The Kilkennys

For over two decades, the band from Kilkenny in Ireland has been a breath of fresh air on the international Irish folk scene. Whether original compositions or new interpretations of old classics - the four school friends regularly create a special magic that also inspires a young audience for traditional Irish music.

Are Josh O'Loughlin (git, bj, mand, voc, bouzouki), Davey Cashin (git, bj, mand, whistle, voc), Tommy Mackey (b, git, voc) and Mick Martin (bodhran, whistle, uillean pipes, git, voc) alias The Kilkennys the rightful successors of legendary bands such as The Dubliners or The Chieftains?

A clear 'yes/no' answer is not so easy here, because in addition to the commonality of the worldwide spread of traditional Irish folk and songwriting, the Kilkennys have a unique selling point that the aforementioned bands did not have: The four musicians from the town of Kilkenny succeed in adding a modern touch to the musical tradition of their homeland, which also inspires a young audience that previously had little to do with Irish folk.

This success is not least due to their rousing concerts, which transform every concert hall into an Irish pub in no time at all and get the entire audience singing along - and that includes even the most reserved concert-goer! Each band member is a master of several instruments, including traditional Irish instruments such as the Irish bagpipes Uillean Pipes or the frame drum Bodhran, and brings their skills to bear in a song-oriented manner. Also unforgettable: the Kilkennys' absolute trademark - their joint harmony singing, which gives everyone in the audience goosebumps.

It is therefore not surprising that The Kilkennys spend most of the year on tour: Whether in Europe, the USA or more recently India, where they are regarded as one of the most successful touring Irish acts of all time and their concerts are regularly sold out shortly after being announced.

One of the very first countries in which the band toured and celebrated success outside their home country was Germany. So it's no wonder that there is a special bond between the German fans and the Kilkennys that continues to this day. That's why both sides are delighted when the Kilkennys travel through their 'second home' for 11 concerts in October 2024!