Blur are scheduled to take the stage at Malahide Castle at 8:45 PM on Saturday, June 10th 2023. The iconic Britpop band will be headlining the second night of Malahide Castle’s summer concert series, treating fans to hits from their extensive back catalogue. Gates are set to open at 5 PM, with support acts expected to perform earlier in the evening ahead of Blur’s late night set.
About Blur
Blur are one of the most influential British bands to emerge from the early 90s Britpop movement. Formed in London in 1988, the band consists of Damon Albarn (vocals, keyboards), Graham Coxon (guitar), Alex James (bass), and Dave Rowntree (drums). Their unique blend of rock, pop, indie, and art rock produced a stream of hit singles between 1993-1999, including “Girls & Boys”, “Parklife”, “Country House”, “Beetlebum”, and “Song 2”. With their experimental and unpredictable sound, Blur became leaders of the Britpop scene along with rivals Oasis. They’ve released 8 studio albums, won numerous BRIT Awards and NME Awards, and sold over 10 million records worldwide. Though the band went on hiatus in the early 2000s, they reunited in 2009 and continue to tour sporadically. Their most recent album, The Magic Whip, was released in 2015.
About Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle is located just 9 miles north of Dublin city centre in the coastal town of Malahide. Set on 250 acres of park lands and gardens, the Castle dates back to the 12th century when the Talbot family constructed the first timber fortification on the site. The estate was eventually inherited by the Moore family in the 17th century who expanded the Castle into a stunning Georgian mansion. Malahide Castle boasts a fascinating history encompassing Medieval knights, Viking invaders, Irish clan chiefs, and connections to the English monarchy. Today the turreted Castle is a popular heritage site and tourist attraction, as well as a unique events venue hosting weddings, conferences, and summer concerts on the expansive front lawn.
Malahide Castle Summer Concerts
Malahide Castle has been hosting a popular summer concert series since 2013. The gigs take place on the Castle’s front green over several weeks in June and July each year. Past performers have included acts like The Coronas,Picture This, Westlife, Simply Red, Lionel Richie, Elbow, and Duran Duran. The shows attract crowds of around 15,000 people for each concert. Gates open from 5pm with support acts playing earlier in the evening before the headliner takes the stage around 8:30/9pm. The family-friendly gigs have a lively, festival-like atmosphere with food stalls, bars, and entertainment in the idyllic surrounds of Malahide Demesne. This makes them a highlight of Dublin’s summer events calendar.
Blur at Previous Irish Concerts
As veterans of the music scene, Blur have performed numerous concerts across Ireland over their long career. Here’s a look back at some of their previous Irish shows:
Feile Festival – Cork, August 1993
One of Blur’s first major Irish gigs was at the acclaimed Feile Festival in Cork in August 1993, held just months after the release of their breakout album Modern Life is Rubbish. Performing to a crowd of 20,000, this concert helped grow their popularity with Irish listeners.
The Point Depot, Dublin – October 1994
Following the release of Parklife, Blur’s fame exploded. They performed at The Point Depot in October 1994 as part of their world tour, treating fans to hits like “Girls & Boys” and “End of a Century”. Reviewers noted Damon Albarn’s engagement with the audience, getting them to sing along to set closer “Chemical World”.
Slane Castle – May 1999
In May 1999 at the height of their fame, Blur played the iconic Slane Castle as main support act for Red Hot Chili Peppers. Even the rain couldn’t dampen spirits as the band dazzled the 80,000 strong crowd with tracks from their fifth album Blur.
Electric Picnic – September 2010
After reuniting following a hiatus, Blur played a highly anticipated set at Electric Picnic in 2010. On the final night of the festival, they performed a hit-filled set including “Tender”, “Coffee & TV”, and “Song 2” to a euphoric audience of 55,000.
Olympia Theatre – February 2015
Ahead of the release of The Magic Whip, Blur played an intimate comeback show at Dublin’s Olympia Theatre in February 2015. The excitement was palpable as they premiered new material like “Go Out” along with classics like “Beetlebum” and “The Universal”.
Setlist Expectations
Based on Blur’s recent festival and tour setlists, fans can likely expect to hear a career retrospective set at Malahide Castle. They’ve been striking a balance between hits like “Girls & Boys” and “Song 2” along with fan favourites like “Out of Time” and “Tender” at their reunion shows. Some tracks being rotated in from The Magic Whip like “Lonesome Street” and “I Broadcast” are also probable inclusions. With a vast catalogue to choose from, it’s possible Blur may tailor the setlist to fit the Irish crowd, while keeping it unpredictable by digging up some relative deep cuts. One thing is certain, with Damon Albarn’s innate showmanship and the quartet’s tight musical interplay, Blur’s performance is sure to be an unforgettable singalong party.
