Wild Colonial Bhoys is more than just an Irish band – they are an Irish-American band. Theirs is like a blended whiskey: it’s a musical melding of both the old and the new, from the peat smoke scent of the old sod to the can-do spirit that embodies the American dream.

Celtic Rock that Rocks!

Growing up in an Irish-American family, singer Adam Coolong reflects, “It was really a blend of two traditions, each distinct, yet intertwined in a way that’s different from either on its own. I loved American pastimes like backyard barbecues, baseball, and Fourth of July fireworks, but we also had Irish ballad-singing at our weddings and wakes, with the older generation huddled in the corner, sharing stories of emigration and finding their way in a new country. It felt like having a foot in both camps.” This unique mix of cultures and experiences led Coolong to form Wild Colonial Bhoys (WCB) twenty years ago. What began as an Irish ballad-singing acoustic duo has since evolved into a Celtic rock powerhouse, with thirteen recordings, countless miles traveled, and a strong, enduring presence in the music scene.

It all started in 2003 when the band quickly took over the Minneapolis/St. Paul Irish music scene, gaining national recognition and playing to thousands of their “fhans.” After a few pints and some jam sessions in the pubs, where they belted out fervent renditions of traditional Irish laments, WCB was born. Their journey was marked by multiple albums and a relentless schedule of shows that helped them refine their sound and stage presence.

Fast forward to the present, and the Bhoys have unleashed their latest EP, a 20th anniversary re-recording of their original acoustic EP Graffiti On the Wall. This special release features full-band arrangements of the six songs that introduced the Bhoys to the Irish music scene two decades ago, showcasing how far they’ve come while staying true to their roots.
Their sixth album, On Our Own, which received glowing reviews, including the #2 spot on the coveted Paddyrock “Best Of 2015” list, is a testament to their evolving sound. Minneapolis/St. Paul’s 89.3 The Current praised the first single, “Falling Through the Cracks,” noting, “this one might be the closing track to every weekend.”

After two decades of constant road work and recording, the Bhoys have truly found their stride. As Paddyrock.com aptly puts it, “take the Young Dubliners, The Elders, Carbon Leaf, Great Big Sea and put them in a blender… you’d have a Wild Colonial Bhoys smoothie!” Their sound is driven by strong rock guitar, underpinned by Pete James Johnson on drums and Andy Schuster on bass, with Tony Comeau’s fiddle adding an Irish lilt, Cole Mickelson’s guitar providing the twang, and Adam’s vocals as the cherry on top. “Our music blends Irish traditional tunes with American rock and country influences,” says fiddle player Tony Comeau. “It’s how we grew up, and it feels natural to express both sides.”

The Bhoys’ latest project is Century, an album of rebel songs commemorating the hundredth anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising. This collection features ten classic tunes about the events that gave rise to the modern Irish Republic, with full band arrangements and the Bhoys’ signature sound. Adam shares, “We’re really excited about this album. These old rebel ballads are close to our hearts, and it’s an incredible feeling to contribute to the centenary celebration of our ancestral homeland.” With a smile, he adds, “nothing says ‘Irish America’ to me more than singing songs like ‘The Foggy Dew’ and ‘James Connolly’ with modern rock guitars!”

Come experience what WCB is all about; you won’t leave a show disappointed. With their stellar musicianship, lighthearted onstage banter, and unique perspective on all things Irish-American, you might just feel the pull of the Emerald Isle, right here in the U.S.A. Their live performances are always a great time, and no one leaves a WCB show being less than impressed!