This Irish-born band helped spark the rise of “iGrass”—a lively fusion of Irish and Americana folk and bluegrass traditions.

JigJam

The Gudelsky Gazebo

Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, JigJam, “the best Irish group in bluegrass” (Irish American News), guarantees foot-stomping, heart-pounding feel-good tunes. The quartet made its Grand Ole Opry Debut in 2023 to a sold-out crowd where they were joined by Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Steve Earle, and Lauren Alaina, among others. JigJam includes Ireland’s County Offaly natives Jamie McKeogh (lead singer and guitar); Daithi Melia (5-string banjo and dobro); Tipperary-born Gavin Strappe (mandolin and tenor banjo); and St. Louis, Missouri’s own Kevin Buckley (fiddle). These talented multi-instrumentalists have released three albums and are winning over audiences with their infectious blend of bluegrass and American folk. Celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Irish with “Ireland’s answer to New Grass Revival” (Midwest Records).

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Hylton Performing Arts Center

When virtuoso Irish playing jumps the pond running naked through the wide open fields of bluegrass/Americana JigJam is born. Bluegrass and American Folk music originated from the group’s home, and now JigJam is here to take it back!  JigJam made its Grand Ole Opry Debut in Nashville in March 2023 to critical acclaim receiving a standing ovation from a sold-out crowd on Country Music’s biggest stage. The group was joined on the night by Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Steve Earle, Lauren Alaina, and many more. This Offaly and Tipperary-born band has started the first wave of attack in the new Irish invasion of Americana.  ‘Foot stomping’, ‘high energy’ badassery is what you’re in for when you see this musical powerhouse live in concert. Founding members from Offaly Jamie McKeogh (Lead singer and guitar) and Daithi Melia (5 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 iGrass (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’  Bluegrass has its roots in Irish music and Irish immigration. iGrass and JigJam is what happens when the Irish find their prodigal son.

JigJam

Jul 16, 2025

JigJam

Mar 14, 2025

JigJam

JigJam