Break out those old Leather Pants, it's TIME.


And get your rock face on.

Ireland really has produced some of the most influential rock bands and artists, each leaving an impressive Guinness stain on the genre. For those new to Irish rock or looking to revisit the classics, we've compiled a wee playlist of some of the more iconic Irish rock songs. These tracks not only define the genre but also capture the spirit of Ireland's rich musical heritage.


Horslips - "Dearg Doom"

Blending traditional Irish folk with rock, Horslips' "Dearg Doom" is an old track that showcases the fusion of genres that Irish bands often master. The bouncy trad feel mixed with rock guitars has kept this track alive for decades. It's okay, right?



The Cranberries - "Zombie"

With Dolores O'Riordan's haunting vocals, "Zombie" is a compelling commentary on the Troubles in Northern Ireland. If you're with people and they don't start screaming Zombie during the chorus, they're not good people. And we miss Delores.




U2 - "Sunday Bloody Sunday"

Despite the fact that I don't really care for them, no playlist of Irish rock classics would be complete without U2. "Sunday Bloody Sunday," with its poignant lyrics and unforgettable rhythm, is a pretty powerful protest song. Maybe they're not that bad.




Thin Lizzy - "The Boys Are Back in Town"

A quintessential rock anthem by Thin Lizzy, because it's excellent, this song captures the essence of Irish camaraderie and has become a staple in rock music worldwide. Should we have another Lizzy tune in this list? We probably should.




Stiff Little Fingers - "Alternative Ulster"

Classic. An anthem of the punk movement in Northern Ireland, this song by Stiff Little Fingers is a raw and energetic call for change.




The Undertones - "Teenage Kicks"

Who else are ye gonna have after STF? This punk rock hit captures the raw energy and spirit of youth. "Teenage Kicks" is a testament to the Undertones' influence in the punk rock scene.




The Frames - "Revelate"

This tune was everywhere in the mid-90s and rightly so. It propelled Glen Hansard to stardom and well, we can have a pint and debate whether or not that's a good thing at our leisure.




The Pogues - "Fiesta"

Look. I know this isn't a rock song but I feel weird doing an Irish music list and not including Shane. It's also an extremely fun song. Just enjoy it and stop with the questions.




Therapy? - "Screamager"

This here is the good stuff. While not perhaps as widely known as U2 or Thin Lizzy, Therapy?'s album Troublegum was an absolute banger. And still is.




My Bloody Valentine - "Only Shallow"

Did they invent shoegaze? Probably. It's nice though, isn't it?




Ash - "Burn Baby Burn"

Good old school, bouncy business from the boys up north. This very much sounds like the early 2000's



 

Rory Gallagher - "Bad Penny"

I suppose we have to. Gallagher's guitar skills are on full display in "Bad Penny." His blues-infused rock style has made him one of Ireland's most revered guitarists.




Thin Lizzy - "Don't Believe A Word"

I told you there'd be one more! It's a groovy tune. Go check out more of Lizzy's back catalogue, it's almost all good stuff.




Sultans Of Ping FC - "Where's Me Jumper?"

If you recall this insane ditty, you obviously spent too long in indie discos in the early 1990s. But still, every time someone says the word jumper, you still quote this tune, all these years later....





A few numbers that are but the tip of the iceberg of Ireland's Rock heritage. There are so many more bands, and scenes. Maybe next time we'll do a list of lesser known bangers?

That sounds like an excellent plan.

Until next time then.