Here Are Our Must-See Acts at Ireland Music Week 2024
Words: Rachel Hannon
Photo: Makin a mess
Ireland Music Week 2024 is back this week from 1-4 October, and it is set to showcase the best of Ireland’s emerging talent across some of Dublin’s iconic venues. Aside from the many eager artists ready to make their mark, there will also be a wide range of workshops and conferences featuring industry professionals. Set to be one of the year’s biggest Irish music networking events, with valuable insider information and a unique series of performances, it is a haven for music fans.
With 50 acts from across the country playing over the 3 days, there is so much talent to see. We’ve put together our must-see acts for Ireland Music Week 2024.
Salamay
Venue: Workman’s Main Room
Time: 15:45
Nigerian-born and based in Cork, Salamay is one of the leading hip-hop artists in the country. His music is emotive, evocative, and unfiltered. Challenging genre conventions, he is inspired by the likes of Fela Kuti, Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean, and more. He has opened for artists like Dave East and The Joy, with recent performances at festivals including Electric Picnic and Fête De La Musique. He has also had a very successful debut headline show at The Sound House.
FYNCH
Venue: Crowbar Terrace
Time: 21:20
Hailing from Drimmnagh, hip-hop artist FYNCH has been gaining more and more notoriety in recent years. His lyrics are honest, and his beats are infectious. Inspired by artists like Loyle Carner, Kojaque, and Earl Sweatshirt, his live shows are funny, unpredictable, and interactive. Having played the stages of Electric Picnic, Body & Soul, and Forbidden Fruit, he is now set to make his debut appearance at IMW.
Holly Munro
Venue: Grand Social Loft
Time: 22:30
Since her debut release in 2023, Holly Munro has been redefining the sound of Irish indie-pop. Her songwriting, hypnotic vocals, and intriguing visuals have made her highly tipped. Having supported Morganna on tour and performed her own packed-out headline show at Workman’s Club Dublin, it’s now time to experience her mesmerising set at IMW.
Kean Kavanagh
Venue: Button Factory
Time: 22:50
Since releasing his Wrestling Music EP in 2023, Kean has been working on new music, and we can’t wait to hear it. As one of the founders of Soft Boy Records alongside Kojaque, Kean has extensive experience in the music industry. He has opened for the likes of Maverick Sabre and Vampire Weekend amongst numerous headliners, festival gigs and more. He is evidently one of Ireland’s top musical talents, sure to put on an eclectic show at IMW.
Annie-Dog
Venue: Button Factory
Time: 21:50
Annie-Dog mixes indie, electronic, pop, and even shoegaze. She describes her music as occupying a space between Grimes and PinkPantheress. Although she only released her debut this year, her sound is so distinctive that once you hear it, you know you’re listening to something special. Signed to the UK indie label Dance to the Radio, supported by numerous Spotify editorial playlists, and with gigs in Dublin and beyond, it’s clear she’s only just getting started.
Ahmed, With Love.
Venue: Button Factory
Time: 20:50
Dublin-born Sierra Leonean rapper Ahmed, With Love. has been putting out captivating releases in recent months. Between his indie-style music videos, humorous wordplay, pro-wrestling theatrics, and effortless, nonchalant on-stage demeanor, his set at IMW this year is definitely one to watch. Already dubbed one of District’s ‘Best Breakthrough Irish Rap Artists and a previous ‘Future of Irish Music’ act, his success is bound to continue.
DeCarteret
Venue: Button Factory
Time: 19:50
Her lyrics are fearless, her sound is smooth, and her possibilities are seemingly endless. Based in Cork and originally from Clare, DeCarteret has been teasing singles off her upcoming EP. Fusing elements of neo-soul, jazz, and R&B, her tracks have racked up thousands of streams. Another one of District’s ‘Future of Irish Music’ alumni, her IMW performance will no doubt be a show-stopper.
The Cliffords
Venue: Button Factory
Time: 21:55
Influenced by the likes of The Cure, Wolf Alice, and The Strokes, The Cliffords are a five-piece indie rock band from Cork. Their emotions are raw, their sounds are rich, and they are a must-see. With lead singer Iona’s ethereal vocals paired with that indie-rock band sound, they’re already gaining national recognition, and deservedly so.
THEO
Venue: Grand Social Loft
Time: 21:20
Based in London, artist and producer THEO has a sound that is clearly sculpting her own original path on the Irish music scene. Singles from her highly anticipated Naughty Boy EP have already been teased. With R&B vocals and hard-hitting beats, she creates an infectious sound that translates beautifully to her live performances.
Balderdasch
Venue: Crowbar Terrace
Time: 21:30
London-based artist, Balderdasch has undeniably carved out her niche alt-pop sound in the Irish and UK music scenes. Her live sets are immersive, with avant-garde visuals and sound, and her future looks very promising.
Still Blue
Venue: Grand Social Ballroom
Time: 20:50
This four-piece indie-pop band is known for vibrant and catchy tunes like ‘Honeysuckle Daydream’ as well as introspective tracks like ‘Ladybird.’ They strike the perfect balance between feel-good music and honest, raw storytelling.
Celaviedmai
Venue: Grand Social Ballroom
Time: 22:50
If you’re looking for a fiery performance, Celaviedmai is a must-see. She has emerged as one of the most thrilling names on the Irish music scene. Hailing from Galway, she has supported acts like Mac Miller, Lil Wayne, and Kelis and her energetic live sets mimic the excitement of her tracks. Be sure to arrive early to get to the front for this electric performance.
