Ireland has long been recognised as a hotbed of exceptional musical diversity and today’s output of homegrown artists, over just about every genre, shows the industry is in fine – if not fantastic – fettle.
With our global reputation as a creative and culturally-rich country and the Creative Ireland Programme’s commitment to enriching our creative industries, we’re taking a look at the many talented musicians, artists and bands who put the needle in the groove for some of our most popular videos.
Villagers
Inviting and intimate without ever foregoing a great groove, the music of Conor O’Brien’s Villagers has been spellbinding listeners since 2010. Twice shortlisted for the Mercury Music Prize and winner of the Ivor Novello award for Best Album 2016 and 2013’s Choice Music Prize, listen to the track So Naïve for a glimpse of their quiet, undeniable dynamism.
Wyvern Lingo
With stomping hooks and infectious harmonies, Wicklow trio Wyvern Lingo’s fresh pop melodies come with a depth that feel like instant classics. Three best pals who’ve been playing music together since the age of 11, the track Letter to Willow is just one example of their tight but effortless sound.
Lisa O’Neill
With a beguiling voice that lasts long in the mind, Cavan native Lisa O’Neill’s whip smart take on trad-folk singles her out as a real one-off. A captivating marriage of modern wit and old-fashioned storytelling, her rootsy charm and command is showcased vividly on Same Cloth or Not.
Le Boom
This Dublin duo deliver irresistible electro-pop bursting with pumping beats and layered loops. Formed only in 2016, Christy Leech and Aimie Mallon have been wowing worldwide since the release of their debut single What We Do, which has so far notched up a hefty 300,000+ plays on Spotify.
The Finns
Winners of the Busker Fleadh 2017, brothers Hugh and Ciaran Finn pair their alt-folk roots music with trad sensibilities. Catchy, urgent, upbeat, and underscored with driving guitar, banjo and harmonica, The Finns’ music simply brims energy. Check out their song, My Home Town, for a taste.
Ham Sandwich
With their trademark rousing choruses on songs that span scuzzy indie-rock to pure perfect pop, this Meath five-piece have steadily risen to become one of the country’s most popular bands. Listen to Long Distance for a flavour of their emotive beats and sweet, soaring vocals.
As well as the incredible talent mentioned above, the Creative Ireland Programme’s videos have also been soundtracked by the likes of Lisa Hannigan, Martin Hayes, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Nick Kelly, Kormac, and Lakker, all superb examples of the country’s rude musical health.
