Dynamic Anglo-Irish folk group Flook have once again proven their legendary status, taking top honours as TG4’s Grúpa Ceoil 2025. For nearly three decades, the quartet has been a force at the forefront of the folk scene, fusing raw energy with intricate musicality.
Fans eager to catch their magic live won’t have long to wait. Flook are set to perform at the Todmorden Folk Festival on 3 May, before returning to Ireland for a special appearance at the Gradam Ceoil TG4 Awards 2025, broadcast live from the University Concert Hall in Limerick.
If you miss them in May, don’t worry. The band will be rounding off the month with more UK dates:
- Monday, 19 May – Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester
- Tuesday, 20 May – The Corner House, Tolworth, near Surbiton
- Wednesday, 21 May – The Fleece, Bretforton, near Evesham
- Thursday, 22 May – The Lantern, Bristol
- Friday, 23 May – The Gate, Cardiff
Formed in 1995, Flook has carved out a sound that’s unmistakably their own. Their music is driven by the sharp, fluid whistles and flutes of Brian Finnegan and Sarah Allen, underpinned by the crisp, rhythmic guitar work of Ed Boyd, and the revolutionary bodhrán playing of John Joe Kelly.
Their intricate melodies meet tight, acoustic grooves, producing a sound that’s both steeped in tradition and thrillingly innovative. It’s this distinctive blend that has kept audiences worldwide enthralled.
Across five critically acclaimed albums—Flatfish (1999), Rubai (2002), Haven (2005), Ancora (2019), and their newest release, Sanju (2025)—Flook continue to honour their roots while fearlessly pushing folk music forward.
Their live performances have become the stuff of legend. Expect fiery technical brilliance, seamless ensemble work, and daring musical explorations. Each band member brings something unique to the table.
Brian Finnegan, hailed from Armagh, is celebrated for both his compositions and his light-fingered, expressive playing. Sarah Allen’s alto flute introduces earthy grooves and dancing counter-melodies that form a crucial part of the group’s sound.
Ed Boyd, meanwhile, is considered among the top guitar accompanists of his generation. And John Joe Kelly? He’s transformed bodhrán playing into an art form of breathtaking scope.
Flook’s influence is far-reaching. Their win at the 2006 BBC Folk Awards for Best Band sealed their reputation as one of the most exciting and pioneering folk groups of our time.
Flook’s remarkable journey, crowned now by the Grúpa Ceoil 2025 honour, is a testament to their unwavering passion and creative brilliance.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, their upcoming UK dates offer an unmissable chance to experience folk innovation at its finest. Expect unforgettable nights of soaring melodies, driving rhythms, and a little bit of magic.
