Messed!Up
Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of Irish folk while embracing elements of indie, experimental music, electronica, and post-punk, Madra Salach have crafted a style that feels both deeply rooted and strikingly modern. Their music combines haunting harmonium drones, driving rhythms, mandolin and tin whistle melodies, and powerful storytelling, creating a sound that has earned comparisons to contemporary Irish innovators such as Lankum and The Mary Wallopers.
Formed in 2023 by vocalist Paul Banks, guitarist Adam Cullen, and drummer Dara Duffy, the group began by playing informal sessions and small gigs across Dublin’s Northside, united by a shared passion for traditional Irish music and a desire to push its boundaries. As the project evolved, they were joined by Jack Martin, Maxime Arnold, and Jack Lawlor, completing the six-piece lineup that defines the band’s distinctive sound today.
The band’s reputation grew quickly through energetic live performances and a residency in Dublin’s folk scene before they broke through with their debut single, “Blue & Gold,” in 2025. The release showcased their ability to blend traditional influences with contemporary songwriting, earning widespread attention across Ireland and beyond. Their debut EP, It’s a Hell of an Age, followed in January 2026 and became a major success, reaching No. 3 on the Irish Albums Chart while cementing the band as one of the country’s most promising emerging acts.
At the heart of Madra Salach’s appeal is their dynamic live show. Their performances move seamlessly between intimate folk ballads, explosive crescendos, and moments of experimental intensity, captivating audiences at festivals and headline tours throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom. Critics have praised their ability to honour traditional Irish music while fearlessly reimagining it for a new generation.
In September, they swing by Berlin for a one-off show at Mikropol.
- 18 September at Mikropol, Berlin
