Jess Kav at The Cooler
Nialler9“...gorgeous songs, impeccable beats and exceptional vocals... ”
Jess Kav is an alternative soul artist and multidisciplinary performer from Dublin, whose work explores the intersections of music, social activism, and personal transformation. After studying at London’s Institute Of Contemporary Music Performance and Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Jess has focused on songwriting, touring, recording, writing and social change.
Known for her ability to merge powerful vocals with introspective storytelling, Jess’s artistry has roots in Ireland’s diverse creative scene, while her reach is increasingly international. Her sold-out one-woman show, "Fermented Dreams" (September 2024), showcased her ability to intertwine humor, vulnerability, and profound self-reflection in a narrative about a 40-year-old musician confronting creative burnout and self-doubt. The show captivated audiences with its exploration of the tensions between art, identity, and the pressures of modern life.
Having collaborated with Hozier, The Waterboys, and Villagers, Jess is no stranger to large-scale stages, yet her work retains a deeply personal and intimate quality. Jess has been involved in award-winning productions like Hot Brown Honey’s "Hive City Legacy", and is a founding member of the Dirty Laundry Collective, an interdisciplinary group focused on pushing artistic boundaries and engaging with societal issues.
Her recent releases—"Genesis" (October 2024), "Diary Song" (Feb 2024), and "January Lullaby" (January 2025)—use her original compositions to tell stories of resilience, vulnerability, and transformation. These tracks come to life in her live performances with a full band, where her raw emotional depth and energetic presence stand out. Jess's work speaks directly to the creative heart of the modern artist, where art, music, and activism converge, making her a voice that resonates across borders.
The Cooler is located upstairs at The Complex Arts Centre, 12 Mary's Abbey Dublin 7. The entrance to The Cooler is through the same door as The Depot at The Complex, on the Mary's Abbey side of the building, where the LUAS tracks run. The building has a red wall on the left hand side of a front plaza that has a sign reading 'The Complex', and a blue wall facing the front plaza that has a sign reading 'The Complex - Art Lives Here'.
The plaza in front of The Complex is used by the surrounding businesses and during the day is often full of fruits, vegetables or delivery vehicles. You can still access The Cooler at these times.
Above the blue artist's door, you'll see a painted sign for The Cooler (in black) and The Depot (in white). The Cooler is alsomarked by a small sign between the main glass doors (sometimes covered by blue shutters) and the blue artist's door. The glass doors will be open for performances from door times (usually 7:30pm).The Cooler cannot be accessed from the Arran St East side of The Complex - this is the entry for the Gallery and artist studios only. If you have any trouble locating the Cooler please give Caitriona a call on 087 783 3391.
To find the Cooler on Google Maps, search for The Cooler or The Depot at The Complex (the main performance space downstairs at The Complex). If you find the address for just The Complex, it will generally will bring you to the gallery on Arran St East.
The performance space is up two flights of stairs and may be difficult to access for patrons with additional mobility needs. The space is fully seated.
Gender-neutral toilet facilities are available upstairs (a few steps up from the level of The Cooler). Baby-changing facilities are available at The Gallery, downstairs at The Complex (using the Arran St entrance).
Guide dogs and service animals are welcome. Please notify us if you will be attending with a guide dog.
If you have any other queries regarding accessibility or require any accommodations for seating etc, please contact us at admin @ improvisedmusic . ie and we will do our best to assist you.
The red line of the LUAS runs very close to The Cooler, taking the stop at Jervis St (if travelling towards Saggart/Tallaght) or at Four Courts (if travelling towards Connolly/The Point). Many different bus lines run to Ormond Quay, Inns Quay, or Church Street, which are all a couple of streets away from The Cooler.
During the day, a small gated Dublin City Council car park can be accessed on Mary's Lane around the corner, at standard rates, but closes at 9pm.
Jervis Shopping Centre Car Park is also close by, with varying opening hours, often closing at 9pm.
Some street parking is available nearby, often free after 7pm - days and rates vary, please check signs. At the time of writing, the loading bays on Mary's Abbey (directly in front of The Complex), and the loading bays on Arran St East are both free after 7pm. Please double check signs, as these arrangements can change.
