Thin Lizzy. What more can be said about this incredible rock and roll band from the 1970’s, with an epic rockstar of a front man, Phil Lynott. You tell me! I already knew a couple of songs from them such as “The Boys are Back in Town,” or even their sort of spaghetti western influence song“Cowboy Song” from commercial radio. And yet, the band or even their records barely get any recognition. But the one that I’m about to spill for you, is a great one.“Bad Reputation,” appeared in 1977, and to me, It’s one of their greatest records. I mean some of the songs come off as a-little bit of hard rock, but it doesn’t really matter. This record leans more towards classic rock. You’ve got some great ballads, and surprisingly some jazz influence in there as well. YEAH, THAT’S RIGHT. Jazz influences surprisingly work with rock and roll!
“South Bound,” has now become one of my favourite songs that needs recognition. While listening to this song, you’ve suddenly started to get that sort of clearer picture of the meaning behind the song. I express the idea of standing up for yourselves, and act quick, don’t wait. where it’s now time to take a stance, and make a move. And I feel that it resonates with my personal life, because I would sometimes be waiting for something to happen as opposed to acting, because of my shyness. Yeah, I’m still working on it, but I’ve started acting and taking decisions in order to open up doors, and opportunities. It is impossible for me not to talk about “Dancing in the Moonlight (It’s Caught Me in Its Spotlight).” I love how Thin Lizzy is trying to find itself in the world of jazz. And let me tell you that with this song, they nailed it! But rest assured you, it’s a rock song. That electric guitar solo sneaks its way, but at the same time, you’ve anticipated that it’s going to happen, and when it does. BOOM! It’s what I call beautiful music melting in your ears, with its well-fit melody.
The record finally concludes with a letter asking for help, and guidance called, “Dear Lord.” And what’s interesting is how it ties perfectly with the first song on the record, “Soldier of Fortune.” It’s an interesting comparison, because it feels as if you’re starting the record with the story of the wounded soldier back from the war, coming back from the war, recounting to us what he witnessed, and what cannot be undone. But then, you’re concluding the record with “Dear Lord” on the wounded soldier coming to terms with God, asking for forgiveness.