The Prodigals

Based in New York, this Irish/American ensemble bears no connection to Mike Garden’s Scottish group of identical name, despite overlapping stylistic traits. Traditional elements anchor their approach, yet punk energy and drum’n'bass drive shape the overall attack. Gregory Grene’s accordion work, reminiscent of John Whelan’s, functions as the Prodigals’ primary voice. His command of the instrument together with deep knowledge of Irish repertoire positions the band among the leading Celtic rock acts entering the twenty-first century. The rhythm section formed by Andrew Harkin on bass and Brian Tracey on drums ranks among the genre’s most forceful and dynamic, lending the music a singular thrust. The group’s debut arrived as a self-titled independent album in 1997, issued while the lineup still numbered five. After that release, guitarist Sean McCabe and harmonica/fiddle player Alex Tobias exited; guitarist Ray Kelly stepped in, his gritty lead vocals sharpening the band’s aggressive edge. Their follow-up, Go On, appeared in 1999 and showcases the quartet of Grene, Harkin, Tracey, and Kelly.