Horslips are widely regarded as the founding fathers of Celtic rock, fusing traditional Irish music with progressive rock and hard rock elements in a way that was groundbreaking in the 1970s. Formed in Dublin in 1970, the band combined electric instruments with fiddles, mandolins, and concertinas, creating a distinctive sound that paid homage to Irish folklore while pushing musical boundaries. Their debut album, Happy to Meet, Sorry to Part (1972), was a bold mix of rock and traditional tunes, and set the tone for a string of innovative releases throughout the decade.
Over the years, Horslips gained a loyal following both in Ireland and internationally, thanks to albums like The Táin (1973) and The Book of Invasions: A Celtic Symphony (1976), which were concept albums inspired by Irish mythology. Known for their energetic live performances and commitment to blending genres, the band left an indelible mark on Irish music before their initial split in 1980. They've since reunited for special performances and retrospectives, affirming their legacy as pioneers who helped bridge the gap between traditional Irish and modern rock music.
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