Planxty Well Below The Valley CD

 Planxty - A Remarkable Sound
Planxty's work comprises one of the earlier attempts to blend traditional Irish music with more modern instrumentation and influences. I personally believe that the best approach to the traditional music (of any genre, but particularly Celtic) is to play and sing it the way the tradition-bearers do. Thus, I am not happy about the inclusion of some pieces and settings that are not from the tradition, although I understand the muscian's right to artistic freedom. However, Planxty's sound remained truer to the tradition in many respects than any group since, and is far preferable (to me, at any rate) than other modern groups and sounds. They didn't inject too much rock, jazz, or other inappropriate forms (and this is a matter that would require a book to discuss, so those who disagree are free to do so.) Where they did inject other genre, it was often the Balkan influence, picked up by Andy Irvine while traveling there. While not strictly "Irish traditional", at least that form has more relevance to Celtic music than other genre commonly tossed in hodge-podge. (As does, interestingly, some African forms, such as the griot bards of the Mandingo, and some Indian and Native American music.) In addition, Irvine, Donal Lunny, Liam O Floinn, and Christy Moore are talented musicicans, whose technical expertise is truly amazing. I rate O Floinn to be one of the finest pipers I have ever heard. (I go back over 40 years in Irish and Scottish traditional music, and have heard, learned from, and played with some of the best.) This, as with any Planxty recording, is a great chance to hear some excellent music, played by top-notch musicians. I recommend to it to all who are interested in this genre, or who merely appreciate good music.
Submitted by a reviewer (OR, USA) 
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