“Whiskey In The Jar,” “Jailbreak,” and “The Boys Are Back In Town.” These familiar classic rock songs are what Thin Lizzy is mostly known for. This is unfortunate because they have produced so many other amazing songs of the 70s and early 80s when Phil Lynott, the original frontman, was alive. Thin Lizzy, newly reformed, is still going strong decades later with a line-up consisting of Scott Gorham (guitar,), Brian Downey (drums), Darren Wharton (keyboards), Vivian Campbell (guitar), Marco Mendoza (bass), and Ricky Warwick (vocals). This live album, recorded in London at the Hammersmith Apollo, brings back some of the old classics.
Crowds are a huge factor in any live performance and it is always to the advantage of the band to win over the crowd. Warwick does good job of this in the beginning and throughout the album. “Are You Ready” could not be a more appropriate song to open with. It brings the crowd right into the show and kicks off the concert with loads of energy. It does not take long to get to some of the signature songs with “Jailbreak” showing up early. It is one of those classic songs that one never tires of hearing.
The hits keep on coming with “Dancing In The Moonlight” and “Angel of Death.” “Dancing In The Moonlight” is an amazing song and one of Thin Lizzy’s best. It is hard not to feel good while listening to it. It is definitely a song to dance to with somebody. I like “Angel Of Death” because it shows more of a dark side with the lyrical content.
On the brighter side on things, there is “Whiskey In The Jar,” one of Thin Lizzy’s signature songs. Who does not recognize the opening riffs? The build-up and anticipation of the lyrics is almost too much. You might be singing along before the lyrics even start. Following it up is “Emerald,” which is one of the top songs of the entire show. “The Boys Are Back In Town” is another classic that ushers in the final few songs. It does a very nice job of capturing the spirit and sound of the original, especially where the vocals are concerned. “Black Rose” is probably the best song from Thin Lizzy and the live performance does not do it justice. This song is not the same without Phil Lynott’s vocals. Warwick has done an adequate job of filling the role of lead singer, but this is one of the songs where it is impossible to do it like Phil did.
The vocals will most likely be the most divisive aspect of it all. At times, Warwick is very good, other times he is not too shabby, but there are a few times when he just does not measure up to Phil. With that being said, it is still a good album. Thin Lizzy’s Live In London is full of good music and good times, which is what a live show should be.
Key Tracks: Are You Ready, Jailbreak, Dancing In The Moonlight, Massacre, Angel Of Death, Whiskey In The Jar, Emerald, The Boys Are Back In Town
Brian McKinnon - Muzikreviews.com Staff
September 26, 2011