Fresh from his recent appearance at Whelan’s Ones To Watch Festival in Dublin, Galway based singer-songwriter Shane Dunleavy is making waves on the Irish music scene. Selected as one of the country’s top talents of 2023, Shane, who performs as Dunluvly is set to bring his original work to Monroe’s Live on Friday, January 27. Not only that, but pop band Babylamb will also take to the stage at the Dominick Street venue for an evening celebrating emerging Irish talent.
Inspired by indie, jazz, R&B and a good jam session with talented musicians, Dunluvly is charting his own course since he picked up his first instrument at the age of seven. With his roots firmly in the traditional Irish and folk genre, Shane has evolved to create a fresh sound that is being recognised for its signature style.
His strong multi-instrumental background allows him to continually develop as an artist. By bringing a modern vision to time honoured musicianship, he blends the old and the new. Using rhythmic guitars, layered harmonies, and strings, Dunluvly’s lyrical storytelling comes to the fore, whether it’s the nostalgia of his Dublin upbringing, or his escape from the capital to the west.
Every part of his journey inspires his lyrics. In turn, he enjoys the interpretation of his music by other artists, seeking new ways to collaborate and enhance his work.
“The way we go about it is so similar to a trad session,” he says. “It’s like jamming as a rock band. This wider context brings unique sounding textures to the music. It’s a bit of R&B influenced by folky jazz.”
Together with Tommy Adams on vocals and keyboard, Mark Duggan on vocals and lead guitar, Ryan Fahey on bass and Christian Conefery on drums, Dunluvly will deliver an uplifting and accomplished performance of his unique compositions at Monroe’s Live. Having released over 20 songs since 2017, he is determined that this year will be his album year, as he focuses on bringing his music to new audiences.
The night also features a set with newly relaunched dance band, Babylamb, who will delve into the fun and vibrant world of electronica and rhythm. Having met in 2018 thanks to their strong Co Mayo connections, lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist producer Tobias Barry and beat-maker Rían Stephens are creating dance music for a generation, with classic pop overtones and a spirit of adventure. Together, they are nearing completion of their latest single, Weapon, which will be released in February.
“We want to create fun, happy dance music amidst the chaos of our world,” says Tobias Barry. “We want people to have a good time and to kick back with friends. There is a jolliness to our music. It’s a chance for us to make sense of it all and let go, and I really enjoy that contrast.”
Tickets to Dunluvly and Babylamb on Friday January 27 at Monroe’s Live cost €10 and are available from www.monroes.ie
