Galway Gig Guide:
It’s everyone’s favourite time of the day – it’s your Friday Galway Gig Guide. Here, we give you a rundown of just some of the offerings on in Galway this Friday night. With comedy and original post punk music at the Róisín to lively trad at Monroe’s Tavern and of course the party classics at the Quays Music Hall and The Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen, Galway is alive to the rhythm of entertainment and top tunes. Not only that, you can top the night off at DNA nightclub to keep you on your feet and dancing ‘til the wee hours. It’s a Bollywood bonanza at the venue, but also with the best of commercial hits and cheese, allowing you to decide which beat sets your soul ablaze over two floors.
Monroe’s Tavern
4:30pm: West Sessions Trad Music
Step into a world of traditional Irish music and song this Friday afternoon with The West Sessions at Monroe’s Tavern. Every Friday, this cosy venue on the corner of Dominick Street comes alive to the rhythm and the beat that signifies the sound of our heritage. This free event has gained a solid reputation as an absolute highlight of the week and is much loved by locals and visitors alike. Tucked away in the corner of this historic tavern, beneath the window’s ledge, a flourish of talented musicians come together for the ultimate trad session. As the music spills out on to the streets, the beat of the bodhran echoes the call of the fiddles and the strum of guitars. With such strong connections to a feast of local and international folk talent, you never know who will take their seat at the table for a rousing afternoon treat at this award-winning venue.
Róisín Dubh
8:00pm: 3 Bucks Left Live
Support: Martin Maloney
Describing themselves as “three hardy bucks with too much time on their hands who have decided to make Ireland funny again,” join Stephen ‘Cowboy’ Kelly and French Toast of 3 Bucks Left this Friday night at the Róisín Dubh. Together, they weave their way through a night of crafted brutish and hysterical humour. A mix of relevant and not so relevant stories. Sometimes crude, often lofty, and peppered with self-depreciating introspection and rowdy philosophies. 3 Bucks Left is a spin-off of County Mayo’s own Hardy Bucks and was created by childhood friends. This satire is laden with comedy and pathos throughout, inspiring many other acts in its wake. Now a decade later, it remains one of Ireland’s favourite comedy shows. Don’t be surprised if a few loose tunes are fired out on a night not to be missed. The Bucks will be joined by Martin Maloney.
Midnight: Strange Brew presents In Athens
Continue your night of original music at the Róisín Dubh this Friday as post-punk and alt band, In Athens will perform from midnight. Formed on the edge of Ireland where wild Connemara meets the wild Atlantic, this initial collaboration project brought together four musicians from different backgrounds. The result is a genre defying sound, described as “contemporary but timeless, vital yet considered”
Having released their new video to accompany the track ‘The Death on the Streets,’ in June, this four-piece are gaining momentum with their edgy lyrics and punk rock beats. The band comprises of Gráinne (vocals/keys), Simon (bass/vocals), Manolis (guitar/vocals) and Mosey (drums). All the members have a wealth of experience to lean on, and thanks to In Athens they can push the boundaries of their individuality to create delicious, hardcore music as an ensemble.
The Quays Music Hall
11pm: Dakota
Another band to emerge from the eclectic and vibrant city of the Tribes is celebrated party group Dakota. Known for their high-energy performances all over Ireland, this four-piece band delivers an electrifying mix of party hits, covering various genres from 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. 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.
DNA Nightclub:
Doors Open 10pm: Independence Day Special Bollywood Night
One of Ireland’s leading Bollywood DJs, DJ Neville brings a special edition of incredible music on the main floor this Friday, August 18th. This ultimate cultural fusion will be curated by DJ Neville with a kaleidoscope of Bollywood beats to create a pulsating realm of international sound. As Galway’s premier club venue, DNA will come alive to the top Bollywood anthems and hits spanning Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi and more. And if you are looking for the best of commercial hits, throwbacks and cheesy classics, DJ John Murphy will spin the decks in The Basement for the ultimate night out.
The Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen
10pm: Switch followed by DJ Dave
Switch is a band that stands out with their powerful vocals and the ability to put their unique modern twist on any genre. With over a decade of experience playing the busiest nights in pubs and clubs across the country, they have perfected their live sound. From the latest chart-toppers to beloved classics from the 1950s to present-day, Switch can play it all. This dynamic band spends most of their time on the road, travelling to venues nationwide to share their music with fans. Their high-energy performances are always a hit with audiences, making them a top choice for any event or occasion. If you’re looking for a band that can deliver an unforgettable live experience, Switch is the one to watch.
