About
Introducing
Socks in the Frying Pan
Socks in the Frying Pan, a multi-award-winning trio from Ennis, County Clare, Ireland—the mecca of Irish traditional music—was formed in 2014. Forged together by a fire of pure joy and passion for their art, the band comprises Shane Hayes on accordion, Calum Bell on fiddle and David McKindley-Ward on guitar
Their ‘Socks Sound’ combines virtuosic musicianship with a burning passion for the music and tradition, pitch-perfect harmonies, and a big splash of quick wit and banter. Their electrifying performances and on-stage charm have established them as the kingpins on the Irish Traditional Music scene today.
They have toured extensively, capturing hearts in 48 US states, dozens of countries, and every continent, showcasing at renowned festivals such as the Walnut Valley Festival in Kansas, Electric Picnic in Ireland, Tønder Festival in Denmark, and the world-famous New Orleans Jazz Festival.
To date, Socks in the Frying Pan have released four studio albums, each adding to their list of accolades including ‘Best New Band‘, ‘Best Live Band‘, ‘Album of the Year‘, and ‘Best Live Performance of the Year‘. Their latest release, Waiting for Inspiration, rwas submitted for a Grammy award while also featuring in LadBible’s Top 25 To Add to your Playlist.
David McKindley-Ward
David McKindley-Ward is a Baltimore based highly respected multi-instrumentalist and singer rooted in the traditional Irish music scene. Known for his guitar and bouzouki accompaniment, his singing is often what sets him apart, as his voice is clearly rooted in the Irish tradition, yet unmistakably his own.
A sought-after performer and teacher, David has appeared at major Irish music festivals across the United States, including Catskills Irish Arts Week, Augusta Irish Week, Dublin Ohio Irish Festival, Baltimore Trad Fest, the O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat, and many others. His playing is marked by a deep respect for tradition, paired with a distinctive voice and innovative.
Shane Hayes
Shane Hayes is a master accordionist and founding member of the internationally acclaimed Irish trio Socks in the Frying Pan. Hailing from Ennis in County Clare—a region steeped in traditional music—Shane’s playing is both rooted in heritage and fearlessly inventive. With a style that blends breathtaking virtuosity, rhythmic power, and lyrical subtlety, he has redefined what the accordion can achieve in contemporary Irish music.
A prodigious talent from a young age, Shane has grown into one of the most distinctive and respected voices in the folk and trad scenes. His dynamic performances are marked by intricate arrangements, explosive improvisation, and a deep emotional range that connects instantly with audiences. Whether driving a reel with pulse-pounding intensity or weaving delicate counterpoint behind a song, Shane’s touch is unmistakable.
Shane is a two-time winner of the Best Accordion Player award from the prestigious Live Ireland Music Awards, a testament to his extraordinary skill and impact on the traditional music world.
Calum Bell
Calum Bell began performing as a child with the Bell Family Band in churches, schools, and libraries across New England, and by 25 has built a career spanning fifteen years in traditional music. Starting in the Scottish fiddle tradition before immersing himself fully in Irish music, Calum has developed a charismatic stage presence and a fast-paced, rhythmically driving style that has become his hallmark. A full-time professional for the past seven years, he has led nine sessions in Boston, toured internationally with three extended runs in Germany alongside Irish dance companies, and most recently completed a two-month tour of Australia with standout performances at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall and the Sydney Opera House. While fiddle remains his primary instrument, he also plays flute, banjo, piano, guitar, and both Uilleann and Highland pipes, bringing a versatile and dynamic voice to every performance.
