Based on the same concept as the Buena Vista Social Club and the New Orleans Social Club, the group was created by drummer and producer Manu Masko, who had planned for Celtic Social Club to just be a “one shot” production for its inaugural concert. Comprised of Scottish singer, Jimme O’Neill (The Silencers), traditional Breton music virtuosos, Ronan Le Bars (Uilleann Pipe) and Pierre Stephan (Violin), Richard Puaud on the base, Mathieu Péquériau on the harmonica, Jean-Pierre Riou (Red Cardell) on the banjo, mandoline, and guests Winston McAnuff, I.C. Will, Colline Hill, and Louise Ebrel, the group came out with an unprecedented album that is as modern as it is roots.

Like the Pogues in their prime, this was a true undertaking that brought Celtic music to the 21st century, trying to avoid clichées and steryotypes in the process. In front of an enthusiastic crowd of spectators and a warm welcome from music professionals, the Celtic Social Club went on a 30 date tour in 2015 across France, Germany, Switzerland… and even New York, before getting to work on its second album.