Whelan’s was bouncing off the walls last night as Grooveline, the powerhouse six-piece from Co. Leitrim, delivered an unforgettable, high-voltage performance that had the whole venue dancing from start to finish. Blending funk, soul, rap, and pure groove, they brought an explosive energy that refused to dip for even a second.
This band doesn’t just play music, they live it. Each member swapped instruments and roles like it was second nature: vocals flipped to sax, guitarists also sang, the drummer sang while laying down beats, and even violin and keyboard were folded seamlessly into the sound. It wasn’t just a gig, it was a showcase of raw, unfiltered talent, and the crowd soaked up every second.
Before Grooveline took to the stage, the night kicked off with Avenue.68, a Dublin-based five-piece who immediately set a cool, groovy tone. Their blend of bass, guitar, keys, drums and catchy vocals got the crowd swaying in rhythm, easing everyone into the night with smooth, infectious energy.
Then came the five-piece Burnchurch from Kilkenny, featuring Sadhbh on fiddle and on keyboard and flute was Síofra, who also stepped out front to take the mic for two songs and completely stunned the room. Her first song was a slow, an emotional moment that showed off jaw-dropping vocals, but when she flipped to an upbeat banger, everything changed. She commanded the room: “Dance!” and no one even thought of saying no. Within seconds, Whelan’s was a sea of bodies bouncing together. The main vocalist Eanna, added a beautiful cultural layer by switching between Irish and English throughout the set, a lovely and proud nod to their roots.
By the time Grooveline hit the stage, the room was already warm and buzzing, and they turned that buzz into a full-blown party. With genre-defying sound and an electric stage presence, they proved they’re one of Ireland’s most exciting rising acts. Whelan’s didn’t just dance last night, it exploded.
Avenue.68 photos:
Burnchurch photos:
Grooveline photos:
Photos & words – Erica Keogh @ericasnapz