About This Footage
The dusty tape reels of 1973 hold a secret treasure, one that reveals the raw energy and camaraderie of Ireland's most influential folk band, Planxty. This rehearsal session, captured on grainy film, is a rare glimpse into the creative process of Christy Moore, Andy Irvine, Dónal Lunny, and Liam Óg Ó Floinn as they prepared to shake the foundations of traditional Irish music.
At this point in their career, Planxty had already made waves with their debut album, "Planxty," released just a year prior. Their unique blend of folk, rock, and Celtic influences was gaining traction, but it's clear from this footage that the band members were still experimenting, still pushing the boundaries of what Irish music could be. The bouzouki, introduced by Andy Irvine in the mid-1960s, is prominently featured, its twangy tones weaving in and out of the acoustic guitars and uilleann pipes.
What's striking about this footage is not just the music itself, but the sense of community that permeates every frame. The band members are laughing, joking, and occasionally bickering as they work through arrangements and try out new ideas. It's a snapshot of a moment in time, when creativity was still raw and unbridled, and the possibilities seemed endless.
Johnny Moynihan, often credited with introducing the bouzouki to Irish music, is also present on this tape, lending his distinctive vocals and playing style to the mix. His addition would later become a defining feature of Planxty's sound, but here he's still an integral part of the band's core membership. It's a testament to the collaborative spirit that defined Planxty's approach to music-making.
As you watch this footage, you'll be struck by the sense of spontaneity and playfulness that characterizes every moment. The band members are fully immersed in the music, lost in the process of creation. You'll see Christy Moore's fingers flying across his acoustic guitar strings, Andy Irvine's mandolin singing with a joyous abandon, and Dónal Lunny's bouzouki providing a steady heartbeat to the proceedings.
This rehearsal session is more than just a historical curiosity – it's a window into the creative process of one of Ireland's most influential bands. It's a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and experimentation, there's beauty to be found in the raw, unbridled energy of music-making. As you watch Planxty work their magic, you'll be transported to a time when music was still a living, breathing thing – a force that could change lives, communities, and cultures forever.
The tape reels may be dusty, but the music they hold is timeless. It's a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community, and a reminder that even in the most unlikely places, beauty can be found. As you watch this footage, you'll be drawn into the world of Planxty – a world of sound, of passion, and of music that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
Curated from public records and music databases.
