Noise in volvo

I have a 2003 Volvo S60, non-turbo, with 67,000 miles. There is a rhythmic, tapping sound coming from the rear as I go around corners. The noise will stop if I pull up 1-2 inches on the emergency hand brake. The handle also feels a little loose when in the down position. Any ideas?

You have identified the source of the problem. The parking brake is either out of adjustment, too loose; or something inside one of the rear parking brake drums has broken and is flopping around.

A simple adjustment might solve this. If it is something inside a rear drum that can get very pricey. Volvo parking brake set ups are quite complicated for their relatively simple task.