Pat Kilbride

Pat Kilbride

Pat Kilbride is a highly respected guitarist and singer, recognized for his significant contributions to Irish traditional music. He is particularly noted for his innovative guitar playing, earning him the description "the most progressive, dynamic guitarist currently performing in Irish music."

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Hailing from County Kildare, Ireland, Kilbride's musical journey began at a young age with classical piano studies. His deep connection to Irish traditional music was fostered by his mother, a recipient of multiple All-Ireland Step Dancing titles. Kilbride later became proficient on guitar and cittern, skills honed as a member of the group "The Pavies," alongside renowned pipers Paddy Keenan and Davy Spillane.

Battlefield Band and International Touring

Kilbride first joined the influential Battlefield Band in the late 1970s. During his initial tenure, he contributed to the album At The Front and toured extensively across Europe. After leaving the band, Kilbride spent time living and working in continental Europe, residing in Brittany and Belgium. This period saw him involved in numerous musical projects and recordings, culminating in his album Rock & More Roses, which showcases his work from that era.

Solo Career and US Acclaim

The 1990s marked a significant phase in Kilbride's career as he relocated to the United States. During his time in the US, he released two critically acclaimed albums for Green Linnet Records. One of these recordings garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album in 1993, solidifying his reputation as a prominent solo artist nationwide. In 1990, he also formed the ceili band Kips Bay, which made its debut at the avant-garde rock venue CBGB's in New York and became a regular feature on the Irish American Festival circuit.

Return to Battlefield Band and Later Years

Kilbride's musical path eventually led him back to the UK in the 1990s, where he settled in London and became an active participant in the city's music scene. It was during this period that he recorded his most recent solo album, Nightingale Lane. At the turn of the millennium, Kilbride moved to Spain, establishing a base in Madrid where he now resides and operates a home recording studio. In January 2002, Kilbride rejoined the Battlefield Band, completing a full circle in his long and distinguished career.