Planxty - Words And Music (1983)

Tracklist

01. The Queen of the Rushes / Paddy Fahys Jig (Medley)
02. Thousands Are Sailing
03. Taimse Im' Chodladh
04. Lord Baker
05. Accidentals / Aragon Mill (Medley)
06. The Aconry Lasses / The Old Wheels of the World / The Spike Island Lasses (Medley)
07. I Pity the Poor Immigrant
08. The Irish Marche

Some traditional Irish groups focus on instrumental pieces, others almost exclusively on vocal works. The very title of this album indicates the balance of Planxty's musical conception. Blending together beautiful instrumental sections (thanks mostly to the brilliant Uilleann piper Liam O'Flynn), with passionate singing, they will appeal to both purists and lay listeners.

On WORDS AND MUSIC, group's musical subtlety is displayed, as well as its surprisingly ability to wail on a traditional reel or jig. The former is epitomized by Planxty's rendition of Bob Dylan's "I Pity the Poor Immigrant," the latter best evidenced by their version of the jig "The Queen of the Rushes." Some of the selections on this album contain elements of both pop and folk, best heard on "Thousands Are Sailing," which combines modern instruments such as analog synthesizers and electric bass, with pipes and a winsome Irish vocal melody. All of this is done with great integrity.