March 17, 2009 01:25 PM - Mississauga Celtic band Madd Paddy is launching its debut album today for St. Patrick's Day.
The 12-track, self-titled CD features a mix of the band's original tunes as well as Celtic classics such as Fields of Athenry and Raglan Road.
The nine-person band gets its name from member Pat Scott, 68, who was born in Ireland and moved to Canada more than 40 years ago. He used to be a professional wrestler, going by the name Madd Paddy.
His son, Pat Scott Jr., who also plays in the band, said, "My dad used to wrestle at Maple Leaf Gardens. That's what they called him."
The band has played together for about 12 years, but only recently recorded in a studio.
The CD was produced by Juno Award-winner Norm Barker, who's worked with artists such as late Canadian jazz musician Jeff Healey.
The group has toured Canada and the U.S.

The CD will be available at www.maddpaddy.com