The OARS

Making a welcome return to The White Horse, The OARS bring their world-class musicianship back to the stage. Over the past year, the band has performed at major venues like Croke Park and Thomond Park, collaborating with stars such as Robbie Williams, Gemma Hayes, and Garron Noone—including a feature on the Shane MacGowan tribute album alongside Bruce Springsteen and U2. Their debut album was produced in Louisiana by multi-Grammy winner Dirk Powell, earning praise from Damien Dempsey as “one of the finest and most unique bands in Ireland.”

Eoin Coughlan: Former lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist with international trad group NOMOS, where he shared stages with Emmylou Harris and Billy Bragg. His critically acclaimed solo work showcases a percussive, harmony-rich guitar style celebrated by INXS’s Ciaran Gribbin.

Brian Morrissey: A master of banjo, bodhrán, whistle, and percussion (Buille, TarantaCeltica). Described by Dónal Lunny as a true master, he has recorded with icons like Béla Fleck, founded Cork’s “Lee Sessions,” and produced Pulses of Tradition.

The OARS are joined by special guest Nicole Maguire, returning to the stage with new material after a ten-year hiatus. Mentored by Damien Dempsey and the late Nanci Griffith, Maguire previously worked with legendary producer Mitchell Froom, toured internationally, had two songs featured in Robert Duvall’s film Wild Horses, and collaborated with Paul Brady on her 2016 album Wishing Well.