Looking for the ultimate Friday night out in Galway? Look no further! From the rock and punk stylings of former Electric Six lead singer, Dick Valentine at Monroe’s Live, to Bollywood and Bhangra at DNA Nightclub, from the acoustic covers of Beggars Velvet at The Cellar, to the energetic party hits of Dakota at The Quays Live Music Hall, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to check out the newest addition to Galway’s nightlife scene, Grace’s Cocktail Lounge at the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen, where you can enjoy an extensive selection of wine, whiskey, gin, and cocktails. So, get ready to party all night long in Galway!
Monroe’s Live:
8pm: Dick Valentine
As the lead singer of the outrageous Detroit band, Electric Six, Dick Valentine heralded the dangers of ‘High Voltage’ as their comedy rock, metal and new wave stylings stormed the charts in the 2000s. Now, he returns to the Monroe’s Live Stage this Friday, May 12 with an acoustic show, delivering the high octane hits of the popular punk rock band alongside his own catalogue of work from his solo albums. The American singer, songwriter, musician and author will delve into the songs from his ninth album, ‘This Is Hell’ at the award winning Dominick Street venue, performing the tracks from this newly released album, which will appeal to fans of the band. Tickets to Dick Valentine can be found here: Tickets to Dick Valentine at Monroe’s Live
DNA Nightclub
11pm: Desi Beats
Discover the best of Bollywood, Bhangra and South Indian this Friday night at DNA, with live Dhol Drummers. It’s going to be exciting, loud and hypnotic as DJ Tush takes you through the best beats ‘til the morning hours. DNA Nightclub is Galway’s premium late-night venue, located right at the heart of the city’s famous bustling nightlife. This stylish and plush club is the ideal place to party, dance and enjoy a brilliant night. With four bars, three levels, two dance floors, two outdoor terraces and a beautifully decorated, comfortable VIP Lounge named ‘The Attic’ – DNA nightclub defines the ultimate experience of Galway nightlife. Tickets to Desi Beats this Friday, May 12 can be purchased here: Ticket Link to Desi Beats at DNA Nightclub
The Cellar Bar
Beggars Velvet
This three-piece acoustic ensemble are talented multi-instrumentalists. With three men and one box, Beggars Velvet are proving to be a hit on the local music landscape with their ability to interweave their own take on classic tunes. With ingenuity and gusto, Beggars Velvet bring a fresh sound to covers, taking them to new heights. It’s your favourite song with a twist. Together, they are always evolving to ensure your night out is one to remember.
The Cellar
8pm: Neil O’Connor (Downstairs)
Musician Neil O’Connor and The Revival will bring the ‘Is’ album launch to The Cellar bar this Friday, May 12 on Eglinton Street. The singer-songwriter is inspired by artists across the spectrum of genres from Oasis to Primal Scream, Stone Roses, Tom Waits, Kasbian and the Rolling Stones. It is this myriad of influences that ensures his works is always surprising, whether he is drawn to a solo and acoustic blues number or heavy rock. His passion for music is simply to keep creating. Non-commercial in his outlook, he continues to delve into his creativity to deliver original work. With his alternative rock style, Neil continues to chart new territory with elements of blues, psychedelia, grunge and acoustic-rock. And you can catch him this Friday evening at The Cellar.
The Quays Live 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 set list. 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.
The Skeff Bar and Kitchen
7:30pm: New Grace’s Cocktail Lounge Launches this Friday at the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen
The spirit of daring and adventure evoked by Ireland’s celebrated Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley, has inspired the naming of the latest addition to the historic Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen. The new luxurious cocktail lounge, Grace’s, set in the surrounds of the 17th century landmark building, retains the ambiance and charm of the Skeff whilst bringing a contemporary twist to the historic venue. This vibrant and bustling new Galway hotspot will officially open on Friday, May 12th at 7.30pm. With plush seating and an extensive wine, whiskey, gin and specialised cocktail menu, Grace’s drinking club offers a cosy and inviting space for socialising in the heart of the city centre. From the classic Margaritas and Martinis, to the aptly named Eyre Cosmo and of course Pirate Queen, discover the delectable array of cocktails at Grace’s drinking club at the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen in Eyre Square. For more information, enquiries, or to reserve the area for private hire, email party@theskeff.ie.
The Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen
10pm: Evoke followed by DJ Dave G
If you have ever been to an Evoke gig, you will have felt the passion and energy emanating from every corner of the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen. This upbeat band bring the rhythm, maintaining a fast pace with their dynamic covers, that keeps the crowd wanting for more. Delivering music from a range of decades and genres, the set list ties in seamlessly, building to a crescendo that has the audience on their feet. Expect to find a vibrant and bustling experience, as Evoke bring their unique twist on classic covers, rock anthems and more with gusto. It’s guaranteed to be a night to remember.
Róisín Dubh
8pm: The Bonk & Maija Sofia
A mix of 1960s garage, jazz and pop, The Bonk is an experimental music project fronted by O’Emperor’s Phil Christie. As principal songwriter with the award winning O’ Emperor, he has toured internationally, sharing the stage with the likes of Beck and MGMT, and has continued to collaborate with artists of such calibre as Mick Flannery, Junior Brother, Cal Folger Day and Dan Walsh’s improvisational project Fixity.
The Bonk is an experimental music project described as “one of Ireland’s most interesting experimental outfits today”. Their debut ‘The Bonk Seems To Be A Verb’, has attracted a loyal following since its release in 2017 while the band’s live show has become increasingly in demand. Their second LP ‘Greater Than Or Equal To The Bonk’ is due for release this month and will see the band collaborating again with boutique imprint thirty-three45. For tickets click here:
https://roisindubh.net/listings/the-bonk-and-maija-sofia-2023-05-12-200000-78056