Ireland continue exporting a list of absolute gems in the music industry; Galway natives New Dad showcased why they are worthy of being added, as they headlined a sold out Academy 2 show in Manchester.

Opening the night was fellow Irish band, The Cardinals, providing a sound reminiscent of a lovechild between The Pogues and My Chemical Romance. This beer swigging, accordian accompanied, indie rock quintet held the rooms attention between moments of heartfelt crooning ballads and upbeat booming rock tracks.

Frontman Euan Manning perched himself at the microphone donned head to toe in black with mannerisms similar to that of Jared Leto. Their half hour set showcased how exciting blending traditional folk and modern indie rock can be and provided an exciting start to the evening.

An eerie atmosphere fell across the room as NewDad graced the stage as the faces of fans lit up when they heard the opening notes of Radiohead inspired track ‘Other Side’ – an atmospheric and shoegaze-y track.

This set the tone for the grungey ride Manchester was about to be taken on for the next hour and a bit. Frontwoman Julie Dawson’s melodic vocals reverbed off of every corner of the captivated room as they sat perfectly on a bed of gritty and distorted guitars.

Slowing the pace down midway through the set, a handful of NewDad’s slower tracks did more than just fill the space; including a tune about being homesick and missing Ireland. Titled ‘Everything I Wanted’ this track struck a chord with the swaying room as the stage lights wrapped the Irish band in a green, white and orange glow.

Closing the show with an encore of singles ‘Angel’ and ‘Roobosh’. ‘Roobosh’ displayed a different side to Dawson’s vocals, as she barked throughout the chorus of the song,  fuelling the mosh pits starting down the front of the venue – an energetic end to a brilliant evening.

It was an exciting Saturday night of indie Irish music in Manchester. It’s purpose – to further cement how incredible the talent is coming from the island.