Irish folk-rock group. In 1970 the Irish singer-songwriter Christy Moore assembled a group of Irish musicians for his album Prosperous, including Donal Lunny (bazouki), Andy Irvine (mandolin) and the uillean piper Liam O'Flynn. Under the name Planxty (an expression of goodwill), the group revived traditional Irish songs, many of which had previously been performed unaccompanied, often with delicate and exquisite arrangements. Despite their serious intent, there was a contagious sense of good-humour and enjoyment in their performances which invited audience participation. They had a distinctive sound through their instrumental line-up, the witty and enthusiastic Moore, and an adventurous repertory that moved between folksongs and instrumental dance tunes. They found almost immediate commercial success with their single Cliffs of Doneen, which preceded their first album Planxty (Pol., 1972). Lunny left after the release of The Well Below the Valley (Pol., 1972), another album of traditional songs, his place taken by Johnny Moynihan. Moore left after the next album, Cold Blow and Rainy Night (Pol., 1974); he was replaced by Paul Brady, but this group made no recordings.
Planxty played mostly traditional music, but their repertory did include the angry political ballad Only Our Rivers Run Free, a forerunner of the songs Moore later performed both as a soloist and in the political folk-rock band Moving Hearts. A revival album in 1982 by the band's original members included songs by Bob Dylan, Moore, Irvine and Lunny.
ROBIN DENSELOW