Formed in Dublin in 1995, The Barleyshakes manage to hold hands with the tradition of Irish music while infusing it with a fresh and contemporary spirit. Intense energy, beautiful harmonies, and irresistible dance rhythms, a Barleyshakes gig is one not to be missed.
Their special sound is acclaimed far and wide, with two members having contributed to Lord of the Rings award-winning soundtrack with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
The Barleyshakes were a festival highlight when they performed their music at last year's fire event at The Woodford Folk Festival, performing to some 20,000 revellers.
Almost two years in the making, their 8th album 'IRISHTOWN' is being hailed their best yet.
The opening track 'Travelling Song' was written by Alan at dawn on the hillside at Woodford Folk festival in 2000 after the Buddhist monks had chanted him into the dawning of a new millennium.
The album also features one of The Barleyshakes most popular songs 'Jim's Bike', written by Alan this after hearing about an old man's plight when his 65 year old bike was stolen in Rockhampton. Through the recording of the song and the help of ABC Radio, Jim's bike was returned, and the thief was apprehended by the Rockhampton Police force. True story! Jim is 91 years of age.
Also on the album are some magical jigs, reels and other dance tunes that the band have carefully collected and arranged over the last few years.
Guest musicians featured on the album are Andrew Veivers on Flamenco guitar, Clara Domingo who sings in Spanish, and world famous Irish flautist Alan Doherty. The album was recorded in Bloodwood Studios in Noosa, mixed in Spark One Studios in Maleny, and mastered in 007 studios in Doonan.
The Barleyshakes are winners and several time nominees of the Queensland music awards for world music. Also appearing on the night are local newcomers Isle of Skye a promising young contemporary Celtic act based in Brisbane.