Bell X1 at Iveagh Gardens: Stage times, set list, ticket information, how to get there and more

Everything you need to know about the band’s Dublin concert on Friday, July 21st

Bell X1 have been knocking around for a quarter of a century now and, 23 years after releasing their debut album, they are set for the stage in Dublin again with new music on hand.

The band – Paul Noonan, David Geraghty and Dominic Phillips – released Merciful Hour earlier this year, their first record in more than six years. After spending time in the studio, the lads will be showing off their new songs at the Iveagh Gardens along with old but gold hits like The Great Defector and Rocky Took A Lover. So, what else can we expect for Friday’s gig?

When do they play?

The concert is at the Iveagh Gardens, off Dublin’s Harcourt Street, on Friday, July 21st.

What time should I arrive?

Entry to the event will be via the Clonmel Street gate, which will open at 6.30pm. Early queuing is not permitted and concertgoers have been asked to respect the property and privacy of residents in the area.

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Who is the support act?

Bell X1 will be supported by Talos, aka Cork musician and songwriter Eoin French. An architect by trade, French has supported the likes of Dermot Kennedy and Bon Iver. His third and latest album, Dear Chaos, which was released in 2022, was reviewed by The Irish Times as having touches that “subliminally remind the listener of Sigur Ros, the Blue Nile, Radiohead”.

Stage times

Talso will warm up the crowd from 7.45pm before Bell X1 take to the stage at 8.45pm. However, times are subject to change so make sure to keep an eye on the promoters website for any updates.

How do I get there – and home again?

There is no car parking available at the event, however, there are car parks around the city centre. The closest is Q-Park at Stephens Green Shopping Centre. Pre-booking is available at q-park.ie.

Luas, bus and rail transport options can all bring you within a short walk of the venue. Plan your journey online from anywhere in Ireland via the journey planner found at transportforireland.ie.

What will they play?

With eight albums, Bell X1’s catalogue provides a wide range of options for their live shows. Like their setlist from a recent gig in Limerick, we can expect to hear tracks from their new album and some of their popular hits:

  • Haint Blue
  • Still Singing
  • Snakes And Snakes
  • Velcro
  • Bad Skin Day
  • Next to You
  • Something Electric
  • Space Walk
  • Alphabet Soup
  • Tongue
  • The Upswing
  • Slowset
  • Bridge And Tunnel
  • Flame
  • The End Is Nigh
  • Rocky Took A Lover
  • Eve, The Apple Of My Eye
  • The Lobster
  • The Great Defector
  • Light My Way

Are there any tickets left?

Unfortunately the Iveagh Gardens gig is sold out. However, with appearances scheduled for Forest Fest, Co Laois, and Galway International Arts Festival in July, and Revival Music Festival in August, you might get to catch them somewhere else. Always remember to buy tickets from accredited sources only.

What’s the story with security?

All under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. Only bags under A4 size will be permitted in to the venue and bags will be subject to a search.

Items not permitted include: Any article that may be used as a weapon, bottles, cans, flasks, frisbees, illegal substances, scooters, skateboards, flag poles, selfie sticks, flares, laser devices, prams/push chairs, inflatable and folding chairs, large suitcases/rucksacks, laptops, illegal merchandise items, umbrellas, hampers, cold boxes, air horns, alcohol, drinks, food and animals (except service dogs and guide dogs).

There will be food and drink available to purchase on site but fans should note it is a cashless venue and there is no ATM on site, so make sure to bring card payment or keep your phone charged for electronic cards.

Any person deemed to be offensive or abusive, or who may compromise public safety, will not be admitted and may be reported to gardaí. There will be a first aid post at the venue staffed by trained medics.

Can I take photographs at the concert?

Yes, but not with a professional camera including those with a detachable lens.

What’s the weather forecast?

Met Éireann is forecasting mainly dry weather with some bright spells and a few showers. Highest temperatures are expected to be between 15-18 degrees. Sunshine or rain, we’re sure the crowd will be Still Singing on Friday night.

Conor Capplis

Conor Capplis

Conor Capplis is a journalist with the Irish Times Group