10 Irish Artists and Bands Like CMAT Every Fan Should Listen To
Looking for Artists Like CMAT? Start With These Incredible Irish Acts
Few artists have captured the hearts of Irish music fans quite like CMAT. Her witty storytelling, country-pop influences, emotional honesty, and larger-than-life personality have made her one of Ireland's most exciting musical exports. If you've played I Wanna Be A Cowboy, Baby! or Crazymad, For Me on repeat and are searching for more Irish artists with a similar independent spirit, you're in luck.
From indie rock and alternative pop to contemporary folk and punk-infused songwriting, Ireland's music scene is overflowing with talent. Here are ten Irish artists and bands that every CMAT fan should add to their playlist.
1. Pillow Queens
Dublin indie-rock quartet Pillow Queens have become one of Ireland's most beloved alternative bands since forming in 2016. Known for their powerful harmonies, emotional songwriting, and thoughtful explorations of identity, relationships, and modern Irish life, the band combines grunge-inspired guitars with deeply personal lyrics. Their music balances vulnerability and strength in a way that will resonate with CMAT fans who appreciate honest storytelling. Some of their most well-known songs include Liffey,
Be By Your Side,
Gay Girls,
and Hearts & Minds.
Albums such as In Waiting and Leave The Light On helped establish them as one of the defining Irish indie bands of the last decade.
2. Soda Blonde
Formed by former members of Little Green Cars, Dublin's Soda Blonde create sophisticated alt-pop filled with lush production, introspective lyrics, and cinematic soundscapes. Frontwoman Faye O'Rourke's distinctive voice and songwriting often explore themes of identity, ambition, and self-discovery. Like CMAT, the band blends emotional depth with memorable hooks and a strong sense of personality. Their best-known tracks include Small Talk,
Swimming Through The Night,
Bad Machine,
and Terrible Hands.
Their albums Small Talk and Dream Big have earned widespread critical acclaim across Ireland and beyond.
3. NewDad
Galway's NewDad have quickly become one of Ireland's most exciting breakthrough acts. Drawing influence from shoegaze, dream pop, and alternative rock, the band creates atmospheric music that feels both nostalgic and modern. Lead singer Julie Dawson's haunting vocals sit beautifully alongside shimmering guitars and moody production. Fans who enjoy CMAT's emotional depth and strong songwriting will find plenty to love here. Essential tracks include Blue,
Ladybird,
Angel,
and In My Head.
Their debut album Madra firmly established NewDad as one of the most promising bands of their generation.
4. SPRINTS
If you enjoy the sharp wit and fearless honesty found in CMAT's lyrics, SPRINTS should be high on your list. The Dublin post-punk band has earned a reputation for explosive live shows and socially aware songwriting. Frontwoman Karla Chubb delivers songs packed with urgency, intelligence, and raw emotion. Their sound is louder and more aggressive than CMAT's, but both artists share a willingness to tackle personal and cultural issues with authenticity. Popular songs include Literary Mind,
Cathedral,
Heavy,
and Up and Comer.
5. The Mary Wallopers
The Mary Wallopers have revitalized Irish folk music for a new generation. Hailing from Dundalk, the group blends traditional Irish songs with humour, storytelling, and a rebellious punk attitude. Like CMAT, they embrace Irish identity while refusing to take themselves too seriously. Their performances are energetic, unpredictable, and deeply entertaining. Fan favourites include Eileen Óg,
The Blarney Stone,
Cod Liver Oil & The Orange Juice,
and Frost Is All Over.
If you love the Irish cultural references and playful edge in CMAT's work, you'll likely become obsessed with The Mary Wallopers.
6. The Divine Comedy
Led by the brilliant Neil Hannon, The Divine Comedy have been crafting intelligent, orchestral pop for more than three decades. Hannon's songwriting is renowned for its wit, literary references, humour, and emotional insight—all qualities CMAT fans will appreciate. While their sound leans more towards chamber pop and baroque arrangements, both artists excel at telling vivid stories through song. Essential listening includes National Express,
Something For The Weekend,
A Lady of A Certain Age,
and Our Mutual Friend.
7. Madra Salach
One of Ireland's most distinctive folk acts, Madra Salach blend traditional Irish music with contemporary folk, rock, and socially conscious storytelling. Singing primarily in Irish, the band offers a fresh take on folk traditions while remaining rooted in cultural heritage. Their music appeals to listeners looking for authenticity, strong narratives, and a connection to Irish identity. Notable songs include An Bád Bán,
Dúlamán,
and several modern interpretations of traditional Irish material. For CMAT fans interested in exploring Ireland's folk traditions, Madra Salach are well worth discovering.
8. Katy J Pearson
Although Katy J Pearson is English rather than Irish, her blend of indie-pop, country influences, and emotionally rich songwriting makes her a natural recommendation for CMAT fans. Her music often sits in the same space between alternative pop and modern country that CMAT inhabits so effortlessly. Pearson's warm vocals and vivid storytelling shine on songs such as Talk Over Town,
Miracle,
Howl,
and Take Back The Radio.
Fans of CMAT's country-pop side will find an immediate connection.
9. Orla Gartland
Dublin-born singer-songwriter Orla Gartland has built a loyal following thanks to her clever lyrics, infectious melodies, and fiercely independent career path. Her music combines indie-pop, rock, and alternative influences while tackling themes of anxiety, relationships, self-worth, and growing up. Much like CMAT, Gartland has a gift for pairing deeply personal observations with catchy, memorable choruses. Standout tracks include Why Am I Like This?,
Zombie!,
Did It To Myself,
and You're Not Special, Babe.
Her album Woman On The Internet cemented her reputation as one of Ireland's most exciting songwriters.
10. Whenyoung
Whenyoung bring together indie rock, dream-pop textures, and emotionally charged songwriting. Originally formed in Limerick before relocating to London, the trio have developed a sound that balances youthful energy with thoughtful lyricism. Their songs often explore relationships, social issues, and personal growth. Fans of CMAT's ability to blend vulnerability with memorable melodies will appreciate tracks such as The Others,
Future,
Never Let Go,
and Pretty Pure.
Their debut album Reasons To Dream remains one of the standout Irish indie releases of recent years.
Why CMAT Fans Should Explore Ireland's Modern Music Scene
CMAT is part of a remarkable generation of Irish artists who are redefining what Irish music sounds like in the 21st century. Whether it's the indie-rock honesty of Pillow Queens, the alt-pop sophistication of Soda Blonde, the dreamlike atmosphere of NewDad, or the folk storytelling of The Mary Wallopers, these artists share the same spirit of originality and authenticity that makes CMAT so compelling.
If you've been searching for artists like CMAT, this list is the perfect starting point. Ireland's music scene has never been more diverse, exciting, or full of talent - and these ten acts prove it.
