Fireside Sessions brings more great music to Dundalk's Toales Live Venue

Thursday 5th February - Fireside Sessions presents NICK PUYANE + Sean Fee - Show starts 9pm - Free admission.

A regular and much-loved fixture in Dundalk’s live music calendar, Toales' Fireside Sessions strip live music back to its essentials, placing the emphasis on songwriting, performance, and genuine connection with the audience, and continues its long-running commitment to original music with the next Fireside Sessions this Thursday 5th February.

Starting at 9pm and free to attend as always, the night features Nick Puyane and support Sean Fee in the venue’s signature intimate setting.

Nick Puyane is an exceptionally talented singer-songwriter and pianist, known for his work with Evil Harrisons, The 1922s, and The Magnificent Loafers.

His songwriting has earned striking comparisons, described as being “infused with shades of Randy Newman and a scintilla of The Divine Comedy,” and even likened to “Stephen Sondheim willingly handcuffed to Gavin Friday.”

In a solo setting, Puyane’s songs shine through for their wit, melodic strength, and emotional detail.

Sharing the night is Sean Fee, best known for his work with his band The Dundalk Dolls, with whom he has built an impressive résumé.

The group have released a string of critically acclaimed singles and a debut album that reveal a richly evolving sound, built on superbly crafted songs, soaring harmonies, and heartfelt lyrics.

For the Fireside Sessions, Fee performs acoustic versions of his material, stripping the songs back to their emotional core and highlighting his natural storytelling ability.

With free entry and a clear focus on original songwriting, this Thursday’s Fireside Sessions promise a relaxed, rewarding evening of live acoustic music in the heart of Dundalk.

Friday 6th February - Fireside Sessions presents VIDEO BLUE + Mark Durnin - Show starts 9pm - Free admission.

In true Fireside Sessions spirit, the music keeps moving forward.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Video Blue's scheduled show on Friday 30 January had to be postponed — but rather than lose the night, it’s been rescheduled to the following Friday 6th February, ensuring the new year’s momentum rolls on with another unmissable evening of original music at Toales.

As always with any and every Fireside Sessions event, the show kicks off at 9pm and admission is completely free.

Video Blue, the boundary-pushing indie project from Jim O’Donoghue Martin, has built a loyal following with a sound that blends shimmering guitars, electronic textures and sharp, thoughtful lyricism.

Live, his songs expand and evolve, moving effortlessly from intimate reflection to rhythmic, propulsive energy — filling the room without ever forcing the moment.

Expect a set rich in invention, atmosphere and hooks that linger long after the final note.

Opening the night is Mark Durnin, a favourite of the local scene whose songwriting quietly grows stronger and more thoughtful with every release and performance.

Built around crisp guitar work, warm melodies and unforced confidence, his live shows land on that sweet spot where craft meets honesty.

Whether unveiling something brand new or revisiting a fan favourite, Mark has a natural way of drawing an audience closer.

Settle in early, grab a seat by the virtual fire, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere that makes the Fireside Sessions such a standout showcase for new music in Dundalk.

Two artists, two distinct voices, one night built on originality, creativity and the joy of hearing songs up close. Free in, tunes all evening, and the perfect start to the weekend.

Saturday 7th February - Fireside Sessions present GERRY MAGUIRE + Loud Strings Ukulele Group - Show starts 9PM - free admission.

Fireside Sessions returns to Toales on Saturday 7 February with a rescheduled headline show from Gerry Maguire, joined on the night by the Loud Strings Ukulele Group.

Originally set for last Saturday, the show was postponed due to the dreaded flu, but Gerry is back, fighting fit and ready to take the Fireside stage from 9PM. As always, admission is free.

A Dundalk native, Gerry Maguire has been writing, performing and recording music for nearly five decades. Raised in a deeply musical family — with his father and uncles part of the legendary Benny Maguire Orchestra — music has always been central to his life.

Over the years, Gerry has forged his own distinctive path, forming a nine-piece band in the 1990s, playing iconic venues such as Whelan’s and the Temple Bar Music Centre, and collaborating with many of Ireland’s finest musicians along the way.

After stepping back from music to focus on community projects in Dundalk, Gerry is now returning to the stage, reconnecting with audiences through songs rooted in honesty, warmth and lived experience.

His performances balance seasoned craft with emotional immediacy, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and uplifting.

Adding a unique flavour to the night, the Loud Strings Ukulele Group will join as special guests, bringing a collaborative, feel-good energy that perfectly reflects the spirit of the Fireside Sessions — spontaneous, creative and community-driven.

Free entry, great music, and a perfect Fireside night at Toales to kick February off in style.