It’s been a long journey for John Wright and Steven Lehto.

The duo have partnered for more than 11 years drawing out the modern sensibilities from aged Celtic classics. The progressive Celtic rock band is set to come back to Austin to help residents celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Paramount Theatre.

“The idea is to take traditional music and modernize it slightly, which is kind of what happens naturally,” Wright said.

Wright and Lehto have collaborated on projects, bands and albums on and off for many years, yet it was their love for progressive rock and their affinity for traditional English, Irish, Scottish and proto-American music that drew them together.

That’s why Lehto & Wright work so well, as the group puts a modern, progressive rock spin on old-time songs many probably aren’t familiar with.

For the duo, their music’s strength comes from drawing out the primal, comfortable sounds in these classic tunes and repackaging them through modern rock. Though it may sound like Lehto and Wright live in the past — Lehto once contracted pleurisy, a lung inflammation which killed many before modern medicine took effect — the two enjoy every minute of it.

“I think he’s a throwback and maybe I am too,” Wright said. “We’ve just taken our influences and thrown them into a big pile.”

The duo will take their show to the Paramount at 7:30 p.m. March 17. The group will play music from their first five albums, along with some material from an upcoming sixth album. Look for intriguing songs like “Nancy Spain” and “Four Drunken Maidens,” which will get residents in the St. Patty’s Day spirit.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, $5 for students and are available at the Paramount Box Office.