Brave the Fight

Formed in early 2000 by percussionist Brian Reilly and original guitarist Johnny O'Donnell, plans were laid for the unique sound for which Reilly is now known. Following the tragic death of Brian Reilly in August of 2000 and a subsequent loss of band personnel, O'Donnell sought to keep the torch burning, and enlisted guitarist/vocalist Patrick Moores and multi-instrumentalist Jim Kiley to help rebuild the group.


After another parting of personnel, bassist/vocalist Chris Carter and drummer Brian Bruendl joined the fold, seeking to form the group's trademark booming rhythm section. Carter left the group in late 2002 to pursue other interests, and was aptly replaced by fellow Irishman and scene veteran Michael "Tinker" Tierney on bass and vocals. Following St. Patrick's Day 2001 Bruce Troeller joined on accordion-with-attitude to complete the sound.


A few hundred pub gigs later, Reilly released their Debut CD in December of 2002. Self-produced by Troeller and the band, "Beyond the Pale" is a collection of Reilly originals and traditional Celtic tunes that have been "De-ranged" by the group in their own style, which seeks to meld the tradition and history of Ireland with the energy and instrumentation of the rock music the band is influenced by. From the Celtic-Blues of "On the Dole", to the pounding version of the Luka Bloom favorite "City of Chicago", to the new Milwaukee pub favorite "Sinner's Sermon", "Beyond the Pale" has something for all music lovers, especially lovers of contemporary Irish music.


Reilly strives to entertain crowds with both original tunes, and music by contemporary Irish artists, as well as traditional Celtic tunes performed in as much of an energetic, hand clapping and foot stomping manner as possible - and to have a good time doing it. The boys in the band seek to celebrate Ireland's musical heritage (and their own) with anyone who will listen, and will do so at any festival, pub, or celebration where such a lively musical feast can be savored. REILLY ROCKS IRISH - and they're looking to prove it to you soon!