Dabilla: Redefining Irish Folk with a Modern Edge
Dabilla is an Irish duo bringing a fresh, modern energy to traditional music. Darragh Ó Héiligh (uilleann pipes & whistles) and Oisín Dillon (guitar & vocals) blend the rich tones of Irish folk with contemporary production, creating their signature Folktronic sound—a fusion of tradition and innovation.
Their music layers haunting pipes, rhythmic guitar, and electronic textures to craft an immersive listening experience. Joan Hanrahan of Clare FM calls their latest track “very new and very innovative,” while JOE.ie hails their live show as “Insane—the best house band around!”
Dabilla’s debut album, The Hound of Boann (March 2025), is inspired by the legend of Boann and her loyal hound, Dabilla. Drawing from the folklore of the Boyne Valley, the album brings these ancient stories to life with cinematic arrangements and high-energy performances.
The album launch takes place at McHughs on March 15th as part of the Drogheda St. Patrick’s Festival. Following this, they will release a full-length music video featuring Georgina Donovan of 'Prodijig,' bringing their sound to life through movement and storytelling.
With performances at Fleadh Cheoil, Temple Bar TradFest, and JOE.ie’s Live Pub Quiz, Dabilla has earned a reputation for electrifying live shows. They have supported The Tumbling Paddies and are set to support Sharon Shannon, further solidifying their place in the Irish music scene.
As they prepare to release The Hound of Boann, Dabilla invites listeners to join the Folktronic movement. Their music connects past and future, tradition and innovation—a fresh sound for a new era of Irish folk.