16 June, Empire Music Hall, Belfast, tickets here
Having been nominated for the Choice Music Prize on two separate occasions, the deeply affecting talent of folk singer-songwriter Lisa O’Neill isn’t exactly new information to many. Her soulful storytelling, the timbre of her voice, the lilting crescendos — it all makes for an almost spiritual sonic experience.
21-23 June, Bundoran, Donegal, tickets here
Bringing together music, surf, and sports, Sea Sessions is Ireland’s biggest beach party, and Irish names are making up a healthy portion of this year’s lineup. Across the weekend, you can expect Soulé, blk., JAZZY, Bricknasty, Conchúr White, Big Sleep, Elaine Mai & Maykay, Mathman, and loads more.
22 June, Róisín Dubh, Galway, tickets here
Another gig celebrating 20 years of the Róisín Dubh, Soda Blonde’s unique alt-pop sound is one to be relished. Their second LP, Big Dreams, was just nominated for the 2023 Choice Music Prize and will have you frolicking, swaying, and on your feet all evening. This show comes ahead of their biggest headline performance to date in the National Concert Hall next month, playing alongside the National Symphony Orchestra.
29 June, The Workman’s Cellar, Dublin, tickets here
Cork-based indie rock/pop five-piece The Cliffords capture the essence of love, heartbreak, and cathartic joy through their dynamic and emotional sound. Ahead of this date, they’ll also be playing Live at St Luke’s on 22 June with fellow Corkonians The Love Buzz and Pebbledash.
29 June, Trinity College, Dublin, tickets here
An indie folk musical project from singer-songwriter-producer Conor J O’Brien, the music of Villagers fuses folk, pop and rock, and has been featured in soundtracks like Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman’s Big Little Lies, and Irish thriller-drama series, Smother.
29 June, National Museum of Ireland, Dublin, tickets < target="_blank" rel="noopener">here
Having just stepped into a new era with her brand new aptly titled EP ISSA NEW ERA, Celaviedmai should be bursting from every sound system this summer. Her sound’s shifting and evolving with every release, and it’s so exciting to see, so make sure you catch her playing at the MOTHER Block Party during this year’s Pride celebrations.