A traditional Irish folk and ballad band, The Kilkennys are noted for their dynamic arrangements, energetic performances and charismatic rapport with audiences across the globe.
Picking up the mantle left by acts such as The Dubliners and The Clancy Brothers, the four piece group continue to conquer tour circuits in Europe and the U.S. In the past years The Kilkennys have shared the stage with renowned Irish artists such as Shane McGowan, Sharron Shannon and Finbar Furey. Continuing their hectic tour schedule 2016 saw the band perform on the main stage at Milwaukee Irish Fest – the largest Irish Festival in the world.
The band was established between schoolmates and began touring the length and breadth of Ireland in 1998. In 2008 they decided to name themselves ‘The Kilkennys’ after their beloved home, Kilkenny City. Now based in South East Ireland, the group have evolved through the years and are anchored by founding members Davey Cashin (vocals, mandolin, banjo, guitar, whistles), Tommy Mackey (bass, acoustic guitar, vocals), Mick Martin ( bodhran, uilleann pipes, low whistles, guitar, vocals) and newest member Josh O’Loughlin (Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar, Bouzouki and vocals).
After releasing their live album and DVD Meet The Kilkennys, Radio and TV appearance soon followed, which included RTE’s Late Late Show, where they preformed their single Shine on Kilkenny, an original song released to coincide with Kilkenny winning All Ireland hurling final for a forth year in a row, a sporting celebration also headlined by The Kilkennys. Their much acclaimed studio album The Colour Of Freedom (2014) features a mix of original material and well known ballads like Rocky Road to Dublin and South Australia. The strong connection between the band and their music is showcased in this album, with compelling musicianship and pristine vocal harmonies.
The bands popularity continues to grow with every energy filled, toe tapping and hand clapping night of entertainment.