Above everything else, Kevin Flynn is a Chicagoan. Despite the Gaelic-sounding name, the Flynn family is embossed in Chicago’s roots and has been in Chicago since what seems like the dawn of time (certainly since the late 19th century, anyway).

“My family’s always been in Chicago and some of my relatives were even involved in city politics,” Flynn said. “In fact, Elmer Michael Walsh (a Flynn cousin) was the only person to have ever beaten out Old Mayor Daley in an election.”

Flynn’s love of his city is clearly reflected in his music; with rock roots, the guys of Kevin Flynn & the Avondale Ramblers have gradually been influenced by the traditional Celtic tones Chicago is famous for. Think The Pogues rather than The Dubliners; the music of the Ramblers gives audiences the best of both worlds. Their story-esque lyrics, especially when combined with a contemporary rock edge, is what sets the Avondale Ramblers apart from traditional Irish musicians.

“I’m really inspired by Chicago, but its not the downtown that I’m in love with, like everyone would expect,” Flynn said. “I love the pavement, the policemen, the firemen- the city’s true heart and soul. As a storyteller, its my job to describe the Chicago that isn’t often seen.”

The Ramblers’ songs, then, tell tales of Chicago life (as opposed to life in the Emerald Isle) and paint a beautifully honest portrait of a city that is best appreciated by its inhabitants. As city natives, an undeniable passion projects from Kevin Flynn and the Avondale Ramblers and that, ultimately, is whats sure to make next weeks performance a hit.

Tags: Chicago Music, Kevin Flynn, Kevin Flynn & The Avondale Ramblers, Magners Irish Sessions