Stage Set Up and Production
The spacious grounds of Malahide Castle allow for an impressive stage set up and production for the magnitude of these concerts. The covered stage is specially constructed on the tree-lined green facing towards the Castle. Large screens are erected on both sides displaying live camera feeds and visuals, ensuring good views no matter where fans are standing. The extensive rigging and lighting creates a spectacular show, especially once darkness falls. The sound is also crisp and clear thanks to the open air surroundings. With a band like Blur, who have dynamic tracks but also slower numbers, the production values allow their set to come alive. Fans can look forward to a vibrant feast for the eyes and ears!
Weather Forecast
Irish weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it helps to be prepared rain or shine when attending an outdoor gig like Malahide. In early June, average temperatures range from 11-18°C, though warmer summery spells are also common. Sunset isn’t until around 10pm, so Blur’s set will be starting just as dusk arrives. At the moment, the forecast for June 10th in Malahide is looking mostly dry with partial cloud cover and moderate temperatures around 14°C. However, with some time to go, fans would be well advised to pack layers and rainwear in case showers pass through. The concerts have gone ahead in all weathers previously, but it’s advisable to check forecasts in the preceding days. Nothing dampens the spirits of a crowd eagerly anticipating the main event!
Getting There and Transport Options
Due to the large crowds, private car parking is not available at Malahide Castle concerts. Instead, fans have several transport options to get to and from the venue:
Train
Malahide train station is a handy 12 minute walk from the Castle. Regular DART services run from Dublin City Centre and surrounding areas like Howth and Dundalk. Extra trains typically operate after the concerts finish.
Bus
Event buses and shuttles will be running from locations around Dublin including the city centre. These are scheduled to coincide with gate opening/closing times.
Coach
Concert goers can also travel from further afield by booking a coach tour package which includes return travel to the Castle. These depart from cities like Galway, Limerick and Cork.
Taxi/Ride Share
Though roads may be congested, taxis or ride shares like Uber are possible for those staying locally. Nearby public car parks also have spaces.
On Foot
The Castle is walkable from Malahide village centre which has ample dining and drinking spots to fuel up beforehand!
Where to Stay
Malahide has plenty of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget B&Bs for those looking to make a weekend of the concerts. Some choices include:
Grand Hotel Malahide
This stylish 4-star hotel is the closest to the castle, just a 5 minute walk away. It boasts modern rooms, a spa, and trendy cocktail bar.
Malahide Marina Hotel
Just a 150m stroll to the train station, the Marina Hotel offers smart guestrooms and an award-winning restaurant.
Gibney’s Malahide
This boutique guesthouse in Malahide village provides a charming, affordable stay with warm Irish hospitality.
Travelodge Swords
For those on a budget, Travelodge Swords is just a 20 minute drive or train ride from the concerts.
Where to Eat and Drink
With its pretty marina setting, Malahide village is home to plenty of bustling bars and eateries perfect for concert goers to grab a pre/post gig bite and refreshments. Some top choices include:
Scotts Bar & Restaurant
A contemporary gastropub ideal for craft beers and gourmet burgers before the show.
Gibney’s Pub
A welcoming old-style Irish pub with trad music sessions to soak up the atmosphere.
Avoca Malahide
This cafe/foodhall at the Avoca store is great for fresh salads, artisan coffee and sweet treats.
Ginger
Trendy wine bar doing tapas plates, cocktails and live DJ sets – perfect post concert spot.
Tickets
Tickets to see Blur at Malahide Castle on June 10th 2023 are on sale now via Ticketmaster. Prices start from €69.50 for general admission going up to €119.50 for gold circle standing tickets at the front of the stage. There are also seated stands available from €89.50. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone or in person at Ticketmaster outlets. Given Blur’s enduring popularity and the buzz surrounding these special comeback shows, demand is expected to be high. Fans are advised to book early to avoid disappointment securing spots for this unmissable concert.
Conclusion
Blur taking the stage at the picturesque Malahide Castle on June 10th is set to be a massive musical highlight of the summer. With gates opening at 5 PM and the Britpop legends due to perform their career-spanning set from around 8:45 PM, it will be an epic night under the stars. Local transport links make getting to and from the venue convenient, while Malahide village offers the perfect place to prolong the party after the final chords ring out. Blur rarely tour these days, so the prospect of hearing favourites like “Beetlebum”, “Coffee & TV” and “Parklife” in the open air amphitheatre setting will be an opportunity not to be missed!