This past weekend, Dublin’s iconic Fibber Magee’s hosted an electric night of live music, with Ria Timkin, Mark Hegan, and La Di Da taking the stage. Known for its raw and gritty vibe, Fibbers has seen legends like U2 and Thin Lizzy in their early days. It’s the kind of venue where you might just catch a glimpse of tomorrow’s stars, and this night delivered exactly that.
Opening the show was Ria Timkin, who set the tone with a dynamic five-track set. Her new single, The Difference, was a standout in her set. The studio version of this powerful pop ballad already makes an impact, but the live version takes things to a new level. The driving bass drum paired with Ria’s emotive vocal delivery created a captivating moment. She and her band held the crowd’s attention from start to finish. With their next stop in Derry, Ria is clearly on an upward trajectory and it wouldn’t be surprising to see her making some big waves soon.
Mark Hegan followed and brought incredible energy to the stage. His sound, like a blend of Springsteen’s grit and Sam Fender’s indie edge, filled the room. Love Is Gonna Hurt This Way Forever was a show-stealer, its expansive melodies and infectious hook instantly pulling the audience into a sing-along. Mark’s stage presence was undeniable and he worked the crowd effortlessly. It’s clear to see why the likes of BBC and Q Radio have already been paying attention. His set felt like a promise of what’s to come, and it’s easy to picture him commanding larger stages before long.
The headliners, La Di Da, closed the night with an intimate but intense set. Led by Niamh O’Raw and Sean Lay, the band had the audience pressed close to the stage. Their rendition of Lola Young’s Messy was fantastic and showcased Niamh’s vocal prowess and the band’s tight musicianship. The set culminated with their upcoming 2024 single, The Other Car – the track’s American indie sound filled the room, its layered guitars and punchy rhythm a perfect match for Fibber’s gritty ambiance. The performance left a lasting impression, and the crowd’s reaction suggested La Di Da are on a promising path.
The night wasn’t just three acts filling a bill, it felt like a glimpse into the future of the Irish music scene. Each artist brought their own flavor, from Ria’s pop balladry to Mark’s anthemic rock and La Di Da’s fresh indie sound. Fibber Magee’s proved once again why it’s a breeding ground for new talent, offering an intimate stage for acts poised for greatness. If you were there, you might just be telling the story of this night when these artists are selling out larger venues in the years to come.
Ria Timkin photos:
Mark Hegan photos:
La Di Da photos:
Photos & Words by Myles Dunne – @MylesDunnePhoto