"Pearls and Emeralds is a rich, rollicking symphony of an album. At times the arrangements are orchestral in their sound, a testament to the skill and passion of The Barleyshakes. Years of touring and recording have culminated in their best album to date."
Mary-Lou Stephens
ABC
Brewed in Ireland and distilled in Australia the Barleyshakes are an exciting five piece Celtic band who present both traditional, original and world music in a modern format. Using fiddles, flutes, bass, drums, guitar and vocals the Shakes are a collaboration of Irish, Australian, and American performers. The Barleyshakes music can be soulful, gentle, at times haunting and then explosive, sonic boom Irish dance grooves are let loose but always in the name of the great tradition of Irish music.

Originally from Dublin this five piece have worked at transforming their Celtic sound since moving to Australia. The Barleyshakes have been compared to the Chieftains, a Sensitive New Age Drop Kick Murphy’s, Deep Purple! The Pogues, and more, but they create their own sound with ease, charm, and humour. With the introduction of a full drum kit the Shakes sound has taken a more electric ‘bent’ Irish twist over the past 12 months but they can revert back to their traditional rooty sound with the introduction of the Bodhran or Irish drum and other ethnic percussion instruments.
The Barleyshakes live shows are full of improvisation, and at times wild energy but also with a sensitivity that is charming, memorable, and endearing. Members of the band have recorded as soloists on the Lord of the Rings soundtrack, have been awarded the young folk musician of 2004 at the National folk festival Canberra Australia and they have performed on the big stage with Sharon Shannon, Lunasa, Metallica, Joe Cocker, Altan, Grada and more. For more info go to www.barleyshakes.com