Radio Nova’s selection WineMom has been named one of six national finalists set to perform at the live finale of A New Local Hero 2026 at The Academy, Dublin, on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.
The rising indie band was handpicked for Radio Nova by three-time IMRO award-winning specialist music broadcaster Kieran McGuinness, host of The Nova Guestlist. Selected from a competitive shortlist of 21 regional contenders across Ireland, WineMom will now take the stage alongside five other regional acts in the nationwide showcase organised by Hot Press and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI).
Hailing from Dublin, WineMom formed in 2023 and features Rosanna Harrington on vocals, Millie Molony on bass, and Reese Martin on drums.
The group blends the sound of the seventies with a modern twenties twist, for a "nostalgia pop" sound. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Blondie, The Band, and The Last Dinner Party, WineMom has earned widespread praise for crafting songs that evoke nostalgia while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge.
Known for their high-energy showmanship and tracks like Blood Moon and Roll of Honour (produced by Philip Magee), WineMom has built significant momentum across Ireland, with festival and showcase appearances including Electric Picnic, the Trinity Summer Series, and supporting Deacon Blue at Collins Barracks.
Following the success of their debut year, the band released their debut EP, Grand Affair, showcasing the songwriting and artistry that have made them a standout act on the Irish independent scene.
Selected from 21 regional acts nationwide, the other national finalists joining WineMom performing at The Academy are: Groev, Rebecca Lane, RunTheRed, Shimmer Boy and Sitting Room.
“One of the joys of being involved in Irish Music Month, and in the A New Local Hero talent search, is to have it confirmed, clearly and without fear of contradiction, just how many extraordinary artists and bands are out there, creating fantastic music, right across the country, at the moment,” Hot Press editor, Niall Stokes said.
"The six finalists captured the imagination of the judges in a really big way these are the kind of artists that we can imagine filling 3Olympia in the not too distant future, and potentially progressing to 3Arena, in the way that artists like Fontaines D.C., Amble, Kingfishr, Belters Only and The Mary Wallopers have so successfully in recent times,” Niall Stokes added.
Michael Kelly, Chief Executive of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI), commented: “We congratulate the shortlisted acts and thank everyone who entered Irish Music Month and wish them the best. Independent stations make a major contribution to developing and supporting Irish music all year ‘round, and the many participating stations are delighted to work with Hot Press and other partners to amplify new talent all around Ireland through Irish Music Month”.
The overall winner of A New Local Hero 2026 will receive a prize package valued at €10,000. This includes €5,000 in cash, alongside €5,000 in professional industry support covering recording at Camden Recording Studios in Dublin, mixing and mastering, and a single release through Irish independent label Rubyworks.
In addition to the live final, all 21 regional Local Heroes remain in the running for the Wildcard Award, which carries a €2,500 bursary decided entirely by a public vote.
Ahead of the live finale on 28 October, all 21 regional acts will participate in an industry mentoring and networking day. The sessions will connect artists with industry figures to offer practical advice on recording, live performance, radio airplay, and media coverage.
A New Local Hero is part of Irish Music Month, an initiative by Radio Nova, Hot Press and the IBI, funded by Coimisiún na Meán under its Sound & Vision Scheme.
Tickets for the live showcase at The Academy are available now via Ticketmaster.
