The Saw Doctors to play Highland Tour, May 2025

The Saw Doctors play their first Highland gigs for nine years in May 2025.

In the mid-80s, amidst the rolling green hills of Tuam, County Galway, a new sound was born. Blending rock, punk, and traditional Irish music, The Saw Doctors quickly carved a unique niche for themselves in the music scene. Formed in 1986, this energetic Irish rock band rapidly became known for their high-octane live performances and heartfelt lyrics that resonated with fans both at home and abroad.

Their meteoric rise to fame was marked by chart-topping hits like “I Useta Lover,” which held the Irish charts captive for nine consecutive weeks in 1990. Songs like “N17” and “To Win Just Once” soon followed, capturing the nostalgic yearnings and vibrant spirit of their audience.

After a five-year hiatus from touring, The Saw Doctors made a triumphant return in 2023. Their comeback was nothing short of impressive, with sold-out shows at iconic venues such as Hammersmith Apollo in London and Hammerstein Ballroom in New York. The pinnacle of their return was a pair of electrifying homecoming performances in Tuam, Co. Galway, where they played to a crowd of 10,000 ecstatic fans in St. Jarlath’s Arena.

The Saw Doctors, driven by the songwriting prowess of Davy Carton (vocals) and Leo Moran (guitar), has consistently pushed the boundaries of their genre. Their lineup boasts an impressive roster of musicians, including former Waterboy Anthony Thistlethwaite on saxophone, Rickie O’Neill on drums, Pearse Doherty on bass guitar, Kieran Duddy on keyboards, Noelie McDonnell on backing vocals, and Tommy Carton on backing vocals.

Their music is a testament to their ability to merge the traditional with the contemporary, blending influences from TV, radio, social media, and beyond. Their songs paint a vivid picture of life in small-town Ireland, while their dynamic live shows bring audiences into a world of joy, laughter, and communal spirit.

The Saw Doctors left the stage to roaring applause, having delivered a performance that was not only musically superb but also rich in camaraderie and spirit. From a Five Star review by Glasgowmusic

This May, after a nine-year absence from the Highlands, The Saw Doctors are set to make a much-anticipated return. Fans can look forward to experiencing the band’s infectious energy and timeless anthems live once again. The forthcoming gigs promise to be unforgettable evenings of music and memories.