This influential Irish folk hero has an incredible way with strings, having evolved from classical guitarist to dexterous plucker of the bouzouki, mandola and mandolin. Inspired by Woody Guthrie, Irvine added a plaintive harmonica, and evidence of his nomadic ways can be heard in the touches of buoyant Balkan dance music that colour his compositions. In the ‘60s, he helped form Sweeney's Men, followed by Planxty, Patrick Street and myriad collaborations along the way. But when his big, wavering voice takes the lead, you can be sure it'll be in service to whisky, roses and the underdog.