Tipperary man returns in triumph to Grand Ole Opry with bluegrass band
Jigjam went down a storm again in Nashville
Irish bluegrass band JigJam recently returned to Nashville's iconic Grand Ole Opry stage nearly one year after making their Opry debut.
The four-piece, who include Gavin Strappe from Drangan, Tipperary, were greeted with a warm reception as they gave an energetic performance of popular folk song 'The Wild Rover', as well as original songs 'Cluck Ole Twig' and 'Time To Go Home', penned by lead singer Jamie McKeogh.
The crowd matched JigJam's infectious energy, singing along and clapping.
'Cluck Ole Twig' and 'Time To Go Home' are favorites from the band’s new album Across The Pond, which debuted on March 1. The 11-track collection was released to acclaim, landing on must-listen lists from Entertainment Tonight and No Depression.
American Songwriter said listening to the album is "like stepping back in time and hearing the roots of American ‘grass".
JigJam also recently wrapped up their Across The Pond US tour, performing at multiple sold-out stops across the country. The band has added additional tour dates at https://www.jigjam.ie/tour/.
Founding members from Offaly, Jamie McKeogh (lead singer and guitar) and Daithi Melia (five-string banjo and dobro) were joined by Tipperary-born Gavin Strappe (mandolin and tenor banjo) in 2016.
This year they are joined by Kevin Buckley (fiddle) to make up this Irish bluegrass quartet.
Described as "The best Irish band in bluegrass" and "sparkling, infectious", these lads have been hailed as "Ireland’s answer to New Grass Revival".