The Real McKenzies

Born in Vancouver in 1992 around singer Paul McKenzie, The Real McKenzies have developed for more than three decades a Celtic punk that blends punk rock energy, traditional Scottish melodies and the regular presence of bagpipes, with a direct, fast sound often leaning toward pub choruses and maritime themes. The lineup has undergone numerous changes, with Paul McKenzie remaining the only permanent member, which has made The Real McKenzies a band of variable formation but firmly rooted in the North American and European punk scenes. After Real McKenzies (1995) and Clash of the Tartans (1998), the band continued its discography with, among others, Loch'd and Loaded (2001), 10,000 Shots (2005), Shine Not Burn (2010), Westwinds (2012), Rats in the Burlap (2015), Two Devils Will Talk (2017), Beer and Loathing (2020) and Songs of the Highlands, Songs of the Sea (2022). The Real McKenzies alternate between original compositions and covers or adaptations of the Scottish and Canadian repertoire, including songs by Stan Rogers, while maintaining a rough, festive folk-punk aesthetic. Over the course of tours they have also shared the bill with bands such as NOFX, Rancid and Flogging Molly.