Ireland’s biggest music and arts festival kicks tomorrow, when 70,000 fans converge on the village of Stradbally, Co. Laois for a weekend of fun and merriment.
If you’re heading along and are wondering which acts to circle on your schedule, we’re here to help.
Below you’ll find ten acts that you should definitely check out this weekend - especially if you're not bothered with The Killers, Niall Horan, The Script et al.
Wet Leg | Friday, Electric Arena, 8.15pm
Yes, they’ve only had one album - but what an album. If you’re excited about hearing the likes of ‘Chaise Longue’ and ‘Angelica’ live (and maybe even some new songs), here’s your chance to catch the Isle of Wight duo.
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Young Fathers | Friday, Rankin’s Wood, 10.15pm
The Scottish multi-genre trio are a group that need to be experienced live for their full effect. Expect hip-hop, soul, pop and rock to combine for a powerful show.
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The Murder Capital | Friday, 3Music Stage, 8.45pm
One of Ireland’s best guitar bands - and live bands, too - will kick your Friday night off brilliantly, playing songs from moody debut ‘When I Have Fears’ and their second album ‘Gigi’s Recovery’, released earlier this year.
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These Charming Men | Friday, Salty Dog Stage, 7.50pm (Johnny Marr, Saturday, 7-8pm Electric Arena)
Yes, they’re a tribute act, but they’re one of the best tribute acts around - and certainly the best Smiths and Morrissey tribute band on the planet. If you’re a Smiths fan, Ireland’s These Charming Men are simply a must-see. (Incidentally, Johnny Marr plays the Electric Arena on Saturday at 7pm.)
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Aisling Bea | Saturday, Comedy Stage, 7.15pm
One of Ireland’s funniest people? Aisling Bea is certainly one of our most successful comedy exports in recent years. See the actress and comic plays a rare stand-up set on Saturday.
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Rick Astley | Sunday, Main Stage, 5.30pm
No, this is not a rick-roll. If you saw footage of Rick Astley at Glastonbury, you’ll be aware of just how insanely entertaining a performer he is. This will undoubtedly be one of the feel-good sets of the weekend.
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Sing-Along Social: Britney vs. Beyonce - Sunday | Survivor stage, 3.30pm
Anyone who’s been to a weekend-long festival knows it’s not all about traipsing from tent to tent to see the next big thing. Sometimes, you just wanna chill and have a bit of craic. The Sing-Along Social does exactly what it says on the tin: roll up on Sunday afternoon for some restorative group karaoke that’ll tee you up nicely for the last day.
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Sello | Sunday, Rankin’s Wood, 4.15pm
Young Clondalkin rapper Sello is on the rise - and in a year or two, he’ll be playing bigger slots and bigger stages than this one. The ‘Gaelic drill’ proponent seriously impressed with last year’s debut album ‘Sellotape’; with a major label deal under his belt, there is a sense that he is going to be the one to push things forward for Irish rap.
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Jamie xx | Sunday, Electric Arena, 11pm
By 11pm on Sunday evening, you’ll be either flagging or raring to go. If you’re looking to escape the Killers on the main stafe, the xx man is the place to go for a dance party.
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Sprints | Sunday, Salty Dog Stage, 2.45am
Still awake (or planning to be) at 2.45am on Sunday night? You’re some bucko. In that case, Sprints are the ideal way to close out the weekend; the Dublin indie band are one of the best Irish bands out there right now, and will ensure you retire to your tent a giddy, spent mess. Which is really how all festivals should end, after all.