Boston Hosts Largest Irish Rock Festival in the U.S.
Liam Lynch is no stranger to promoting Irish music in Boston. As one of the individuals responsible for the Fleadh festival in the late ’90s, he is now bringing Seisiún, a two-day Celtic extravaganza, to the Stage at Suffolk Downs on September 6 to 7. This time, he has curated a diverse lineup featuring iconic Irish punk bands like the Pogues and Dropkick Murphys, as well as up-and-coming indie rock acts inspired by Eire. Lynch’s goal is to create an event that appeals to everyone, from families to hardcore music enthusiasts, ensuring that there are family-friendly vibes alongside an authentic Irish atmosphere that caters to fans of Guinness and Jameson.
The timing of Seisiún is no coincidence. Irish music is experiencing a resurgence, with artists like Hozier, Fontaines D.C., and Inhaler gaining international acclaim. Lynch and his team have been contemplating another festival for some time, considering the renewed interest in Irish bands. With a cultural and historical connection to Ireland, Lynch believes that Boston is the true capital of Irish heritage and traditions. “All roads lead to Boston,” he asserts.
Inspiration for Seisiún struck Lynch during the Pogues’ reunion show in Dublin, where the band honored their late frontman Shane MacGowan by inviting younger artists to perform his songs. Lynch was inspired by this approach and quickly approached the Pogues with the idea of headlining Seisiún. In addition to the Pogues, the festival will showcase emerging talents such as the Scratch, Lisa O’Neill, and John Francis Flynn.
One of the Pogues’ founding members, Spider Stacy, expresses his excitement about returning to Boston, a city that holds a special place in the band’s heart. Stacy is eager to introduce a new generation of fans to the rich tradition of Irish music while showcasing the diversity and evolution of the genre. Alongside the Pogues, Seisiún will feature performances by Glen Hansard, the Hold Steady, the Waterboys, and Belfast’s Stiff Little Fingers, pioneers of Irish punk since the late ’70s. Stacy envisions Seisiún as just the beginning of a new chapter in Boston’s vibrant Irish music scene, with endless possibilities for further exploration and collaboration.
Overall, Seisiún promises to be a memorable celebration of Irish music and culture, uniting Bostonians and visitors alike in a weekend filled with lively performances, authentic Irish flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere. As Lynch and his team put the finishing touches on this exciting event, they hope to create an experience that resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, capturing the spirit of Ireland in the heart of Boston.