Brush Shiels, Philip's old band mate in Skid Row, and one of the original heroes of Irish rock, was unstinting in his praise for the expo, describing it as "Magnificent, majestic, almost mystical... it truly captures Phil's spirit."

Also among those singing its praises was Paul Charles, a seminal figure in Irish rock, who as a partner in the Asgard Agency, has gone on to become one of Europe's leading agents. Paul is also a successful novelist and has written a number of books about the music business.
"I really enjoyed the exhibition," he said. "I went back on the Saturday to have a good look. I found it very comprehensive, interesting, classy, poignant, well laid-out in a perfect space – and it fair warmed my heart that the great man can still pull a crowd."

Also high in his praise was the poet Peter Fallon, who was a good friend of Philip Lynott on the Dublin scene in the late '60s and the early '70s.

"I was taken by surprise by the reach and range of the show – a credit to all of us who are hoarders! – and by how moving it was to see and remember such joys and achievements. Though it's a memorial tribute, there was a life in that space. Hats off to those who assembled it!

"I was in my late teens when my friendship with Philip began," Peter added, "so it was fascinating to look at this exhibition through the eyes of my eighteen-year-old daughter. She knew the great songs, of course, but she kept repeating, 'I didn't know he was so beautiful'. I guess I always did. It's a goodness to have this confirmation and reminder."

Promoter Noel McHale of MCD was also hugely impressed with the exhibition.

"It's just beautiful," he told Hot Press. "It'll be very emotional for the hardcore Lizzy fan looking at the black coat he wore in the 'Old Town' video, the guitars – and even the 'Where's Gus' tour jacket! It's a really great exhibition."

Fran Quigley of CAVS, who as majordomo at The Band Centre, worked closely with Philip during his Dublin days, was equally positive in his summation.

"I thought it was excellent in every way," he said, "much better than I expected it to be. The detail is amazing. I brought my son and daughter and they had a ball checking out all the displays. I was most happy and proud to have been there at such an event – and I’m sure Philip would agree."