Cormac Begley & Liam O'Connor

Cormac Begley & Liam O’Connor to Launch New Album ‘Into the Loam’ at Vicar Street, June 6th, 2025. Two of Ireland’s most electrifying and innovative traditional musicians, Cormac Begley and Liam O’Connor, will celebrate the release of their highly anticipated album Into the Loam with a special launch concert at Vicar Street on June 6th, 2025. Following years of captivating performances together, this album represents a deep and dynamic exploration of their shared musical language, featuring a unique interplay of concertina, fiddle, and viola.
Cormac Begley, renowned for his pioneering approach to the concertina, has received widespread acclaim for his bold and unconventional style. His 2022 solo album B was named Irish Times Album of the Year and won Best Folk Instrumentalist at the RTÉ Folk Awards. Known for his command of thirteen concertinas ranging from bass to piccolo, Begley’s playing has pushed the boundaries of the instrument, earning him collaborations with leading artists such as Lisa O’Neill, Rushad Eggleston, Lankum, Ye Vagabonds and Michael Keegan-Dolan. His innovative work in traditional music has been celebrated for its raw energy and depth.
Liam O’Connor, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished fiddle players of his generation, was awarded the Irish Times Traditional Music Album of the Year for his debut solo album. As the Director of the Irish Traditional Music Archive, he has significantly expanded the institution’s reach and resources, commissioning over 150 artists annually and spearheading projects that connect musicians with archival material. O’Connor has performed and recorded with legends of Irish music, including Liam O’Flynn, Noel Hill, and Tony MacMahon, and has curated concerts at the National Concert Hall. His work in traditional music extends beyond performance, as he has contributed to academic research, television, and radio projects that document and celebrate Irish musical heritage.
The launch at Vicar Street promises an unforgettable night, offering audiences a rare chance to experience the album performed live in its entirety. Into the Loam will be available exclusively at concerts and for digital pre-order, allowing fans a unique opportunity to be among the first to own it before its wider release.
This launch follows the success of Begley’s recent sold-out solo show at Vicar Street on April 26th. Tickets for the June 6th album launch at Vicar Street are expected to sell quickly. Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music as Cormac Begley and Liam O’Connor bringing Into the Loam to life.