WHEN Murphy’s Pigs take the stage, there’s no mistaking it – you’re in for a night of thunderous Celtic music, hearty laughter, and a lot of mischief.
The award-winning ensemble has carved out a reputation as one of Australia’s most entertaining live acts, blending the raw spirit of traditional Celtic folk with a big dose of Aussie humour.
Frontman John Graham describes the band’s sound as “music that could move from the sublime to the ridiculous” – and he’s not wrong.
One minute, they’re playing a haunting ballad that hushes the crowd, and the next they’re belting out a pub anthem that has everyone stomping their feet and singing along.
Their influences run deep, reaching back to the folk revival of the 1960s and ’70s.
“Bands like The Irish Rovers, The Clancy Brothers, The Corries – and even a bit of The Pogues – they shaped the sound,” Graham said.
“But we’ve always made it our own. We’re not a tribute act; we’re storytellers, and every night is different.”
Different is an understatement. With 12 musicians, seven dancers, and a reputation for lively banter, Murphy’s Pigs thrive on spontaneity.
“We do not rehearse – we like to keep it fresh. We never play a song the same way twice,” Graham laughed. “It keeps us on our toes, and the audience loves that anything could happen.”
That looseness, however, is grounded in serious musicianship. Bagpipes, fiddles, flutes, drums, and guitars collide in a powerful sound that celebrates the Celtic nations – Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, the Isle of Man, and even French and Spanish Celt.
It’s a musical journey that connects the old world and the new.
Their shows have a family feel – big, loud, and warm-hearted.
“We want people to feel like they’ve come to party in our lounge room – a very big lounge room,” Graham said.
Murphy’s Pigs play Ipswich Civic Centre on October 31 at 7.30pm with tickets available on the ICC website.
