Joe Basso and Ryan-Allen McKinney are O'McPub Band, a Maryland based Irish folk duo that specializes in pub tunes, rebel songs, and Celtic inspired folk/rock/pop music. The charismatic pair is known around the Mid-Atlantic as “probably the best guitar and bodhrán Irish duo in the DMV" (DC, Maryland, & Virginia).
We are eager to share our love of Irish culture through music and have continuously grown our repertoire of pub tunes, rebel anthems and Celtic-infused pop melodies. What started out as a few rebel songs in Ryan's living room during a party led to a few local open mics and eventually our first paid gig scheduled Friday, March 13, 2020, which got cancelled the night before due to the pandemic. We kept at it and almost 1 year later we played that rescheduled show and haven't stopped since.
Tailoring each performance to suit the unique essence of an event is our specialty. Whether it's an intimate backyard acoustic set or a pulsating crowd in a bustling venue, we have the versatility and experience to adapt to the audience and establishment. We have been able to gather many great songs from fan requests and love hearing stories from patrons about what a certain song means to them and their family.
Our musical voyage has led us to diverse settings, from street corners to private gatherings, farmers markets to legendary pubs, concert halls to cozy breweries. We've serenaded the young and the wise, the newcomers to Irish melodies, and those who know every verse by heart. No matter where we perform, our dedication remains steadfast in providing our audience with an unforgettable experience while savoring the rich history embedded in the tunes we cherish.
Do you know of venues and events that champion local live music? We invite you to be part of our musical expedition. Share your recommendations with us via our "Reach Out" form or drop us a line at omcpubband@gmail.com.
Why the name O'McPub Band?
In many Gaelic cultures, names tell a story and our chose of band name is no different. "O'" signifies 'grandson of,' and 'Mc' signifies 'son of.' It's a nod to our lineage – we are the bearers of a heritage that has thrived through generations, despite the many obstacles and hardships that attempted to end its existence. Our Irish roots, deeply entwined with music, art, literature, food, drink, and the spirited 'craic,' have been entrusted to us by those who came before.
Our music serves as a vessel, a heartfelt tribute to these traditions. Each song we play carries within it the echoes of age-old tales and the souls who've shared them.
"The Pub," the heart and soul of Irish life, symbolizes community, togetherness, and the spirit of shared experiences. In the warmth of these public houses, stories unravel, history is rewritten, wisdom is exchanged, and laughter is abundant. Our goal, wherever we play, is to conjure the spirit of 'the pub' – a community of people gathered to embrace life and one another.
Join us as we carry this legacy forward, one note at a time.