Live music at Fireside Sessions in Dundalk's Toales

Fireside Sessions continues in Toales Rock Bar and Live Venue this week, championing original artists in a relaxed, welcoming space.

Thursday 29th January - Fireside Sessions Presents SHOCK SORROW + Caoimhin Brady - Show Starts 9pm - free admission

Fireside Sessions returns to Toales on Thursday 29 January with another night of original live music, welcoming Shock Sorrow and Caoimhín Brady for an intimate evening of songwriting, atmosphere and discovery.

As always, doors open at 9PM, with free admission. Joining forces from the ashes of former metal and rock bands, Keith and Steff Caffrey united to form alt-rock/acoustic two-piece Shock Sorrow.

Their distinctive signature of highly personal lyrics delivered with truly impassioned vocals, balanced with poignant guitars has earned them their reputation as some of the best songwriters in Ireland’s acoustic rock scene.

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Support on the night sees the return of one of the town’s most compelling young voices, Caoimhín Brady.

A singer-songwriter with a rare emotional depth, Caoimhín delivers honest, introspective songs that speak to life’s struggles and quiet hopes.

Blending acoustic and indie folk, his music creates a safe, reflective space for listeners—an invitation to feel seen, heard, and understood.memorable.

Fireside Sessions continues to champion original artists in a relaxed, welcoming space, offering audiences the chance to experience great songwriting up close.

Whether you’re a regular or discovering the series for the first time, this promises to be another special midweek escape at Toales. Free in, great music, and a perfect way to wind down into the weekend.

Friday 30th January - Fireside Sessions Presents VIDEO BLUE + Mark Durnin - Show Starts 9pm - free admission

Fireside Sessions keeps the momentum flowing in the new year with another unmissable night of original music at Toales on Friday 30 January, this time showcasing two acts with deep Dundalk roots and big creative visions.

As always, the show kicks off at 9pm and admission is completely free. Headlining the night is Video Blue , the boundary-pushing indie project from Jim O’Donoghue Martin, who has earned a loyal following with music that blends shimmering guitars, electronic textures and sharp lyrical storytelling.

Live, his songs stretch and breathe, shifting from intimate reflection to rhythmic, propulsive energy — the kind that fills a room without ever shouting for attention.

Expect a set that balances invention with hooks that stick.

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.

Saturday 31st January - Fireside Sessions Presents GERRY MAGUIRE + guests - Starts 9PM - free admission.

Fireside Sessions’ January Takeover draws to a close in style at Toales on Saturday 31 January, with a special headline set from Gerry Maguire, joined by a selection of guest performers.

Doors open at 9pm, with free admission, bringing a fitting finale to a standout month of original live music in Dundalk.
A Dundalk native, Gerry Maguire has been writing, performing and recording for nearly five decades.

Raised in a deeply musical family — his father and uncles were members of the legendary Benny Maguire Orchestra — music has always been central to his life.

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

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.

After a month packed with diverse talent, memorable moments and packed rooms, this final night offers the perfect opportunity to settle in, soak up the atmosphere, and celebrate the end of another hugely successful Fireside Sessions run at Toales.