John McKelvey, bassist and founding member of the Australian celtic punk outfit, speaks on the occasion of Rumjacks’ return to Greece on March 16 and 17 for the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.
Those who have seen them in one of the many concerts they have given in our country know very well that in every live Rumjacks a crazy party is set up where guitars, mandolins and banjos seduce people to the frenzied rhythms of Celtic punk. From the summer of 2016, when they visited us for the first time, until today Rumjacks they have managed to give 17 concerts in 8 different cities building a cult relationship with the Greek public. In a few days, Australians return to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and the John McKelveybassist and founding member of Rumjacks answered Documento’s questions.
What are the main influences on the Rumjacks sound?
Each of us has a different musical background, different listening and influences. But if I had to name any bands that have played a big part in how we approach our music, I think our love of the Pogues, Rancid, Cock Sparrer and the Clash has definitely played a big part.
How much would you say Rumjacks has evolved in these 15 years?
I find that most bands after such a period of time have evolved to some extent. You grow and mature both as a person and as a musician and you want to try as many things as you can. It’s that fine line between not getting bored of writing the same old stuff and not trying to reinvent the wheel, anyway. Member changes contribute in this direction and can only work positively. Constant touring and individual improvement will always influence the evolution of a band and I guess that has an impact on our sound as well.
How representative is the term Celtic punk for the Rumjacks of 2024?
There are not a few people who find it difficult to put a label on the style or the type of music we play, but honestly it’s not something that concerns us. Call it what you will, as long as the fans enjoy it. However, we are OK with the term Celtic punk.
You are from Australia but your base is Europe. Is it just a matter of distance?
Distance is a very important factor but not the only reason we left our base. Touring outside of Australia is quite a challenge, especially when you consider the paperwork and expense behind it all. It’s really far from anywhere. We just realized we had a better chance if we were close to the places we shoot nine months out of the year. Anyway, when you tour so much you don’t really feel like you have a home.
One of the most important moments in the band’s history was when you had to replace Frankie McLaughlin. Given that you were one of its founding members how difficult was it for you to make such a decision?
It wasn’t a problem for us. Mike was an instant fit and turned out to be a great choice. He is a fantastic musician and composer and we are very happy that he is with us and helped us to be in the best phase we have ever been.
Your songs have always had a political character. What are the issues that concern you most today that you would like to address on your next record?
You’ll have to wait until it’s released to find out, haha. In a few months we’re going into the studio to work with some amazing people, which we’re really looking forward to and excited about. But I can’t say more than that we will be releasing new material very soon.
Do you agree that 15 years after its release ‘An Irish Pub song’ remains the ultimate celtic punk song?
I personally wouldn’t go so far as to say something like that, but it seems to be something that a lot of people are embracing.
After all these years of touring have you found anywhere close to the real Irish pubs?
I guess the only authentic Irish pubs exist only in Ireland. I can’t say that we have found one that has managed to reach these levels, but there are some that come close, like for example Pogue Mahones Pub in Milan… That’s why we chose it to shoot the video clip for “Light in my Shadow” there.
You have played many times in Greece and indeed in many different cities. Is there anything that has marked you the most, beyond the Acropolis and… ouzo?
Ouzo makes us forget everything. Honestly, however, Greece has embraced us like few places in the world. Both the audience at the concerts and the people in general are some of the best and most authentic we have come across. Your food is also some of the best out there.
Saint Patrick is an integral part of Irish life and culture. What is your relationship with religion?
I personally don’t have any. I have and will fully respect everyone’s choices and beliefs, but as far as I’m concerned I prefer to believe in the good people in my life.
Those of us who have seen you on some of your previous visits to Greece know what to expect at the St. Patrick’s Day party in Thessaloniki and Athens. Or maybe not; Should we expect surprises?
Get your tickets and come see for yourself. Either way it’s going to be a crazy party!
INFO
Rumjacks will perform on Saturday March 16th at the Principal Club Theater in Thessaloniki and on Sunday March 17th at Gagarin 205 in Athens.
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