The High Kings

The High Kings bring the Irish ballad tradition into the present with close-knit harmonies, spirited folk arrangements and a shared command of 13 instruments. Formed in 2007, the group pairs well-loved traditional songs with original writing, heard on albums including Friends for Life and Grace & Glory. Their repertoire includes “The Irish Pub Song,” “Ireland’s Call” and their reimagining of “Step It Out Mary”; the band also performed at the White House’s 2012 St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The appeal lies in the contrast between songs made for a roomful of voices and the musicians’ nimble, richly layered accompaniment.