Fionn O Lochlainn / John Francis

Show Description

"Magic writing, magic playing, magic album."
- Billy Bragg

UK artist Fionn O Lochlainn delivers a vast, guitar driven sound, reminiscent of greats such as Led Zeppelin, early Bowie or Pink Floyd but with a current originality that draws the listener in to a world of acoustic rock n roll. Accompanying himself on multiple instruments including acoustic guitar, piano and mandola, Fionn converges ethereal textures with melodic dreamlike vocals evocative of Nick Drake or Bowie, sometimes venturing into the sonic territory of Buckley or Plant while retaining his own stylistic individuality. O Lochlainn captures the insurgence of 'Brit Rock' but with haunting and enigmatic songs, prone to introspection and heavy blues. Either performing solo or with full-blown outfit, O Lochlainn flaunts a formidable talent that has received critical acclaim from both sides of the Atlantic. His satirically titled 'Spawn of the Beast' will debut in March 07 in the United States. Fionn has also been asked to open up for Billy Bragg in the fall on his UK tour.



"It's moments like this when his voice rings clear as a bell that you can hear the...sentiments of an artist whose live shows are just as often a rock and roll Molotov cocktail of vices and verses as they can be quietly transfixing."
-Tara Murtha, PLAY Magazine

The 2006 recipient of The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Foundation Sammy Cahn Lyricisit Award, Philadelphia's John Francis continues to ride the wave of support he has earned since releasing his critically acclaimed album "Strong Wine & Spirits" in October 2005. Produced by Devin Greenwood (Amos Lee, Birdie Busch), and mastered by Phil Nicolo (Philadelphia Grammy Chapter President and producer for John Lennon, Sting, Lauryn Hill, Bob Dylan, etc), "Strong Wine…" has brought Francis to the attention of music fans, industry ears and discerning listeners with its palate of Zep-influenced rock, lilting love songs and topical folk music. Francis' disturbing storybook lyrics have drawn comparisons to Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen, while his otherworldly tenor, reminiscent of Jeff Buckley or Roy Orbision, leaves his listeners spellbound. With "Strong Wine's" first single "Heavy, Heavy Love", the record became one of the most played on leading AAA radio station WXPN for 4 months in late 2005 into early 2006. Francis continues to play to sold-out audiences in the North East, bolstered by appearances at esteemed events such as the Philadelphia Folk Fest, WXPN's All About the Music Festival, The Appel Farm Festival, and the 2006 SXSW Festival.