In 1972 Christy Moore released his second album Prosperous, which he recorded with his old schoolmates, Lunny, Irvine, and O'Flynn. After recording Prosperous, they formed Planxty. Planxty released the highly acclaimed single, The Cliffs of Doneen, after which, they were promptly signed to an exclusive contract with Polydor Records.
The group became very popular in the next few years in Ireland, Britain and Europe, and they recorded two more albums in the following two years. After that they split up, and a compilation called The Planxty Collection was released. As time passed, the personnel changed - Johnny Moynihan replaced Donal Lunny in July of 1973, and Paul Brady stepped in for Christy Moore in 1974.
Christy, Andy, Donal and Liam, the original lineup, reformed Planxty in 1979. They recorded three albums, and made several changes and additions to their lineup, most notably the joining of Matt Molloy, flautist from the Bothy Band, later with The Chieftains.
In 1983, Donal Lunny and Christy Moore left to concentrate on Moving Hearts, and Andy and Liam started pursuing solo careers. The band broke up for the final time.History