We’ve Only Just Begun: Celebrating The Next Wave of Irish Women & Enbys in Music

A night showcasing some of the freshest and most promising female and non-binary talent in the Irish music scene proved one thing: the future is bright. Now in its fifth year, We’ve Only Just Begun is a great partnership between Whelan’s and the festival organisers, showcasing up and coming musicians, which is a great demonstration of how important good venues and grass-roots organisations are for fostering home-grown talent.

From heartfelt folk to grungy indie rock, these artists are not only honing their craft but also connecting with audiences on a deeply personal level.

The evening kicked off with Sammy Copley, who started the show on the main stage with a sweetness that immediately captured the crowd. Their perfectly executed and emotional vocals matched their lyrics, and while they’re known for viral hits, Copley also showed off a new, country-tinged side. This “cowboy era” suited them well, with powerful and raw vocals, and personal banter that made the experience feel incredibly intimate.

As Sammy Copley’s set concluded, the energy shifted upstairs, where the four-piece band All Thumbs delivered a set that was both funky and shoegazey. They masterfully paired meaningful lyrics with a high-energy vibe, even sharing a powerful and cathartic tribute dedicated to saying “fuck cancer.” As their set progressed, the band launched into rockier tunes, creating an electric energy exchange with the crowd through great bass lines and clever, angsty lyrics.

Back on the main stage, Sarah Brooki brought a captivating, gothy aesthetic reminiscent of Evanescence. Her stage presence, which began shyly, quickly blossomed into full ownership of the stage and her music. It was refreshing to see an authentic and talented Irish artist with such a unique sound, as Sarah’s vocals demonstrated an incredible range and depth that shifted dynamically with each song. Her performance was a poignant reminder of music’s power to process emotion, as her lyrics tore through the room and resonated with the audience.

The momentum continued with WineMom, a group with an amazing dynamic that’s clearly improving with every show. For anyone who fears that rock bands are a thing of the past, these indie rockers are the cure. Their stage presence was magnetic, the instruments were tight, and the vocals were perfect, making them a band to watch closely.

The night was also punctuated by the moody indie rock of Delivery Service, another great Dublin group performing last on the upstairs stage. With only one song currently on Spotify, it was exciting to hear their other material live. Their sound, subdued at times, built into grungier sounds as the set progressed, making them a worthy addition to any festival line-up.

Closing out the main stage was Negro Impacto, who brought a set of chill, indie vibes with danceable bass lines. It was a fun and groovy way to end the night, and a great example of the wide variety of music coming out of Ireland. With a growing following, this group had incredible control of the stage, getting the entire crowd to groove along with them. If you enjoy a mix of chill, indie-funk, and impressive guitar work, you’ll want to check them out sooner rather than later.

The night was a testament to the diverse and vibrant talent emerging from Ireland. These artists are not just performers; they are storytellers who use their unique sounds to connect with their audiences. It’s a promising start for what’s sure to be an incredible journey for each of them.