If you’re a fan of Irish rock or interested in the stories behind legendary bands, this interview with Barry Devlin from Horslips offers a rare glimpse into his musical journey. Whether you’re a music historian, a Horslips enthusiast, or simply curious about the creative process of a pioneering band, this article provides in-depth insights and personal anecdotes directly from Barry himself. Dive in to discover what makes Horslips a cornerstone of Irish rock and learn what drives Barry Devlin’s enduring passion for music.
1. The Origins of Horslips
Barry Devlin co-founded Horslips in 1970 in Dublin, initially as a folk-rock band before evolving into a pioneering Celtic rock group. He recalls how the band’s unique blend of traditional Irish music with rock influences set them apart in the early 1970s. Their debut album, “Happy to Meet Sorry to Part,” released in 1972, was instrumental in establishing their sound and gaining critical acclaim across Ireland and the UK.
2. The Creative Process Behind Their Albums
Barry emphasizes the collaborative nature of Horslips’ songwriting, often drawing inspiration from Irish mythology and history. He highlights how the band combined traditional melodies with rock structures, experimenting with instrumentation such as the mandolin, fiddle, and Uilleann pipes. This innovative approach resulted in albums like “The Táin” (1976), a concept album inspired by Irish legend, which is still regarded as a masterpiece of Celtic rock.
3. The Impact of Irish Mythology on Their Music
Barry Devlin explains how Irish myths and stories deeply influenced Horslips’ lyrics and themes. For example, the album “The Táin” retells the ancient Irish epic of the same name, blending storytelling with powerful rock arrangements. This integration of culture and music helped Horslips connect with Irish identity and resonated strongly with their audience, making their work both artistic and culturally significant.
4. Challenges Faced During Their Peak Years
Despite their success, Horslips faced challenges such as limited radio play in Ireland due to their unconventional style and the band’s struggle to break into the broader UK market. Barry notes internal tensions and the pressure of maintaining creative integrity while pursuing commercial success. These hurdles ultimately contributed to their disbandment in 1980, but their influence persisted in Irish music history.
5. The Band’s Legacy and Influence
Barry Devlin believes Horslips’ pioneering fusion of folk and rock laid the groundwork for subsequent Irish bands like Thin Lizzy and Clannad. Their innovative approach inspired a generation of musicians to explore Irish culture through contemporary music. Today, Horslips remains a revered name, with their albums still celebrated for their originality and depth.
6. Barry’s Solo Career and Musical Projects
After Horslips disbanded, Barry Devlin pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as “The First Time Ever” in 1983. He also worked as a producer and songwriter for other artists, broadening his musical scope. Barry’s work outside Horslips reflects his versatility and ongoing passion for storytelling through music.
7. Memorable Moments From Their Tours
Barry recounts several memorable performances, including their 1976 appearance at the Glastonbury Festival, which helped solidify their international reputation. He recalls the energy of their live shows, where traditional instruments and rock elements created an electrifying atmosphere. These moments remain vivid memories of Horslips’ vibrant stage presence and connection with audiences.
8. The Role of Irish Culture in Their Success
Barry credits the rich tapestry of Irish history, mythology, and landscapes as vital to Horslips’ identity. Their music served as a form of cultural preservation and innovation, making Irish heritage accessible to a wider audience. This cultural backbone helped them stand out in a crowded musical landscape and foster a sense of pride among Irish listeners.
9. Future Projects and Reunions
While Horslips officially disbanded, Barry hints at occasional reunions and solo projects that keep the band’s spirit alive. He mentions discussions about remastering classic albums and exploring new recordings inspired by Irish myths. Fans remain hopeful for future performances or collaborations that celebrate the band’s enduring legacy.
10. Advice for Aspiring Musicians
Barry Devlin advises young musicians to stay true to their cultural roots and experiment boldly. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and authenticity in music, encouraging artists to incorporate personal and cultural narratives. His message underscores that innovation often comes from blending tradition with modern influences.
How to Choose
When selecting Horslips albums or Barry Devlin’s projects, consider what aspects resonate most with you—whether it’s the storytelling, the fusion of Irish traditional music with rock, or the historical themes. Listening to key albums like “The Táin” offers insight into their creative peak, while solo works provide a more personal perspective. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your musical taste and curiosity about Irish culture and rock history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Horslips best known for? Their pioneering Celtic rock sound, especially albums like “The Táin,” which blend Irish mythology with rock music.
- Did Horslips influence other Irish bands? Yes, their innovative fusion of folk and rock inspired bands like Thin Lizzy, Clannad, and later Irish acts exploring traditional themes.
- Are Horslips still active today? The band disbanded in 1980, but members occasionally reunite for special performances and projects.
- What role did Irish mythology play in their music? It was central, shaping lyrics, themes, and concept albums, helping preserve and promote Irish stories through contemporary music.
- What can I expect from Barry Devlin’s solo work? Personal storytelling, a broader musical style, and continued engagement with Irish themes and history.
Final Thoughts
Barry Devlin’s insights reveal a band that was not just musically innovative but culturally significant. Horslips’ ability to merge Irish mythology with rock created a unique sound that still resonates today. Their legacy endures through their recordings, influence on Irish music, and the ongoing passion of their fans. For anyone interested in the crossroads of tradition and modernity, exploring Horslips’ catalog and Barry Devlin’s reflections offers a rich and inspiring journey into Irish musical history.
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