They are no ‘robots in disguise’, but they are transformative: MegaTRAD will bring contemporary, modern trad music to Monroe’s on Saturday, February 8, at 9pm.
Comprising the O'Dálaigh brothers, Cillian and Seán, alongside mandolin virtuoso Denis McAuliffe, MegaTRAD hails from east Clare, a region steeped in Irish musical heritage.
Together, they have created a sound affectionately described as ‘tradscendental’ by incorporating modern basslines, beats, and effects.
All three musicians are graduates of the University of Limerick’s prestigious BA Irish Music and Dance programme. As a group, they re-imagine the nature of Irish traditional music with a modern edge.
A former member of the acclaimed Celtic folk band, The Outside Track, Cillian O’Dálaigh brings a global perspective to the band’s sound, having toured the world with the group. As a pioneer of megaTRAD, his adventurous and free-spirited guitar playing drives their improvisational ethos.
Fiddler Seán O’Dálaigh brings an eclectic touch to the mix, influenced by everything from old-time American, to Indian classical, while talented mandolin player McAuliffe found his niche with the instrument when he was gifted one at eight years’ old.
In 2020, megaTRAD gained national attention by winning Best Performance at Temple Bar Trad Fest’s ‘Live at the Hub,’ which earned them a coveted slot at Milwaukee Irish Fest.
Since then, they’ve performed at Electric Picnic, All Together Now, The All-Ireland Fleadh, and elsewhere, earning acclaim for their fresh take on traditional music.
With a sound that blends stomp, bass, pedal effects, and traditional instrumentation, their performances are a vibrant celebration and a glimpse into the future of Irish trad.
Tickets €15 from www.monroes.ie