Flook- Flatfish (1999)

“The first studio album from this dazzling young Anglo/Irish four-piece, two years on from their live debut CD, is also their first recording since Mike McGoldrick, one of the band's original flute and whistle players, was replaced by bodhran sensation John Joe Kelly.

McGoldrick's departure was widley seen as a blow; if so, Flook have triumphed over adversity. Sarah Allen and Brian Finnegan continue to conjure a breathtaking array of wind blown timbres and textures, each playing several variations on the band's signature instrument. Kelly and guitarist Ed Boyd make a dream team rhythm section, their precision honed yet gossamer-fine interplay meshing mesmerically with the melodies, Boyd occasionally picking out the tune, with Finnegan and Allen hit a sparky percussive groove.

No guest players, no electronic embellishments, just a craking set of tunes, from tender waltzes to fiery Balkan dances, and a cornucopia of sublime musicianship.”

Rating *****  Sue Wilson, The Scotsman, Saturday, October 2, 1999

1. Calico
2. Eb Reels
3. The Gentle Giant
4. Sligo Reel
5. Flatfish
6. Happy Jigs
7. Bruno
8. Waltzes
9. Flutopia

Sarah Allen: Flute, alto flute, Whistler and accordion.

Ed Boyd: Guitars, bouzouki and mandolina.

Brian Finnegan: Flutes, whistles and bansuri.

John Joe Kelly: Bodhràn.

Flook- Flatfish

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