That Friday Feeling:
It’s Friday and we are set for an incredible night of culture across the city and county with Culture Night. As we embrace all aspects of our heritage, from community to art, Claddagh boats to opera, our staple music scene is still rocking and rolling to the best of original and cover bands. Read on to find out the very best of this Friday’s live Galway Gig Guide.
Monroe’s Tavern
4:30pm The West Sessions
Galway is renowned for lively trad sessions. As musicians come together to share their passion for the jigs, reels and folk music that have shaped our heritage, it’s a chance to hear the rhythm of the flutes, pipes, accordions, guitars and the thundering beat of the bodhrán as they play in unison. In fact, one of the city’s most popular haunts for Friday trad is Monroe’s Tavern. Conveniently, it’s located on the corner of Dominick Street, overlooking The Claddagh and Galway Bay. Right in the corner, underneath the windowsill, you will discover the peal of music and laughter as The West Sessions kicks into gear to welcome the weekend. With such strong connections to a host of local, national and international entertainers, you never know who you will meet as the toe-tapping session begins. Take a seat, sit back and enjoy the best of the west.
Róisín Dubh
8:00pm Culture Night special:
On the vibrant evening of Culture Night 2023, Strange Brew promises a great night of music at the renowned Roísín Dubh, celebrating the rich tapestry of music, culture, and inclusivity that Galway is renowned for. This eagerly anticipated event will showcase the talents of DJ sets from Hannah Hession and Rob Rua. Together, they are the driving forces behind Ar Ais Arís, a Galway-based electronic music night celebrated for its dedication to creating intimate, safe, and all-inclusive spaces. Ultimately, this is where music aficionados can revel in the immersive sounds of big sound systems. And, the night will also feature a captivating live performance by six-piece Celtic punk rock band, Kettleboilers and special guests.
11:59pm: Before the night is out, New Ceremony return to Róisín Dubh before midnight with their unique and energetic post punk sound. Prepare for a raucous night of dancing and spectacle with a theatrical flair.
The King’s Head
Red Tape will rock the King’s Head this Saturday night with their rousing, raw and edgy take on classic covers and anthems. It will be a night of hard rock to the best beats. Without doubt, Red Tape power through a dynamic and energetic set list to keep you 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.
The Quays Bar
A fantastic weekend of music awaits at the Quays Music Hall, one of the flagship venues of Galway’s Latin Quarter. On Friday, Leinster based four-piece pop and rock covers band ‘Off The Record’ will take to the stage for a night of rollicking tunes. From the Cranberries to Kings of Leon, this band will bring the anthems to the city, live and loud. Fronted by lead singer Irene Kavanagh, get ready to twist and shout as they storm through the decades and genres with ease.
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 driving rhythm emanating from every corner of the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen. This upbeat band bring the rhythm, maintaining a fast pace that keeps the crowd wanting more. Delivering music from a range of decades and genres, they have a signature style that blends elements of indie, alternative rock, and folk. Expect to find a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, as Evoke bring their take on classic covers, rock anthems and more. Evoke’s rise to prominence has been fuelled by their unwavering commitment to their craft and their relentless pursuit of excellence, as they also craft original work while maintaining their regular gigs at the Skeff and beyond. Their dedication to creating authentic and emotive music has earned them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim within the industry.
DNA Nightclub
KPop Volume 2
Kpop Friday, Volume 2 takes place tonight with games, dance battles, confetti blasters and more. This is a full production that will give you the ultimate dance experience. After a fantastic debut, DNA are bringing back this epic Kpop night with its catchy melodies, high-energy choreography and unique blend of pop, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic sounds. In essence, the Kpop genre is a cultural force that continues to evolve. As a result, it’s leaving an indelible imprint on the global music scene. Not only that, but downstairs, Adam D will be rocking The Basement with nothing but the best of commercial hits, throwbacks and cheese.
