Kíla

This world music phenomenon bring their fiery folk-rock with a global and Celtic heart. Known for their tribal energy, Kíla combine Irish tradition with international influences, featuring the sounds of djembe, congas, brass and bass to create joyful and exhilarating rhythms. With roots in Gaelic heritage, they combine traditional, classical, and rock elements into free spirited compositions. Formed in the late 1980s, Kíla has earned their place as one of Ireland’s most innovative bands. These talented musicians from different backgrounds have also made their mark on screen, from their Emmy-nominated score for Ireland’s Wild River to their collaborations on Oscar-nominated animations, The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea and Wolfwalkers.

NxNW (North by North West)

NxNW is a powerhouse quartet featuring four of Ireland’s top musicians; Ryan Molloy on piano and keys, who was recently honoured as Cumadóir na Bliana/Composer of the Year at Gradam Ceoil TG4; David Doocey on fiddle and strings; Stephen Doherty on flutes and box and Kieran Leonard on drums and percussion. Their sound is bold and innovative, a synergy of traditional roots with contemporary energy. This year is an exciting one for the group as they release their highly anticipated album. As individual performers, they have worked with some of the biggest names in music, from Lúnasa and Clannad to the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Cian Ducrot.

Eve Clague

From Clonakilty, West Cork, Eve is a singer-songwriter who draws on the rich variety of music she grew up with. Her style of song writing is highly personal and direct, and this is reflected in her debut album, ‘Caught In Words. Her music crosses genres very naturally, as her songs centre around her acoustic guitar, and deeply honest vocal style. Eve has developed a self-taught fingerpicking style of guitar with folk/jazz elements and hints of Joni Mitchell and Nick Cave vibes. She has a powerful voice that captures the elements of the '60s, exploring themes of love, friendship, heartbreak, and other issues dealing with emotions and mental health.

BackWest

Siblings Maureen and Brendan Browne are the lead instrumentalists of BackWest. Their album, ‘The Long Walk’, was hailed as a debut on fire, and became one of the top albums in the year of its release. This powerhouse duo, on fiddle and button accordion, are joined by world-renowned artists such as Fabian Joyce, Shane McGowan, and Seamie O’Dowd on guitar and vocals; Yvonne Fahy, Robbie Walsh and Steve Morrow on percussion. This melodic ensemble perform traditional Irish music and song with the organic nature of home.

Saije

Indie folk duo Saije have a full-bodied sound inspired by their upbringing among the rivers and valleys on the east coast of Australia. Together, Shanteya and Jo express their close affinity with the natural world through their music. Their barefoot adventures have led them to become a multi award-winning group with soulful harmonies, dynamic guitar lines, and percussive breakdowns. Awarded Folk Alliance Australia’s ‘Young Artist of the Year 2019-2021,’ Saije has toured extensively, playing a host of sold-out performances and festival appearances. They continue to uplift through their unifying and warm melodies.