Réalta

A perfect afternoon gig for St Patrick's day?

Réalta, the dynamic Ulster-based Irish traditional group, have delivered their eagerly anticipated third studio album, Thing Of The Earth. The band have joined forces with acclaimed Belfast singer Myles McCormack to record a special blend of traditional and contemporary tunes and songs, all performed with the group's trademark passion and skill.

Formed in Belfast in 2012, Réalta quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting acts on the Irish music scene, earning stellar reviews for their live performances and innovative approach to traditional melodies. Irish Music Magazine described their debut Open The Door For Three as “A full bodied pipe and whistle extravaganza” and Herald Scotland wrote “Réalta carry on the Bothy Band tradition of taking tunes by the scruff of the neck and firing excitement through them like hot flames!”. Their follow-up album Clear Skies further confirmed Réalta’s position as one of Ireland’s top traditional acts with IMM writing “Réalta have grown bigger, bolder and braver and this is one of the best CDs to have come out of Ireland this year!”.

Energetic reels, rhythmic jigs, soulful airs and thought provoking songs

Réalta have toured extensively throughout Europe, UK, Asia and North America and their innovative approach to the genre have made them a festival favourite. Featuring Conor Lamb (uilleann pipes / whistles), Deirdre Galway (guitar), Dermot Mulholland (bouzouki / double bass / banjo vocals), Dermot Moynagh (bodhrán) and Breton musician Loïc Bléjean (uilleann pipes / whistles), each musician’s infectious energy, impressive musicianship and deep love for the music is evident throughout every performance.

“Gossamer and quietly emphatic... an artist who continues to set himself apart", are the words used by The Thin Air to describe Myles McCormack. A multi-instrumentalist who favours fingerstyle guitar for songs and mandolin for traditional tunes. McCormack is known for writing impactful songs with a delicate touch and his contribution to the band provides a special opportunity to explore new music emerging from a diverse range of influences.

Audiences for Realta’s album launch performances can expect a special journey through energetic reels, rhythmic jigs, soulful airs and thought provoking songs; blending words and melodies from sources both old and new.