Originally formed in 1996, The Killdares have come to be known as one of the hottest, cutting edge bands in music today - Celtic or otherwise. The Killdares have created a fresh new sound that's blended with enough commercial edge to be instantly recognizable, always engaging, and appealing to fans of all ages. Their live shows are filled with an infectious energy so powerful that it has been known to move people to tears. Expanding the definition of "Celtic", the band uses the unconventional pairing of screaming, fire-driven fiddle and bagpipes with the wail of electric guitar, bass and drums to create brilliant arrangements of traditional tunes and original compositions. This distinctive sound combined with the band's incredible stage presence is nothing short of awesome.
Joining the likes of Don Henley (The Eagles), Phil Collins (Genesis) and Fred LeBlanc (Cowboy Mouth), Dallas native Tim Smith handles lead vocals and drums with amazing nonchalance, locking in with Jim Dawson's energetic bass playing, and the guitar stylings of Brek Lancaster. Drums, bass, and guitar - all the ingredients of a quintessential rock-and-roll band. Add to this dynamic rock-and-roll band, the 2004 Grand Master Fiddler Champion, Roberta Rast, and competition piper Matt Willis on the haunting Great Highland bagpipe, and you have all the right ingredients for a truly amazing Celtic Rock / World music / AAA / Rock-and-Roll extravaganza!
The Killdares perform at over 150 shows annually, and they are as enthusiastically received at national Celtic festivals as they are at rock venues across the country. Since first appearing on the music scene, The Killdares have gone from local pub performers to national touring headliners, sharing stages with an incredibly diverse range of national and international artists.
With the release of their 4th full-length recording, "Any Given Element," The Killdares continue to tour and perform all over the U.S., with the very real possibility of taking their unique live show to Canada and Europe. The band is currently in the pre-production phase for their 5th album, and even as The Killdares continue to evolve, they remain committed to creating and performing the newest and most relevant music in the world today.
Presenting a perfect blend of rock, pop, and Celtic, The Killdares have established themselves as a great and unique band - stretching the boundaries of rock n' roll alternatives, while bridging the gap between the traditional and the cutting edge.
