McCARTHYIZM - BMHOF CLASS OF 2009

McCarthyizm: A Buffalo Rock Band with Celtic Roots

The band McCarthyizm has uniquely and seamlessly blended elements of Celtic music, punk, and alternative rock to become a fixture on the Buffalo music scene and beyond. 

In 1990, brothers Joe and Kevin McCarthy began writing and performing original alternative acoustics songs at small venues around Buffalo. Intelligent lyrics, crisp harmonies and wistful, hard driving melodies formed the foundation of the duo’s unique sound as they evolved to form a complete band in 1992.   

  McCarthyizm's Celtic influences are evident in their use of traditional instruments such as the fiddle and accordion, and their incorporation of Irish folk music themes and rhythms. The band's punk and alternative rock leanings add a raw edge and rebellious spirit to their music, creating a unique and exciting blend of styles. The band's music features catchy melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and a strong emphasis on storytelling.  

They have appeared throughout the Northeast in the U.S. and Canada and have played with the nation’s top alternative groups. They played an important role in the resurgence of the Buffalo music scene, which also spawned the Goo Goo Dolls and 10,000 Maniacs. McCarthizm’s recordings include critically acclaimed albums Pretty Naked (1993), Vesuvio (1995), Eterniday (1998), and Pair O’ Docs (2001).