Bio

Shenaniganz are Hamilton's busiest and most popular Irish band. Peforming regulary throughout the Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Auckland.

Their music is described by the band as irish Trad/Rock with lashings of punk. Musical influences are an international celtic fusion of The Pogues, The Dubliners, The Proclaimers, Scottish band Runrig and Kiwi band Banshee Reel.

Songs range from old favourites like 'Whisky in the Jar', 'The Irish Rover' and 'Dirty Old Town', to a punked up version of 'Waxies Dargle' as well as some Shenaniganz originals.

The band is an eclectic mix of five very individual people with one ambition: to have a great time playing Irish music.

Formed in 2001, Shenaniganz is the brainchild of musician Brain Jeffs. Brian has been in many bands over the past thirty years, gigging in many North Island pubs. "I was looking for music that could keep the crowds happy without bursting eardrums. Irish music is the perfect answer"

Brian, who plays mandolin, guitar and banjo, got together with a guitarist friend, gathered some songs together and invited bass guitarist Denise Hudson to join. "I'd been wanting to join an Irish band for years" Says Denise, who was classically trained on double bass, playing in orchestras and musical theatre since her teens.

Shenaniganz became a four piece with the addition of a young fiddler, and they practised through 2001 with a few gigs before the fiddler and guitarist both left to follow their respective careers.

This became the turning point for the band. A mutual friend introduced singer/guitarist Keith Maynard, who had been playing bass in an irish band in Tauranga. "I was looking for something closer to home (Hamilton), and we just clicked.

In early 2003 the band felt they needed more musical drive, and invited Keith's father and veteran drummer Norm Maynard to join in for a couple of gigs. The addition was magical, and Norm instantly became an integral part of the band.

Norm has been prominent in the New Zealand music scene for many years, performing in many ig bands, small combo's and has even recorded for the NZBC in Wellington in the 1960's. He has also taught many of Hamilton's younger drummers including Jordan Bell of Katchafire.

The newest addition to the Shenaniganz line up is fiddler Adam Maha. Although still in high school, Adam is a seasoned performer and is also the leader of the Waikato Youth Symphonic Ochestra. He has strong irish connections, and last year was the national youth chapion in irish Dance.

Shenaniganz have just completed recording for their debut CD titled 'Greendaze', which is due for release in December 2004.

Band Members:
Keith Maynard (vocals, guitar, whistles)
Adam Maha (fiddle)
Brian Jeffs (banjo, mandolin, vocals)
Denise Hudson (bass, vocals)
Norm Maynard (drums)