[2025] The Wonderful Irish: Popular Bands from Ireland

Strangely Strange But Oddly NormalDr Strangely Strange

Strangely Strange But Oddly Normal by Dr Strangely Strange

Doctor Strangely Strange is an experimental folk group formed in Dublin in 1967.

Their music, categorized as British folk rock and Irish folk, has often been noted for its connection to the Incredible String Band.

Their debut album, Kip of the Serenes, was released in 1969, followed by Heavy Petting in 1970, which featured Gary Moore as a guest.

Although they disbanded in 1971, they reunited several times thereafter, and in 2007 they held a Bloomsday concert at London’s 12 Bar Club.

With their dreamlike sound and distinctive song structures, their music is recommended for those seeking adventurous folk.

itsallwavesEnemies

“itsallwaves” by Enemies (official video)

Enemies are a four-piece band that emerged from Dublin, Ireland in 2007.

In the realm of instrumental rock, they have built a world of sound that’s entirely their own.

They debuted in 2008 with the EP Alpha Waves, gaining attention in Japan as well.

While grounded in post-rock, their appeal lies in complex soundscapes that incorporate elements of minimal music and industrial.

From the 2010 album We’ve Been Talking to 2013’s Embark, Embrace, and up to Valuables, released in December 2016, they have steadily put out new work.

With lyrical and dramatic compositions, they have captured the hearts of instrumental and post-rock fans.

Bring Out The MonsterGama Bomb

GAMA BOMB – Bring Out The Monster (2018) // Official Music Video // AFM Records

GAMA BOMB, the standard-bearers of Irish-born thrash metal and crossover.

Formed in 2002, they’ve gained popularity with a distinctive sound influenced by hardcore punk and crossover thrash.

They made their debut in 2006 with the album “Survival of the Fastest,” and drew attention with unique moves such as releasing “Tales from the Grave in Space” for free in 2009.

Their 2013 album “The Terror Tapes” featured a collaboration with a horror movie poster artist.

Their humor-laced musical style also shines in thrash-metal renditions of themes from 1980s TV shows.

They made their first visit to Japan in 2019 and continue to captivate metal fans at home and abroad.

Dearg DoomHorslips

Horslips – Dearg Doom

Horslips, the Celtic rock pioneers Ireland is proud of.

Formed in Dublin in 1970, they took the 1970s music scene by storm with a unique sound that fused Irish traditional music and rock.

Their debut album, Happy to Meet – Sorry to Part, released in 1972, quickly brought them success in Ireland.

They went on to release classics such as The Táin and Dancehall Sweethearts, earning international acclaim—one of their singles even reached number one in Germany.

They also produced many concept albums themed around Irish myths and legends, making them a highly recommended band for anyone interested in the world of Celtic lore.

I Can See Clearly NowHothouse Flowers

Hothouse Flowers – I Can See Clearly Now

Hothouse Flowers, the remarkable talent born in Ireland.

Formed in 1985, they have captured the hearts of listeners around the world with their unique sound that fuses Irish folk and rock.

Their debut album, People, was released in 1988 and became a massive hit, reaching No.

1 on the charts in Ireland and the UK.

Songs like “Don’t Go” remain beloved to this day.

In 1989, they were also nominated for a Grammy for “Rock & Roll Music.” Their music has a distinctive appeal, blending elements of traditional Celtic music with a contemporary rock sound.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience both the depth of Irish music and the dynamism of rock at the same time.

Good VibesJedward

Jedward – Good Vibes

Jedward, a pop-rap duo made up of Irish twin brothers John Grimes and Edward Grimes, rose to prominence after appearing on The X Factor in 2009.

Their debut single, “Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby),” reached No.

1 in Ireland and No.

2 in the UK.

In 2011, they competed in the Eurovision Song Contest with “Lipstick,” finishing 8th and charting across various European countries.

They also opened for U.

S.

President Barack Obama during his visit to Dublin, performing before a crowd of 60,000—proof of their widespread popularity.

With their poppy, catchy songs and distinctive performances, they might be perfect if you’re looking for bright, energetic music.

GalwayBayLíadan

Liadan GalwayBay

Réalta, Ireland’s all-female music group, is gaining attention for their distinctive style that skillfully weaves songs in both Irish and English, grounded in traditional Irish music.

While honoring tradition, their music adds a contemporary interpretation that creates a fresh appeal.

Praised by Irish Music Magazine as “music worth loving,” they have captured the hearts of many.

Réalta’s performances breathe new life into classic songs that celebrate Ireland’s beautiful landscapes, moving listeners deeply.

Striking a superb balance between tradition and innovation, their music is recommended not only for fans of Irish music but also for anyone seeking a new musical experience.