Galway city is set to come alive on Friday, April 21st with a range of exciting events. Head to Monroe’s Live to enjoy the unique compositions and re-imagined songs of bluegrass band, Cup O’ Joe. For hard rock/pop fans, Red Tape will be playing a rousing set at the King’s Head, while the Quays Music Hall will be hosting Dakota, a popular band known for their high-energy performances. Róisín Dubh is the place to be for fans of comedy and classic tunes, as Chris Hawes presents Living on Borrowed Cash, blending his comedy with the music of Johnny Cash. Alternatively, head to the Skeff Late Bar to experience the fresh and innovative sounds of Evoke, rising stars on the Irish music scene. Finally, for those interested in culture and history, An Taibhdhearc is hosting Dinnseanchas – Lore of Places, a project exploring connections between Irish and New Zealand landscapes, mythologies, and colonial histories.
Monroe’s Live
8pm: Bluegrass and a Family Folk Tradition with Cup O’ Joe
Renowned on the folk and bluegrass circuit, Northern Ireland band Cup O’ Joe will bring their unique compositions and re-imagined songs to Monroe’s Live on Friday, April 21st. Comprising of three talented siblings, Tabitha, Benjamin and Reuben Agnew, they are also joined by Tabitha’s husband David Benedict to weave a rich musical legacy steeped in family tradition.
From appearing in BBC documentaries and a televised series to performing at home and abroad, these award-winning musicians are highly sought after thanks to their compelling originals and delicate arrangements of traditional songs. Crafted through the intricate bond formed from their family ties, Cup O’ Joe have a musical connection that is unparalleled with strong sibling harmonies.
It is thanks to their rhythmic drive, unwavering vocals, grounding bass and sophisticated riffs that the quartet are gaining a stellar reputation on the acoustic music scene. Together, they play with a deep understanding of the heritage and sounds of the folk and bluegrass genre.
Having toured extensively across Ireland, the UK and Europe, Cup O’ Joe are known for their vibrant and energetic style, while also displaying a refinement that is testament to their dedication to their work. As songwriters, both Tabitha and Reuben create a fresh new sound of progressive bluegrass with Irish folk roots.
It’s set to be a night of original bluegrass and folk from a band that are gaining recognition for their lively sets that delight audiences. Tickets to Cup O’ Joe at Monroe’s Live on Friday, April 21st cost €12 and are available here Cup O Joe Ticket Link
The King’s Head
11pm: Red Tape
Red Tape will rock the King’s Head this Friday, April 21st with their rousing, raw and edgy take on classic covers and anthems. It’s set to be a night of hard rock to the best beats, as Red Tape power through the ultimate setlist to ensure you will be on your feet and dancing. Described as Galway’s rockiest, funkiest and ‘poppiest’ band, this driving four-piece will entertain the night through at the historic King’s Head in the heart of Galway city. Guaranteed a night of great tunes and even greater craic in one of Galway’s oldest and most famous venues.
The Quays Music Hall
11pm: Dakota
Dakota, one of Galway’s busiest and most energetic party and wedding bands, is known for their high-energy performances all over Ireland. As a four-piece band based in Galway, Dakota delivers an electrifying mix of party hits, covering various genres including rock, pop, folk, and country. With drums, bass, two guitars (including synth), and all four band members contributing vocals, Dakota offers a diverse range of songs and singers, creating a dynamic and engaging performance.
The band’s versatility shines through with their authentic renditions of music from every era, as showcased in their extensive setlist. If you’re looking a night of floor fillers from this experienced band, look no further than Dakota at the Quays Music Hall in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter.
Róisín Dubh
8pm: Living On Borrowed Cash: Upstairs in Róisín Dubh
Join Chris Hawes, a seasoned comedian, and contributing writer to the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, for a night of laughter and Johnny Cash tunes. Born and raised in Northern Ontario, Chris brings his unique perspective to the stage, weaving classic Cash hits with his new comedy material. Living on Borrowed Cash was conceived in a small pub in Ireland, where Chris was joking around and playing Johnny Cash tunes with friends. Initially, he dismissed the idea of blending his comedy with music, but after floating the idea around, it was met with enthusiasm.
This Preview Tour is a test of Chris’s new comedy material and classic Johnny Cash tunes, woven into a laid-back performance by a seasoned comic. Don’t miss this chance to see Chris Hawes live at Róisín Dubh on April 21st, 2023. Get your tickets here:
https://roisindubh.net/listings/living-on-borrowed-cash-2023-04-21-200000-77906
The Skeff Late Bar
10pm: Evoke
Formed in 2019, Evoke comprises four talented musicians who bring a fresh and innovative approach to their music. The band’s fusion of sounds have won them a growing fan base and critical acclaim, earning them a reputation as one of Galway’s hottest emerging acts. As such, the Loughrea four-piece continue their rise to prominence. And it’s testament to their hard work, dedication, and undeniable talent. As the band continues to make waves in the Irish music scene, they’re poised to become one of the country’s most exciting new acts. Alongside their folk roots, they also incorporate Motown style rhythm and soul. With a strong banjo lead layered with vocals and guitar, Evoke are set to entertain a Galway audience tonight at the Skeff in Eyre Square.
An Taibhdhearc
3:30pm: Dinnseanchas – Lore of Places
Dinnseanchas is a project inspired by the lore of places, bringing together writers from Ireland and New Zealand to delve into powerful connections between our cultures, landscapes, mythologies and colonial histories. Beginning in 2021, this project has so far commissioned six writers to share their practice and develop new work. This is the second phase of the project, and will feature work created by Áine Uí Fhoghlú and Ógie Ó Céilleachair. In partnership with Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Cló Iar-chonnacht and WORD Christchurch. Moderated by Micheál Ó Conghaile
