The Book of Invasions (album)


The Book of Invasions: A Celtic Symphony is the sixth album by the Irish Celtic rock band Horslips. It was a concept album based on an adaptation of Irish legends built into a complex story. It is named for the Lebor Gabála Érenn, a book of Irish mythology known as The Book of Invasions in English. Released in 1976, it is usually considered their best work. It was their only UK top-40 album, peaking at #39. "Trouble ", "Warm Sweet Breath of Love" and "The Power and the Glory" were released as singles.
The 30th anniversary of this album was celebrated at a small gathering in Dublin organised by Horslips fans and was attended by some band members.

Track listing

The album is divided into three movements: "Geantraí", "Goltraí" and "Suantraí".
;Side one
  1. "Daybreak" ' – 2:30
  2. "March Into Trouble" ' – 0:51
  3. "Trouble " – 3:24
  4. "The Power and the Glory" – 3:56
  5. "The Rocks Remain" – 2:49
  6. "Dusk" ' – 0:37
  7. "Sword of Light" – 4:55
  8. "Dark" ' – 1:37
;Side two
  1. "Warm Sweet Breath of Love" – 3:26
  2. "Fantasia " ' – 2:55
  3. "King of Morning, Queen of Day" – 4:32
  4. "Sideways to the Sun" – 4:47
  5. "Drive the Cold Winter Away" ' – 0:35
  6. "Ride to Hell" – 4:07
;Expanded CD with bonus tracks
  2. "Daybreak/Drive the Cold Winter Away/Ride to Hell/Sideways to the Sun/Sword of Light" – 18:04
  3. "The Rights of Man" – 3:56
  4. "Trouble " – 3:20

Personnel

Musicians

  • Charles O'Connor - fiddle, mandolin, concertina, vocals, cover design
  • Jim Lockhart - keyboards, flute, whistles
  • John Fean - guitar, vocals
  • Barry Devlin - bass, vocals
  • Eamon Carr - drums, percussion

Technical

  • Alan O'Duffy - producer, engineer
  • Robbie McGrath - assistant engineer
  • Ian Finlay - photography
  • Eric G. Bannister - art direction
  • Evelyn Lunney - make-up