Alan & Kristin Kelly are two founding members of the well known Irish powerhouse band the Barleyshakes and are playing at the Backroom in Thames from 6.30pm on Thursday Jan 19. Together they bring you upbeat sounds of Ireland on sweet sensuous fiddle, and spirited guitar. Recipients of Queensland Music Award for World music and notably, Alan has recorded as a bodhran soloist on the Lord of the Rings soundtrack.
Having performed at concert halls, clubs, and festivals in over 25 countries, the Shakes take you on a journey from Ireland’s happier pre-famine days, and follow with songs of emigration, desperation, resilience, and struggle. Spirits will be lifted from some haunting compositions by humorous tales and sprightly jigs and reels. The modern Irish movement also features in their live repertoire featuring todays dance grooves while honouring the tradition of Irish music.
Alan is from Dublin and has that X factor when he sings and plays guitar, pouring out his heart through song is what makes Mr Kelly tick. Kristin is a graduate of the Brisbane Conservatorium and she creates a rich warm tone on her fiddle, which she approaches with a beautiful skilled sensitivity.
Also, Scottish, Canadian and Eastern European compositions feature, alongside original and traditional Irish tunes and songs. The Barleyshakes, through their lifelong passion and skill, will make you laugh, cry, sing, and dance, and are touring New Zealand in January and February 2023. For tour dates go to www.barleyshakes.com
