PIER
plus support
MOLLY DONNERY
Whelan’s Upstairs • Sat 23rd May 2026
PIER
An emotional ebb and flow of love, loss, anger, and everything in between, Pier’s songs live in contrast, moving from near whispers to full-lung outbursts. His voice knows when to hold back and when to break through, carrying a steady, unguarded sense of vulnerability.
Pier returns in 2026 with Burgundy, the first single from his upcoming The Daisy EP. Following his debut The Harvest EP and a series of shape-shifting collaborations with DJ and producer Arveene (KNEECAP, Bon Voyage etc.), Pier brought these songs to life on stage with his band before turning inward again. The result is a focused body of four tracks and a renewed creative partnership with producer Ber Quinn (Lisa Hannigan, John Grant, The Divine Comedy etc.).
Born Pierfrancesco Dessì and raised in Sarroch, a small industrial town on Sardinia’s southern coast, Pier’s relationship with music developed quietly. After dropping out of architecture studies, he moved to Finland, spending time working in a metal mechanics factory, before relocating to Ireland, where he has lived for the past eight years and become part of Dublin’s vibrant music scene.
Influenced by ’90s alternative rock and Britpop, echoes of Jeff Buckley and Radiohead can be heard throughout expansive and lush production, which revolves around his vocal delivery. His Sardinian heritage quietly informs the way the songs are written, influencing harmony, sound texture, and overall style, without ever becoming an overstatement.
MOLLY DONNERY
Harpist and folk songwriter Molly Donnery is one the most quietly powerful voices in Irish music. Her music is gently introspective, tracing themes of longing, growth, and self-discovery.
Bio
Molly Donnery is a renowned Irish singer and harpist from county Laois. Coming from a background in traditional Irish music, she has experimented with different genres and narrative styles, ultimately finding her place with contemporary folk. Her current music is a testament to her deep appreciation of Irish music and heritage, infused with her poetic lyrics. Rooted in introspection and gentle honesty, Molly’s songwriting explores themes of longing, growth, and self-discovery. Each song feels like a small confession, inviting listeners into a world that is both deeply personal and widely relatable.
In October 2024, Molly released her debut EP to critical acclaim. Kindline praised her ability to combine “the lyrical prowess of Joni Mitchell and the emotional rawness of Phoebe Bridgers with a modern folk twist,” while York Calling described the EP as “a showcase of her unique talent for melding traditional and modern styles.” Her “unmistakable voice,” noted Berlin On Air, “stands out among 1,000 others.” Other recent accolades include her performance on the Late Late Show as part of Trad Fest 2025, her showcase as part of the Guinness Brewing Talent series and most recently two performances at All Together Now 2025.
TICKETS
€11 – €16.50 available online from Whelan’s – 50c per ticket service charge applies.
Strictly over 18′s, I.D. may be required
AFTER THE GIG
Whelan’s Indie Club w/ Late Bar from 10:30pm or check out the Silent Disco in the upstairs venue & the Karaoke in Little Whelan’s – Free Entry via front door until 10:30pm | Drinks Promos