The Indiependence Music and Arts festival has gone from strength to strength since its original formation back in 2006. At the time it was a free festival which took place in the square in Mitchelstown. But as the popularity and subsequent crowd numbers grew, Indiependence was moved to the 5000 capacity Deer Farm. As the festival expanded over the years so did the line-up. This year sees one of the strongest to date with the likes of White Lies, Tom Odell and Public Enemy taking over the main stage for the three nights. Below is a handpicked list of 8 acts who under no circumstance should be missed over the weekend.

• White Lies

I normally try to tip-toe around the headliners with these lists. Sure if you’ve gone to the bother of buying a ticket I’m guessing you’ve at the very least glanced at the 3 big names on top of the line up? But either way, there’s no avoiding the big Saturday night headliner, White Lies. The UK trio originally headlined the festival back in 2010 with only a debut album to their name. This year, they are returning with a wealth of festival experience as well as two more highly acclaimed albums to their names. Closing the main stage on Saturday night, White Lies are certainly, as the title suggests, not to be missed. (Saturday Main Stage 23:00-00:30)

• Delorentos

Delorentos are no strangers to Indiependence and have graced various stages of the humble festival over the years. This year however sees them step up to the main stage for what is sure to be a highly charged set. As one of Ireland’s most exciting and entertaining live acts, Delorentos are a band who will not disappoint. (Saturday Main Stage 21:15-22:15)

• Findlay

I knew nothing about Findlay prior to the Indiependence line up announcement. Don’t look at me like that! Sure I could have used Google, looked up a few facts and played the ‘all knowing music blogger’ card. But in saying that, I have been listening to her music. And if tracks like ‘Off & On‘ are anything to go by then Findlay’s one-woman, rock n roll assault will go down a treat. (Saturday The Big Top 20:00-20:30)

• Hozier

Hozier has been flying the flag for Irish music as of late. With a deep soulful voice and a small but captivating array of tracks to his name, it’s not hard to see how the Wicklow native has built such a following. (Sunday Main Stage 20:00-20:45)

• Kapitals

With raspy throat-wrenching vocals packaged within the confines of a sometimes subtle yet always captivating indie band, Kapitals is a name which should be on everyone’s ‘to see’ list. I had the pleasure of watching these guys play an early set at last year’s festival. The crowd was sparse but the band’s talent was there in abundance. (Sunday Big Top 15:30-16:00)

• Dan le Sac vs Scroobius Pip

With Indiependence being their last ever Irish performance as a duo, it’s only fair that Dan le Sac vs Scroobius Pip get a mention here. They’ve played the festival in the past and also individually (well Pip did anyway). But with their musical endeavours coming to a close it would only be fair to expect something special. (Friday Big Top 23:30-01:00) 

• Raglans

The last time I saw Raglans at Indiependence was 2012 (the year of the mud) where they had the unfortunate task of opening the main stage. With nothing more than a self-released debut EP in their arsenal, the would-be indie rockers pulled off one weekend’s best sets. Unfortunately though, only a handful of people got to witness the above. This year, they return to the main stage, with a new album in place of the previous EP, a major record deal and a wealth of live festival appearances under their belts. (Saturday Main Stage 18:00-18:30)

• We Cut Corners

We Cut Corners have the uncanny ability to deliver pulse-racing rock ballads in a manner that is both subtle and sublime. With an array of hand-crafted, ear-pleasing tunes I’m sure the guitar and drum duo will go down a storm Friday night. (Friday Big Top 22:00-23:00)