A virtuoso of the diatonic accordion, David Munnelly is one of the pillars of the “Accordion Samurai” project. His colorful and energetic playing has allowed him to tour around the world alongside artists such as The Chieftains, De Danann, Gerry O’Connor and Arty McGlynn. Becoming addicted to the accordion at a young age, he quickly mastered his own style, following in the footsteps of his Irish grandparents but exceeding by far their influence. Today he is among the greatest accordionists of this genre.

In this new duo, he is joined by a partner, just as virtuoso and inventive as him: guitarist Shane McGowan (not to be confused with the singer of the group The Pogues). Son of a famous flautist, McGowan grew up in a family of musicians. As a teenager, he discovered the guitar, for which he developed a real passion. In 2010, he joined Munnelly’s group and also appeared with Lunasa and Dolores Keane. By adding influences from bluegrass, swing and ragtime to traditional Irish folk, Munnelly and McGowan mix their own compositions, from which pure musicality comes out.

• Dave Munnelly: accordion
• Shane McGowan: guitar, voice