BRIARS

BRIARS are an alternative folk act that sound like nobody else in the Irish scene. Their sound ranges from fragile subtlety to raucous energy, visiting every stop along the way, always underlined with a signature twist.

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The first lineup of BRIARS made its’ live debut in 2023 in iconic folk venue, Coughlans (Cork City). Word would spread quickly about the band’s energetic 6 piece live show and original, authentic sound, combining traditional influences with more contemporary approaches and textures.

Over the next two years, the band would regularly release music, receiving coverage from the likes of RTE Entertainment, Hot Press, Analogue Trash, The Irish Post and more, as well as regular radio play on national Irish and UK radio (Today FM, RTE Radio 1, RTE 2FM, BBC Radio and more). High profile festival slots at the likes of Electric Picnic, Galway Folk Fest, When Next We Meet, Guinness Cork Jazz Fest cemented the band as a ‘must see’ live act, sharing bills with the likes of the Scratch, The Wran, Leevy, Billow Wood and more.

Successful showcases at AICF (Florida) and YRAS (Belfast) have resulted in the band being booked for a US tour in August 2027 (more details to follow). The band recently made their Irish TV debut, and are currently in middle of an already successful summer tour, including their debut shows in London and a return to Ireland’s biggest festival, Electric Picnic. Find all upcoming shows here

Bookings: Maire@wordofmouthagency.ie

What People Are Saying

"We’re loving There There" "Jam-packed with emotion and a thrilling build-buildup of dark folksy instrumentals, ‘Qualms’ captures the energy of their seven-piece live show. Evolving in depth and passion as it goes, the track opens with a subtle bouzouki riff, which is set in motion by a trio of forceful drums, bass, and keys before being completed by the addition of traditional Irish instruments, which give it that extra edge. This allows the song to grow to what feels like an indie anthem but with fresh, unfamiliar textures and dynamics."
Hot Press
“A great song and a great message….absolutely loved it…..full of emotion…it sparks something in me…”
You Haven’t Heard This Music Podcast
"The alt-folk outfit bring elements of post-punk and baroque pop into the mix on Qualms. Not the kind of genres I’ve ever come across before in such a smooth fusion of sounds and styles....the brooding bassline and energetic strings heighten the raw power of the vocals and lyrics. Think Gurriers meets The Waterboys and you’ll get a feel for just some of what is going on in the lively alt-folk gem."
Analogue Trash
“BRIARS are a brand new Irish alternative folk act with a sound which transcends traditional notions while still sounding authentically Irish.”
Cork Independent
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