 After a partial hiatus when they rejoined The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem for several reunion tours in 1984 and 1985, Makem and Clancy resumed their full-time touring schedule and returned to the recording studio in 1986 to produce their final album together, "We've Come a Long Way".Produced by Planxty's Donal Lunny, the record was more of a contemporary 'pop' album than a traditional Irish music album, using synthesizers and keyboards in addition to traditional Irish musical instruments.According to Liam's daughter, Siobhan, the album, due to its contemporary feel, attracted the attention of Columbia Records, Makem's and Clancy's former employer and a new record contract was in the offering.