This May, Irish Music and Dance in London (IMDL) presents two very special concerts featuring one of the most dynamic forces in contemporary Irish music — Damien Mullane and The Laads.

Catch them on Wednesday 21 May at the atmospheric Isis Farmhouse (The Barn), Oxford, a unique riverside venue just beyond Iffley Lock, and again on Thursday 22 May at Kings Place, London, one of the capital’s premier arts venues. The London show will be followed by a live session in the Rotunda Bar.

Led by Damien Mullane, a virtuoso accordion and melodeon player with a truly global résumé, the group also features Ben Wanders on percussion, Seán O’Meara on guitar and vocals, and Conor Broderick on keys. With a musical background that includes performances at Carnegie Hall, Glastonbury and for US presidents and royalty, Damien brings a level of flair and finesse rarely seen in traditional music circles.

His newly released second solo album Evoke has been praised for its sophisticated, contemporary take on trad, with The Irish Echo hailing it as “an album of exceptional musicianship and extraordinary vision.” Sting (Police) even joked, “judging by this fiendishly clever album, I would say [a deal with the devil] is more than likely!”

Don’t miss this chance to see Damien Mullane and The Laads in their element — live, raw and unfiltered.

Oxford (21 May): £15 / £7 under-18s – Book here
The Isis Farmhouse (The Barn), Haystacks Corner, Iffley Lock, Oxford OX4 4EL
Pedestrian access only – closest parking around Church Way OX4 4EG. Walk via Mill Lane, cross Iffley Lock, turn right and continue to the white building ahead on the left.

London (22 May): £20 / £10 under-30s – Book here
Kings Place (Hall Two), 90 York Way, King’s Cross, London N1 9AG

More info and album: damienmullane.bandcamp.com

Instagram preview: @damienmullane