Johnson’s Pub

Having lived in Naas most of my life, the move to Newbridge wasn’t a big one. Nevertheless, the first night out in your new hometown is uncertain. My «début» in Newbridge took place in Johnson’s pub on the main street just before the bridge.
I stepped into a buzzing, good-​humoured, easy-​going, good old fashioned Irish watering-​hole. The pub was full but not resembling the sardine tins that are the pubs of Naas on a weekend. Everyone seemed in good form and as soon as you were introduced, they were offering to buy you drinks. All ages and types mingled and danced to the fantastic live band.
Rubber and friends play in Johnson’s every Friday night. They’re a jam band consisting of Paul Keogh (Rubber), from the excellent music group King Modo, and a selection of his mates. They played lively Irish songs along with their take on American pop and r&b tunes, each wielding a guitar. Paul’s voice on his version of ‘Golddigger’ is something else!
Every so often, someone from the crowd would join the band for a couple of songs as people clapped, danced or swayed on their stools, all sporting big smiles.
An Australian friend asked me, «What’s the equivalent of Johnson’s in Naas?» I didn’t have to think long before answering, «There is none.»
Definitely my new local!