[2026] The Wonderful Irish: Popular Bands from Ireland
The music that comes from the historic nation of Ireland is incredibly captivating, and many music lovers probably feel intrigued the moment they see the word “Irish.”
There are even genres like Irish folk and Irish punk performed by musicians who aren’t Irish themselves, including Japanese artists.
In this article, we’re highlighting some of the outstanding rock bands and musical groups that Ireland has produced.
From world-famous bands to promising young acts, we’ll introduce a wide-ranging lineup!
Even if you’re a fan of Western music, you might discover that a band you like is actually Irish without realizing it.
Enjoy the read!
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[2026] The Wonderful Irish: Popular Bands from Ireland (21–30)
New YorkSnow Patrol
If you’re an avid listener of UK rock, you might think Snow Patrol are a Glasgow band.
In reality, they’re a mixed lineup of members from Northern Ireland and Scotland.
In any case, Snow Patrol—who achieved major success in the 2000s—are now a five-piece indie rock band formed in 1994.
They released their debut album in 1998 and their second in 2001 on an indie label, but neither met with significant success.
That said, I personally remember they were quietly talked about among Japanese UK-rock fans who frequently haunted record shops.
In 2003, their third album and masterpiece, Final Straw, became the turning point that propelled them into the spotlight.
It’s a treasure trove of gorgeous melodies, and many people first discovered them through this record.
In 2006, they reached even greater heights with their fourth album, Eyes Open, and the track Chasing Cars became a huge hit in the United States.
If you’re new to their music, the two albums mentioned above are highly recommended, but be sure to check out their first two indie-era records as well—their unadorned, homespun feel is quintessentially indie.
Big SurThe Thrills
The Thrills are an Irish rock band formed in 2001.
They released two albums between 2003 and 2004, and after their 2007 album, the band disbanded in 2008.
This song was released as a single in 2003 and reached No.
17 on the UK charts.
OxygenJJ72
JJ72 is an alternative rock band formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1996.
The band disbanded in 2006.
This song is included on their self-titled debut album, released in 2000.
It was written by vocalist and guitarist Mark Greaney.
DúlamánAltan
Altan is a band that represents traditional Irish folk and Celtic music.
Formed in County Donegal in 1987 and centered around lead vocalist and fiddler Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, they are known for Irish-language songs and their dynamic twin-fiddle sound.
They gained attention with their 1992 album Harvest Storm, and went on to release a number of acclaimed records, including The Red Crow and Island Angel.
Although they paused activity during the 2020 pandemic, they later resumed with renewed energy.
Expressing traditional Irish melodies with a contemporary sensibility, their music is embraced not only by fans of Irish music but also by a new generation.
Fairytale Of New YorkThe Pogues Featuring Kirsty MacColl
A song by The Pogues, formed around Shane MacGowan, an Irish vocalist from the UK.
It was released as a single in 1987.
The title is taken from J.P.
Donleavy’s book A Fairy Tale of New York.
Whiskey in the JarThe Dubliners
The Dubliners are an Irish folk band formed in Dublin in 1962 and cherished for many years.
They achieved international success with traditional street ballads and performances featuring Irish instruments.
This traditional Irish song, released in 1968, became their signature song.
HeavyFlorence Road
Florence Road, a four-piece band of childhood friends from Ireland, formed in 2019.
Cutting their teeth with garage rehearsals, they steadily honed their skills and drew attention by posting cover songs, and now they’re showing signs of a global breakthrough.
Rooted in alternative/indie rock, they self-released their first single in 2022.
Their major-label debut, Heavy, released in March 2025, racked up over 10 million likes on TikTok and rapidly boosted their profile.
Their deal with Warner Music can be seen as proof that the industry holds their talent in high regard.
With vocalist Lily Aron’s piercing, affecting voice—evoking The Cranberries and Phoebe Bridgers—and the band’s powerful sound, they embody the next generation of indie rock.
If you love emotional music, this is a band you absolutely need to check out.