Cavan band Marcus Magee & the Hollaw Men are set to rock the city’s Róisín Dubh next Thursday, September 19, when they launch their debut album, Rising from the Hollaw. This gig follows a series of sold-out performances, including shows at Dublin’s Sugar Club, the Big Top tent at Cavan Arts Festival, and Whelan’s in Dublin.

Marcus Magee formed the band 18 months ago, after receiving the all clear following a stage 4 cancer diagnosis, and since then the group has been making waves.

Marcus had a collection of material that he wanted to perform and decided to bring together friends to put on what he thought would be a once-off concert. That show in Cavan’s Townhall Theatre sold out in hours, with a second one also being a sellout. They got rave reviews which motivated the band to consolidate, create new material and embark on making an album.

The result, Rising from the Hollaw, was recorded in Jam Studios in Kells and is a finely polished collection of original alternative folk and rock songs. These include the spine-tingling track Mac Dee, which features renowned violinist Colm Mac Con Iomaire.

It has received national radio play alongside international attention on streaming platforms, while RTÉ Radio One’s Fiachna Ó Braonáin called it “a beautiful and poignant piece of work”. It’s an ode to the lead singer’s late friend, Mairead McDermott. According to Marcus, she appeared in a dream to warn him about his cancer diagnosis.

After two difficult years of treatment, he is now in good health and living life to the full, with family and music taking centre stage.

“It’s been a wonderful adventure so far and I’m loving every minute. The music has been like medicine during what has been a very challenging time for me and my family” says the 41-year-old father of three, who recently achieved another major goal by returning to play for his local GAA team.

“We’re buzzed to be playing Galway and such an iconic venue as the Róisín Dubh but really, the joy is in the playing and being able to share these songs with people. I’m very grateful for that.”

In October, Marcus will be a solo support act for fellow Cavan musician Lisa O’Neill on her Irish tour, which includes a concert in Galway’s Town Hall Theatre.

For more information, visit www.thehollawmen.com.

Pictured: Marcus McGee: Treated for stage 4 cancer.