What makes The Story So Far... by Lúnasa notable?

This album is significant for its blend of traditional Irish folk with modern sensibilities, appealing to both purists and new listeners alike. It garnered positive reviews from critics and was celebrated for revitalizing interest in Irish instrumental music, contributing to a resurgence of Celtic sounds in the global folk music scene. The Story So Far... marks Lúnasa's fifth studio album, released in 2008 during a period of established acclaim following their breakthrough record, String Theory. By this time, the band had solidified their reputation for innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances, building on a legacy that resonated deeply within the contemporary Irish music scene.

Who is The Story So Far... for?

The Story So Far... works well if you're into steady melodic exploration, for evening gatherings and intricate musicianship detail hunting.

How many songs are on The Story So Far...?

The Story So Far... has 16 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.

The Story So Far...

Lúnasa · 2008

67 min · 16 tracks · music of Ireland

Intricate melodies intertwine with rhythmic precision, showcasing the vibrant spirit of traditional Irish music through masterful instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Eanáir — This track features a captivating interplay between flute and fiddle, embodying the album's spirit while showcasing Lúnasa’s technical prowess in traditional Irish forms.
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The Miller of Drohan — A lively reel that highlights the band's ability to fuse intricate melodies with foot-tapping rhythms, making it a standout representation of their energetic style.
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The Last Pint (new version of Aibreann) — This reimagined piece encapsulates themes of nostalgia and celebration, effectively transforming a beloved classic into something fresh and vibrant while retaining its emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Lúnasa's blend of traditional and modern elements creates a vibrant listening experience, though it remains within familiar folk territory.

What we noticed

The album features multiple tracks that showcase intricate interplay between various instruments, particularly the flute and fiddle.
Several tracks incorporate shifts in tempo and dynamics, creating a lively atmosphere that encourages movement.
The sequencing includes both traditional tunes and original compositions, blending them seamlessly to maintain listener engagement.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

steady melodic exploration
for evening gatherings
intricate musicianship detail hunting
rich tapestry of traditional sounds

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

Career context: The Story So Far... marks Lúnasa's fifth studio album, released in 2008 during a period of established acclaim following their breakthrough record, String Theory. By this time, the band had solidified their reputation for innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances, building on a legacy that resonated deeply within the contemporary Irish music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Altan· The Gloaming· Planxty