The Barleyshakes Interview – What a fabulous duo!

I met with Alan and Kristin from the Irish/Australian toe tapping band The Barleyshakes. Starting as a 3 piece pub band in Dublin back in 1992, this band went next level when Kristin joined and brought her classically trained fiddle playing and beautiful harmonies. They headlined the famous Woodford Folk Festival in 2000 and loved the sunshine energy so much that they packed up and left Ireland’s climate for the Sunshine coast where they raised their children, who are grown and accomplished musicians in theri own right. In fact they’ve joined Ma nad Pa on the road from a young age and have leaned their talents and energy into the Barleyshakes Family Band. Alan also gave his incredible talents and solo work into the soundtrack of Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Rings. They’re playing tonight at 7pm at The Old School Arts Centre and I highly recommend heading down there for the best Irish/Australian duo I’ve ever heard. You won’t be disappointed. They’re on tour throughout NZ so check the dates and places out on their FB, Instagram or website for more information. The BarleyShakes, well worth a watch, pint and a jig to!