Planxty

Planxty was an Irish folk music band formed in the 1970s by Christy Moore, Donal Lunny, Andy Irvine (a founder of the Irish mid-sixties group Sweeney's Men), and Liam O'Flynn (piper). The name Planxty comes from a word used by the classic harpist Turlough O'Carolan in many of his works, and is thought to mean a tribute to a particular person ("Planxty Irwin", for example, being a tribute to Colonel John Irwin of Sligo). "Planxty" is believed to be a corruption of the Irish word and popular toast "slainte", meaning "good health".

History

In 1972 Christy Moore released his second album Prosperous, which he recorded with his old schoolmates, Lunny, Irvine, and O'Flynn. After recording Prosperous, they formed Planxty. Planxty released the highly acclaimed single, The Cliffs of Doneen, after which, they were promptly signed to an exclusive contract with Polydor Records. The group became very popular in the next few years in Ireland, Britain and Europe, and they recorded two more albums in the following two years. After that they split up, and a compilation called The Planxty Collection was released. As time passed, the personnel changed - Johnny Moynihan replaced Donal Lunny in July of 1973, and Paul Brady stepped in for Christy Moore in 1974. Christy, Andy, Donal and Liam, the original lineup, reformed Planxty in 1979. They recorded three albums, and made several changes and additions to their lineup, most notably the joining of Matt Molloy, flautist from the Bothy Band, later with The Chieftains. In 1983, Donal Lunny and Christy Moore left to concentrate on Moving Hearts, and Andy and Liam started pursuing solo careers (the former in the band Partrick Street). The band broke up for the final time.

Discography

• Words & Music, 1983\n* The Woman I Loved So Well, 1980\n* After The Break, 1979\n* Cold Blow And The Rainy Night, 1974\n* The Well Below The Valley, 1973\n* Planxty, 1973
• The Planxty Collection