Altan has confirmed its status as one of Ireland’s most critically acclaimed and commercially successful traditional bands. Individually, Altan are masters of their respective instruments; collectively, they are considered one of the most exciting groups in contemporary traditional music today, combining technical brilliance with emotional depth. The band’s achievements include three NAIRD Indie awards for "Best Celtic Release" of the year: Island Angel in 1993, Harvest Storm in 1992, and The Red Crow in 1990; numerous awards throughout Ireland, England, and the U.S. (including Ireland’s Hot Press Reader’s Poll for Best Traditional Artist two years in a row); a performance for the White House on St. Patrick’s Day, 1994; and two Top 5 rankings by Billboard in their 1994 "Year in Music" issue (Altan as World Music Artist, Island Angel as World Music Album).

The First Ten Years: 1986 - 1995, Altan’s first compilation, provides a brilliant introduction to Green Linnet’s top band. Tracks were selected and remixed by Bothy Band founder Donal Lunny.