Solas — Irish for “light” — is an American Celtic ensemble formed in New York City in 1995, built around the vision of multi-instrumentalist Séamus Egan. The original lineup brought together Egan, fiddler Winifred Horan, vocalist Karan Casey, guitarist John Doyle, and accordionist John Williams. Together they redefined the Celtic sound for a new generation, weaving traditional Irish tunes with elements of folk, bluegrass, Americana, and contemporary songwriting.

Among their most ambitious works is the 2013 concept album Shamrock City, inspired by Egan’s great-great-uncle who immigrated from Ireland to the mining town of Butte, Montana — a meditation on immigrant identity, labor struggles, and lost dreams. The band announced an indefinite hiatus in early 2017, but returned in July 2024 for a 30th anniversary tour beginning in spring 2025. Over twelve critically acclaimed albums, Solas has remained a cornerstone of the Celtic music world — and John’s favorite band.