Our Story
The McHaels are a Phoenix-area Irish / Folk / Bluegrass / Pop / Rock fusion band, taking the hits of various artists and mashing them with Irish Traditional jigs and Bluegrass reels ("Celtgrass"). While formed in 2013 for the purpose of making sure there was Irish music played on St. Patrick's day, the McHaels have since branched out for an all year lineup, bringing the hits with them. Providing a strong, intimate experience, the McHaels strive to hit home where the heart is and put an extra step in those toe tapping beats.
Tommy “Trips”
Trips has been playing music since the age of 14. Through the years, his musical evolution has grown from alternative rock, pop, punk, and emo, all the way to Irish and Bluegrass Folk. Playing a wide variety of instruments, he found his passion on the Irish Tenor Banjo, with some Mandolin in between. Playing by ear has always been his forte and it has served him well.
Scritch McHael
Scritch McHael otherwise known as Seth Dusek has been playing music since the age of 13. He was inspired at a young age musically by his parents and brothers listening to old vinyl records on the living room floor, to the likes of Creedence Clearwater Revival, Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. He picked up a guitar and learned 3 chords and felt like a "rock star!" Since then, he has played in country, rock, alternative and folk/irish bands as a guitarist and singer. From house parties to pubs, Scritch enjoys the live experience and hopes to share his inspiration and passion for music for all to hear.
“Mad” Mikey McHael
Mikey McHael otherwise known as Michael Tomcal has been playing violin since he was 8 years old. Much of his musical life revolved around the Classical music scene until he discovered a passion for traditional Irish folk music and eventually Bluegrass in his twenties. Michael met Trips and Scritch through a work colleague in 2018 and instantly vibed with their passion for Irish and Bluegrass music. Michael, recently has taken up the Irish Bouzouki and looks forward to sharing that sound soon!
Ol’ Tom Thump
Thump, otherwise known as Tom Putz, has always been drawn to songs with a driving bass line and memorable lyrics. He has a wide range of musical interests from classic rock, southern rock, country, indie, punk, to more recently folk, bluegrass and Irish. This love of music lead him to pick up the harmonica and play along with friends during backyard gatherings. With their encouragement, he began playing bass guitar and discovered a whole new way to appreciate music.