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06 Sept 2025

Laois talent shines as RTÉ features Portlaoise band on new show

The Laois band have gained a large following in recent years

Laois talent shines as RTÉ features Portlaoise band on new show

Pictured: Laois indie rock band Byro

A Laois band are set to feature on a new RTÉ series this month.

The series finale of An Ghig Mhór will see the singer and guitarist Síomha advise Byro, formerly known as Coolboy, a four-piece rock band from Portlaoise.

In each episode, a renowned Irish musician mentors an up-and-coming band and helps them to organise their first big gig in their hometown.

Independent Irish singer and guitarist Síomha dances the line between folk, jazz and neo-soul effortlessly taking audiences on an unexpected and unforgettable journey with her soulful melodies.

She has toured extensively across Europe, the UK, North America, and Australia, captivating audiences with her unique sound at renowned festivals and performances worldwide.

Coolboy were four-piece Indie Rock band based in Co. Laois, Ireland. Comprising of Tadgh O’Dwyer (lead vocals and guitar), Fionn Devoy (lead guitar), Ruairi Phelan (Drums) and Alex Power (Bass Guitar), the band formed in the Autumn of 2023.

The band’s style drew influences from The Beatles and Thin Lizzy, along with more modern acts such as Catfish and the Bottlemen and The Backseat Lovers.  Since An Ghig Mhór,  the band have gone through style and line-up changes and now perform as BYRO. 

Hailing from the Midlands of Ireland, Byro are an up and coming 4 piece Indie/Rock outfit sure to have you hooked from the get go.

Drawing influences from an array of acts past and present, they present a unique and undeniably recognizable sound. After performing sets at festivals and selling out shows locally, Byro are working on releasing brand new material.

The episode will air on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, on Monday July 14 at 8pm.

Read Next: In PICTURES: Tennessee tours Laois 

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