The proposed "deaccompanisation" of Irish Traditional Music has engendered a sudden and dramatic re-emergence of the Irish Music supergroups.

The Bothy Band, Oisin, Stockton's Wing and Sweeney's Men have all announced plans to re-form for a one-off series of concerts at a variety of venues throughout Ireland.

Planxty are rumoured to be on the verge of re-forming. However sources close to the band have confirmed that Andy Irvine is insisting that he be allowed to do at least half-a-dozen Eastern European numbers each show, while Christy is similarly insisting he be allowed to do three to four funny songs like Lisdoonvarna and Don't Forget Your Shovel. Meanwhile Donal Lunny and Liam Óg are rumoured to "hate each awr's guts". They will play together on stage, but provided they are positioned at opposite ends of the stage and Liam Óg has his back to Lunny.

Thankfully, rumours of a Touchstone and a Moving Hearts comeback tour have been scotched!