Reviews

Check out our feature article at The Nonsense Society

"With the Jolly Beggars, six young musicians have adopted the legacy of Irish folk music and carried on that tradition successfully as the first decade of the 21st century transitions to the next. They possess an exuberant enthusiasm, a winning charm, and above all outstanding musical chops, all of which enables them both vocally and instrumentally to share their delight in all aspects of this old-time music with a contemporary audience of all ages. They are a joy to listen to and are vastly entertaining."
Nick Noble, host of THE FOLK REVIVAL on WICN 90.5, Worcester Public Radio
"The Jolly Beggars are jolly indeed! The energy that flows between this group of six young men is lively, palpable and contagious.They clearly enjoy what they're doing! Their charisma fills the room, along with varied sounds from tin whistles to banjos, as they deftly play with spunk and vigor. While traditional songs abound, they twist and revive them, breathing new life into old melodies. Jovial and playful, The Jolly Beggars add a dimension to Celtic music that's unique and welcome. Their harmonies are delightful and soothing to the soul and every show is a feast for both the eyes and the ears."
Anne-Marie Cannata, The Buttonwood Tree, Middletown CT
"Recently, in May that is, the Boys played in a small church venue in North Haven CT. While there might not have been pints of ale or shots of the "creature" flowing around, YOU GUYS brought the House down! Funny, engaging, and musically jolly! It was one of most successful concerts in the Pierpoint Series. Regardless of the venue, you don't want to miss their show if it comes to your area. Thanks again and we look to do it again next year..."
Timothy Peiffer, Pierpont Concert Series, North Haven CT
"An unexpected happy hour stop at the Camel led me to some excellent Irish music, where The Jolly Beggars played for an intimate crowd and brought a collection of fun, upbeat Irish songs for everyone to enjoy. I was greatly impressed by their vocal harmonies and their multi-instrument use. It’s a shame not many others heard what wonderful music I experienced."
Richmond Playlist in Richmond, VA - Link
"Folks, I have heard a lot of irish bands during my travels in the Tri-state area and I have yet to hear another band that that gets the guests, staff and even the owner fired up...enjoying the music. So don't miss this great collection of talent..."
Tullycross Tavern and Microbrewery, Manchester CT - Link
"The entire Sweeney Clan is proud that Jeff and the Beggars are carrying on our Irish music traditions. It’s wonderful to hear musicians who not only have fun with Celtic music, but sing it well and with respect. Their arrangements of the tunes are inventive and inspired, yet faithful to tradition. The Beggars’ instrumentations and rich vocal harmonies prove wrong any who claim that 'All Irish music sounds the same.'"
"A night with the Beggars is never boring, because of the variety of the music in their sets. They are equally adept at performing a ballad, a well- known “sing-along” drinking song, or an instrumental dance set. Whether the audience is listening to a story, joining in on spirited refrains, or tapping and clapping along, it’s a grand time being had by all! Don’t miss out on a chance to come and see them perform live…. but if you can’t , the next best thing is listening to their CD. So, what are you waiting for?"
Cynthia Sweeney DesRosier, Jeff's mommy