Brum Shots

We’re here for a night of Irish folk music, so naturally the opening act is caberet singer, dancer and all-round entertainment powerhouse, Sexytadgh. Bursting on stage with an infectious energy thay quick spreads to the back of the room, they drift seemlessly from sexy floor dancing to holding impressive notes while singing to bashing out a violin solo. It’s an entirely fun and silly performance that leaves us wanting more. It’s a shame their set was just 30 minutes!

When The Mary Wallopers enter stage, they take the unusual approach to throwing a generous handful of condoms into the crowd. Apparently it’s the first time the they’ve done this – do we, as a city, just look like we’re desperate for them?

The set beings with the foot-pounding Bold O’Donahue. They light-heartedly navigate topics such as the Irish police and the inherent evil of landlords while maintaining an upbeat, sing-a-long style set – not a simple feat!

Kindly, they pick out a first time concert goer and fit his name into a song, but it’s clear anyone is welcome here. With a Palestinian flag proudly displayed on stage, and a healthy hatred of the capitalist society (bit weird they’re playing in an o2 venue i guess), they have the masses on their side here in Birmingham.

Saving the best until last, they keep ‘Cod Liver Oil and the Orange Juice’ and ‘All for Me Grog’ for the end of the set. It’s impossible to leave a gig like this without a smile on your face and a skip in your step!