The Irish folk scene is being shaken up these days, with bands like Lankum revitalizing the tradition by going beyond the clichés and bringing a darker version of Irish folk to a wide range of alternative music listeners.
The Mary Wallopers have also revitalized folk music with equal parts love of tradition, political spark and reckless attitude. Irish Rock N Roll is the name of their 2023 album for a reason, because it's folk music, but played with the raw energy of rock and punk, sending loving thoughts to legends like The Pogues.
The Mary Wallopers draw inspiration from the social protest of punk and hip-hop, but also have a mission to show how much rebellious nerve there is in traditional folk music that exposes the cynicism of those in power and speaks out against poverty and oppression.
The band unleashes that nerve in the best possible way when they take the stage with a terrific interplay that has made them one of the most acclaimed live acts in the Irish folk revival. Together, the seven musicians create a very special energy for the concerts, where behind the raw punk attitude you can feel a great attention to detail, a deep knowledge of tradition and an engaging musical energy. Be advised: This energy tends to send the entire audience into ecstasy. You're invited to the party when the phenomenal live band visits Roskilde Festival with a new album in the bag.
