The Irish folk-metal band The Scratch combines acoustic instruments with the energy of metal. Known for their high-energy live shows, they have toured across the US, Europe, and Australia, and performed at major festivals. This December, they will set VERA on fire.

“Close your eyes and pull like a dog,” was the striking advice from Irish Olympic rowers Gary and Paul O’Donovan. The phrase became popular and has since come to represent pure determination. For The Scratch it became a motto for their new album Pull Like A Dog, on which they further develop their blend of folk and metal.

As support, DUG will join. They are an Americana-Folk duo with indie-soul influences.