The Two Five Ones

Formed in 2016, The Two Five Ones are a duo consisting of Dara MacGabhann on vocals, and Andy Hogg on guitar and backing vocals. Dara’s vocal evokes the old school style of Billie Holliday and Julie London, with a modern blues influence reminiscent of Bonnie Raitt. Andy’s guitar accompaniment is  inspired by the greats of jazz and blues guitar such as Joe Pass and Barney Kessel. Starting out by playing standards from the golden age of popular song from the 1920s to 50s, the duo has steadily added to this a repertoire of their own original songs, influenced by this era. 

Two Five Ones’ full-length shows incorporate music from such artists as Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee interspersed with lively self-penned swing tunes. They have honed their performances in a diverse range of venues and are as comfortable playing theatres as they are Christmas markets, festivals, pubs and restaurants. Their popular themed ‘Speakeasy’ nights with period full costume offer the audience an experiential evening of music, dance and of course an opportunity to dress up! The Two Five Ones have supported such acts as international group The Moon Sisters, Clara Rose Monahan and Mary Coughlan.

The Two Five Ones’ debut Album, Sentimental Journey is an exploration of the songs that inspired the duo’s sound and reflects their allegiance to the golden age of popular songs, with a jazz and blues-tinged hue, also managing to incorporate a touch of swing. Along with three original compositions, the album highlights the simplicity of just vocals and guitar.

Their second studio album Slave To The Moon, takes the listener on a journey through their own compositions including two co-writes with Charlie McGettigan. The duo also cover two songs from singer songwriter Tommy Keyes. This album provides the familiar genres of The Two Five Ones jazz and blues tones but also slants towards elements of folk with songs such as Sparks and Wisdom in the Wind. This time they are joined by a number of guests but still with the strong sense of a guitar and vocal duo.