Did you know that Galway is home to a diverse array of fascinating characters? This vibrant city is full of unique personalities, and we’re giving you the chance to meet some of them. Join us as we say Howya! to some of Galway's most interesting figures. This month, we had the pleasure of chatting with local plámáser Ferdia Pleimean as he shares his love for his craft, the city, and the people around him.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ferdia, and I am a DJ, barista, occasional actor, and an all-around sound feen.
What do you love about your job?
I love the crew I work with, the chats with customers; familiar faces and new faces, and the free coffee!
Favourite word or phrase in the Irish language?
Maireann an crann ach ní mhaireann an lámh a chuir é. – The tree remains, but not the hand that planted it.
What’s your connection to Galway?
My connection to Galway is the Bachelor of Arts I did in Irish & Translation. Before that, I had zero connection to Galway, but I fell in love with the city very soon after moving here, and have had no desire to leave ever since I finished my degree.
Describe Galway in 3 words
Craic. Home. Unreal.
What's your idea of a perfect lunchtime in Galway?
Handsome Burger. The Smokester or Handsome Roost would be my personal favourites. And I have to show love to all the staff as well – absolute legends, the whole lot of them!
Do you have any exciting plans lined up for the summer?
I’ll be playing at a festival in Ireland this summer! I can’t share many details just yet, but be sure to keep an eye on my socials @ferdiliciousz. As always, you can expect to see me in The Blue Note and Electric throughout the summer.
What is your go-to song to fill the dance floor when DJing?
At the moment, it would have to be Kettama - Pretty Green Eyes (Sunset Ibiza Mix). It’s a great take on an already amazing track by Ultrabeat. Big ups to Kettama as well, the man has been on a generational run and has put G-Town on the map.
A place in Galway that everyone needs to visit?
I have to be biased and say Plámás. They have it all, from the amazing coffee and tasty treats, to the chance to speak Irish and get a discount, and the spectacular staff. Ask for any more and you’re being greedy. Big ups to Áine, Aoibhín, Ciara, Emily and Franchesca!
What's your favourite activity to do with friends?
Going for walks that usually end up in The Blue Note. Another spot in the Westend with spectacular staff, and one of the best dance floors in Galway, with nothing but the best DJs and jivers.
What are you doing on your day off?
On my day off, I’m either making music or searching for new music to play in my sets. I have my own radio show on Dublin Digital Radio called Raidió Ferdilicious, so I always enjoy taking the time to record mixes for that. It gives me an opportunity to experiment and play things I usually wouldn’t play in the club.
Tell us a secret…
I’m currently working on my first EP, which will be released this year. It will be a 4-track project, and each track will be a different journey inspired by the music I’ve been listening to lately. I’ve learned a lot in Galway, from DJing to producing, so I’m looking forward to giving back with the music!
All photos by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
