Album Review: Thin Lizzy, Thin Lizzy (Deluxe Edition)

It’s 55 years since Irish rock royalty Thin Lizzy first burst onto the global scene with their self titled debut album. To celebrate this milestone, a brand new boxset has been assembled featuring a treasure trove of rare tracks, BBC recordings, unheard outtakes and forgotten gems over eight sides of glorious vinyl.

While the record may not be their most acclaimed or beloved, and will never knock 1976’s Jailbreak – nor the legendary Live and Dangerous – off their respective perches, it’ll always have a special place in fans’ hearts as it was the fledgling group’s first statement of intent. This collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the early creative process of Philip Lynott, Eric Bell and Brian Downey.

Lizzy anoraks will enjoy the unheard studio instrumental outtakes of ‘Honesty Is No Excuse’ and ‘Ray-Gun.’ As close as you’re ever going to get to peeking into the trio’s 70s jam sessions (unless you’re mates with a Time Lord), they serve as a brilliant, if bittersweet reminder of their world famous chemistry. Lynott’s unparalleled charisma is also evident throughout, especially on the John Peel and Stuart Henry sessions. In fact the stunning version of ‘Return Of The Farmer’s Son’ is almost worth the boxset’s asking price alone.

A lovingly assembled document of Lizzy’s first steps, this deluxe edition is a must-buy for collectors.

8/10