Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I first became aware of this superb band of Belfast folksters after their appearance at Northern Ireland's premier Christian Festival Summer Madness and now I'm playing catchup as 'Five Beating Hearts' is their third EP. And what a delight it is. Bodhran-driven rhythms, delicious harmonies in strong Ulsterman accents and an electric guitarist who takes every opportunity to burst into frantic axe shredding solos all blend together for an unlikely folk rock collision. Apparently the Emerald Armada's concerts are wild stage-diving frenzies and I can hear why on this skilfully performed five-songer while paradoxically the group's vocals convey a haunting, bucolic mood without a hint of tweeness. Here's hoping these guys make it to the mainland before too long.

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