The Scratch

Starting out with acoustic guitars and a wooden box, The Scratch created an immediate buzz in their hometown of Dublin. Seemingly incapable of keeping themselves in one genre, they meander intentionally around heavy metal, Irish folk music, stadium rock, and post-punk. They never take themselves too seriously, while always putting their souls into the music. They have won the hearts of anyone who has experienced their live shows, which have garnered a strong following in Ireland, the UK, and most recently mainland Europe and North America.

Briars

Hailing from Cork city, Briars are an alt-indie folk band with a traditional twist. Comprising of songwriters Mick Grace and Paul O’Shea, their sound ranges from fragile subtlety to raucous energy. Together, they have performed at prestigious festivals across Ireland and the UK. Their music unites dark folksy instrumentals with a thrilling build-up, with elements of post-punk and baroque pop, brooding basslines, energetic strings, and powerful, emotive vocals. With comparisons to Gurriers and The Waterboys, Briars create a stirring sound, making them one of the most exciting new acts on the scene.