Thin Lizzy
Downtown, Farmingdale, NY 10-12, 2003
Review By Kieth McDonald
I have always been a big John Sykes fan, since his work with one of the
best hard rock albums, Whitesnake's self-titled album, to his work with
Blue Murder. But after Blue Murder lost it's deal with Geffen Records in
the early 90's, we saw very little of John and company here in the States.
He continued on with Blue Murder and eventually as a solo artist, but only
releasing albums and touring in Japan. But John has resurfaced in the past
couple years, not as a solo artist, but as the lead singer of the
legendary Thin Lizzy. I never realized how much he admired Philip Lynott
until he set out on tour, getting permission to use the Thin Lizzy name,
and even releasing a live disc of their hits.
John Sykes and the boys continue to tour under the Thin Lizzy name as
they stopped into town a few days back. As the lights went down and the
siren blared, they hits the stage with 'Jailbreak' setting the tone for a
night of great classic rock songs. I had forgotten how many great songs
Phil and his bandmates had delivered over the years before his passing.
The night was a night of greatest hits that included 'Bad Reputation',
'Chinatown', 'Still In Love With You', 'Suicide', 'Cowboy Song' and the
biggest hit of all 'Boys Are Back In Town'. The only negative part was the
absence of 'Whisky In A Jar' but I couldn't complain. Scott Gorman handled
most of the guitar solos but John did a great job handling a few on his
own. John's voice was strong as he did an incredible job handling the
vocal duties. The rhythm section provided a strong backbone while John
paid tribute to Phil on several occasions.
It was a great nostalgic show that allowed fans like myself, who had
never heard Thin Lizzy play live before, appreciate what a great band this
was and what more they could have provided for us. Check it out if you
can.