A warm spring night on St. Patrick’s Day in the heart of Camden. The vibrant streets are bustling with diverse crowds, grasping endless pints of Guinness as venues gear up to host some live music. At The Underworld, which has become the heart of the alternative music scene, it made sense to book Mr Irish Bastard, an awesome Celtic alternative punk rock band.
Mr Irish Bastard
The Underworld, Camden – 17 March 2026
Words And Photography: Naomi Hefter
This iconic space was buzzing as a very special band filled the stage – literally and figuratively. With their seven-piece ensemble and instant likability, tonight was Mr Irish Bastard.
St. Patrick’s Day is widely celebrated in Britain due to close cultural ties with Ireland, commercialism, and the appeal of a high-energy party. Bands from all over the country feature popular, large-scale festivities that draw both locals and those with Irish roots.
Mr Irish Bastard are no different, bringing an inclusive and spirited celebration of Irish heritage.
This band, with its folk, street-punk, Celtic-rock combination, was formed in 2006 by the lovable lead singer himself, The Irish Bastard. Featuring instruments including drums, bass, banjo, and accordion, you might think this band is set to offer a variety of sounds. However, as soon as the band kicked off, a sprightly female member known as Kat Whistle took to the stage.
Injecting high energy into the crowd, playing the tin whistle, Kat added a ‘certain something’ to the band. Her presence and energy were infectious. Playing what could be considered a modest instrument, she performed with passion, devotion, and soul. Whether bounding around other band members while she played or stepping up onto the speakers that made the crowd roar, she certainly lit up the room.
Musically, Mr Irish Bastard are influenced by bands like The Pogues, Flogging Molly, and Dropkick Murphys, as well as classic punk and ska bands. With songs such as Kingdom Of The Sun, We Are The Drunks, and All My Friends Are C**ts, this band deliver a rowdy Celtic rock style, punk-energy fusion genre that blends traditional Celtic folk music with the aggressive, fast-paced sound of old school punk rock.
These songs incorporated themes of working-class pride, Irish heritage, and rebellion, so it only made sense when Mr Irish Bastard suddenly hit the crowd with the iconic Sex Pistols number, Pretty Vacant. The entire show did not drop energy or allow slower, more reflective moments – with no complaints!
Even with more sombre subjects, with songs like Mike Malloy and Murder In An Irish Pub, the energy, laughter and joy did not stop.
With just one song remaining, the band launched into I Hope They Sell Beer In Hell! Arguably their most famous and popular track, it boasts nearly four million streams on Spotify. With sing-along lyrics, this was a roof-raising anthem that united the room.
Not only did this belter initiate couples and strangers to clasp each other’s elbows and spin around, but there was a sense of community in the air. Everyone felt like they had been invited into the world and right into the homes of this infectious, vivacious and outlandish band.
Mr Irish Bastard are not just for St. Patrick’s Day, they are for life!
You can still see Mr Irish Bastard live on tour. Grab a ticket now.
