Thin Lizzy: Black Rose: A Rock Legend (1979)

Thin Lizzy released "Black Rose: A Rock Legend" on April 13, 1979. The album was recorded at Pathé Marconi EMI Studios in Paris, France, and Good Earth Studios and Morgan Studios in London, with Tony Visconti and Thin Lizzy serving as producers.

By: Martin Johannessen

Tony Visconti had already made significant contributions to music history as a producer for T. Rex and David Bowie, and had previously produced "Bad Reputation" (1977) and "Live and Dangerous" (1978) for Thin Lizzy. He had also worked with artists such as Gentle Giant and Argent, showcasing his versatility.

"Black Rose" marked the band's greatest success, although it was a shame that Gary Moore did not stay longer with the band. Nevertheless, his involvement resulted in at least one exceptional album, which was better than nothing. It was the first time Moore had stayed long enough in the band to record an entire album, following brief guest appearances in 1974 and 1977.

Moore contributed to the composition of three out of the album's nine tracks, with the highlight undoubtedly being the title track that closes the album. Inspired by Lynott's fascination with Celtic mythology, the song mainly consists of new arrangements of old folk music tunes.

Tony Visconti explained, "It was a grand work, which required intense concentration, and even though Moore could’ve played all the guitar parts himself, it was touching to see him painstakingly teach Scott Gorham the second harmony parts. Even so it didn’t take very long to record the album, as the rest of the tracks were more traditional Thin Lizzy rock."

Moore believed the album to be among the band's finest, second only to "Jailbreak" (1976). He stated, "To be honest, if you were to say what are your favourite Thin Lizzy albums, I would say ‘Jailbreak’ because that is a classic album, but I would say that ‘Black Rose’ comes a close second in terms of quality. Scott and I did some really nice things together."

Both guitarists shine on this album, as Gorham concurs with Moore's assessment, "I’d rate it that way too, ‘Jailbreak’ then ‘Black Rose’. I thought that was a great album. At that point, it might sound odd to say, but we had started to learn how to record albums, 17 or whatever albums in! I thought Gary brought some good discipline into it…he and I started to work together really well."

The Singles

Three songs were released as singles in Europe: "Waiting for an Alibi," which came out a couple of months before the album, "Do Anything You Want To," and "Sarah." "Do Anything You Want To" was released in the USA with a different B-side, and "Got to Give It Up" was only released in the USA.

The Videoes

"Waiting for an Alibi" did very well, reaching number 9 in England and number 6 in Ireland. The twin guitars are a delight to the ear! Watch "Waiting for an Alibi" from Top of the Pops 1979:

"Do Anything You Want To" was the second single released, with even more treats from the guitarists. As the song fades out, Lynott channels his inner Elvis: "I think he just wanted to use his American accent there,” said Scott Gorham.

"Sarah" is a song about Lynott's newborn daughter. He co-wrote the song with Gary Moore. Mark Nauseef plays drums on the track, and an unknown Huey Lewis plays harmonica.

Another guest here is Jimmy Bain, who plays bass on "With Love," where Huey Lewis also plays harmonica.

My favorite is "Toughest Street in Town," the only song written by Lynott, Gorham, and Moore together. Insanely cool opening riff, insanely tough song! The funky "S&M" is also fantastic. And the guitar work on "Get Out of Here" is highly regarded.

The whole album is basically one big highlight and a personal favorite in the Lizzy catalog. Ripping riffs, killer solos, brilliant songs. And as always, great lyrics all the way from Lynott.