Lankum’s Daragh Lynch recently spoke with NME about the success of their album ‘False Lankum’ and the cultural impact that Ireland is making this year. The guitarist talked to the publication after the announcement that their album had been nominated for Best Album at this year’s Ivor Novello Awards, where it will be up against other records by Sampha, Yussef Dayes, RAYE, and CMAT. Lynch shared that the Ivors are more about respect within the industry rather than creating a public or audience buzz.
Looking back on the past year, Lynch commented on the unexpected success of ‘False Lankum’, especially considering that it was their weirdest and most inaccessible album yet. Despite their expectations, the album picked up traction and garnered critical acclaim. Lynch added that the band is just following their creative instincts and seeing where the music takes them.
Lynch also commented on Ireland’s current cultural dominance, citing Cillian Murphy, Paul Mescal, Saoirse Ronan, and Barry Keoghan as some of the most in-demand names in film. He also noted the remarkable strides being made in Irish music thanks to artists like Fontaines D.C., KNEECAP, The Mary Wallopers, Sprints, and NewDad.
Lynch attributed the cultural progress to the confidence of the current generation in breaking free from the trauma and oppression of past generations. He also credited Ireland’s traditions of poetry and bards as contributing to their poetic mindset, which sets them apart from other countries. Despite this confidence, Irish humility still plays a role, according to Lynch.
Looking to the future, Lynch shared his hopes for touring the US and Japan, creating a movie soundtrack, and meeting Alan Moore. When asked about their fifth album, he stated that they know it will happen, but they have no idea what it will sound like. Lynch expressed interest in doing more original material and taking inspiration from bands like The Pogues, who started with traditional songs and eventually began writing their own material to critical acclaim.
The Ivor Novellos with Amazon Music will take place on May 23 at London’s Grosvenor House
Read the full article on NME here: Read More