On a clear summer evening in the heart of the Kilkenny countryside, over 600 people gathered at the breathtaking Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre to experience something truly special. The occasion? A live performance by BIIRD, an all-female Irish band rapidly gaining attention for their bold, spirited take on traditional music. With its open-air seating in a former stone quarry, the venue provided the perfect blend of rugged charm and intimacy for a night that felt more like a shared ritual than a typical concert.
Opening the evening was local artist Nessa, whose folk-pop set created a gentle and reflective start to the night. Her emotive vocals and skillfully crafted originals were complemented by a few well-chosen covers, all delivered with heartfelt sincerity. The audience responded warmly, clearly connecting with her introspective tone while anticipating what was to come.
Then came BIIRD or as they call themselves, “a bunch of feral witches.” From the moment the eight-piece band took the stage, it was clear this would be no ordinary trad gig. With a captivating mix of traditional Irish tunes, high-energy reels, and original songs, the band managed to feel both grounded in heritage and wildly inventive. Members shifted between instruments with ease, layering rich textures that showcased their collective talent and chemistry.
The set was filled with memorable moments, but a standout came midway through when a band member stepped forward to recite a poem in support of Gaza. It marked a brief yet powerful pause in the otherwise high-octane performance a reminder of the deep emotional and political roots that often run through folk music. The crowd fell into a hush, then responded with heartfelt applause.
Adding to the magic were two Irish dancers who joined the band at intervals, their percussive footwork raising the energy and drawing cheers from the crowd. The interplay between dancers and musicians added a visual rhythm to the already electric sound, further blurring the lines between performance and celebration.
Introducing the song ”Morning Sunrise”, the lead singer shared that BIIRD has yet to release any recorded music a fact hard to believe given the polish and power of their live set. Described as a song about “finding your tribe,” it resonated as an anthem of belonging, and may well become their breakout debut if released.
As the band announced their final songs, the energy surged. Audience members left their seats en masse, crowding the front of the stage in a spontaneous trad Céilí. Those who couldn’t make it down danced in place, swept up in the sheer joy of the moment.
If you have even a passing interest in traditional Irish music, BIIRD is a band you need to see live. They bring something raw, joyful, and unmistakably new to the scene. Catch them next at the Galway Arts Festival on July 17th or during their Sunday afternoon set at All Together Now.
Nessa photos:
BIIRD photos:
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic