The Kelly Brothers - Say Hello To The Provos The Music Of Freedom Struggle

hcgoetz

Review by Chuck Goetz

Album Review: Say Hello To The Provos – The Music Of Freedom Struggle by The Kelly Brothers Released in 1975 on INAC Records, Say Hello To The Provos is a raw and unapologetic dive into the folk traditions of protest music. This isn’t your typical feel-good record; it’s steeped in political grit, with lyrics that pull no punches about freedom struggles and resistance. Hailing from the US but channeling an unmistakably Irish spirit, The Kelly Brothers crafted something both timeless and haunting—a soundtrack for revolutionaries. The album straddles genres like Folk, World, Country, and even dips its toes into what some might call "Non-Music," given how stripped-down and authentic it feels. Credit goes to John Kelly's raspy lead vocals and guitar work, Tommy Kelly’s banjo plucking soul straight out of history, and Brian Charette holding down the bass lines. Together, they create a sound that’s as much storytelling as it is music. Two tracks stand out immediately—“Say Hello To The Provos” and “Dirty Old Town.” Let’s start with the title track. It’s impossible not to remember this one because it smacks you right in the face with its boldness. The song doesn’t shy away from controversy, naming names and calling out forces of oppression. You can almost picture dimly lit pubs filled with fervent whispers turning into shouts when this tune comes on. Its driving rhythm and defiant tone make it unforgettable. Then there’s “Dirty Old Town,” a cover that somehow feels reborn here. While the original by Ewan MacColl paints a grim urban landscape, The Kelly Brothers infuse it with a sense of resilience. John Kelly’s voice cracks just enough to remind you he’s lived through hard times too. The sparse instrumentation lets every word hit home, making it less about nostalgia and more about survival against all odds. Other tracks like “Boolavogue” and “Patriot Game” keep the energy high while staying rooted in tradition. But honestly, it’s the way these songs blend anger, hope, and sorrow that makes the album stick with you long after the needle lifts off the vinyl. If I’m being real, listening to this record feels like sitting around a campfire where everyone has scars to show and stories to tell. There’s nothing polished or overly produced—it’s just honest-to-God music made by people who cared deeply about their message. That said, don’t expect easy answers or cheerful melodies. This is the kind of album that leaves you thinking, maybe even arguing, well after it ends. Here’s the kicker: In today’s world of auto-tuned pop stars and playlist algorithms, albums like Say Hello To The Provos feel like relics. But maybe we need relics now more than ever. Because beneath the layers of politics and rebellion lies a simple truth—music can still move mountains if you let it. Or at least spark a damn good conversation.

Download The Kelly Brothers - Say Hello To The Provos The Music Of Freedom Struggle
Artist: The Kelly Brothers
Album: Say Hello To The Provos The Music Of Freedom Struggle

Table of Contents

Download

Filename: the-kelly-brothers-say-hello-to-the-provos-the-music-of.zip
  • MP3 size: 58 mb
  • FLAC size: 375 mb

Tracks

TrackDurationPreview
Tom Williams
Boys Of The Old Brigade
Big Strong Man
Patriot Game
Dirty Old Town
Say Hello To The Provos
The Internees Lament
The Belfast Brigade
The Brothers Malone
Boolavogue

Images

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Catalog Numbers

CSS 90

Labels

INAC Records

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Formats

  • Vinyl
  • LP
  • Stereo

Credits

RoleCredit
BanjoTommy Kelly
Bass GuitarBrian Charette
Lead VocalsJohn Kelly
GuitarJohn Kelly

Notes

  • On January 21, 1975, thirty one days after the recording of this record, Lead Singer Lieutenant John Kelly, aged 26 Officer Commanding "D" Company, 2nd Battalian [sp], Belfast Brigade, I.R.A., was killed in action.
  • Artist Talents Donated by Courtesy of The Four Provinces, Inc., of New Jersey, Kearny New Jersey
  • Recorded by Irish Northern Aid Committee, Bronx, NY
  • Recorded at The Gallery, East Hartford, CT

Barcodes

  • Matrix / Runout (side A): CSS-90-A
  • Matrix / Runout (side B): CSS-90-B

Interesting fact about Album

Here’s an interesting fact: The album *Say Hello To The Provos: The Music Of Freedom Struggle* by The Kelly Brothers isn’t just music—it’s a piece of history. Released in 1975, it blends folk and political themes to tell stories of struggle and resistance. One standout detail? The track "Dirty Old Town," which might sound familiar to some, has been covered by many artists but here carries a raw, heartfelt edge. With John Kelly leading on vocals and guitar, and Tommy Kelly adding soulful banjo, the album feels personal yet powerful. It’s not just entertainment—it’s a time capsule of passion and protest.