Tell us a bit about the band and how it all began
Having known each other for years through music, we set up Anchormen as a band that we would book to play at our own weddings. (Yes, we are proudly music snobs). Nothing on the market appealed to us and we saw an opportunity for a seriously good medley driven wedding band. Medleys are definitely our thing and what sets us apart. Plus that fact that each Anchormen band member sings, so couples get to enjoy three lead male vocalists, not just one. Anchormen is made up of Dermot Kelly – Drums, Fiachra Craddock – Lead Guitar and Julien Parpet on Bass. Our fearless approach to repertoire and arrangement ensures a full dance floor and is the reason we are rated by countless couples as one of the best Irish wedding bands. For 5 star reviews check out www.anchormenmusic.com/
What are the steps couples should take in enquiring about booking you for their wedding?
The most important thing to do is to check availability with our Booking Manager by emailing [email protected] as soon as a wedding date and venue is set. We can then supply a quote to include an optional DJ add on (the DJ is not a band member). Once a small deposit is paid the couples wedding date is then guaranteed. If couples want to see us play live we showcase monthly in Sean’s Bar Athlone – for dates visit https://www.
How do couples go about choosing the songs they would like played on their day?
We always advise couples to enjoy their wedding reception party and leave the music to us. We have an extensive set list that we update all the time and tailor it for each wedding party so all ages are happy and most importantly dancing! Having played countless weddings we are experts at reading the dancefloor. Check out our sample set list here https://www.anchormenmusic.
Are you open to learning new songs with the wedding couples?
Of course, that usually occurs with first dance songs. If the wedding couple want us to play their first dance live and we do not know it already we allocate time in rehearsals to practice and perfect it in advance.
What are some of your favourite tracks to play that are guaranteed crowd pleasers?
Shut Up and Dance – Walk the Moon
Everybody – Backstreet Boys
Superstition – Stevie Wonder
Take On Me – A-Ha
S.O.B. – Nathaniel Ratecliffe
What songs do you love to perform for the first dance?
There are so many! Here are some great ones…
You Are The Best Thing – Ray Lamontagne
One Day Like This – Elbow
I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
To Make You Feel My Love – Adele
Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Franki Valli
Have I Told You Lately – Van Morrison
Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
Moondance – Van Morrison
Everything – Michael Buble
QUICK FIRE ROUND
Best slow song: The One – Kodaline
Best dance floor filler: Call Me Al – Paul Simon (It forms part of our epic 80’s medley!)
Best for the young ones: Our Anchormen Dance Medley – No one can resist dancing to this! https://www.youtube.com/watch?
Best for the older jivers: Anything by Johnny Cash! Or in some cases Stop The World and Let Me Off – Declan Nerney
Most romantic song : Perfect – Ed Sheerhan
Testimonial for Anchormen Music
“We are off on our honeymoon tomorrow but wanted to quickly send a little message to say how absolutely AMAZING the guys were on Saturday night. Both their set and the DJ set was literally perfect. Not only catering for our tastes but every single person commented on how good everything was. I honestly haven’t ever seen a dance floor so full from start to finish. Thanks again. Jon & Donal”
Check out some of their videos here: www.anchormenmusic.com
