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Bio:
Hanly played protest folk in the 60s, performing the songs of Woody Guthrie, before
becoming interested in traditional music again and formed the duo Munroe (or Monroe)
with Michael O'Domhnaill (Skara Brae, Bothy Band).
Munroe toured with Planxty in 1973 and released 'Celtic Folkweave' the
following year. Recorded in 1973, 'Celtic Folkweave' is often called an acid-folk classic,
but this label is a little misleading. It's a mix of traditional (and one contemporary) Irish, English and
Breton material delivered in varied arrangements, from solo unaccompanied singing to
rich multi-instrument textures. The album features guest appearances by members of
Planxty, The Chieftains and the future Bothy Band. The contemporary track is a Pentangle
cover. While the 'acid' content is questionable, it is an exquisite folk LP.
Munroe split in 1975 when O'Domhnaill left for the Bothy Band. Hanly
signed to Mulligan Records and released two acclaimed solo albums featuring Donal Lunny,
Andy Irvine and Declan Sinnott. The first of these 'A Kiss In The Morning Early' is
especially recommended. In his later biography Hanly admits he never rated himself
as an exponent of ITM and omits both these albums!
In 1981, Hanly joined Moving Hearts as vocalist,
replacing Christy Moore. When Moving Hearts split in 1985,
he went solo again, moving in a more country music direction.
His songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Mary Black and many others.
Credits:
Michael Hanly - Guitar, Dulcimer, Vocals
Micheal O'Donnell - Guitar, Vocals
Liam Og O'Floinn - Uileann Pipes, Whistle
Donal Lunny - Bodhran
Matt Molley - Flute
Tommy Peoples - Fiddle
Declan McNeils - Bass
Triona Ni Dhomhnaill - Harpsichord
Help!: We need your help to complete this entry. If you can tell us more about this band then please do! We welcome any corrections, missing details, connections to other bands, where are they now, etc. We also need photos, scans, copies of releases or live or demo recordings, and any other memorabilia gathering dust in the attic. If you can help, then please get in touch.