John Flanagan - Manhood Method Actor (2023)

Award-winning songwriter John Flanagan has been praised for his authentic, heartfelt storytelling and uplifting performances. His forthcoming album Manhood Method Actor brings to life the soulful folk-rock sound of the 70s, taking inspiration from the likes of Jackson Browne, CSNY, Bonnie Raitt and Van Morrison. Lyrically the album traverses various landscapes of masculinity and relationships with themes of love, conflict, parenthood and coming of age. With soaring harmonies, powerful horn melodies, a grooving rhythm section and Flanagan’s warm, stirring vocals: the album draws the listener through moments of infectious joy, glimpses of touching sadness and everything in between.

Flanagan has been described as “one of Australia’s finest lyricists” (Timber & Steel). 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 Folk Festival and The National Folk Festivals. He has become a favourite on the folk festival circuit over the past decade, delivering an energetic live set that varies from light and uplifting to moving and thoughtful. In 2020 John began work on Manhood Method Actor with 7-time Grammy nominated engineer, Erick Jaskowiak. The album will be released this May and Flanagan will hit the road with a full band of Melbourne’s finest players.