thin lizzy live

It's impossible to ever replace such a frontman as Phil Lynott, but there have been plenty of incarnations of Thin Lizzy since his death, to keep the songs alive and to act as a tribute to one of classic rock's most influential bands, and the newest line up has got to be the truest yet. It's always been based around guitarist Scott Gorham and now original drummer Brian Downey is back, joined by Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell and former Whitesnake bassist Marco Mendoza. Most importantly though is the addition of Ricky Warwick (of The Almighty) on vocals, he's the perfect choice being an Irishman proud of his roots and having a thick, raw accent that allows him to really bring Lynott's anthems to life once again.

It's not often you get the chance to celebrate the best of, lost, iconic 80s rock singers, but Warwick runs through everything the crowd wants... including Black Rose, Don't Believe a Word, Dancing in the Moonlight, Waitin' For An Alibi, Jailbreak, Do Anything You Want To, and for the most part if you're not looking at the stage you could almost believe you're listening to Phil. Still In Love With You was the most beautiful part of the performance by Warwick and was backed by a video tribute to the, still much loved, original singer, and before the encore they fit in an energetic The Boys Are Back In Town, you'd feel cheated if they didn't!

With not being able to see the original live, this is as good as it gets and Lynott's legacy is in the hands of musicians who really care. The songs have never sounded better so if you catch them it'll be one of the most impressive live bands you'll see this year.

by Talena Brayer