theatre Royal, Waterford
January 10, 2025 – National Opera House, Wexford
January 24, 2025 – Everyman Theatre, Cork
February 1, 2025 – Landmark Hotel, Carrick on Shannon
March 29, 2025 – Mullingar Park Hotel

Electronic music producer and DJ Shaun Warner is set to release ‘Chills’ on 7^th June, the second single from his much anticipated fourth album. With three successful albums under his belt, Shaun Warner has solidified his position as a leading force in the pop and electronic music industry in the Middle East. ‘Chills’ is a collaboration with David Owens, a singer/songwriter from Galway, Ireland who creates emotionally intense music with strong lyrics across different genres.

The story of ‘Chills’ starts at Christmas 2022 when Shaun Warner was walking past a busker playing a grand piano on Grafton Street. Amazed at the pure talent he heard, Shaun posted a clip to social media. Turns out t he busker was David Owens and from th at chance encounter, the pair connected and decided to work together on a project. The result is ‘Chills’, a carefully crafted pop song full of lush synths and deep raspy vocals , which sounds like future bass and indie pop had a baby.

With a career spanning over two decades, Shaun Warner’s journey to success took him from Ireland to the UAE, via Australia. Having charted in Ireland and the Middle East, Shaun’s albums have garnered over 5 million streams, making him one of the most streamed electronic artists from the Middle East. Shaun’s last album, Resuscitation , released in 2022, featured a viral hit on TikTok with over 1.5 million plays in its first two weeks as well breaking into the top 20 in the Irish Album Charts. Stay , his second album, also featured a US Billboard charting single ‘Chasing’.

As well as acclaim for his albums, his DJ sets have garnered much attention. Having introduced the high-energy “House Party” concept in 2023, Shaun has been captivating audiences with his expertly curated musical journeys designed to emulate the randomness and excitement of a house party. His performances at Massif Festival and Untold Festival Romania in 2023 garnered widespread acclaim, leading to invitations to headline stages at prestigious festivals like Untold Dubai alongside industry giants such as Armin Van Buuren and John Newman.

‘Chills’ is the second single from Shaun Warner’s upcoming album, Morning Light, due to be released on 21^st June.

Enjoy over 50 events taking place across Galway this week

Line-up includes Declan O’Rourke, Sharon Shannon, Amble, Eleanor Shanley & Mike Hanrahan, Niamh Bury, David Murphy, Ímar +  more

5^th – 9^th June 2024
http://www.galwayfolkfestival.com/

Galway Folk Festival are delighted to announce that the legendary Sharon Shannon will join their line-up in Galway this week.

Fresh from releasing her brand-new album, Now, Ireland’s greatest traditional music export Sharon Shannon will headline the closing night of the Galway Folk Festival on Sunday, June 9th at 7pm. Following the success of her song ‘The Diddley Doo’ in collaboration with The Scratch band, which she recently performed live on the Late Late Show, Sharon is back with a host of freewheeling songs full of stomping tunes and heart-warming, emotional and poignant ballads. With a career spanning 40 years, Sharon continues to break new musical ground. Hailed as a national treasure by President Michael D Higgins, she continues to redefine the boundaries of Irish traditional music, elevating the genre through her collaborations with reggae, rap and classical musicians.

Returning for their third edition, Galway Folk Festival kicks off on Wednesday 5^th June and continues until Sunday 9^th June, showcasing the best of folk, roots, and traditional music in venues across Galway city.

Among the headliners are beloved singer-songwriter Declan O’Rourke, and the captivating sounds of contemporary folk trio Amble, Glaswegian quintet Ímar and fellow Scots Talisk; Eleanor Shanley & Mike Hanrahan, along with Breen Rynne Murray, Seán Keane, Cillian Vallely & David Doucey, Niamh Bury, Niall McCabe, and many, many more. Unfortunately due to sickness, previously announced headliner Beth Orton will no longer be performing.

In addition to the ticketed shows, festival-goers can enjoy FREE daytime events across three stages. Cuppa Tea TV returns with The Market Stage, while Culture Vultures with Tony Clayton-Lea offers engaging conversations with special guests across the weekend.

For full programme details, and booking, visit www.galwayfolkfestival.com

Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FolkFestGalway
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galwayfolkfest/
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