Released 50 years ago
The Book of Invasions
Horslips · 1976
42 min · 14 tracks · Celtic rock
Celtic melodies intertwine with rock rhythms, creating a vibrant tapestry of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Top tracks — play these first
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Trouble With a Capital “T” — This track exemplifies Horslips' energetic fusion of rock and Irish folk elements, featuring catchy melodies and anthemic choruses that resonate with listeners.
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The Power and the Glory — With its driving rhythm and powerful lyrics, this song stands out for its exploration of themes related to authority and rebellion, reflecting the band's social consciousness.
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Fantasia / My Lagan Love — This medley showcases the band's ability to blend traditional Irish ballads with progressive rock influences, highlighting their musicianship and emotional depth.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends Celtic melodies with rock elements, showcasing strong craftsmanship and distinctiveness within its genre.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a bright, energetic track that sets a lively tone, followed by a series of songs that alternate between upbeat rock rhythms and slower, more reflective melodies.
- Several tracks feature intricate instrumental sections where traditional Celtic instruments are prominently showcased alongside electric guitar and drums.
- The final three tracks create a gradual descent in tempo and intensity, allowing the album to conclude on a more subdued note.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- vibrant storytelling through music
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- celtic melodies with rhythmic drive
- energizing tunes for lively gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- long immersive listening preferences
- slow, contemplative musical experiences
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1976, The Book of Invasions was Horslips' fourth studio album, following their breakthrough record Happy to Meet—Sorry to Part. At this point, the band had solidified their unique blend of Celtic folk and rock, gaining a dedicated following and critical acclaim in Ireland and beyond.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Pogues· Clannad· Planxty
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Daybreak 3:19
- 2 March Into Trouble 0:51
- 3 Trouble With a Capital “T” 3:24
- 4 The Power and the Glory 3:57
- 5 The Rocks Remain 2:49
- 6 Dusk 0:38
- 7 Sword of Light 4:57
- 8 Dark 2:01
- 9 Warm Sweet Breath of Love 3:27
- 10 Fantasia / My Lagan Love 3:18
- 11 King of Morning, Queen of Day 4:13
- 12 Sideways to the Sun 4:48
- 13 Drive the Cold Winter Away 0:51
- 14 Ride to Hell 3:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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