BIOGRAPHY
John Flanagan is known for his authentic stage presence, heart-gripping storytelling and uplifting performances. He has been described as “one of Australia’s finest lyricists” (Timber & Steel). Performing with a new 7-piece line up featuring rhythm section and horns, Flanagan channels the raw and soulful folk-rock of the 70s taking inspiration from the likes of Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and Van Morrison. His 2016 release ‘There’s Another Way To Where You’re Going’ was nominated for best Folk/Roots Album in the Age Music Victoria Awards and was an ‘Album of the week’ and ABC radio favourite.
His 2018 release Honest Man debuted in the top 10 of the AIR ‘100% Independent Music’ Charts with the likes of The Waifs and Gurrumul, garnering praise at home and abroad.
“Flanagan’s thoughtful songwriting and James Taylor-esque vocals land warm and familiar on the ears” –Rhythms Magazine
In 2019 John toured outback and regional Australian towns for 7 weeks as part of the Festival of Small Halls incorporating performances at Port Fairy and The National Folk Festivals. He can often be found on the folk festival circuit, delivering an energetic live set that varies from dynamic and uplifting to moving and thoughtful. In 2020 John began work on a new album with 7-time Grammy nominated engineer, Erick Jaskowiak. With classic folk-rock and soul inspired sounds and songwriting, the album is expected for release in 2023.
PRAISE FOR HONEST MAN
“Superlative Americana Folk. Flanagan delivers what will surely be one of the best albums of 2018.” –Floorshime Zipper Boots
“As fine and friendly as Aussie folk gets”
“Flanagan’s thoughtful songwriting and James Taylor-esque vocals land warm and familiar on the ears”
“Freewheeling fun’
“Humour and harmony grace the collection with Americana flavours at home in the local setting”
–Rhythms Mag
“With harmonies as pure as a mountain stream and musical prowess… John Flanagan Trio deliver perfection with the release of Honest Man” –LA Music Critic
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“Confident 'Australiana' with strong, narrative songs. Traditional and original at the same time. 8/10”. –Americana UK
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"John Flanagan has written the best story song of the year ... has proven himself a songwriting force to keep an eye on"
“one of Australia’s finest lyricists” –Timber and Steel
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"John Flanagan has a gentle gravity in his voice and words, the kind that makes you stop and listen" -Wally De Backer (gotye)
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“One of the country’s hardest working musicians” –Paul Gough, The Inside Sleeve, ABC Radio National
“★★★★” –The Brag Magazine
“The music is just gorgeous, I absolutely love it” Felicity Urquhart, Saturday Night Country ABC Radio
“I think it is a wonderful record, it’s one that grabbed me from the opening bars.. and then kept me captivated all the way through” -The International Americana Music Show (US)
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"Wow ... absolutely fantastic ..." -Lindy Burns (ABC 774 Radio)
“In the midst of its boundless beauty (the album) makes the listener slow down and actually listen” –Sydney City Hub
"John Flanagan has a gentle gravity in his voice and words, the kind that makes you stop and listen" -Wally De Backer (gotye)
"Gorgeous... what a beautiful blend of voices, space and music and song and lyrics... it's lovely... voices that just blend so nicely, it just makes you feel good." -Darren Middleton (Powderfinger)
“It’s storytelling via bluegrass and folk music, with classic-yet-refreshing songwriting and captivating lyricism”
“What’s the Australian version of Americana?... This EP encapsulates it”
–themusic.com.au
