The Drowsy Lads thundered onto the Irish music scene in the US over 20 years ago and have become fan favorites at every turn. Sticking to traditional roots the Lads bring a fire and excitement that has enchanted audiences everywhere they go. 2018 brought the release of their 4th album, Everyone In, and the distinction of “Best Irish American Band of 2018”. With an undeniable genuineness that flows from their live performances, the Lads released their 4th album in 2024: a double-disc commemoration of their 20 years playing together.
Ohio brothers John and Daniel McKewen, father and son Phil and Josh Franck, and lifelong friend Bryan Brookes bring to the stage a concoction of “we dare you to hold still” Irish dance tunes as well as a full emotional gamut of songs and good humor. Their authentic approach and deep enjoyment of people is a refreshing surprise to both casual music-lovers and those steeped in hardcore Trad.
Besides packing out theaters, concert halls, clubs and pubs, the Lads are lighting up Irish festivals including Milwaukee, Dublin, Dayton, Indianapolis, Buffalo, and Michigan. They are regular guests at theaters including the Murphy Theater, and Lakeside Ohio’s Chautauqua Concert Series, and were guest artists with the Otterbein University Orchestra.
Each Lad is a multi-instrumentalist, and the combined lineup includes fiddle, button accordion, tenor banjo, flute, whistle, guitar, bouzouki, Uilleann pipes, 5-string banjo, concertina, and bodhran.
The Lads are fond of creating their own spirited arrangements and offering occasional original compositions, even mixing in some bits of Bluegrass or Classical. But these never get in the way of their obsession with the pure old Irish tunes, songs, wit, and friendship that has defined Irish music for centuries.
