Sandcarvers bringing Celtic rock to Dublin Pub

The Sandcarvers

Whether performing one of its original songs, or tackling a traditional number such as “Star of the County Down” or “John Barleycorn Must Die,” The Sandcarvers have a unique take on Irish music.

The combo from Milwaukee, Wisc. — A.J. Laird (lead vocals, percussion), Bryce Lehman (lead guitar), Christopher J. Trotier (bass, vocals), Jeffrey Miller (acoustic guitar, vocals) Raven (recorders, horns, whistles, bodhran and accordion) and Tony Keller (drums) — start with a conventional acoustic base, but inject unconventional elements such as recorder, bassoon, keyboards, electric guitar and full drum kit. The combination makes for some combustible Celtic rock.

“I come from an Irish background, as far as learning how to play music from things like Irish traditional songs and drinking songs,” Miller said. “We like to bring out the Irish roots, but we really turn it on its ear.”

“Whiskey Tango Foxtrot,” The Sandcarvers’ third album, was released in March 2009.

“This has been our strongest year yet,” Miller said. “The album has been doing really well for us. It turned out really well and has got some great reviews. I’m very proud of it.”

Miller was performing as a solo Celtic act when he joined The Sandcarvers in 2003 and he brings a singer-songwriter approach to original cuts such as “Cryin’ Loud” and “Rowdy’s Pub.” However, he insists the songs don’t truly come to life until his bandmates add their musical thoughts.

“I’m the primary songwriter, but I’ll bring an idea or song to the band and they have their own ideas,” Miller said. “I’m very blessed to work with some very talented musicians. It’s definitely a group effort. I’m most proud of the songs we’ve created as a group as opposed to me just bringing a song in and playing it.”

The Sandcarvers perform at Dublin Pub on Friday, Oct. 23.

“We haven’t been to the Dub Pub in well over a year, so we’re really revved up for the show,” Miller said.

“We’ve had a few changes so folks who’ve seen us in the past, especially in the Dayton area, are really going to be surprised about what’s about to hit them.

“Last time we were there was before we released ‘Whiskey Tango Foxtrot,’ so we’re really hoping to have some good support,” he added.

“We’re going to put on a full three-hour show. It’s going to be basically everything we have, so come down and see what the fuss is all about.”

Contact contributing arts and music writer Don Thrasher at donaldthrasher8@aol.com.