Menace and The Gakk take to the stage in Dundalk's Toales tonight

Friday 22nd March – Menace and The Gakk

“Menace are the best punk band in England today!" enthused Sniffing Glue way back then.

Menace were London’s first generation no-nonsense boot boys, pre-dating Sham 69 and Cockney Rejects who overtook them in terms of mass popularity.

They formed in 1976 at the Hope And Anchor in Islington, with half of the band being first generation Irish immigrants. and their high-energy, unpretentious sets quickly won them few admirers in the press, but a strong loyal fan-base that brought together both punks and skinheads.

They’re often cited as the first to unite this potentially volatile mix. However, there was nothing premeditated about the audience they attracted.

“Sham were more overt in their leanings towards skinheads,” said Menace's Noel Martin.

“We had that crossover thing. We liked that idea.” partly because most of the band themselves were skinheads in their youth.

Support comes from Dundalk's very own punk five-piece The Gakk, who have just returned from a short tour in the UK promoting their latest album "Live In The Social"

Admission €10. Doors open 8pm.