If there is one show that has crowds talking and voices singing their hearts out at this year's Fringe, it has to be The Shamrocks. The six-piece band, direct from Northern Ireland have travelled the world regaling folks with their rousing take on Irish folk music, and now it’s here for all of Adelaide to enjoy.

Hailing from Belfast, the band features brothers Raymond and Jack Walsh, Matthew Campbell, brothers Jimmy and Nathan Johnston and Michael Gaffney. The show is a full hour showcasing the rich tapestry of Irish folk song. The music is carried by flawless harmonisation and a healthy addition of instruments such as the fiddle, guitar, piano and a traditional drum called a bodhrán (pronounced bow-rawn), which at one point features in a two-way duel between drummers Nathan and Michael. You won’t hear a voice out of place among the six, and their music is nothing short of charismatic and engaging. 

The emotional range captured in these songs rings true, years - even centuries - after their first conception. The heights of love and friendship to the lows of addiction and grief are all captured in The Shamrocks beautiful tributes. You’ll be singing and clapping along to classic folk songs such as “The Rattlin’ Bog” and “Whiskey in the Jar” while shedding gentle tears to ”Red is the Rose” and “The Parting Glass”. We even get loving renditions of “Waltzing Matilda” and “Bound For South Australia” in a nod to their first time on Adelaide soil. I couldn’t see a single person on this night who wasn’t completely engrossed by the performance, and a standing ovation was well deserved.  

The music alone would be worth the price of admission, but it’s the camaraderie and quality of character behind the singing that really sells the experience. The Shamrock boys have an endearing humility and genuine passion for their art that permeates the entire show. In addition to some gentle riffing, they constantly build each other up and give each member a chance to shine; no one feels like they are getting top billing over one another. Whether it’s Michael playing his guitar with such vigour that he breaks a string, or Jimmy, who dazzles us with a few samples of his Irish dancing skills, every member is a key part of the collective whole. You can’t pick favourites, and why would you want to? 

This smash hit has been taking over Gluttony night after night, and for good reason. The Shamrocks are nothing short of charming and effortlessly entertaining. Their songs will inspire you to believe in the power of music to bring folks together, near and far. It’s simply a must-see! 

***** Five Stars