10-piece band to perform at iconic music venue in Kilkenny

Kilkenny’s Ryan’s Bar, on Friary Street, is gearing up for a spectacular September, with two gigs that promise to be the talk of the town.

Known for its intimate setting and vibrant atmosphere, Ryan’s Bar is about to host a 10-piece band and a powerhouse blues act, making it the go-to spot for live music this month.

First up on Sunday, September 1, is the return of Waterford’s Shane Barry & The Silver South Ensemble. This isn’t just any band—it’s a 10-piece musical force, complete with a brass and percussion section that fills every corner of the room with lush, cinematic soundscapes. If you’re wondering how on earth they’ll all fit up front in Ryan’s, don’t worry—it works like a dream. This is their third time performing here, and they’ve got it down to an art.

Shane Barry, a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, brings his solo album Songs from the Silver South to life with a live experience that’s as intimate as it is grand. The album, recorded in bedrooms and hallways during the pandemic, blends ambient country, indie new-wave, and folk-rock, creating a tapestry of stories inspired by small-town living. The Silver South Ensemble does more than just back him up—they elevate his music to new heights, ensuring that every note resonates deeply with the audience.

If you’re looking to lose yourself in a night of evocative storytelling and beautifully crafted music, then Ryan’s Bar is where you need to be. The show kicks off at 8:30pm, and with a band this big, you’ll want to get there early to grab a good spot.

Ryan’s Bar is also set to host the Irish return of Big Mama’s Door on Friday, September 6. Making their debut at Ryan’s, this London-based band is fronted by the charismatic Fiona McElroy, a Ballylinan native who brings a touch of Etta James and Patsy Cline to every performance.

Big Mama’s Door is all about 50’s RnB, jazz, and soul, and they’ve been filling some of London’s most iconic venues like Ronnie Scott’s and Crazy Coq’s at Brasserie Zedel for years. Their music is a sassy, fun-filled journey through the golden era of rhythm and blues, with a mix of originals and covers that pay homage to the greats of Chess, Blue Note, and Atlantic Records. Fiona’s powerhouse vocals, backed by a tight-knit band, create an electrifying atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.

This is their first performance in Ireland in 17 years, making it a rare treat for music lovers. With a lineup that includes guitarist Andy Knight, double bassist Franca Shaw, saxophonist Martin Dewhirst, pianist Stephen Walsh, and drummer Brad Shaw, Big Mama’s Door is set to deliver a performance that will leave you buzzing long after the last note is played. The music starts at 10pm, so make sure to arrive early to ensure a good spot.

Ryan’s is pulling out all the stops this September with two gigs that showcase the best in live music. Whether you’re in the mood for the expansive, genre-blending sounds of Shane Barry & The Silver South Ensemble or the high-energy, retro-infused blues of Big Mama’s Door, there’s something for everyone in Ryan’s Bar - the home of great music in Kilkenny.