Listen up! Five Irish bands that are going to be HUGE this year

If you like a bit of Irish talent (like we all do), then feast your eyes on this list. From all around Ireland, these bands and singers are the ones to watch in 2016. 

And believe us when we tell you, you'll be impressed:

1. The Academic

These lads from Mullingar have just sold out an Irish tour. But that's not all, The Academic also supported The Strokes and Noel Gallagher in 2015 and in March they're headlining Vicar Street. Not too shabby, boys. 

 

2. Exmagician

Belfast's Exmagician have taken a more bluesy approach to their music of late. They first made a stir on the Irish music scene in 2011, but 2016 is definitely going to be their year.

 

3. James Vincent McMarrow

This Dublin man first debuted in 2010 but since then has changed his sound to a more hip pop and R&B vibe. And if his latest single, How To Waste A Moment is anything to go by, he's going to be big. 

 

4. Ciaran Lavery

Lurgan singer/songwriter Ciaran was nominated for the Northern Ireland Music Prize recently but this year he is really going to stand out from the crowd. Imagine a smooth Damien Rice-like sound. Just lovely. 

 

5. Saint Sister

These two beautiful ladies from Derry and Belfast have a enchanting sound to their music and describe it as 'atmosfolk'. Just think a traditional, Enya-type vives, but with a modern twist.