Lankum & Support

Comprising brothers Ian Lynch (uillean pipes, tin whistle, vocals), Daragh Lynch (vocals, guitar) alongside Cormac Mac Diarmada (fiddle) and Radie Peat (harmonium, accordion, vocals), Lankum channel a diverse set of influences and histories to create a beautifully rare thing: a songbook from and for the people. Born of years criss-crossing Dublin’s folk, squat and experimental scenes, their two albums Cold Old Fire and Rough Trade debut Between The Earth and Sky (2017) breath new life into ancient/modern rituals with urban punk fervour, rural psycho-geography and, underpinning it all, the eternal drone of the uilleann pipes.

Lankum are the type of band you never knew you where searching for. A group of individuals united by a gang mentality whose close vocal harmonies, instrumental interplay and dramatic storytelling pin you to the seat and revive the spirit. They show that folk music can be angry, progressive and is still a vital force today.

‘They do mark a turning point in folk… that authentic voice of the streets is back in a big way.’ (Mark Radcliffe)

‘Anarchic, yet connected, rootsy and gutsy… I love their music, it is just so damn good!’ (Mike Harding)

‘The most convincing folk band to come out of Ireland in years.’ ★★★★★ (The Guardian)

‘An object lesson in how to perform old songs in new ways.’ ★★★★ (The Independent)

‘The most exciting album of traditional Irish song in decades.’ – TradConnect

‘Funny, compelling, engaging, exhilarating.’ ★★★★★ (Songlines)

‘Positively mesmerising and vital.’ ★★★★★ (fRoots)

‘Harsh, but deeply affecting.’ ★★★★ (Mojo)

‘Battery-acid sharp.’ 8/10 (Uncut)