[2025] The Wonderful Irish: Popular Bands from Ireland

This IsAslan

Aslan – This Is (Vicar St 1999)

Aslan, a rock band that began their career in the 1980s and became one of the defining acts of the Irish music scene, achieved widespread popularity.

This song, featuring an innovative sound that blends electronic rock and synth-pop elements, became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Irish charts.

Formed around Michael Sheehan, Aslan rose to fame with a unique style that deftly weaves together pop rock and electronic influences.

Their album Feel No Shame was a commercial success and is highly regarded as one of the band’s signature works.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully experience the allure of Irish rock.

InvisibleD-Side

D-Side – Invisible

The Irish pop group D-Side is known for songs themed around the desire to become invisible.

Their music delicately portrays the pains of love and feelings of loneliness, resonating with many listeners.

D-Side’s tracks are characterized by melodious pop sounds and emotional lyrics, attracting strong support especially among younger generations.

Their music evokes empathy in those who struggle with relationships and a sense of self, offering comfort and healing.

When you can’t put your feelings into words, D-Side’s songs speak for the emotions in your heart—each one a compelling work with that kind of power.

UNCO-OP SHOWBAND BLUESSkid Row

Skid Row (feat. Gary Moore) – Unco Up Showband Blues (1971)

Skid Row, who took the American rock scene by storm.

Formed in New Jersey in 1986, they have continued to be active from the late 1980s into the 2020s.

Their 1989 debut album, “Skid Row,” was a massive hit, selling over five million copies.

Just before grunge became mainstream, they shone as one of the final highlights of pop metal.

Their second album, “Slave to the Grind,” reached No.

1 on the Billboard 200.

They also supported tours for Bon Jovi and Mötley Crüe, reigning as a quintessential hair metal act.

Their compelling blend of heavy sound and sweet melodies makes them highly recommended for hard rock fans.

Suas SíosKíla

Kíla – Suas Síos ( official music video )

Keola is the embodiment of tradition meeting innovation, reviving the soul of Ireland for the modern age.

Formed in Dublin in the late 1980s, they perform what can best be described as “contemporary Irish world music,” seamlessly blending traditional Irish instruments with modern sounds.

Frontman Rónán Ó Snodaigh’s charismatic performances drew major attention at the Festival Interceltique in 1993, and they have continued to captivate audiences at major music festivals around the world ever since.

The group has also excelled in film music, winning an IFTA in 2020 for the soundtrack to the film Arracht.

It’s a band highly recommended for those who cherish Irish tradition while seeking new musical possibilities.

Night in That LandNightnoise

Nightnoise－Night in That Land

Nightnoise uniquely blended Irish traditional music, Celtic music, jazz, and classical.

Formed in 1984, they released seven albums on the Windham Hill label.

Their gentle, ambient instrumental style virtually defined what would later be called the New Age genre.

The 1987 album “Something of Time” was their first as a quartet.

On 1994’s “Shadow of Time,” they incorporated a more Irish-centered sound while maintaining their distinctive style.

They’re a band I highly recommend not only to fans of Irish music, but also to those interested in jazz and classical.

Wired To The MoonThe Revs

The Revs – Wired To The Moon

The Revs were an Irish indie punk rock band active from 1999 to 2007.

They were formed by three childhood friends.

This song was released in 2001 and reached No.

17 on the Irish charts.

Comeback GirlRepublic of Loose

Republic of Loose – Comeback Girl

Republic of Loose is a funk rock band formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 2001.

The band disbanded in 2014.

This song is included on their second album, Aaagh!, released in 2006.

The album has been praised as one of Ireland’s most original and progressive records.