Ards man new Thin Lizzy frontman

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Thin Lizzy, one of rock musics most recognizable names, is due to return with a new Ards-bred frontman, to commemorate 25 years since the demise of the groups legendary frontman, Phil Lynott.

The fiery Dublin band exploded onto the scene with a fresh sound, look and attitude. Lead by the incomparable Lynott, the band reached many peaks, and influenced generations of musicians with classic tracks such as "Jailbreak," "The Boys Are Back In Town," "Still In Love With You," "Cold Sweat," "Emerald" and "Dont Believe A Word." Most rock historians would agree the pinnacle of their commercial success was in 1983, followed by the bands premature demise, as they played their last gig in September of 1984. Just two years later, the world was shocked when singer/bassist and founding member Phil Lynott passed away at the age of thirty six.

Twenty four years have passed, the world has changed, but the amazing body of work that is Thin Lizzy still retains all of its vibrancy and influence. A new lineup has formed to take Lizzys music to a whole new generation of music fans. Led by alumni Scott Gorham, Brian Downey and Darren Wharton (all of whom played in Thin Lizzy with Phil Lynott) the stellar lineup is completed by Def Leppards Viv Campbell (guitar), Bassist Marco Mendoza (Whitesnake, Ted Nugent) and The Almightys Ricky Warwick on vocals and guitar.

Ricky said: "Growing up here in Ards was a lot different than say growing up in London or Los Angeles. Over on the mainland UK, kids had The Stones, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and The Clash. Americans had Elvis, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith and so on. No, we Irish had far less options.

"Every kid on my street, in my school, and in my city knew of Thin Lizzy. Every kid supported Lizzy. We took pride in Lizzy, and what was there not to be proud of? Thin Lizzy could rock as well as any band around and history has shown that they held their own, opening for the likes of Queen, BTO, Journey and others. They lived the life we aspiring young musicians dreamt of, and were inspirations for us all to chase our dreams. Phillip Lynott penned songs that became the soundtracks for our youth.

"Like every other Irish rocker and Lizzy fan, I wish that Phillip was still alive. I would give anything to be able to stand in the audience and watch his greatness and listen to his voice. But unfortunately, Phillip Lynott, the greatest Irish rock n roller of all time, is no longer with us. But his music is."

Read the full report in this week's Chronicle.