H I S T O R Y
Formed in a downtown Irish pub in 1998 NYC by the brothers Griffin, the Ruffians are an original celtic rock band that entwines the heart and soul of celtic music with the exuberance of punk rock. They have the kind of energy associa [+]H I S T O R Y
Formed in a downtown Irish pub in 1998 NYC by the brothers Griffin, the Ruffians are an original celtic rock band that entwines the heart and soul of celtic music with the exuberance of punk rock. They have the kind of energy associated with bands like the Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly, but also uniquely incorporate the catchiness of American and British pop and alternative music. Their original songs and inventive interpretations of traditional dance tunes make them one of the most exciting bands out today. The Chicago Sun Times' Tim DeGrogatis called them the "Y-Generation Pogues." In the time the Ruffians have been together, they have opened numerous times for Black 47, Shane McGowan's band The Popes, were part of the People's Fleadh in 2003 and 2004,and were asked to play for the "Good Friday Agreement" peace talk. They have also played for the Ancient Order of Hibernians' Rose of Tralee Pageant for five years running. Being a favorite at many pubs in the northeast,if there's good music to be heard and fine whiskey to be drunk, Ruffians will be there.
T H E C O R E P L AY E R S
Sean Griffin is front man, singer/songwriter and guitarist. His writing depicts the joys and sorrows of being human, and his working-class sensibility is relevant to Irish, English and Americans alike. He makes sure the Ruffians' sound is as much rock, pop and punk as it is Irish so the crowd goes home singing Ruffians' tunes.
Dan Griffin's bass playing can only be described as performance art. His energy and enthusiasm can get a crowd going in no time, along with his signature green jumpsuit and "lucky" boxers. Dan also contributes to songwriting, sings back-up and jumps into the crowd to play the bones!
Jerome Morris is a master of drums and percussion. Trained as a jazz musician, his precise articulation and control makes him a driving force in the group. The Derry Journal hailed Jerome as "one of the best drummers in the world."
Kevin Meehan is the band's button accordionist. After years of studying piano accordion under Galway's Peter Kelly, he quickly adapted to the button accordion and soon formed the traditional Irish group Gallowglass and played with Johnny Cuomo. Formerly a competitive bagpiper, he is currently an active piper in t
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