Beoga is the Gaelic word for lively, and this band from County Antrim in the north of Ireland more than lives up to its name. Their music is traditional Irish at its core, laced with shots of jazz, blues, and New Orleans funk. The Wall Street Journal describes them as “the most exciting new traditional band to emerge from Ireland this century.” Irish Music Magazine calls them “madcap genius, master craftsmen,” and declares that they’re making “some of the best music in the world today.” Damian McKee and Seán Óg Graham play accordion, and their dueling accordions fuel much of the band’s wild energy. With Liam Bradley on piano, Niamh Dunne on vocals and fiddle, and four-time All-Ireland bodhrán champion Eamon Murray on percussion, the band’s multi-layered sound is rich in both melody and texture. When Niamh adds her lovely vocals to the mix, the effect is sublime.
 
The band came together at a jam session at the All-Ireland Fleadh in 2002. In a review of their debut album, A Lovely Madness, released in 2004, The Irish Times called the band “individually talented and collectively inspired.” Their second album, Mischief, made Best of 2007 lists at Folk Alley, the Boston Globe, Dirty Linen, and the Irish Echo. Their third album, The Incident, was short-listed for a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary World Music Album. The Scotsman called their fourth album, How to Tune a Fish, “dangerous, devious, and a downright delight.” Their latest album, Live at 10, a celebration of ten years as a band, continues their tradition of excellence. Beoga is not only lively, Beoga is fun, fresh, and musically adventurous. If you like Irish music, this is a show to catch!

Listen to a track from Beoga:

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