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Slow journey

Thin Lizzy failed because of its thematic songs and its failure to get its act together as a group

Thin Lizzy, led by Phil Lynott, a black Irishman, was never entirely appreciated because of its Masculine-to-Macho song themes.

Formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1970, the group comprised Phil Lynott (Vocals & Bass), Brian Downey (Drums) and Eric Bell (Guitar). Their early style of play was Irish Folk with exquisite guitar work.

Thin Lizzy's journey into rock and roll's choicest best was tardy. Its early compilations Thin Lizzy (1971), Shades of a blue orphanage (1972), Vagabonds of the Western World (1973), Nightlife (1974) and Fighting (1975), faded without a trace.

The line-up changed for the last two albums mentioned above, with the legendary Gary Moore replacing Eric Bell on guitar. Jailbreak was released in 1976 with a change in style, power chords and R&B undertones. This album consisted of their biggest hit to date called `The Boys are Back in Town'.

Once predicted to become a star, Thin Lizzy failed because of its thematic songs and its inability to get its act together.

The personnel change conundrum hit it hard with many a superstar walking through its portals such as Gary Moore, Scott Gorham and Snowy White (Pink Floyd's ex-stage guitarist).

Throughout its state of being, Thin Lizzy recorded a series of hit singles, among them Don't Believe a Word, Dancing in the Moonlight, Waiting for an Alibi, Do Anything you Want to do and Killer on the Loose. Poor commercial success (excepting Live and Dangerous, 1978) on subsequent albums led to uneven output and Thin Lizzy officially closing its act in 1983. Phil Lynott went solo thereafter and recorded a few singles until his death in 1986.

A. GEORGE ANTONY

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