Unique fusion of world music as Kíla return to Monroe’s

Playing a fluid, sometimes riotous, fusion of world music and trad, Kíla play Monroe’s Live on Wednesday, March 16.

A live band of rare fire, Kíla are brothers Rónán, Rossa and Colm Ó Snodaigh, Seanan Brennan, Brian Hogan, Dee Armstrong, Eoin Dillon and former Frames drummer Dave Hingerty.

Between them, they play bodhrán, djembe, uilleann pipes, low whistle, clarinet, bazouki, mandolin, bones, saxophone and percussion. In concert, they are a flurry of virtuoso playing and improvising, and with Rónán Ó Snodaigh’s distinctive voice added to the mix, Kíla are a band like no other.

Their most recent project was the 2015 soundtrack to the incredible, Oscar-nominated Star Of The Sea, which was a collaboration between Kíla and French composer Bruno Coulais. The previous year Kíla released Suas Síos, their 17th release since 1991.

But, these days, with the various members embarking on solo projects and having children, is there still enough of buzz within Kíla to keep the group going?

“We’ve had to ourselves that on numerous occasions, especially where everyone’s family situation has changed,” says Colm Ó Snodaigh. “You have to ask yourself, not only are you enjoying it but also is this the right thing to be doing at this stage of your life; very fundamental questions. The answer is yes to all of them.”

Doors for Kíla on March 16 are at 10pm, tickets €15/€13.50 online.