Few bands have flown the Celtic punk flag as long or as loud as The Real McKenzies. Founded in Vancouver in 1992, the band has spent over three decades hauling bagpipes, power chords, and a deeply irreverent sense of humour across stages worldwide—racking up 14 albums along the way and showing absolutely no signs of slowing down. Their latest record, Paul McKenzie Sings On Yer Bike, is exactly the kind of full-throttle, tartan-draped rock and roll the band has built its reputation on, and this summer they’re taking it to Europe for an extensive tour.
Name:
Mario Nieva / The Real McKenzies
Genre:
Celtic Rock & Roll, Punk Rock
Founded:
1992
# of Albums:
14
Latest Album:
Paul McKenzie Sings On Yer Bike
Latest Single:
I Wanna Eat Sardines (With Yer Mother)
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
J Mascis
Favourite musician now:
Lyle Workman
Guilty pleasure song:
Talking In Your Sleep by The Romantics.
Live show ritual:
Playing the guitar lick to Shania Twain’s Man, I Feel Like A Woman.
Favourite local musician:
Byron Slack
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
I am both. By habit. Not by choice.
Road or studio?
Studio. I like sleeping in my own bed.
Any shows or albums coming up?
We are touring extensively behind our new album, Paul McKenzie Sings On Yer Bike, starting in Europe this summer.
Where can we follow you?
Stomp Records | Instagram | Facebook | Website
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
24 Train Express Noodle House on Nelson.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Venables. Because it reminds me of the word Vegetables.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Bridgman Park is beautiful, quiet, dog-friendly, and parking is free.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
The Rickshaw Theatre
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Neil Douglas Guitars. It’s a little outside of the city, but they take very good care of me.
