Lúnasa

Lúnasa is an Irish instrumental folk group active since 1996. Its music centres on traditional Irish tunes and combines fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes, guitar and bass in an acoustic format. The group takes its name from Lughnasadh, an ancient Irish harvest festival.

Formation and early development

The group begins as a touring project in 1996 when Seán Smyth, Trevor Hutchinson and Donogh Hennessy travel through Scandinavia together. After returning to Ireland, they join with Michael McGoldrick and John McSherry to record tracks for what becomes the first album. Kevin Crawford joins in 1997.

Line-up and activity

By the group’s later period, the line-up includes Kevin Crawford, Donogh Hennessy, Trevor Hutchinson, John McSherry, Paul Meehan, Seán Smyth and Cillian Vallely. Donogh Hennessy leaves in 2004 and is replaced by Paul Meehan. Lúnasa tours for much of each year.

Recordings and label history

In 1999, Lúnasa signs a three-year contract with Green Linnet Records. During that contract, the group releases three albums before ending the arrangement.

Related projects

After leaving the group, Donogh Hennessy records a duet album with Pauline Scanlon. That release forms part of a project called Deora De, which brings together tunes and songs.