Clannad is more than just an Irish band: it’s a cultural institution that has made a significant contribution to the popularization of traditional Irish music around the world. Founded in 1970 in County Donegal, Clannad has succeeded in elegantly fusing Irish folk elements with other musical genres such as pop, rock and new age. A true reference on the island of Ireland!
The Clannad group
Originally made up of the Brennan siblings, along with their aunts and uncles, the band got its Clannad start playing local Irish pubs and folk festivals.
Clannad was formed in 1970 in the small village of Gweedore, County Donegal, Ireland. The core of the band is made up of members of the Brennan family, who were already immersed in a rich musical environment from an early age. Here is a brief presentation of the key members and their role in the group:
Over the years, other musicians have joined the band for shorter periods, including :
Each of these members has played a unique role in the development of Clannad’s distinctive sound.
Clannad soon began to make a name for itself, playing in pubs and on local stages. They recorded their first albums and toured Ireland extensively.
But it was their 1983 album “Magical Ring”, featuring the hit “Theme From Harry’s Game”, that catapulted them onto the international scene.
Since then, Le Monde has been interested in this Irish family band, adepts of traditional Irish music, who like to mix genres.
For Clannad not only excelled in reinterpreting traditional music, they also introduced unconventional instruments into their orchestration, such as the synthesizer. This fusion of styles paved the way for new musical styles and influenced an important generation of musicians.
With their fusion of genres, the band quickly became an icon, both in the world of traditional Irish music and on more contemporary stages.
Since then, Clannad has been recording in studio after studio.
During the 1990s, Clannad continued to explore new sounds, particularly electronic music. The group recorded several world music-influenced albums, including “Anam” (1990) and “Banba” (1993), which were also very successful.
However, in 2000, Clannad split up after the release of their album “Lore”, and took a 7-year break before reforming for a world tour in 2007.
They took the opportunity to record a new album, “Nádúr”, in 2013: the band’s last to date.
Beyond the music, Clannad has also played a crucial role in promoting Irish culture. Their music has often been used in films and TV series, contributing to a greater understanding and appreciation of Irish heritage.
After more than five decades in the music industry, Clannad’s impact is still being felt. They have won numerous awards, including a Grammy in 1999, and have contributed to the evolution of modern Celtic music.
In short, Clannad is not just a band, but a cultural phenomenon that has redefined the way the world sees and understands Irish music and culture. Their heritage is rooted in the rich tapestry of Irish identity, and continues to captivate listeners around the world.
