The public have spoken.
Congratulations go out to Kerry favourite Mike The Pies after the popular gig spot was officially crowned the Irish Music Rights Organisation National Live Music Venue of the Year for 2017.
The public decreed that Mike The Pies should go home with the top prize at the 10th IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards on Tuesday night, as a host of beloved Irish gig staples also took honours.
The above shot of the RTÉ Choice Music Prize-nominated Fangclub in action last year gives you some indication of the kind of excellent live action regularly featured in the Listowel venue.
JOE’s own Paddy McKenna was on hosting duties at IMRO HQ, as rising stars Chasing Abbey, Le Boom and Wild Youth all took to the stage, providing yet further evidence that Irish music is in terrific health right now.
Elsewhere, regional winners included Whelan’s (Dublin), the Set Theatre (Rest of Leinster), Galway’s Róisin Dubh (Connaught), Connolly’s of Leap (Munster) and Leo’s Tavern (Ulster).
Late, great pivotal Kilkenny music figure Willie Meighan of Rollercoaster Records was also honoured, posthumously receiving the IMRO Outstanding Contribution to Live Music award, which was accepted on his behalf by his family.
“A strong live music circuit is the lifeblood of a vibrant music industry,” said IMRO Chief Executive Victor Finn.
“It is important that we acknowledge those venue owners and festival promoters whose commitment, passion and support for live music throughout the country enables music creators to continue making the music we all enjoy.”
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