Tír na nÓg

Tír na nÓg is a Dublin folk-rock duo formed by Sonny Condell and Leo O'Kelly. Active since 1969, the group begins in Ireland and develops an early reputation on both the folk and rock circuits after moving to Britain. Their music is associated with chamber folk, contemporary folk, folk rock and psychedelic folk, and it is often described as progressive folk.

Formation and early years

The duo forms in Dublin in early 1970 and quickly gains attention after arriving from Ireland. Within two weeks they sign to Chrysalis Records. They soon establish themselves in London club venues through impromptu appearances and original songs built around intricate acoustic guitar work and close harmony singing.

They tour Britain and Europe with Jethro Tull and Procol Harum before releasing their first album, also titled Tír na nÓg, on Chrysalis. That record is named Melody Maker album of the month. They also appear with artists and groups including Hawkwind, The Who, Fairport Convention and Roxy Music, while headlining college and club dates of their own.

Recordings and radio

After the debut, two further studio albums follow: A Tear and a Smile and Strong in the Sun, both released by 1974. Their work is championed by John Peel, which leads to many Peel sessions in the early 1970s. A later live release, Live At Sirius, includes songs from the three Chrysalis albums and their version of Nick Drake’s “Free Ride”.

Later activity

After 1974, the duo returns to Ireland and pursues separate musical careers. They reunite in 1985 while continuing those individual projects. UK appearances continue up to 1995, and they later resume short touring activity in 2010 and 2011. The group remains active and is associated with Fruits de Mer Records.