If you are of Irish heritage, then you have probably heard of Celtic rock. This music combines elements from traditional Irish music, and modern-day rock music. Celtic rock has all of the old instruments; violins, mandolins, accordions, and many more. The difference between Celtic and traditional rock is that these instruments get combined with electric guitars, full drum kits, and large instrument amplifiers. Celtic rock typically has higher energy than its traditional counterpart. Let’s take a look at the history of the music and some of the dominant bands on the scene.
The style originated in Ireland in the early 70s. Around this time modern rock bands started to look to their traditional roots for new sound. Bands like Thin Lizzy would release modern covers of traditional songs, most notably “Whiskey in the Jar”. Other bands took a liking to this style, and progressed it themselves. Bands like the Horslips, Christy Moore, and Donald Lunny helped bring the music to mainstream popularity.
The 90s saw a new style of Celtic music emerge. At the time punk rock music was very popular in the US and the UK. So it seems natural that the Celtic sound would be combined with high aggression punk rock music. This style became extremely popular in North America and Europe. Bands like flogging Molly and the Dropkick Murphy’s started selling out stadiums all over the world. This new style was associated with the new youthful generation. Many traditional Irish music fans do not support Celtic punk rock.
In all its forms, Celtic rock has become a very popular genre. If you have not heard any, you are strongly encouraged to find some Celtic rock bands, and listen to their albums. It is a very distinct sound, that millions have grown to love.
Eugh, streaming is taking aaaaages today! I’m putting the two new celtic rock vids up, woooooooooooooooooooooo.
Celtic rock gig today. A whole day out of school for a 10 minute slot – woop! A day of lugging heavy equipment and general merryness!
Wow, mixing Celtic music and rock together? I like this. * V * )
..though I’ll listen to Celtic, classical, jazz, rock, pop, and many things in-between (not a fan of modern pop or rap)..
Mwahahaha…I mean, Awesome! Loreena=Celtic w/some middle eastern & rock.
You should give Mr Gaughan’s 1970′s band Five Hand Reel a listen. Great celtic folk rock stuff.
We had a great time at Celtic Rock! Any other festivals in CT we should be a vendor at?
Take a peek over at our friends at Diabolik85258 … they have some great Rock, Celtic, Goth, and Biker Jewelry
von Grey is a band of 4 sisters (all under 16) from Alpharetta, Ga. Their music dabbles in rock, country, bluegrass, folk, & Celtic sounds.
alternative.rock.reggae.jazz.celtic trance.bossa nova.
practically everything
Wants to start a alt.celtic rock band.. Seriously.. Who’s in?
At my second tryout for the celtic rock band. Full on bagpipes today.
yes and no. he only listens to classical, 90s alt rock and celtic folk from Newfoundland. but nothing else.
Rehearsal done, borrowed another ceilidh kilt for wednesday’s celtic rock gig. Now, it’s hometime.
Listening to Celtic rock and eating fried frito chili pie. I love life right about now.